5 Unbeatable Destinations for a Wildlife Holiday

August 13, 2018
Chris
Travel Tips
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With each passing day, wildlife holidays are becoming more popular than ever! This is no surprise because very few things match up to the experience of interacting and playing with animals in their natural habitat. Moreover, feeding animals and spending time amidst nature is a great way to escape the monotony of our daily life! With many wildlife locations being talked about around the world, we have prepared a list of 5 unbeatable destinations for a wildlife holiday ranging from a wildlife tour in Uganda to penguin watching in Antarctica:

1. Uganda and Rwanda

No list on wildlife locations in the world can be complete without mentioning gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda. This is indeed one of the most profound and life-changing encounters human beings can have with an animal. In fact, sighting gorillas is found in the bucket list of many! There is something about their intimidating size coupled with their gentle touch, behavior around their children and similarities to the human race that makes Uganda and Rwanda popular wildlife destinations.

2. North Spitsbergen, Arctic

Escape to the Arctic for a stunning vacation with one of the most eccentric animal species around, Polar bears. Polar bears are a model species that symbolise climate change and these cute cuddly animals give a good image to the otherwise ugly face of global warming. There are a wide range of Arctic cruise holidays available where one can go with experts in the area and have the most ultimate wild polar bear experience.

3. India

The name India reminds us of some of the most exciting tiger safaris in the world. Tigers are undoubtedly an endangered, dangerous and exciting animal species which makes a tiger watching holiday an incredible experience. With more than 30 reserves, the country is making its share of efforts to conserve what remains of their tiger population. Some of the most popular reserves that you must definitely visit are Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Ranthambore.

4. Norway

Whale-watching is another experience that you would not want to miss out on if you are a wildlife enthusiast! There is something about an enormous animal touching the ocean’s surface and disappearing back leaving only a few mighty splashes behind! Watching whales has become an increasingly popular activity amongst wildlife lovers and others and many tourists are now taking boating trips to wherever whales are generally spotted. Some of the most popular destinations to spot whales include Norway, Iceland, Italy, etc.

5. Germany

While Europe’s wildlife might not be as celebrated as a few others in this list, it is equally impressive. Whether you want to spot wild boars or birds or wolves, you can find all varieties of wildlife encounters in Europe. Some of the most popular destinations in Europe include Germany, Spain, Sweden, Portugal and Croatia.

So, pack your binoculars and go wildlife spotting to any of the locations mentioned above and we promise you a fulfilling and exciting experience!

Things to Know Before you go to Lisbon

August 7, 2018
Chris
Europe
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travel to lisbon

When you travel to Lisbon, you might find the following tips useful for a better tour. You will be able to communicate better with the locals and have a good itinerary handy once you have gone through the list.

• Money

The euro is the currency of Lisbon. If you are looking for banks then head to the Baixa district. You can save money with Lisbon based cards.

• Transportation

While buses and cars are the usual modes of transportation, do hop on the yellowish 28 tram, and the ubiquitous tuk-tuks. They hold the essence of Lisbon. Do not miss the trams and tuk-tuk rides while you travel to Lisbon.

• Shopping

Lisbon has over 70 varieties of tinned fish to boast. Lisbon is also famous for unique cork products, including cork handbags and backpacks. Also, noteworthy are the exquisite tile shops selling antique tiles manufactured around the 15th Century. These antique little pieces will make good souvenirs to carry back home for friends and family.

• Footwear

In Lisbon, there will a lot of walking up and down the hills since the city itself is situated on the top of 7 hills. One must, therefore, opt for footwear with a good grip. Keep it light yet well gripped so that you can move freely without getting your legs too tired.

• Food & Drinks

Codfish dishes, especially codfish cakes, flaming chorizos, and baked goodies, especially their decadent custard tarts are a must try in Lisbon. There are numerous quaint pubs and bars around. In Bairro Alto, you get to drink and dance. Lisbon is famous for its red cherry liqueur, Ginginja. If you are lucky you can get to drink shots out of chocolate glasses. Port is also a must try the drink.

• Language

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, and hence the language that is spoken there is Portuguese. Although English is spoken and understood by many in the cities, that might not be the case in the rural areas. Therefore, it is advisable to learn a few Portuguese phrases for your convenience.

• Must visit places

Lisbon has two UNESCO World Heritage sites–Tower of Belém and Jerónimos Monastery. Other than these two, you can also hop on a public transport and explore Sintra in a day.

• Things to do

Apart from the usual sightseeing, explore the streets of Lisbon and their stunning graffiti art. Visit Feira da Ladra, or Lisbon’s flea market for a unique shopping experience. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Lisbon City, along with a beautiful sunset from the highest point in Lisbon, Nossa Senhora do Monte Belvedere.

• Culture

Perhaps the best way to explore the culture of Lisbon is through its soulful Fado, Portuguese traditional music. The district of Alfama is the best place to experience the magic of its melancholic tune.

• Pickpockets

Keep an eye on your goods when you travel to Lisbon. The place is notorious for its pickpockets.

Now you are street smart about traveling anywhere in Lisbon. All that is left to do is enjoy!

A day- Trip to Moscow

August 4, 2018
Chris
Russia
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Moscow is the capital city of Russia. When it comes to culture and history, this beautiful city has a lot to offer to its visitors. There are a lot of places around Moscow that will give you a relief from the hustle and bustle of the city life. Here is a list of exciting one day destinations that are just a few hours from Moscow.

1. Arkhangelskoye Museum-Estate– this place is at a distance of one hour and is one of the most spectacular estates near Moscow. This was once the property of the Youssoupov family and since then it has maintained its splendor. It is one of the most well preserved estates around Moscow; this place regularly witnesses various music events, including the Usadba Jazz Festival.

2. Gorki Leninskie– it is one of the must-see places in Soviet Russia as you may have already known by know. Gorki Leninskie was home to one of Russia’s most famous revolutionary- Vladamir Lenin. Here you can past several Lenin statues and Soviet-era monuments.

3. Yaroslavl– Yaroslavl is undoubtedly one of the most popular towns of the Golden Ring. It has 800 architectural monuments which are hard to see all in one go. If you are on a day’s trip, then you can stroll along the banks of Europe’s longest river, the Volga and pay visit to the 11th century transfiguration monastery. You can also visit places like the Museum to see a large collection of icons and an extensive collection of antique record players, vinyl records and clocks at the Music and Time Museum.

4. Sergiyev Posad– This is the only city around Moscow which is included in the Golden ring route of ancient towns and is considered to be heart of Russian orthodoxy. When you are at this place, pay visit to one of world’s largest orthodox monasteries which was built in 14th century comprising of two cathedrals and eight churches. This small town also has a couple of museums like the museum complex ‘KonniyDvor’, Museum of toys, etc.

5. Rostov veliky– Before purchasing your ticket, make sure that you are buying the ticket for Rostov veliky and not Rostov-on-Don, which is a completely different part of Russia. It is one of Russia’s oldest towns and is a perfect blend of nature, history and food. There is Lake Nero whose surface is shining just like a mirror. The main places to visit are monasteries and ancient churches. You can also get a taste of the local food at some unique food places such as LukovaSloboda which is also a museum of the region’s onion farming.

6. Vladimir– It is another ancient Russian city with mesmerizing orthodox cathedrals and traditional white-stone architecture. This place offers you a wide variety of attractions like The Golden Gate, which is the entrance to the old town and the Old Believer’s Trinity Church which is right behind it. You can also visit the cathedral of Saint Demetrius, and Dormition Cathedral.  If you are planning to shop then Museum of crystal and Lacquer Miniatures are the best places to go.

5 IDEAS TO SPEND A ROMANTIC WEEKEND WITH YOUR LOVED ONE

March 19, 2018
Chris
Travel Tips
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The busy schedules and responsibilities of our modern lives take a toll on all of us. During the whole week, we stay so busy with our workplace, that it is very difficult to spend some quality time you’re your loved one. Whether you are married or a couple, your work schedule can create a disconnection between you and your partner. That is why planning a short and sweet romantic getaway together from time to time is really essential to rekindle your relationship with your loved one. Here are five romantic weekend ideas which will surely help you get close and cosy with your lover and keep your love life healthy and strong.

1. Go for a spa vacation

One of the best ways to spend a relaxing and romantic weekend with your partner is to enjoy a spa weekend. After a long and busy week of work, there can be nothing more rejuvenating and relaxing than going for a weekend trip to the nearest spa resort you can find. Enjoy a relaxing couples’ massage with your lover, unwind by taking part in healing activities like yoga or Pilates, eat healthily and ultimately be close to each other without a stress in the world.

2. Hit the road

Going on a road trip with your partner is one of the most romantic ideas in each and every sense of the word. Fill up your gas tank and hit the highway with no particular destination in mind. Explore the destinations the road takes you to, eat at unknown restaurants, discover places which none of you knew existed and just be together. You can be sure that you and your loved one to have one of the most unique vacation experiences you will ever have in your lifetime.

3. Unplug from the world

As the modern world gets more and more distracting with all its social media and news feeds, the best way to relax and be close to your loved one is to unplug from the world and spend time with only each other. Keep your phone switched off, shut the world out and stay home with your lover. Cook some lovely meals together, have a candlelight dinner and talk your heart out to truly connect and fall in love all over again.

4. Visit the place where you guys first met

One of the most romantic ways to relive the past and reconnect with your loved one is to visit the place where you to first met. No matter the place is far or near, just book your tickets and head out. Spend your weekend roaming around the places you went to, recall the old memories and cherish how your love has grown over the time.

5. Play tourist in your own city

We travel to new destinations every now and then, but seeing our own city from a tourist’s point of view is truly a different experience. Book a room in a hotel in your own city, pack your bags and check in with your partner. Head out and explore all the different attractions of your city, explore the museums, dine out, maybe even go for some shopping!

Madeira – the Volcanic Island worth Your Visit When in Portugal

March 2, 2018
Chris
Europe
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Mountains rising from the Atlantic, waterfalls plunging into the ocean, winding roads meandering through wilderness, and the vibrant colours of the lifetime of spring that the island enjoys, Madeira is one of Portugal’s best kept secrets!

An ignored haven that is slowly coming into the spotlight, this archipelago is one of the best volcanic islands in the world.

Earlier known for being a laid-back island with not much to offer, it is today famous for having some of the best natural phenomenon for the tourists to explore. Whether it be volcanic caves and rocks, or unusual vegetation, and spectacular scenes, this island is packed with everything that one would call perfection!

Take a look at what makes this island so special, and why it should be a part of your itinerary!

And then, go ahead and plan a trip to Portugal.

Inspiring Views

Brace yourself to have the most interrupted journey that you will ever have. And there is no one to blame but the mesmerising views. With the camera at a constant go, you will be surprised as to how beautiful this island is. Whether it be the sun on the horizon, the cobalt waters, or even a modest home with a lush mountainous background, the island is teemed with heavenly sites. Visit Cabo Girão, the highest cliff skywalk of Europe to enjoy the panoramic views of the isle and the waters.

Activities

Caving, hiking, picnicking, and beaching are some of the most popular activities that you can enjoy on the island. For those who are looking for some exceptional experiences, indulge in a cultural tour, a session meeting dolphins and whales, and lazing around in one of the many sea pools of the isle. The Laurissilva Forest, and Levadas are perfect for nature lovers, as the first one is part of a UNESCO site, while the latter boasts of the best hiking experience.

Remarkable Food

Big on seafood, and even bigger on flavours, Madeira is every pescatarian’s dream come true! Also known as some of the best producers of wine in the country, there’s no better place to indulge in this wonderful brew than here!

Another thing that you’ll find abundant in Madeira, is fruits. The most exotic fresh fruits of the best quality can be found here.

For a quick bite during your sightseeing tour, you can opt for Bolo Do Caco- a local street delicacy. For the best gastro-adventure, head to local restaurants and eateries. Interacting with the people and the chef will add immensely to your experience.

People

Madeira is home to the most lovely people. Gracious, welcoming and kind, it seems that everyone in this small town is excited to have you over. Known as “a place for the oldies”, you will be welcomed by the doting elders. A one big family, indulging in a little love here is blissful!

Intriguing Culture

Not lacking in terms of history, art and architecture, Madeira has galleries, museums and cathedrals that tell tales of the rich, ancient history of this pearl of a land. Their unique connection with the Flemish Masters can also be observed at their Sacred Art museum.

Madeira is the abode of the humble Portuguese. Blessed with nature’s best, it will soon be a rage amongst wanderers. Be sure to plan a vacation here for a few days while in Portugal!