World Travel

We all have that one special place where we want to get away from our monotonous daily lives. Whether it’s catching some sun or enjoying local attractions, everyone deserves a vacation. Once you have sent out the wedding invitations with photos, had your wedding, now it is time for the vacation or honeymoon. Planning for a vacation can be a daunting task and it requires a significant amount of preparation. For first-time travellers, taking a vacation can seem overwhelming and the process may seem like its not worth the hassle. There are certain things that can make this process easier. There is no need to ruin your trip by stressing anymore.

Book through a Travel Agent

I know what your thinking, in this age why use a travel agent when everything can be done online? The answer is quite simple. Travel agents are there to answer any questions that you might have. They have been trained to help people make decisions and feel more at ease about their travel plans. It may, however, be useful to browse the internet for deals in the months prior to your vacation in order to get a sense of the price that you should be willing to pay to travel to your destination. Browsing months in advance can allow you to get a feel for the area you will going to before you actually arrive. Not only is this practical, but it also provides peace of mind!

It never hurts to look!

Travel during off-season

New travellers often make the mistake of booking a trip during the busiest months of the year. If avoidable, try not to book your vacation during months where many people are travelling. The busiest months for travel tend to be December and March with prices dropping in May. In my experience, January is one of the cheapest months to travel.

If you can’t avoid the busy months, try comparing departure dates by week, as some weeks will be more expensive than others. Mid-week flights often offer the cheapest airfare.

Be prepared! Pack the essentials.

There is nothing worse than being caught in the sun without sunscreen. It can (and will) ruin your entire vacation. Being prepared is important in all aspects of life and especially when travelling.

Make sure you pack all appropriate documentation. When travelling to a foreign country make sure to bring your passport and a couple other forms of identification. Make sure to check your destination country for additional required documentation.

Nothing ruins a vacation like not remembering it, especially if it is your honeymoon. It is better to pack a digital camera as it allows you to upload your photos online. There are various ways to capture your moments, but I would recommend using the highest quality online photo album site to preserve those memories. Nothing beats a great album to share and cherish those moments.

Have fun!

Travelling can be an exhausting adventure. There is a danger of getting bogged down in the details and forgetting about letting loose. After all, the point of a vacation is to let go! Remember the moments that you create and take a lot of pictures. Remember that you deserve a break!

By following this advice you will be sure to have a great vacation!

To read more on topics like this, check out the world travel category.

The UK is known around the world for a great many festivals it hosts. From Glastonbury to Latitude, UK gets to see the most incredible, creative and coolest acts around the world. If you’re searching for the top festivals in the UK to attend this summer and make your summers memorable and fun you’re in the right place. Choosing the right festival can be a tiring and confusing task. Which is why we have collected our top picks of the hottest 2019 UK festivals. Don’t miss out!

Bestival

Bestival moved inland a few years ago and since then has seen an increase in strength. It is one of the most admired and sought after the festival that one must surely attend. Last year it featured the performances from M.I.A., London Grammar, Silk City (Diplo & Mark Ronson), Grace Jones, Plan B, Chaka Khan, Mura Masa, First Aid Kit and many more. Bestival has won many awards over the years and features over 1000 musical performers. It’s got poetry, comedy, lights, a beautiful landscape, fancy dresses, and much more to uncover. This year it’s going to be held in Lulworth Castle from 26 July to 29 July.

Lovebox

Lovebox is one of the most popular festivals in London and has had the privilege to host a strong line up over the years. Last year it embraced the performances from N.E.R.D, Anderson Paak & The Free Nationals, Wu Tang Clan, Skepta, Childish Gambino, SZA, Annie Mac, Bonobo and many more. This year it will be held on 12 and 13 JULY 2019 in Gunnersbury Park, London.

If you have the opportunity of attending Lovebox this year, you will find yourself in a whole new world full of madness, glitter, lights, music, bars, and creativity. The best part is if you fall short of money you can ask your friends or family members to send money from the UK via Ria Money Transfer. Their services are quick and efficient.

Latitude festival

Latitude Festival has something to keep everyone entertained regardless of the age group. Its tagline has lived up to its words as Latitude is much more than just a music festival. It’s an explosion of creativity, surprises, excitement, and color. It has colorful sheep roaming around, DJs doing their job while hiding in the woods, opera, an on-site cinema, dance, clowns, an exciting children’s area and much more. This year it will be held from 18 to 21 July in Southwold.

Download festival

Download Festivals is the most well known heavy metal music festival and is perfect for rock music lovers. It goes on for three days and is full of energy and big names. Last year we got to see the performances by Def Leppard, Slipknot, Tool, Slash, Whitesnake, Rob Zombie, Trivium, and Die Antwoord. In 2019 it will be held from 14 June to 16 June in Derby, and its attendants will see popular performers including Def Leppard, Slipknot, Tool, Slayer, Smashing Pumpkins and Slash. If you go to the Download festival with your friends, you will surely return with memories you will cherish all your life.

Glastonbury festival

The last but in no way, the least on our top list is Glastonbury Festival. Glastonbury festival is the best when it comes to music festivals around the world. It was initiated by Michael Eavis in 1970 and has become the most popular and loved festival. It sets the bar high for other festivals and is unique. This year at Glastonbury festival, you will see the biggest names in the music industry including Stormzy, Janelle Monae and Kylie performing on its pyramid stage.

Conclusion

Each festival mentioned above offers its attendants something new and unique. Whichever festival you pick to go to this summer will give you new experience and memories.

About the Author

Sharon Kalipai is a contributing writer at Sparkwebs LLC, a Digital and Content Marketing Agency in Denver, CO. When she’s not writing, she loves to travel, dance and read books.

To read more on topics like this, check out the travel category.

If you’ve been sat looking out of your window wishing for summer to hurry up, why not load up your laptop and jet away somewhere hot for a few days instead.

With stunning weather, history and food you’ll want to eat for the rest of your life, the Algarve is somewhere you simply have to visit and enjoy before you die. So, why not grab yourself the ideal holiday home with a villa from the likes of Villa Plus, and enjoy a wondrous trip away from the grey skies.

Below, we’ve listed some things that make the Algarve a simply must visit destination.

The Views

With the jagged faces of soaring cliffs and deep caves just waiting to be explored, the views of the Algarve are on another level. Places like the Benagil Cave and the Arcos de Marinha are a few spots filled with delightfully romantic alcoves, while the cliff faces of Sagres are some of the wildest around.

The Weather

It goes without saying that you wouldn’t go on holiday without the guarantee of wonderful weather. However, you still run the risk of a chill or a little rain in some places. But the Algarve enjoys sunny days throughout the year, with consistently mild temperatures. This means that even in the winter it’s rare for air temperatures to drop below 10 degrees.

Amazing History

If it’s history you want, then you’re in luck. This is a place filled with it, meaning you’ll encounter a bit of the country’s history with every turn of a corner. One thing you’ll find plenty of is castles and cathedrals, displaying stunning historic architecture, alongside a selection of ruins and museums. Some of the more popular places to visit are the Silves Castle and the Se Cathedral.

Delicious Dining

With fresh ingredients used for every plate, you’ll be treated to multiple flavoursome combinations, and Mediterranean touches at every meal. Make sure you tuck into the selection of fish dishes, something the area prides itself on due to its closeness to the coast.

The End of The Night

While the nightlife is filled with fun to be had, it’s the end of the night that’ll truly wow you. As the sun sets each night, you’ll be treated to a fabulous mixture of colours as the sun descends into the shimmering waters that surround you – a beauty that needs to be seen to be believed. The sunrise is equally as impressive – so make sure you see it at least once during your stay.

 

When you think of a grand vacation, you might be thinking of heading to places located miles away from where you live. Although it fits the definition well, it does not have to be that way. You can have a luxury vacation without necessarily leaving town.

Check the properties for rent in your area, and you might find one that you could only dream of. Since the property is up for rent, you can spend a night or two there. You will then feel like you own the place even if you do not. The properties at www.thewowhousecompany.com, for instance, are among the large houses that are up for short-term rent that you can enjoy as soon as you decide to schedule your vacation.

It feels like a dream

If you compare your house to these luxury properties you can rent, you will feel like you are in a dream. There are amenities you can only dream of owning. From swimming pools to golf courses, these properties have everything that you think of when you start looking for a dream house. If you rent the place, you can enjoy all its features for the next 24 hours or so.

You can stay inside the house

You might think that it would be a boring idea to rent a luxury property and stay there. The truth is that it could be the most fun vacation you ever have. Some of these properties have pools, saunas and pool tables. You might also use the fitness gym and other recreation areas. Some properties have entertainment rooms where you can quietly read a book, watch a movie as if you are in a theatre, or record a song. Given the number of activities that you can do during your stay, you will not think about leaving the place.

You can bring your family

If you have kids, they will enjoy this vacation. You need to make it clear to them though that it is only a temporary place where you can stay, and you will go back to your home the following day. They might feel too comfortable with the site and feel sad as you check out.

Some properties have large play areas for kids. They can also enjoy different toys and board games. If your kids love playing video games, the entertainment room might even have the latest gaming console for them to use. Perhaps, the best part is having a large bed where your kids can sleep comfortably. You can also feel the same way as you head to the master bedroom.

Plan your trip now

Since you can find these luxury properties in your area, you do not need to have extensive planning to make your vacation happen. You can search for a property online and reserve it. If it is available, you can finalise your booking and arrive there as scheduled. You can frequently do this activity with your family and explore different properties for rent in your area.

Image: Unsplash.com

 

 

Experts are touting happiness and romance as the benefits of traveling in relationships. As if anyone needed another reason to travel, right? Now, couples can claim strengthening their relationships as a reason to vacation more.

Couples traveling may take some getting used to if you’re not accustomed to it. There are tips and tricks to help make it easier.

A Guide to Couples Traveling

Traveling alone is easy, but it’s not always as fulfilling. Follow these tips to make vacations with your significant other a great experience.

1. Time Apart

While spending quality time with each is critical, so is space. Those who are deemed perfect couples are the ones who have a great balance.

Traveling together strengthens relationships, but so does giving the other room to breathe. If you’re always on top of one another, how are you supposed to miss each other’s presence? It’s important to recognize the benefits of doing your own thing.

2. Be Helpful

People don’t realize how hard traveling is until they’re doing it. And couples traveling around the world have it even harder at times.

That’s why it’s important to be supportive of each other during the stressful times. Not everything will go according to plan, so don’t freak out on each other when times get hard.

Communication is the very foundation of working together. If you and you’re partner struggle with this aspect, traveling can either help or hinder.

If you feel you need help, don’t hesitate to ask for it. See more about how to work on your communication skills at Our Relationship. There’s so much you can learn as a couple by combining travel with couples’ courses.

3. Be Money Wise

When you’re in a new place, it’s easy to get caught up in spending. If you want to mitigate guilt though, be wise. Learning to budget according to travel plans is critical.

Thing or experiences that will contribute to more memories are the best. Also, more couples fight over money. So, if you want to stay away from arguing, communicate about money needs.

4. Planning as a Couple

Making decisions as a single person is easy. But when you add someone else to the mix, feelings can get hurt. That’s why it’s important to be considerate of the other’s ideas when planning a trip.

The best vacations and trips are the ones where everyone gets to do what they want. The best part of being a supportive partner is watching your S.O. do something they’ve always wanted to do.

Listen, be supportive, and shoulder the decision making. These are key elements to a smooth trip.

5. Be Adventurous

One of the best parts of taking trips is stepping outside your comfort zone.

Don’t hesitate to be adventurous as a couple and do things out of the ordinary. It’s exciting, and it can help form better bonds between people. Don’t forget to take pictures so you’ll have the memory.

More Travel Advice

Couples traveling is fulfilling and can bring people closer than ever before. If you’re thinking about taking a vacation with your partner, don’t hesitate. It’ll broaden both of your horizons.

Learn more about traveling by reading our World Travel category in our blog.

When it comes to vacation spots, Las Vegas remains high on everyone’s list.

This city is so filled with sights, sounds and uninhibited activity that people from all walks of life make the trip. If you are planning to have a Las Vegas vacation, you will need to know which Sin City sights to take in.

There are plenty of sights that you can check out, so take the time to figure out which will be best for you. Consider these tips to make sure that you’re getting the most out of your next trip.

Must-See Sin City Sights

When you want to travel the world, Vegas should be high on the list, due to the fact that it’s such a one-of-a-kind city. As such, there are several sights that you need to take in.

Consider these sights and make sure you cross a few of them off your list when you’re in Sin City:

1. The Bellagio Fountain

This is a site that costs you absolutely nothing but is a Las Vegas experience that you will definitely want to take in.

The hotel has a fountain that sprays water high into the sky, in various formations, set to music and various patterns. Bellagio’s fountain show takes place every half-hour or 15 minutes throughout the day and night.

It is the type of site that you’ll want to take in and enjoy, and perhaps get a few great photos and videos for the memories.

2. The Legendary Casinos

Of course, it is the casinos that pay the bills throughout Vegas.

Even if you aren’t much of a gambler, you owe it to yourself to buy a couple of chips and plunk some down on a wager. The hotels go all out to provide people with a world-class casino experience, and it’s something you’ll want to feel for yourself at least once.

As a bonus, people who are playing games at the casino get continuous free drinks as waitresses circulate.

3. Vegas Fight Night

Las Vegas also happens to be the fight capital of the world.

When there is a big boxing match or UFC card in town, you can expect to see plenty of celebrities in town. Highly anticipated bouts create a big fight buzz throughout the city all weekend that is absolutely infectious.

Since you’re on west coast time, you’ll be able to enjoy a nice dinner, catch a packed fight card and still have plenty of time to party the night away.

4. The Sight of Tupac’s Shooting

The announcement of Tupac Shakur’s death is one of those “where were you when you found out” moments that you only get a few of.

As such, people all over the world often make sure to visit the sight of his shooting when in Vegas, in order to pay their respects. On Sept. 7, 1996, Tupac was shot while parked at a light at the intersection of Koval and Flamingo.

Depending on when you go, you’ll likely see flowers or various murals.

5. Hit a Dispensary

In recent years, Nevada became the latest state to legalize recreational marijuana.

This means you can expect plenty of tourists to enjoy themselves and shop for what they can’t legally get in their home states. If you enjoy cannabis, take the time to hit a dispensary so that you can make a purchase of your own.

Make sure that you learn more about the marijuana laws before checking out a weed dispensary.

6. The Hoover Dam

When you’re in Las Vegas, you’re also a stone’s throw from the Hoover Dam, one of the most beautiful wonders you’ll take in.

You can purchase tours from the strip and plan out a trip with your group. Be sure to charge your phone and camera so that you get plenty of great footage.

7. Old Vegas

Yes, there is plenty to see in Las Vegas outside of the strip.

In fact, Old Las Vegas is where the action was prior to the strip being constructed. Old Vegas offers many of the same activities but provides a bit of a more laid-back vibe than you get on the strip.

Make sure to check out historic Fremont Street and a lot of the other sights and sounds that you won’t get among the hustle and bustle.

8. The Stratosphere

This is an attraction that you’ll see no matter where you are in Las Vegas because it’s hard to miss.

It’s a huge structure at the Stratosphere hotel that people bungee jump off of regularly. Seeing the Stratosphere itself is breathtaking, and actually taking the jump is a life-changing experience.

9. Catch a Show

Las Vegas is also home to some of the best shows you’ll catch anywhere. So many legends in all forms of the arts visit to perform or have residences throughout the years.

You can also catch plays, acrobatic shows, and magic acts.

10. Check Out a Vegas-Style Pool

Hanging out by the pool during the day is just as popular in Vegas as hitting the clubs at night. Many of these pools are top-optional and have DJ’s that keep the party going.

People order cabanas with bottle service, and women wear elaborate bikinis to turn heads. It has a little something for everyone and is definitely a must-visit attraction.

Plan Your Vegas Trip

When you’re planning out your trip, make sure that you know which Sin City sights suit you best. Start with these attractions as you look to book your Vegas trip.

To learn more about budget travel and how to plan your next great adventure, stay tuned to our site!

Traveling is something just about everyone enjoys, but it’s not always that easy. Whether it be time, money or both, there are always a bunch of trips that are on the waiting list. Mike (formerly known as Michael) Asimos travels for work and pleasure often and recently shared some of his favorite travel hacks. He hopes that by sharing some of his secrets, people have one less excuse when it comes to not traveling as much as they would like.

Alright, first things first: are you a window or aisle seat person?

Well, I’ve been fortunate enough to travel a lot in my life, so I’ve certainly experienced both. I must say that as I get older, I seem to gravitate towards the aisle. It allows for easy access to the bathroom, and more opportunity to spread my legs out.

With that said, I do think early on I was more of a window guy. Whenever you are flying into a new city, nothing is more exciting then catching a glimpse of the city from the sky.

Favorite airline to travel, and why?

I seemed to always find good deals using Delta when I was younger, and that eventually led to getting points to use towards future trips. I can honestly say I’ve never personally had a bad experience with Delta. When there has been a delay, they are always very prompt and upfront with fliers, which I like.

Favorite hotel chain, and why?

When I find a good deal, or feel like treating myself a bit, to me, nothing beats a Hilton. I have always had great service there all around the world. If you do enough shopping and monitoring on sites, it really isn’t that costly either. However, for the more budget-friendly hotel chain, Holiday Inn is my go-to. They just seem a little cleaner and newer on average than their competitors.

What do you look for when booking hotels?

Real photos. I don’t want the photos that the company posts on the website, because guess what? All hotels look great when they have pictures professionally taken. I really love how reviewers have posted pictures to help other travelers find the truth.

What are some ways you can save money without sacrificing quality when traveling?

My favorite way to save money while traveling is to utilize local grocery stores. We are trained to think that travel = eating out for every meal. I usually eat out once a day, and then eat food from a local grocery store the rest of the day. You can still try unique things to that area too if you find a local establishment. That right there can save everyone $10 a day at least. Perhaps a lot more!

Where is your next travel destination?

I have a few small trips coming up that involve work in some way, but my next long trip I am planning for is Croatia in the spring. It is one of the most underrated travel destinations not only in Europe, but the world. I have been there once before, but I’m hoping to see a lot more thing time.

Any other final travel tips for readers?

Don’t be afraid of signing up for points and miles. If you have a favorite airline, start collecting. They come in handy and add up quicker than you think.

Where can readers connect with you?

I am most active on Facebook and Twitter, but I’ll plug my own website MichaelAsimos.com, as well. Anyone can feel free to send me any additional questions about travel via my social media channels.

You can also check out some more of my travel hacks, especially regarding my work in this recent interview, as well.

 

If you are searching for the next country to visit, you might want to have India on your list. Given the diversity of the country in almost every aspect, you have a lot of reasons to go there. For first-time travellers, you might have a lot in mind about the country. Before you go there, you need to remember the India Travel guide to have a rich experience.

Drop all your expectations

You need to make sure that you forget everything that you know about India and immerse yourself in the experience. If you have already set your mind regarding what India will be like, you will not embrace the trip. You will think that you already know everything, and you will end up staying in your hotel. As long as you prepare the fundamental aspects of the trip, you have nothing to worry about.

Prepare your budget

The good thing about India is that it is not an expensive travel destination. You can head there on a budget airline and avoid spending a lot. You can also find budget hotels if you don’t want to splurge on expensive accommodation. Finding meals is also easy since there are lots of affordable street foods and restaurants. As long as you can find a clean and safe place to dine, it is perfectly okay. However, it is not the same in all parts of the country. You need to create a budget depending on which part of India you intend to visit.

Don’t be afraid of talking to the locals

Indians are very warm and accommodating people. They love welcoming tourists like you. Tourism is a significant aspect of the country’s economy, and almost all parts of India have tourists coming over throughout the year. Some locals might be quite shy about speaking with foreigners at first, but they will start enjoying your company as soon as you warm up to them. A lot of them also speak English well, so communication won’t be an issue. However, it helps build a relationship if you try your best to speak a few local words.

Pack well

Depending on how long you will be travelling and where you will be heading, you need to be smart when packing your stuff heading to India. Make sure that you bring the right clothes. Women have to be modest with what they wear. You also need to prepare for the heat of the sun. If you are heading to the wilderness, as India has beautiful forests, you need to prepare the things you need to enjoy the experience.

Prepare for the possibility of getting sick

You might get sick because of weather changes if you came from a cold country. You might also get sick because of the food you eat. Don’t panic if something happens. Your body might still be adjusting to the food you are not familiar with. You can take medicine right away, and you won’t face this problem. You can also head to a local hospital if things turn bad.

India has a lot to offer, and you want to experience its richness as you go there for a trip.

Top of Form

Image: Unsplash.com

 

If you enjoy a delicious cocktail or craft brew as you unwind in the evening, there’s nothing better than a good hotel bar when you’re on vacation. You can get a satisfying sip just steps from your room, with no worries about the drive back. Try these hip hotel bars around Los Angeles for a delicious drink on your next visit to the city.

Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles: Best Girl

You’ll find the Ace Hotel in Los Angeles in the historic United Artists Building downtown. The hotel’s distinctive features include a restored movie palace, chic terraced rooms, and the neighborhood bistro Best Girl. So named for the 1927 film that was the first screened at the theater, Best Girl features a cozy atmosphere and diverse menu.

Among your drink options are several sparkling, white, rose, and red wines, a handful of cocktails, and an assortment of beers. For a touch of local flavor, try one of the rotating draft beers from LA’s Indie Brewing or order the Golden State Bay Brut Cider.

The Standard Downtown LA: The Rooftop

Head up to The Rooftop at The Standard and you’ll find delicious drinks and dining hosted alongside a sparkling swimming pool, outdoor fireplace, and happening dance floor. The dress code after 8 p.m. upgrades to smart casual. Use Hipmunk to book a room at the hotel, so you’ll be particularly well-placed to pop downstairs after your day at the pool and dress for the after-dark festivities.

The menu includes sweet and fruity cocktails, a variety of wines, and several beers. Even the brews have an added touch of fruit flavor, with options like the Grapefruit Sculpin, Hell or High Watermelon, and Angel City Saazberry.

LINE Hotel: The Lobby Bar

The Happy Hour Agency brings guests an artistic drink experience at the Lobby Bar in the LINE Hotel. Sleek and simple, this atmosphere is everything you want for a casual drink. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try one of the cocktails, like the Mary Seoul featuring red jalapeño-infused vodka, or the Senor Right, which pairs tequila with flavors of prickly pear and salted plum.

The wine and beer selections are pleasantly diverse, with beverages from around the globe. Take a world tour with your brew, sampling flavors from Belgium, Korea, Denmark, and even right in California.

Hotel Normandie: Normandie Club

Hotel Normandie, originally constructed in the 1920s, is a great choice if you’re using Hipmunk to find LA hotels with historic charm. The equally beguiling Normandie Club offers an exclusive air while still keeping the doors open to everyone. Though the menu lists several cocktails, guests are also encouraged to order custom drinks from the skilled bartenders. The wine selection includes a lite and full option for your reds, whites, and roses. Among the brews are local flavors like the Smog City Sabre-Toothed Squirrel.

Include some local brewery highlights in your stay, or expand your cocktail experience far beyond the basics when you slip into a seat at one of these hotel bars. Choose the accompanying hotel for your stay, and you’ll never be far from a relaxing evening.