• Embark on a Wildlife Safari in Africa

A wildlife safari is one of those experiences that cannot easily be described in words. It is moving, breathtaking, peaceful and makes you truly feel at one with nature on a level you have likely never experienced before. Being out in the wild and learning the survival mechanisms and instinctual abilities of the wildlife is a learning experience unlike any other on earth, while the vast grasslands are a treat to the senses and the soul. We’d highly recommend you visit smaller, more exclusive reserves if you’re looking for a luxurious safari away from the crowds that are often drawn to places like Kruger National Park. Thanda Safari is one such exclusive reserve where you’ll get to see the big five and safari in the lap of luxury.

• See the cherry blossoms in Japan

The cherry blossom season in Japan, which is around Spring (March-June) and Autumn (September-December) each year, attracts thousands of tourists and there’s no wonder why. It is the most beautiful sight, as the quaint, perfectly manicured cities of Japan are enveloped in delicate pink and white flowers. However, don’t think you’ll be able to see them at just any time between Spring and Autumn, because they come just as quickly as they go. Sometimes the cherry blossoms bloom late, other times earlier than usual and typically stay around for a maximum of three weeks. The cherry blossoms start blooming in the south and move north, so if you happen to be late in the south, it’s possible to still catch sight of them if you make your way north to places like Honshu.

• See the Northern Lights over Norway

The Northern Lights is a true natural phenomenon and one of the most breathtaking there is. This spectacle, which can be seen from Nordic countries such as Finland, Sweden, Iceland and Norway, is truly spectacular as the skies glow a luminous shade of green, pink and yellow from the solar activity. We believe the best place to see the Northern Lights is in Norway, as there’s a better chance of clearer skies especially during peak season, which is November to March. The only downside is that one cannot forecast when the Northern Lights will be seen – not even our current technology can predict it. Your best bet is to hope it shows up during the usual period and hope that skies are clear!

• Explore the remains of an ancient civilisation in Machu Picchu

Visiting Machu Picchu is an experience most people long to undertake – even those that are not necessarily avid travelers. This experience is educational and moving as the ancient ruins perched high up in the mountains gives us great insight into ancient civilisations, their beliefs, abilities and craftsmanship. While Machu Picchu is ever-so fascinating, it’s also incredibly beautiful, surrounded by tall mountain peaks and lush vegetation. The only way to get to the ruins is by train, or by hiking a good few hours. It’s truly remarkable to learn that a civilisation was built at such an altitude without the technology we have today – which is why hiking is surprisingly a favourite; this is how they did it back then.

• Hike through the deserts of Chile

Chile is one of those places many don’t think about when planning a trip, which is why I truly believe it’s one of the most underrated places on earth. Chile is one of the most diverse landscapes, with volcanoes, hot spring geysers, deserts, salt pans, mountain ranges – you name it. The typography is other-worldly, especially in the deserts of Chile such as the world-famous Atacama. The Atacama is the driest place on earth, which also means there is very little life out there. The land is also rocky and vast, and it’s extremely quiet, giving visitors the feeling of being on the moon.

• Dive in the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a world-renown natural phenomenon hidden beneath the waters of Australia’s North-Eastern coastline. It’s likely already on your bucket list, however, time and environmental damage is unfortunately taking its toll on the coral and marine life, making it a place you need to visit rather sooner than later. The Great Barrier Reef has the greatest marine diversity in the world, with over 400 types of coral, over 1000 species of fish and over 3500 types of mollusks. The best way to see the burst of colour and life is of course scuba diving, otherwise snorkeling. You can also take boat trips around the area.

 

Italy is renowned for its excellent wining and dining experiences. There’s nothing more quintessentially Italian than having an espresso on a piazza waiting for your pasta to arrive. There’s so much to do in Italy, and with so many cities to visit, it makes sense that you want to make the most of your trip. There’s one thing you need to do though, and that’s to book an appointment with Favisbook.com, to make sure you have all the paperwork and visas you need to travel. Once that’s figured out you can check out some of the best cities that Italy has to offer.

Rome

Of‌ ‌course, a trip to Italy wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the capital city, where you can see for yourself the marvel of Italian art and architecture. If you go to the Vatican Museum be prepared to spend a full morning or afternoon there and enjoy the wonderful art created and housed here. It’s also in the Vatican that you can see the famous Sistine Chapel, and bask in its glory as you stand beneath it. Michelangelo spent years painting this and it’s quite something to see for yourself.

If you’re in the center of the city, you can’t miss the Colosseum, and we mean literally. This towers above most of the buildings, and there’s something special about grabbing a coffee at one of the cafes that sit in its shadows. A couple of days in Rome is enough because you need to keep some time and energy for other cities. Make sure you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish before heading to your next destination though!

Florence

Florence is 3 hours north of Rome by train and is a wonderful city that has its own special sites. You can spend infinite amounts of time meandering the streets in Florence, getting lost amongst the alleyways that join blocks together, and then emerging into one of the many squares (piazza) that are the center point for the local cafes and restaurants. Florence is home to the original statue of David by Michelangelo. This iconic marble statue lives in the Galleria dell’Accademia inside the Uffizi, along with so many other masterpieces, but book your tickets in advance to be sure that you can gain entry.

Stroll along the Ponte Vecchio bridge, which has existed since the medieval period. This bridge is lined with a huge number of jewelry stores and boutiques, so you’ll be sure to find something spectacular when you’re there. If you are on the bridge just as night is falling, you might even see the bats emerging for their nighttime explorations! The Piazza del Duomo is beautiful too, and you’ll definitely come across it on your strolls.

Venice

Venice is a unique city, and the time to visit it is now because the future of the tourist destination is unclear. Venice is built on many islands, and due to climate change, the city is actually sinking – and fast. The city itself is easily walkable, but there are areas that require you to get a water taxi to move around with ease. St. Mark’s Square is the hub of Venice, and it’s the iconic square everyone sees in photos and videos. It’s also home to St. Mark’s Basilica which is a stunning piece of architecture externally – and internally houses many Byzantine mosaics.

If you want to do something stereotypically touristic, then taking a ride in a gondola is the best option, but these are expensive. Local boatmen will offer you similar rides, but you need to agree on a price before you set foot on the water. The Doge’s Palace is a great location and will give you a glimpse into the past. Venice is a small city, so 2 days is definitely enough time to spend there, or maybe 3 if you fancy visiting Murano, an island famous for its glass artwork.

Milan

Milan is the fashion capital of Italy, and home to Milan Fashion Week every September. Therefore, it goes without saying that prices for everything multiply during September when the most famous and fashionable people from around the world descend upon the city. If you’re into fashion, then this is obviously a good time to go, but there are plenty of things to do in Milan year-round.

Despite its name, Sforzesco Castle is a fortress that houses many pieces of art and is relatively cheap to visit. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the biggest shopping arcade in Milan and where you can find stores for some of the biggest fashion houses in the world. The Church of Santa Maria del Grazie is where you can see, with your own eyes, Da Vinci’s famous mural, The Last Supper.

Genoa

Genoa is a port city in the northwest of Italy and has a different atmosphere and history to the other cities mentioned. The city itself is a mixture of old and new, and the Old Town is where you can find the Via Garibaldi, home to many 16th century buildings that are standing in their glory. There’s plenty to enjoy in the architecture, and of course, the seafood available is fresh beyond measure.

The Aquarium is huge and housed in a boat-like building, and worth checking out if you have an interest in maritime life. The Lighthouse of Genoa towers over the harbor and has served the city for centuries. If you venture a small bit outside the center of the city, you can get to the Boccadesse Quarter, which is a vibrant fishing village.

The cities mentioned here are some of the most popular and famous cities in Italy and are all easily accessible by road or rail. There are, also, some wonderful coastal cities in Italy that are worth checking out if you want something more ‘authentic’, or just a break from city life. Italians are friendly, welcoming people, so if you want to know a bit more about the area, just ask and they’ll be happy to help!

 

Located in the heart of Europe, Slovakia is a land full of mountains and castles. Often forgotten and overlooked, it is the right place to explore for those who love to travel, especially for couples. The natural beauty and fascinating history of Slovakia make it a place that offers a great way to relax to anyone who visits the site.

Well, when people plan their trip to Europe, they usually choose destinations, including Austria, the Czech Republic, or Hungary. Slovakia often does not make it in their bucket list but let me tell you that even though the place is small, but it has a lot to offer. If you fall short of reasons to visit this fantastic place, then this article is a must-read for you.

Here, I will take you on a rundown to various reasons for visiting Slovakia at least once in a lifetime.

Before we scroll down to talk about the reasons to visit Slovakia, go through this useful guide if you are going to fly for the first time.

#1. Rich History

The country might be young, but it has a rich culture and incredible history. The cities of Slovakia are hundreds of years old, with festivities going on throughout the year. The local culture, customs, and traditional dances differ from region to region. The place is phenomenal for those who love history and are always keen to learn about different places and their background.

#2. Amazing Caves

Where on one part Slovakia is terrific on the surface, people usually do not know what is hiding underground. Well, it is a whole new world of incredibly beautiful caves. To be precise, there are over twelve thousand caves out of which you can visit around twelve. Some of the fantastic caves to explore in Slovakia are Ochtinska Cave, Cave Domica, and Dobsinska Ice Cave.

#3. Traditional Villages

Some people wish they had a time machine to travel back in time. Well, I believe you don’t need one. If you have the craze to go back in time and see how things were in the old centuries, then a visit to Slovakia is all you need. You one visit to the traditional villages of Slovakia will make your dream come true. The beautiful wooden houses and decorative paintings will make you feel like you are living a fairytale. The unique folk architecture will leave you by surprise.

Besides villages, the towns in this country are incredibly beautiful. You may find the list of ten most beautiful towns in Slovakia to visit on your next trip.

#4. Breathtaking Mountains

If you are a mountain lover and have a thing for hiking, then Slovakia is the right place for you. It is in Summer that the mountains in Slovakia offer great adventurous hikes, both easy and challenging ones, and in Winter they turn into white land with incredible slopes and different beautiful festivals.

So what are you waiting for?

If you have a love for mountains, then book your flights right away. A hot tip: Always consider booking your United Airlines tickets at least a month before your journey. This might save you a lot of money.

Also, if you are looking forward to flying anytime soon, then you may consider faremart to book your tickets at the best prices available. The platform also offers 24*7 customer support, with access to more than 450 airlines.

#5. Beautiful Castles

With one of the highest amounts of castles, i.e. 220, Slovakia sounds quite impressive, considering how small the country is. No matter where you go in Slovakia, there will always be a castle nearby. Out of all the castles the country has, the most beautiful is Spis Castle from the medieval times. Even though there are ruins left, the castle has not lost its charm. Another castle to see is Bojnice Castle. It is one of the best-preserved castles of Slovakia and looks as beautiful as the one in the Cinderella story.

#6. Hot Springs

With more than 1500 officially registered natural springs, Slovakia is full of high-quality water. If you visit Slovakia, then you may buy the Slovak mineral water anywhere. Besides the natural mineral water, the place has many springs that are used as thermal spas with fantastic healing effects.

Some of the famous spa towns in Slovakia are Piestany, Teplice, and Bojnice.

#7. Mouth-Watering Cuisine with Great Wine

Many people choose not to travel so that they do not miss out on their diet schedule. Well, if you are a fitness freak and keep track of your diet, then Slovakia might not serve you well. The place has a cuisine like nowhere else. It is all about fat but super tasty. Bryndzove Halusky is one traditional dish and is something like potato gnocchi with bacon and sheep’s cheese. Another meal to try is creamy garlic soup served in bread. Well, there are many dishes, but almost all of them are full of fat.

Besides the delicious food, the country is also home to some rich breweries and wineries. You can find the world’s finest wines here, and if you are more of a beer person, then you must visit brewery Erb.

#8. The Place is Cheap

Last but not least, Slovakia is way too cheap as compared to other destinations in Europe. Well, there are places in Slovakia where you might find the prices similar to other cities, but the more you roll towards the east, the cheaper it will be for you. Also, if you have only a couple of euros left and want to stay for a few days more in Europe, then you must head towards Slovakia.

Over to You

With all the reasons mentioned above, I believe you must be now willing to take your next trip to Slovakia. Well, these are just a few reasons, once you visit the place, you might give people more reasons to explore the beautiful place. So, without waiting for the right moment, pack your bags, book your tickets and leave your this amazing destination as soon as possible.

Also, if you have already been to Slovakia, then feel free to share your experiences in the comment section below. You may also tell about the beautiful places to explore there.

 

Is Saudi Arabia the next holiday hotspot? While Saudi Arabia may not be the first-holiday destination which you think of, when you think of a luxurious vacation spot, Saudi Arabia is predicted to be one of the world’s fastest-growing tourist destinations.

To discover why you should travel off the beaten tourist track in order to discover some of the great travel experiences which Saudi Arabia has to offer, simply continue reading:

3 Reasons why you’ll fall in love with Saudi Arabia:

1. Saudi Arabia is set to open a plethora of luxurious new hotels

In an effort to become a more tourist-friendly travel destination Saudi Arabia has plans to open up luxury beach resorts in the northwest of the country, where Saudi Arabia meets the Red Sea.

Better yet, these luxury resorts have special exemptions put in place, to ensure that tourists can enjoy lounging by their resorts pools and engaging in a wide variety of water sports, without having to cover up and adhere to the country’s clothing laws. So if you thought that wearing swimming trunks, a one-piece or a bikini in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea was impossible think again.

As an added benefit as Saudi Arabia’s new luxury resorts will be built in the remote northwest, you’ll be able to enjoy a private, tranquil vacation experience away from the hustle and bustle of Saudi Arabia’s fast-paced cities.

2. You’ll be able to visit tourist sites which few tourists have had the pleasure of visiting

If you love being one of the first tourists to explore a region that was previously off-limits to tourists, you’ll have the time of your life on a day tour of the Arabian Desert. An expansive desert that is truly a sight to behold. If you’re interested in ticking riding a camel off your bucket list, you’ll also be able to book a camel trek in a desert off your bucket list.

Alternatively, if you like the idea of seeing the sunrise over a large sand dune, it’s well worth booking a sunrise tour of the Arabian Desert.

3. Saudi Arabia is home to numerous historic sites, many of which are well worth visiting

If you’re a bit of a history buff and enjoy learning about new cultures, you may be interested in visiting some of Saudi Arabia’s historic sites. One example of which is the Old Dir’aiyah which is located in Riyadh and features the ruins of what is thought to have been the first official capital city of Saudi Arabia.

Some of Old Dir’aiyah’s walls, houses, and palaces have been partially restored in order to give tourists an accurate representation of what Old Dir’aiyah may have looked like at the height of its influence.

Another historic attraction, that you may want to visit during your future trip to Saudi Arabia is the Al Masmak Fortress, which is also located in Riyadh and is a 19th-century mud fortress.

So if you enjoy staying at luxury resorts, have a thirst for adventure or are a self-confessed history buff, you may be interested in adding a Saudi Arabia Visa to your bucket list!

 

 

Who doesn’t enjoy beer and live music? If you’re going to be in Wichita this fall, then there’s something you can’t miss. The 2nd Annual Praireland Beer & Music Festival is arriving in Wichita, Kansas on Sep. 14. You’ll want to get your tickets as soon as possible. In the meantime, learn some tips on how to plan your trip to Wichita.

About the Prairieland Beer & Music Festival

The Prairieland Beer & Music Festival was so popular in 2018 that it’s making a return this year. This celebration of beer and live music puts the best that Wichita has to offer on display. You’ll find something you’ll like between the 40 plus breweries, five different artists, and delicious tacos, nachos, and more from local fave Adios Nachoria.

Doors open at 3:00 p.m., but you’ll want to arrive as soon as possible. Tickets for music-only cost $20 and full-festival tickets cost $60. VIP tickets are available, as well.

Transportation

What makes Wichita a great place to visit is that it’s in a centralized location. It’s easy to go to and from the Prairieland Beer & Music Festival and other attractions. Wichita is just three hours away from Kansas City and two and a half hours away from Oklahoma City. If you’re looking for the right airport, then you have several options, including Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, which is the largest airport in Kansas. It operates with seven major airline providers.

You’ll also find that it’s quite easy to get around once you’re in Wichita. The Prairieland Beer & Music Festival is in Old Town—a central location. It’s a short drive from Eisenhower National Airport, which will be an easy commute with the very little traffic in Wichita.

Local Hotels

Do you need a place to stay in Wichita? There are a few downtown Wichita hotels that are close to Eisenhower National Airport and the Prairieland Beer & Music Festival. Some of the most popular choices include Courtyard Marriott in Old Town, Holiday Inn, and Hotel at Old Town.

Hyatt Regency Wichita is one of the most affordable options in the area. It’s an upscale hotel that provides you with comfortable amenities, spacious, modern hotel rooms, and a convenient location. It’s close to Exploration Place, Historic Old Town, Intrust Bank Arena, Orpheum Theatre, among others.

Food & Drink

Wichita is known for its wide variety of food. From international cuisine to fine dining, there’s something for everyone. You’ll have access to over 1,200 restaurants and venues that reflect Wichita’s diverse culture. Whether you’re craving Chinese food or steaks, you can explore different cultures without having to leave the city. If you don’t feel like running all over town, you can download the Wichita 2 Go mobile app and have your meals delivered to your hotel room.

Things to Do

Wichita will keep you busy with all of the things to do. You’re close to attractions, entertainment, museums, nightlife, and theaters and art clubs. Wichita also has Sedgwick County Zoo, which is the seventh-largest outdoor attraction and zoo in the U.S. There is also family-friendly entertainment for kids of all ages.

If you love beer festivals, then you must also check out the Beer & Wine Tour or the Brew Wagon Tour. If you’re more into art, check out the Urban Art Tour. If you’re looking for a city that’s ripe with adult comedy clubs, arts and culture, live entertainment, and nightlife, then Wichita is your city. You can create an itinerary on the Wichita website so you can keep track of which attractions and events you’d like to see during your stay.

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

One thing we can never ignore is the natural curiosity we have about primates, which in the animal kingdom are our closest relatives with much similarity to us. Reading about these human-like creatures is not an exaggeration, and having the chance for a close-up interaction always brings to light the many stories you have probably heard. In Africa, there are currently over 51 species of primates that have been recorded, making it the best place to have an immersive experience with the different groups that survive in the jungle.

However, human activities and the destruction of tropical forests have resulted in the primates becoming endangered species with most of them facing extinction. The result is these primates are not found in the high numbers they were before, and conservationists have taken strict measures to ensure the remaining ones are protected.

The desire to see primates on safari calls for the readiness to take the path less traveled and explore the depths of the forests. One of the most popular and breathtaking experiences is, without a doubt, gorilla trekking in East Africa, which takes you right to the heart of the natural habitats of these endangered primates. It is a terrific experience coming face to face with these intelligent apes that are in all evaluations the closets living relatives to humankind. Similar to man, they live in families which are headed by a silverback male with several adult females and their offspring.

If you have a strong desire to have these unforgettable experiences with a gorilla family, it is essential to know that special permits are required before access can be granted. It is therefore critical that early preparations and inquiries are made with leading tour operators that offer gorilla trekking services. This will save you from the inconveniences of last-minute hassles as the number of people who can go for a trip is limited and always pre-planned. You must also know that gorillas are vulnerable to human infections, and if you happened to have any diseases or the common cold, then the trek will not be permitted.

It will also be important to have a favorable fitness level to have a pleasant experience, which can take a few hours on rough paths in the mountain. The mountain gorillas are like most animals: unpredictable, and while they do not cover much space in their day to day movements, they could go to areas harder to access. Most of the time, however, gorilla trekkers get to have the pleasures of finding these apes in easily accessible areas where they have much space to rest as they feed. Finally, and most importantly, is to adhere to the rules provided by the guide which include respecting the animal space, avoiding flash photography, and dressing rightly for the jungle trek.

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

Hiking isn’t a gentle stroll. It’s about strength, balance, endurance and mostly perseverance. Avid hikers will know this but let’s get back to basics and explore some of the things to keep in mind if you are planning to go on a serious hike.

Appoint a team leader

All hikes require someone to be in charge of the group unless of course, you’re doing a solo hike. Appoint someone that is familiar with the area and has hiked the trail before.

This person or someone in the party needs to carry a first aid kit with the correct supplies in it in case something was to happen on the hike. It is also the leader’s responsibility to ensure that all those on the hike have the correct gear and equipment to take with.

The team leader also has the responsibility of checking the weather updates before a hike and making sure that the group is prepared for any change in weather during the hike. You cannot always assume that the weather report will be accurate so planning is vitally important.

Plan your water requirements

The most important thing by far is your water supply. Depending on the length and level of your hike will depend on how much water you need to take. Here planning is vital too. Experienced hikers tend not to take too much water but as we’ve said careful planning is required especially in dryer conditions where water sources are few and far between.

Remember to take small steps

If you are an advanced hiker you will know that it’s all about the footwork. Where you place your feet is very important and can make you more or less efficient depending on how you do it. It can take quite a number of years of training to know where to place your feet naturally without having to think about it but don’t despair, your body will soon get used to moving in a more efficient way.

It’s also important to hike at a consistent pace – don’t start off too fast. Hiking at a consistent pace is the key to success and don’t forget to take 10-minute breaks and snack often. Good snacks to take along include cheese with crackers or some nuts. Small portions of protein will keep your energy levels up and ensure that you don’t get a dip in energy which will slow you down.

Sun protection

It may not seem like something that is important particularly if you are hiking in milder weather but the UV from being exposed all day to the sun can cause some serious damage to your skin if you don’t take the necessary precautions. Search for decent wide brim hat and find a sun protection cream with as high an SPF as you can find. If you are sweating you need to reapply the sun protection cream regularly to ensure you don’t burn.

Lightweight gear

One thing all experienced hikers know is that wearing lightweight, breathable and waterproof clothing can make a huge difference to your comfort during a hike. Don’t skimp on this aspect – spend a little more for good quality gear that will last and that will work in all temperatures.

Don’t forget your feet

We cannot stress this enough – look after your feet while hiking. This means keeping your toenails nice and short, so you don’t get ingrown toenails or have your nail falling off from the pressure of being squashed in your shoe. Air your feet, shoes and socks every day to make sure that they dry completely. Wash your feet after a long day as well as your socks.

Photograph that

Photographic equipment can be a tricky thing to arrange and depends on the length of your hike. You’ll need a lightweight camera with a good long battery life that isn’t too fragile and can take a bit of movement from being carried in your backpack.

A trail camera is often a good idea here, especially if you are camping over on your hike. They’re sturdy and once setup, you can capture some great imagery of animals moving around. Feed that game provides some in-depth reviews of various trail cameras should you wish to get your hands on one!

On that note, happy hiking!

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

The land down under, that holds spectacular beauty is the largest island in the world and the smallest continent. Australia – also referred to as “the land of plenty” sure is home to staggering contrasts and many diversities.

The spectacular beauty along the coast, great cosmopolitan cities, ancient rainforests, endemic wildlife, national parks and vast send islands, make Australia a great destination for every traveler.

From the ancient Aboriginal legends on the coral reefs to the fever of the urbanite and modern cities, some places in Australia are just too good to be missed. However, do not underestimate the sheer size of this dreamland. You’ll need a lot of time off to see and experience it all.

Check our list of what you shouldn’t miss if you land your feet on Australian territory.

Sydney

The largest and most beautiful city in Australia – Sydney is famous for its beauty and international atmosphere. If you love a city that never sleeps with a multitude of attractions, including world-class art shows and entertainment, numerous festivals, beautiful beaches and buzzing nightlife – Sydney will be your dream destination.

Not to miss while in Sydney:

• Sydney Darling Harbour – Sydney harbor cruises offer mesmerizing views by day and by night. Stay at the Harbour Rocks hotel for the best Sydney experience.
• Sydney Opera House
• Sydney Harbour Bridge
• The Royal Botanic Gardens
• Bondi Beach
• The Rocks – don’t miss the best party district and enjoy a great club

Melbourne

For the distinctly European feel, Melbourne is often referred to as the European enclave. The place to be for culture vultures. Melbourne offers numerous galleries, museums, art shows, music bars and beautiful colonial Victorian architecture. Tourists love Melbourne CBD hotels as much as they enjoy the tiny lanes that hold award-winning restaurants and cozy cafes.

Not to miss while in Melbourne:

• Federation square
• Queen Victoria Market
• National Gallery of Victoria
• Yarra River Cruise
• St. Kilda village and beach
• Royal Botanic Gardens

The Great Barrier Reef

One of the planets awe-inspiring natural wonders, found on the Natural Heritage list –the Great Barrier Reef is a mesmerizing place to see.

This larger living structure in the world is also visible from the outer space. The protected eco-system includes more than 3000 coral reefs, 600 islands and 300 coral cays.

The Great Brier Reef stretches for 2300 km in the central Queensland Australia. The islands that are the part of this natural Reef are named the Whitsunday islands. To see and experience this great natural wonder you can stay at one of the mesmerizing islands. The coral reefs can be explored with snorkeling in the deep blue water, from a glass-bottom boat, or by air. Seaplanes offer an unforgettable overview of the Great Barrier Reef.

Great Ocean Road

Australia is a favorite destination for people that love road trips. Roads are wide and endless with some of the most beautiful sceneries in the world.

The Great Ocean Road is one such adventure that many love to take. It’s a 224km long road on the Australian south-eastern coast. Alongside the road, travelers can stop by to experience some of the most popular and most beautiful spots in Australia.

• Griffiths Islands-Port Fairy
• Bay of Islands
• Bay of Martyrs
• Port Campbell National Park
• Gibson’s Steps
• The Twelve Apostles
• Apollo Bay
• Kennett River Koala Walk
• Bells Beach

 

Kangaroo Island

300 miles of mesmerizing coastline with several pristine beaches. Kangaroo Island is an adventurous place for people that love to experience Australia’s wildlife.

Visitors can share the beach with lounging sea lions and make some Koala friends near the eucalyptus trees. Kangaroos are also citizens of this island. It’s also a foodie’s paradise with various gastronomic experiences.

Natural attractions to be visited while on the island:

• Admirals Arch
• Flinders Chase National Park
• Hanson Bay Sanctuary
• Penneshaw Penguin Center

Activities offered to tourists:

• Sandboarding
• Adventure caving
• Quad biking

National Parks in Australia You Need to See and Experience

Australia is famous for more than 500 National Parks. Each different and characteristic, yet all of them a thorough enjoyment for adventurous travelers. Limestone and sandstone rock formations, beautiful sceneries and beaches and endemic wildlife.

Scattered on the large Australian territory, here we have a list of the most mesmerizing places in the world – Australia’s best National Parks:

1. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – central Australia

• Ancient Aboriginal landmark and a spiritual center for the region’s aboriginal people. The park consists of 32 rock domes.

2. Blue Mountains National Park – 81km west of Sydney

• More than 664,000 acres of wilderness and gorgeous waterfalls, aboriginal rock paintings, and 140 kilometers of hiking trails. Attractions in the park: the rock formations called the Three Sisters, the Katoomba Scenic Railway. the Jamison Valley, ancient rainforest, and elevated views of the dense forests.

3. Daintree National Park – far north Queensland

• A magnificent rainforest and the oldest one in the world.

4. Kakadu National Park – top end of the northern territory

• Diverse terrain, great aboriginal rock art, endemic flora and fauna including kangaroos, giant crocodiles and beautiful birds. It is the largest National Park in Australia.

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

Travelling to the Amazon rainforest, the most famous jungle is definitely a remarkable experience that can best be enjoyed through an Amazon River cruise. It is home to over 10,000 species and that number is not even definite as scientists are constantly discovering new species.

The Amazon rainforest is a symbol of biodiversity. If you were uncertain whether or not you should go and explore the wild nature, we would definitely advise you to go there at least once in your lifetime.

As this fierce river is dominating through the entire area, the best way to learn about it is with a river cruise. After all, how will you get to know the power of this place if you’re not being on a river that pumps the life into this jungle?

Luckily, there are plenty of companies that can take you on a cruise and provide you with an entire Aqua Amazon River experience, where you will meet the locals, see some of the most fascinating animals and plants in the world and learn how to survive in this place.

Safety Instructions

Most of the boats you will see offering a cruise to this popular destination will have first aid and trained staff on board. Before your cruise start, you will be informed of all the safety instructions. Make sure you’re listening to it carefully as it will become quite handy if you end up in a situation where such a piece of advice would be extremely valuable.

Of course, if some things are unclear to you, can always talk to your boat crew and your guide about jungle-related topics. These people live and work in this region the bigger part of their life so you will feel very safe with them. That’s why it’s vital that you listen to everything they can and take all precaution measures to ensure your own safety and of those who are with you on that boat cruise.

What to Bring?

This is probably the first thing that will cross your mind once you book your cruise on the Amazon River. As the majority of people never actually visited a jungle in their life, it’s completely normal to be confused about what to bring. Even if you visited a jungle or been to the wild nature before, the Amazon is an experience by itself. It’s hard to be fully prepared for something like this!

However, you can avoid making a mistake that many people make. As we all know that Amazon has a tropical climate, people bring shorts and shirts with short sleeves because they think they will be hot. Due to mosquitos and other insects, not to mention all of these sharp and poisonous plants, it’s best if you cover as much as your body you can.

When all of these is combined with a strong, tropical sun, you can also risk getting sunburns there. Bring a hat or a cap and a light raincoat as you will definitely need it. The rain can be very merciless in the Amazon but a raincoat might help you not get wet while exploring around.

Also, bring a pair of good shoes that cover your ankles. Most of the things you could need for your own protection will be provided to you on the boat so you should only bring essential things with you. These are some of the things you can count to have on your river cruise:

• First aid supplies and trained professionals
• Satellite phone for emergency calls
• Life vests
• Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
• Lifeboats
• Emergency flares and signals

Information about Health

Some passengers will maybe suffer from illnesses caused by this giant change of the environment or being on a boat. Luckily, these situations can easily be prevented if you take your medications before your trip. Actually, one of the first things you should do when going to Amazon is to consult your physician who can tell you what precaution you need to take or what medications will be necessary to make your cruise more pleasant.

When talking about medical issues that could happen to you while in the Amazon rainforest, we have to mention motion sickness. It doesn’t happen that much as these boats are not fast, however, if you have suffered from motion sickness before, bring medications with you just in case you need it. For those who will go to this jungle, it’s advised to take malaria pills and be vaccinated for yellow fever.

Final Thoughts

You are in for quite an experience if you book your river cruise in the amazing Amazon. However, don’t neglect the safety instructions we’ve just mentioned and also make sure you talk about all your concerns with your guide and tour operator. It’s your responsibility to take care of yourself if you want to truly enjoy it!

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

There are so many exciting places to visit and affluent, modern people seem to hit them all!  Yet, it is truly unfortunate that some places that deserve more attention from travelers seem to be getting less and less attention these days.  So, in this travel blog, we are going to go all out extolling the beauty, charm, and old world modernity of little Slovenia.

Please, Do Not Visit a Land Based Casino

There is so much to see and do in this compact country that we strongly urge you to bypass the temptation to visit a casino.  If you would like to play a few casino games, we recommend joining an online casino or simply logging into the one you already are a member of.

You can play at Intertops Casino almost anywhere and to boost your account you can access an Intertops casino bonus.  There is so much to see and do in Slovenia that we suggest leaving the casino gaming for late at night as a short unwinding session after the experiences of the day.

Why is Slovenia So Underrated?

Slovenia has so much hidden charm that travelers who are looking for the old tried and true simply miss it.  For instance, Slovenia has just a very short coastal area as opposed to neighboring Croatia and Italy with thousands of kilometers of coastlines.

Slovenia doesn’t have any of the major capital cities of central Europe.  Vienna is in nearby Austria.  Prague is in the nearby Czech Republic.  Budapest is in nearby Hungary.  Italy has Rome, Venice, and Florence just to start.

Slovenia didn’t win its independence by overcoming a siege as Vienna did.  It didn’t play a major role in either World War.  In fact, Slovenia won its independence from Yugoslavia by declaring itself independent and waiting for the Yugoslavian Army to go home rather than fight to save a dying communist regime.

Small Country and Small Population

Holland is the most crowded country in the world.  Israel, in the northern half of the country is even more crowded than Holland.  Slovenia has only 2,000,000 people in a land of 20,000 square kilometers.

Over 40% of Slovenia is forested.  The country has over 200 municipalities.  One of the jokes Slovenes love to tell tourists, especially Americans and especially Americans from New York City is that New York has 7,000,000 people and one mayor while Slovenia has 2,000,000 people and 212 mayors!

Clean as Clean Can Be

We have been to Slovenia and we can count the number of scraps of paper and other detritus that we have seen on the ground on our fingers.  There isn’t any litter anywhere in this country!  We did see a tissue blowing in the breeze in a plaza in a Slovenian city and before the phenomenon registered in our brain a young girl had bent down, picked it up, and deposited it in a trash basket.

We are not in Kansas anymore, Toto!

Four Basic Regions

We can divide Slovenia into four basic regions but this is a traveler’s division not a geographer’s.  So, the northern third of the country is mountainous, the southwest is coastal and Mediterranean, the east is rolling hills and the center is where the majority of the people live but you never feel crowded in Slovenia.

The capital, Ljubljana, is in the center.  We suggest flying into Ljubljana even if the flight is a bit longer than a direct flight into Venice.  Venice is certainly well worth a day or two but it takes some time to rent a car in Venice and the trip into Slovenia may also take a long time given traffic.  So, fly into Ljubljana, rent a car there, and travel two days in whichever direction you choose, then come back to Ljubljana for the flight home.

Old Ljubljana

The old city of Ljubljana is gorgeous.  You can easily walk back and forth on the narrow streets without getting very tired.  The buildings are perfectly maintained.  The old city has excellent restaurants and pubs plus live music.  Two days in Ljubljana should satisfy you and get you ready to head out.

Native Food

We like to sample different cuisines and we have found that aside from sausage, Slovenians love soup.  They make several very special soups using interesting spices and vinegars as well as fish, mushrooms, and an assortment of vegetables.

The hallmark Slovenian soups are meat-free although vegans and many vegetarians won’t eat the fish soup.

Before we go anywhere, we check out local restaurants.  Some older restaurants close while newer restaurants pop up all the time.  One thing we found everywhere in Slovenia is that the owner or manager of any restaurant we ate at was very open and willing to tell us the story of the restaurant.

Some of these stories are quite remarkable.

Sour Milk

Everywhere else in the world, this delicacy is called yogurt!  There is a mountain plateau about one and a half hours north of Ljubljana that you should see when the cows are there.  It is called Velika Planina.

The herders bring their cows there for the short summers.  They welcome visitors and offer sour milk.  We thought this would be something we hadn’t tasted before but it was just yogurt.

Velika Planina is a great day trip north of Ljubljana.  You get to the plateau via a cable car.  If you are afraid of heights we suggest closing your eyes!  On the way back to where you parked your car, we suggest walking.  It isn’t a long walk, the landscape is beautiful, and it is slightly downhill as opposed to the long uphill you would have if you tried to walk up to Velika Planina.

Next Year in Slovenia

This delightful little country should be on everyone’s bucket list.  A very large percentage of people keep bees.  They sell the honey to tourists and many offer tours of their bee-keeping operations.

Some of the bee-keepers also make wine so you can buy for your own use or for gifts back home.  Most bee keepers do this as a part-time enterprise so you have to arrange a tour in advance.

We found that almost everyone in Slovenia speaks English.  This contrasts dramatically from Italy where very few people could help us in English.  In addition to speaking English, the people of Slovenia are just the most helpful people we have ever met as tourists.

We Recommend Slovenia

We hope that we have at least interested you enough to do some personal research into the possibility of a week or more in Slovenia on a near future vacation.

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