World Travel

Are you relocating to Spain? Whether you’re moving for work or leisure, the Spanish life is one of the best! Here’s everything about moving to Spain.

Moving abroad is a life-changing adventure. It’s the best way to immerse yourself in a new culture. It’s also the quickest way to learn a foreign language.

But the question remains: where to move to? Should you explore the streets of Paris? Or drink tea on the Bosphorus in Istanbul?

While there are many destinations out there, expats are choosing Spain as their new homes. It’s a European country with a magnificent history and culture to discover.

But, if you’re planning on moving to Spain, you’ll have to plan ahead. Even countries in the EU have their own rules and regulations.

Even if moving to Spain can be a challenge, it’s 100% worth it. To get your move off to the right start, check out our tips for moving to Spain.

The First Step to Moving to Spain: Get a Visa

There are so many practical reasons expats are moving to Spain. They might have fallen in love with the country while on vacation. Or they’re ready to experience the insane amounts of food in Barcelona.

But you won’t be able to stay in your new home country if you don’t have the visa to go with it.

If you’re an EU national, then you’re golden. You can travel and move to Spain without a visa.

The rest of us will need one of these three long-term stay visas:

• Work Visa
• Student Visa
• Retirement Visas or visas for family reasons

If you have a job already lined up, ask your employer to help you with this process. But if you’re on your own or starting a business, then you can apply at your Spanish embassy or online.

You’ll also need to get an NIE, or Foreigner’s Identity Number, to do things like setting up a bank account.

Find a Place to Stay

One of the best ways to find a place to stay is to scout out other expat boards. Check for these forums based in your new city, and start asking around.

You can also hire a realtor to help you. But there’s also the option of renting an Airbnb for a month while you scout out homes to stay in. Yes, this will add another stress to your plate. But it will be so much easier to make decisions about where to stay when you’re on the ground.

If you have a lot of things you want to transport in your move to Spain, then you should learn more about moving trucks.

Opening a Bank Account

Once you have your NIE lined up, you can open a bank account in Spain. This will be easier when you have to pay taxes or send money back home.

If you’re not confident in your Spanish, book an appointment with an English speaker. You’ll need to bring a few items to get started:

• Passport
• Foreigner’s Identity Number (NIE)
• Residence Certificate
• Proof of employment and address

Learn the Language

When you move to a foreign country, it’s tempting to find other expats who speak English and never branch out. This is especially true if you’re an ESL teacher.

But if you don’t learn Spanish, you’ll miss out on amazing experiences and connections. Plus if you ever decide to return to your country of origin, you’ll have a new skill to offer.

Ready to Move to Spain?

Whether you’re moving to Spain or you want to visit, you should take a look at our blog. We’ve got advice about adventuring all over the planet, plus how to make your life better.

Oh, and we always know where to get a great beer.

London and Dubai are the places that have been ranked on the top for tourism. They have been ranked best in the world for hotels and shopping. They are the home to the world’s largest shopping centers, such as the Dubai mall that attracted 75 million people in the year 2013. Dubai and London are the home of luxurious hotels such as The Gorings, London Hilton on Park Lane, The Atlantis, International London Park Lane, Burj Al Arab and many more. The main language that is spoken in England is English, followed by Bengali, Hindi, and Turkish. The main languages that are spoken in Dubai are the Arabic language followed by Hindi and other regional languages of people over there.

The best time to visit London from Dubai is from March to May and from April to August. These are the best months to visit London from Dubai due to the good weather and the events taking place over there. These months are the peak seasons to visit London from Dubai.

Transportation in London- When you book flights from Dubai to London, after reaching London the best way to roam around the place is by trains, buses, and taxis. The minimum cost of these preferred transports is $3 by traveling from trains, $5.3 by traveling from buses and $4.3 by traveling from taxis or tourism service cars. Yes of course if a person likes to walk they can, walking depends on the type of weather.

Frequently asked things about flights from Dubai to London:

• The average time to reach London from Dubai is 7 hours 40 minutes. It takes a maximum of 8 to 9 hours to reach London airport from Dubai International airport depending on the weather.
• The code for Dubai International airport is DXB.
• The code for London Heathrow International airport is LHR.
• The airport in Dubai from where the London flights take off is called as the Dubai International airport and the airport where the flights land after reaching London is known by the name that is Heathrow International airport.
• After reaching London from Dubai so many shopping places/sites are waiting for the people such as Westfield London, Oxford Street, Selfridges and many more.
• If a person feels hungry after reaching their destination then there are so many hotels and restaurants to fulfill their hunger, such as, Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, Rules, Dishoom, Pooples Fish and many more are the places where you can dine in to satisfy your hunger.

Your Guide to the Top 10 Best Beaches in North Carolina

If you’re looking to explore the best beaches in North Carolina, you’ll love our guide. Check out our top 10 list and start planning your trip!

When it comes to the beach, any time of year is a great time to hit it up. Sure, in the winter you can’t lay out in your bathing suit, but you can still enjoy the smells and sounds of the beach.

If it’s not too cold, you can even still walk along the sand in your bare feet. And in the summer, beaches are a great place to cool off, swim, surf, and work on your tan.

But not all beaches are the same. Especially in North Carolina. It’s worth it to take some time to locate the best beaches in North Carolina, especially if you’re on a budget.

To help you figure out where to go next, here’s a guide to the 10 North Carolina beaches you have to check out for yourself.

1. One of the Best Beaches in North Carolina is in Wrightsville

Wrightsville is just east of Wilmington, North Carolina. The beach is actually comprised of two small islands which are connected by Shell Road.

It also boasts the second oldest Yacht Club in the United States, which was built in 1884. It goes without saying that Wrightsville is one of the more popular beaches in North Carolina for paddling boarding, surfing, and kayaking.

For those who love fishing, head on over to Johnnie Mercer’s Pier. It extends out 1,200 feet into the Atlantic.

2. Emerald Isle

The Outer Banks is known for some of the best North Carolina beaches. You’ll find Emerald Isle located in the southern Outer Banks.

It’s considered the crown jewel of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. Since the island is between the Atlantic Ocean and the Bogue Sound, you’ll enjoy calm, see-through waters that’s perfect for swimming in.

For those looking to spot marine life, take a coastal boat tour where you’re sure to spot local wildlife like dolphins, local birds, and even the wild ponies who live on the barrier islands.

3. Carova Beach

Also located on the Outer Banks is Carova Beach. For those who love North Carolina beaches but don’t want to deal with crowds, Carova Beach is the perfect spot.

It’s the most isolated of all Outer Banks beaches and you won’t find paved roads here. Instead, you will find gorgeous white sand and tons of privacy.

If you’re lucky, you’ll also get a glimpse of one of the stunning wild mustangs who roam the shores at Carova Beach.

Keep in mind you can only access the beach using a 4×4 but rental homes are available. Just make sure you book your trip early to ensure there’s availability.

4. Topsail Island

Three communities make up this 26-mile long barrier island located off the coast of North Carolina. You’ll find Topsail Beach, North Topsail Beach, and Surf City here.

Here, you’ll enjoy natural beauty as there are strict high-rise development rules and only about 500 full-time residents live here.

And, for those treasure hunters, there’s a rumor going around that Blackbeard’s treasure is located here. Whether you’re looking to learn its amazing history or you just want to get away from it all, Topsail Island will leave quite an impression.

5. Cape Hatteras

Cape Hatteras is spread out along 72 miles on the Atlantic Coast. It’s actually a strip of barrier islands starting from Nags Head to Ocracoke Island.

For those who want to sunbathe, body surf, and comb the beaches, this is the spot for you. And for those who love lighthouses, you’ll have to come here.

Cape Hatteras not only boasts some of the best North Carolina beaches but it also has our nation’s tallest lighthouse. It stands at a whopping 196 feet and offers amazing views of the seashore.

And visitors can now enter and climb the Bodie Island Lighthouse which dates back to 1870 and stands at 156 tall.

6. Ocracoke Island

If you love lighthouses, don’t forget to make a stop at Ocracoke Island. There’s another lighthouse here that stands at over 75 feet.

You’ll also get to enjoy a 2.5-hour ferry ride, as this is the only way to access Ocracoke Island.

Once there, you’ll find a laid-back atmosphere and beaches that are scarcely populated.

But it’s not just about the most popular beaches in North Carolina. Here you’ll also find Springer’s Point Nature Preserve and Ocracoke Pony Pen.

7. Oak Island

Oak Island is perfect if you’re looking for popular beaches in North Carolina but can’t commit to just one place. Oak Island is also perfect if you like being amongst crowds since it’s a huge summer spot.

It’s also only 60 miles northeast of Myrtle Beach. If you’re looking for condos, click here.

Oak Island is perfect for families who are looking for a small-town feel. There are miles of beach perfect for fishing, boating, and other types of water activities.

You’ll also find great restaurants and plenty of shopping.

8. Carolina Beach

At least one of the beaches in North Carolina should be named after it’s home state. Carolina Beach stands for everything that makes a beach great.

You’ll find rides and games located on the beach boardwalk, making this beach the perfect spot for families with kids. The beach itself features white sand and is perfect for fishing, surfing, or enjoying great seafood.

In the summer you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy live music and fireworks. And don’t forget to visit the famous Britts Donut shop.

9. Kitty Hawk

Aeronautical enthusiasts will love visiting Kitty Hawk to learn the history of the Wright Brothers.

But there’s more to Kitty Hawk than just being first in flight.

It also features a quaint, historical village, a great beachfront community, and Kitty Hawk Woods which is a maritime forest reserve. Here you’ll also find great, fresh seafood, some of the best barbecues in North Carolina, and homemade ice cream at Bick Bucks.

10. Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach is located on what’s known as North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. It’s one of five communities located in the Bogue Banks area.

You’ll find crystal clear waters and it’s a great spot to come with large groups. For those who enjoy history, you can hit the North Carolina Maritime Museum in nearby Beaufort.

There, you can learn all about Blackbeard’s ship, The Queen Anne’s Revenge.

Discover Where to Travel Next

Now that you know which ones are the best beaches in North Carolina, it’s time to start planning your vacation.

Whether you’re looking to figure out where to stay, what food to eat, or how to save the environment while traveling, we can help. Our blog is dedicated to those of us with wanderlust.

Click here to figure out where your next destination lies.

8 Pro Tips For Planning the Perfect Spain Vacation

Are you planning on taking a trip to Spain? Don’t make the mistake of doing so without reading these 8 brilliant tips for planning the perfect Spain vacation.

What did 82 million tourists all have in common last year? They explored the beauty and culture of Espa?a.

Your Spain vacation is going to be amazing if you can fit everything in. Spain has so many beautiful cities and serene country towns to discover. Not to mention the mouth-watering cuisine.

When planning your trip to Spain, there are some mistakes you want to avoid. There are also tons of awesome tips you need to know. Keep reading for 8 travel planning tips for a Spain vacation.

1. Take Advantage of Transit

It can be tempting to rent a car for your Spanish getaway because it seems more convenient. But, you should consider embracing public transportation.

The roads in Spain are good in most places, but the signage isn’t in English. Why stress about directions and miss out on sightseeing? Sitting in a comfortable bus allows you to get to your destination and enjoy the sights along the way.

Spain has plenty of transit options. The train system is extensive, and the Renfe Spain Pass can save you some money.

There are lots of inner-city buses that also connect you to nearby cities. Alsa, Eurolines, and Starbus operate in Spain.

In the bigger cities, don’t be afraid of using their underground subway system. Barcelona’s is easy to navigate and get around with.

2. More Time in Big Cities

Some travelers make the mistake of cramming too many places into their trip. If you only have a week, it’s recommended you pick 1-2 cities to explore. Any more and you won’t get to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Look at a map of Spain. There are neighboring cities that pair well on a travel itinerary.

If you want to visit Barcelona, consider also going to Tarragona. If you want to see Seville, consider checking out Cordoba.

The big cities in Spain have a year’s worth of things to do. It can be stressful trying to cram everything in. So, give yourself enough time to see everything you want to.

3. Learn Some Lingo

Although Spanish is a national language, different regions have their own main languages. In Catalonia (the region with Barcelona), they speak Catalan. Madrid and the central region speak Castilian. The South speaks Andalusian.

It’s true that in big touristy cities, you can get by speaking English and a little Spanish. The people won’t look down on you.

But, why not try to speak the language of where you’re going? It’ll help you communicate with locals. They’re the people with the best recommendations and tips for the area.

4. Spanish Hours

Spaniards live on different hours than the rest of Europe. You’re probably familiar with their daily siestas or naps. That’s one aspect of their unique lifestyle.

Because of these afternoon naps, most restaurants and businesses shut down during siesta time. If you’re planning on exploring, pack a lunch during this time.

Consider starting your day later so you can stay up later. Most Spanish cities come to life after 9 pm. Treat yourself to sleeping in so that you can explore and socialize at night.

5. Cool Accommodations

Spain has tons of options for accommodations. If you’re on a budget, the hostel game is strong in Spain. But, make sure you read the reviews before you book as some are better than others.

You could also stay in a hotel if you’re looking for concierge amenities.

Consider renting an Airbnb for a truly local experience. You get your own private space and a key to lock up behind you. Plus, some of them have super cool d?cor and ambiance.

For returning travelers, why not get in on a timeshare? If you fall in love with a city and know you want to come back, timeshares are the best choice. Many of them, like Fab Timeshare, give you access to timeshares and resorts in other countries.

6. Embrace the Cuisine (It’s Not Hard!)

Spain has notoriously awesome food. The common tapas method of serving allows you to try many different dishes in small portions.

While paella is Spain’s national dish, it’s the best quality in coastal cities. Make sure you try paella in the Balearic Islands and in Barcelona. But, avoid super touristy restaurants because they won’t be as good as places that serve locals.

In the Northeast, make sure you try Galicia’s savory empanadas. In the South, chilled gazpacho is legendary. And, no matter where you are, try the local wine!

7. Plan Around Events

Festivals and events are a big part of Spanish culture. Every month there’s something exciting going on somewhere in the country. Do your research on the events during your trip and plan your travels around them.

For example, the popular La Tomatina tomato-throwing festival happens in Valencia every August. Each July, Pamplona holds the Running of the Bulls. Seville’s April Fair is a must-see if you’re around during that time!

8. Keep Your Valuables Safe

Pickpocketing happens in every touristy city, not just in Barcelona and Madrid. You need to protect your belongings everywhere you go.

Spain’s crime rate is pretty low, and pickpocketing is the main thing for tourists to worry about. You can protect your valuables by not keeping them in open pockets.

Wear your purse or bag on the front of your body. Carry a portable travel safe. Know where your passport and credit cards are at all times.

If you have a safe in your hotel room, leave valuables there and carry around cash.

Ready to Plan Your Spain Vacation?

Your trip to Spain is going to amazing. The culture, cuisine, and festivals make this country an international treasure.

When planning your Spain vacation, make sure you follow the tips listed above. Consider learning some of the languages, embracing the daily routine, and getting immersed in the city. Spend more time in one place to truly get a sense of what it’s like there.

For more tips and guides on worldwide travel, you’ll find everything you need on our world travel blog.

Traveling Without A Car in Canada? Try These Options Instead!

Just because you’re traveling without a car doesn’t mean you’re unable to travel across Canada if you wanted to. There are several different modes of transportation that you could choose instead! To learn about these options, read this article!

Canada houses more than 50% of the world’s natural lakes (yes, including your dream destination, the Great Lakes). It boasts of a coastline stretching 243,000 kilometers long. About 50 beer breweries also call the country a home.

We can go on and on about how amazing the Great White North is, but you get the gist. In fact, you may already know so much about it you’ve already decided to see it for yourself.

The question is, how exactly do you travel in a place with 9.98 million sq. km. of surface area? Is traveling without a car of your own an impossible feat?

Nope. Not at all. There are many ways to get around and see the world’s second-largest country, and that’s what we’ll share with you today.

So, keep reading to discover the best way to travel Canada!

Getting to Canada

Did you know that Toronto alone had a whopping 43 million visitors in 2017? Or that people made 20.8 million trips to witness Canada 150?

No wonder then that the Toronto Pearson International Airport sees 129,000 people every single day. This should already tell you that one of, if not the best way to travel to Canada is by air.

Also, there are seven other international airports in the country. All have US government-run pre-clearance checkpoints. This means easier reentry for those coming from (and going back to) the United States.

But don’t forget there are also the cruises to Canada and New England for the sea-lovers out there. Remember, the North Atlantic Ocean lies to its east, the North Pacific Ocean to its left, and the Arctic Ocean on top of it. As such, heading to Canada by water is no doubt also a great option.

Pro Traveler Tip: As a tourist, don’t forget your responsibilities as a traveler abroad. Check if you need a visa, first and foremost. Also, make sure your passport still has more than six months from its expiration.

When in Canada

Now, for the fun part: Traversing Canada once you’re already in it! Let’s take a look at some of your best options to get around this beautiful country without your own car.

Below we’ll cover the most convenient and luxurious to the cheapest ways to travel without a car.

The Coolest, Most Stylish Way to Get out of the Airport

Say you flew in to Toronto. After so many hours in the air (not to mention all the travel time you already spent in other airports), you’d want to relax, right?

So, why not book a Toronto Airport Limousine service? It’s no doubt the easiest and fastest way to get out of the airport. Imagine how awesome it would feel to know that someone awaits you at the airport, ready to chauffeur you to wherever.

Yep, you read that right. You’ll have your very own professional chauffeur to bring you to your hotel or wherever you fancy. Also, since the most reliable limo services employ locals, you can even learn a lot of insider info from your driver!

In any case, a top-rated airport limo service will make sure that once you land, you’ll have less to worry about. Your driver will wait for your arrival and soon as he/she sees you, help you with your luggage. That’s a plus if you’re traveling with golf clubs or other heavy, bulky stuff.

Remember: It can be quite difficult to hail a cab, especially in airports. The last thing you want is to spend even more time waiting, when all you want is to start your vacay.

Besides, there’s no other cooler, fancier, and more luxurious welcome than a sleek, shiny limo.

Getting Around Like the Locals Do

All right, time for some sight-seeing! You finally get to experience for yourself whether the country’s scenery is too pretty to be real!

One of the best ways to do that is by train. Romantic and nostalgic, Canada’s rail system is sure to make your jaw drop as you marvel at all those beautiful landscapes.

Keep in mind though that there’s only one primary passenger train company, the VIA Rail. So, rail travel is best if you have a flexible schedule.

If you’re looking for the cheapest ways to get from Point A to Point B, buses are a great option.

Worry not, as these are safe and comfy. Also, they’re your only option when you want to visit some of the country’s less populated spots.

For an itinerary that involves long-distance routes, Greyhound buses are a good choice. All the company’s buses have built-in restrooms and comfy, reclining seats.

Get Your Fit On

Granted, vacations are a time you should indulge yourself. So many local delicacies to try out after all. There’s the must-try poutine, the Aboriginal staple bannock, and the gastronomic Nova Scotian Lobster Rolls to name a few.

With all these comes the high possibility of gaining weight though. Because it’s a lot easier to gain weight than lose it, why not add a bit of exercise during your trip?

Cycling isn’t only a fun and healthy way to get around Canada. It also affords you some of the most exciting ways to see the country’s breathtaking sceneries. Think Ontario’s Waterfront Trail, Quebec’s Route Verte, and Newfoundland’s Viking Trail for starters.

Plus, you only need to rent a bike and a helmet, get a map of Canada, and you’re in for a great adventure.

More Water, Please

With all that water surrounding the Great White North, it makes complete sense to hop on a ferry! They offer excellent ways to discover the country’s eastern and western coasts. They also have quite the reasonable prices, so there’s often no need to book many days in advance.

Loads of Options When Traveling without a Car in Canada

As you can see, traveling without a car in Canada is 100% doable. From the most luxurious to the most exciting, there are many modes of transportation for you to choose from.

So, why not give them all a try to live (albeit short-term) like the Canadians do?

For more travel tips and tricks like this, explore our blog.

9 Reasons Why Thailand is the Ultimate Vacation Spot

If you’ve ever considered traveling to a faraway exotic beach, we’ve got nine reasons why Thailand beaches are the ultimate destination. Continue reading for our helpful tips and start planning your dream vacation today!

Are you looking for the best beach destination for this year’s holiday?

While many choose to fly to The Carribean to experience the beaches, it turns out that some of the best beaches in the world are in Thailand.

Thailand is a cultural hub full of some of the best food, drink, and nightlife in Asia. When you combine that with some of the best beaches on the planet, it’s clear that Thailand is truly a destination worth visiting.

If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect beach getaway, you’re going to want to read this! We’ve compiled nine reasons why Thailand beaches are the ultimate travel destination.

It’s time to start packing!

1. Year-Round Sunshine

Of course, every beach vacation is in need of the best weather possible. We’re talking bright sunshine, that humid breeze and, of course, the warm sea.

Fortunately, Thailand is blessed with all three! And, even better, you can count on year-round good weather when you visit Thailand.

If you’re really looking to maximize your sun exposure, opt for traveling to Thailand in the springtime. After all, April is reported to be the hottest month in Thailand with the average temperature reaching 87 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Picturesque Scenery

When we picture the classic Thai beach, it’s not just long stretches of white sand and the neverending sea.

Instead, Thai beaches are often surrounded by picturesque cliffs, palm trees and a steady population of long-tail Thai boats. Not only do these idyllic beaches make for incredible photos, they’re also the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation.

These cliffs also provide for exciting caves to explore and endless opportunities for fun!

3. Rock Climbing

When most people think of Thailand, they may not initially connect Thai culture to the sport of rock climbing.

Perhaps it might be Thailand’s best-kept secret that the country is home to some incredible rock climbing opportunities.

For those with a sense of adventure, you’re going to want to head to Railey Beach in Krabi. This island is a rock climber’s haven and has been highly praised amongst even the most seasoned of rock climbers.

Here, many rock climbing schools are operating lessons for beginners and have special, separate locations for more adventurous climbers.

4. Luxury Resorts

Thailand is well-known for their wide array of luxurious resorts.

If you’re looking to make the most of your money and reside in an incredible resort, Thailand is essentially the perfect destination. After all, for travelers coming from America, the exchange rate can provide for a favorable return.

While Thailand has no shortage of fabulous resorts, you’re going to want to ensure that you do your research to find the best place to stay.

If you’re looking for a resort that combines the utmost luxury with a traditional cultural setting, try Howie’s HomeStay. Not only is this resort visually stunning, it also provides for a traditional Thai experience and with fabulous service.

5. Full Moon Parties

For those that are looking to experience the nightlife of Thailand, it’s more than likely you plan to attend a full moon party. And, if you’re traveling solo, this could be a great way to meet other travelers.

After all, full moon parties happen to be one of the most celebrated parties in the world. These parties take place directly on the beach and cater to the likes of tens of thousands of eager partiers.

Here, you can experience the joys of the beach combined with music, food, dancing and local drinks. And, of course, don’t hesitate to opt for Thailand’s favorite beer: Singha!

6. Island Beaches

Thailand has a population of approximately 67 million people. When you combine this population with the extent of the heat, it’s safe to say Thai beaches can become incredibly busy.

However, there are countless beaches throughout Thailand that are not yet overrun with tourists. If you’re willing to venture off the beaten path, you’re sure to stumble upon some stunning, yet less populated beaches. While many other beaches are elbow-to-elbow, these lesser-known beaches can feel like your own private island.

Here, you are certain to find a host of locals, but it provides for a more relaxing and peaceful experience.

Try Koh Kood on the eastern side of the gulf or Freedom Beach in Phuket.

7. Diver Friendly

If you eat, sleep and breath diving, you’re going to want to pay special attention here.

For those seeking a new diving destination, Thailand just might have to be next on your bucket list. This is the case for both beginners and experienced divers.

For beginners, snorkeling lessons are populous amongst the many beaches. For more experienced divers, the locals will be happy to point you in the direction of the best-kept diving hotspots.

8. A Haven for Seafood

If you’re a lover of fresh seafood, there’s no better place to score than directly from the ocean.

Of course, Thailand is best known for their traditional Thai fares -curries, pad thai and the like. But, what most people don’t know is that Thailand is known to have some of the best seafood in Asia.

For the best seafood, be sure to visit Sunset Beach in Koh Lipe. Here, you can look forward to seaside dining and food caught straight from the source.

9. Surfing

If you’re looking to catch a wave in Southeast Asia, you’re going to want to head to Thailand.

Phuket, in particular, has become a hotspot on the map for surfing and has a number of great surf beaches.

It’s an ideal place for surfing in Thailand as it is perfect for groups with mixed experience levels. The sea is gentle enough for beginners while the rough swell can provide great opportunities for more experienced surfers.

A Taste of Thailand Beaches

If you’ve been contemplating the next destination for your travels, it’s safe to say that Thailand can offer something to everyone.

With its world-renowned beaches and culture, Thailand offers a beach holiday that is unlike anywhere else in the world.

When it comes to making the most of the Thailand beaches, there are countless ways in which travelers can enjoy. From diving excursions and full moon parties to luxury resorts and private-island beaches, there certainly is something for every type of traveler.

Go on, experience it for yourself!

For more fun and informative articles on traveling the world, be sure to check out our blog!

A Traveler’s Guide to What to Drink When Visiting Istanbul

If you’re someone who’s been bitten by the travel bug, a trip to Istabul, Turkey is a must! When you’ve finally made the trip and are visiting Istanbul, you have to wet your whistle with these amazing drinks – some drinks are alcoholic, some are not. All of them are delicious!

Istanbul is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting over 32 million people in 2017. With a rich culture, historical landmarks, beautiful mosques, and awesome views, it’s no wonder visiting Istanbul is such a popular choice for tourists.

And one of the best parts about traveling, in our opinion, is indulging in the local food and drink.

Istanbul, in particular, has a wide variety of local beverages. Let’s go over some Turkish drink delicacies you have to try when visiting Istanbul.

Tea (Cay)

Turkish tea is essentially black tea. The flavor of the tea isn’t brand new; you’ve likely had black tea before.

Tea is such an important social part of Istanbul culture that you have to partake while you’re there to get the full Turkish experience. Most people in Istanbul drink it black without sugar, but this could be too strong if you don’t drink tea that often.

You can ask for some sugar cubes to make it a bit sweeter, but you might want to skip asking for milk. Milk and tea don’t usually mix in Istanbul; if you want to fit in with the locals, keep it straight.

Turkish Coffee

Chances are you’ve heard of Turkish coffee before. Turkish coffee is almost like an espresso: it’s strong and dark. You’ll either order it sade (no sugar), az (a little bit sweet), orta (medium sweet), or sekerli (very sweet).

It’s made with a very particular method that has made it well-known around the world. Ground coffee and the requested amount of sugar get boiled in filtered water a special copper pot called a cezve.

When a thick foam starts to form, some of the foam transfers into the coffee cup. The heat is then turned off and the coffee goes into the cups.

As with tea, it isn’t customary to drink Turkish coffee with milk or cream, so get ready for some thick, rich, dark coffee. Watch out for the grounds at the bottom as well.

Ayran

Ayran is a liquid yogurt drink. This might not be the best tasting drink to those of us who aren’t used to it: it combines yogurt, water, and salt. It is either made fresh in cafes and restaurants or packaged in supermarkets.

Many people pair Ayran with meat dishes, but it is a treat on its own. While this might be a somewhat acquired taste, it’s worth trying out when you’re visiting Turkey. It is a traditional and cultural beverage you probably won’t see elsewhere.

Boza

If you’re looking for something a little sweeter than a salty yogurt drink or intense strong coffee, the local drink boza could be for you.

Boza is a fermented beverage made from bulgar, millet, and/or wheat durum. It’s one of the oldest and most classic drinks in Turkey, dating all the way back to BC times. It’s most commonly enjoyed during the winter, but you can find it year-round if you look hard enough.

Once the main part of the mixture ferments, water, sugar, and cinnamon are added. It creates a rather thick drink that has a sweet and tangy taste.

Raki

Now that we got the classic non-alcoholic options out of the way, let’s move on to some Turkish alcoholic drinks. This travel destination has a drink known as Raki, which is the national alcoholic drink in Turkey.

Raki is anise-flavored, so if you aren’t a fan of licorice, you might not love it. However, it’s worth a try because it’s the drink most associated with Istanbul.

It’s served with water and ice, which gives it a milky or chalky look. That’s where its nickname “Lion’s milk” comes from.

This is a hard liquor, so it might be best for at night with appetizers or during a weekend in Istanbul, if you know what we mean. Try out the brands Tekirdag and Yeni if you want some of the best Raki available.

Beer

Cracking open a cold beer at dinner is one of the simple pleasures of vacation. The good news for you is that Istanbul has some great Turkish beer you can sample while visiting.

Efes Pilsen is probably the most popular beer in Turkey. It’s so popular that it’s usually available in bottles, cans, and on tap in most restaurants or bars in Istanbul.

It’s described as light, crisp, and carbonated. Efes Pilsen is perfect for a summer dinner outside or warming up after a long day of travel.

Wine

While Turkish wine isn’t as well known as the wines of France or Spain, the local wine culture is rich with delicious options you can try.

Calkarasi Rose consists of the calkarasi grape that’s native to Turkey. This rose has the classic crisp freshness with an added mineral flavor unique to this grape. It’s fruity and delicious, which goes perfectly with a vacation feel.

You can also try a Pasaeli Merlot if you’re looking for an amazing red wine. It blends a combination of merlot grapes and the rare Turkish Karasakiz grape for a beautiful tart, acidic wine that has both earthy and sour flavoring.

Visiting Istanbul? Be Sure to Try These Drinks!

Turkey is full of amazing sights and cultural dishes that you have to try out. From the seeing the famous Hagia Sophia to taking a sunset cruise along the Bosphorus strait to trying out local delicacies, Istanbul will keep you busy while you’re visiting.

When you work up a thirst while visiting Istanbul, you can try out one (or all!) of these local drinks. Going for a Turkish coffee to wake you up in the morning, an ice cold Efes Pilsen at lunch, and some raki at dinner seems like a pretty awesome time if you ask us.

If you’d like some more travel info or tips on what food to try while abroad, check out our blog.

We’ve also got you covered with tips and tricks on how to stay on budget while traveling.