The Bizarre & Amusing Translations of Place Names Around The World
It’s fair to say that we don’t always put a lot of thought into the names of places we visit. In fact, unless they are in the English language, we just take them asread.
This point is widely proven across the USA and the UK, where we all enjoy poking fun at some of the truly ridiculously named villages, towns and cities across both nations.
Ridiculous Place Names
Just take a look at this very enjoyable article from The Telegraph which lists 10 of the silliest place names in Britain.
As you can see, history often plays a big role in naming certain places. Because of this, the original meaning becomes lost and ends up becoming something much more humorous!
The sheer volume of strangely named places is perfectly illustrated in this post from Thought Catalog which lists 52 across the United States, including the likes of Accident, Maryland and Coupon, Pennsylvania.
Clearly, there is no shortage of odd place names in the English language, However, if this is what one language has to offer, how many ridiculous ones exist in all of the other languages?
Well, thanks to a new infographic from clarendonlondon.com, it turns out there’s plenty of them.
The Bizarre & Amusing Translations Of Place Names Around The World
They have gone about translating some of the strangest names into English, with quite frankly hilarious results.
It’s called ‘The Bizarre & Amusing Translations Of Place Names Around The World ‘ and you can take a look below.
This infographic covers a number of continents. However, the conclusion it clearly comes to is that there are a wealth of silly named places in Europe.
Germany is seemingly a wonderful example with a wealth of giggle-inducing place names. The infographic includes Feuchtwangen, which translates as “wet cheeks” and Kotzen, which translates as “vomit”.
Driving in the USA can be daunting or charming depending on where you are. Despite initial reservations, my wife and I found driving between two of the country’s major cities was no great problem.
Day 1 Washington DC to Lancaster 190 km
This morning we leave Washington DC on route to Lancaster. We skirt Baltimore then follow I-83 north for 90 minutes before exiting at York. By now we have entered a beautiful region of rolling hills, neatly cultivated farms, covered bridges, and towns with unusual names like Paradise, Intercourse, and Bird-in-Hand. This is the gorgeous Amish Country, also known as Pennsylvania Dutch Country, which immediately evokes feelings of nostalgia, respect, and curiosity.
The verdant countryside is laced with rural roads and we quickly find opportunities to meet Amish and Mennonites on farms that have opened their doors for commerce. There are historical sites, pretzel and chocolate factories, covered bridges, and bustling farmers’ markets. For those unimpressed by these attractions, there are amusement parks and outlet-mall shopping.
At the Pennsylvania Dutch Convention & Visitors Bureau, we are given an excellent map and visitors’ guide to the region and a wealth of brochures. The Amish with their distinctive clothes and lifestyle are the big attraction in this region but we quickly learn they are not theme-park characters but hardworking people leading busy lives. They don’t drive cars or use electricity so there are 25,000 horse-drawn vehicles in the county. These tend to stick to quieter back roads, but you will certainly see many of them as you travel around.
The Amish Experience, on Route 340 in Intercourse offers three attractions that provide an authentic illustration of Amish life, past and present. Tickets for a 40-minute multimedia show, an interpretive tour of a contemporary-style Amish home, and a guided back-road bus tour may be purchased separately. We don’t do the bus tour but learn much about the lives of these interesting people. The final highlight of the day is dinner at a family-style restaurant with some local specialties.
Day 2 Lancaster to Philadelphia 127 km
Today starts with a visit to the Amish Farm and House which is a historic 1805 farmhouse, furnished like a modern Amish house. The guide explains the Amish history, clothing, customs and culture as we move through the home. There is time to wander the six-hectare farm and see a wide variety of farm animals, historic barns, a covered bridge, the one-room schoolhouse and exhibits including an authentic tobacco stripping room and an original blacksmith shop.
Next, it’s back to Intercourse to visit the Kitchen Kettle Village where there are 45 local shops, restaurants and an inn in a village. The hub of activity around here is the kitchen where locals cook up sweets, fresh baked pie and cookies, and delicious canned goods like relish, salsa and pickles. We sample some pepper jam and shoo fly pie and agree that there is something special about Lancaster cooking. Amish and Mennonite owned-stores are closed on Sundays so visit here on other days.
Road US30 East heads towards Philadelphia. Much of this follows the route of the old Philadelphia and Lancaster Turnpike which when built in 1794 was the first toll road and best stone and gravel road in the country. This is not the fastest route but it is the most interesting as it goes through several small towns.
Traffic is heavy as we approach Philadelphia but we find our accommodation and decide we should walk rather than drive. This is the second largest city on the east coast of the United States but it is also one of the most historic in the nation. We are hungry so head to Reading Terminal Market, an enclosed public market opened in 1892. The former train shed has over one hundred merchants and we enjoy a healthy meal.
Day 3 Philadelphia
There is a designated Constitutional Walking Tour and it seems like a good idea to follow parts of it. The African American Museum is where we start but we leave somewhat disappointed. Fortunately, the National Constitution Centre, a well-done museum about the history of the USA and its Constitution, is more interesting. This naturally leads to the Independence Visitor Center where we learn about visiting Independence Hall and other sites in Independence National Historical Park.
Immediately south is the Liberty Bell Centre where historic documents and graphic images explore the facts and the myths surrounding the famous cracked Bell. Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were adopted, is the centrepiece of the Park.
We discover there are no tickets left for admission so we make do with looking around outside. Over the next few hours, we visit the Magnificent Carpenters Hall, Franklin Court, Christ Church, and Elfreth’s Alley, which is known as the oldest residential street in the USA.
As we return back along Arch Street towards our hotel, we stop off at the Betsy Ross House, the Arch Street Friends Meeting House and the Christ Church Burial Ground.
Day 4 Philadelphia to New York 155 km
Yesterday was all about old Philadelphia and we start today by driving through Society Hill a charming district with cobblestone streets said to contain the largest concentration of original 18th- and early 19th-century residential architecture in the United States.
We make a stop at the Mütter Museum America’s finest museum of medical history before visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the largest art museums in the country. The Franklin Institute was established in 1824 as a centre of science education and it also houses a huge statue of seated Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States.
Time is getting away so we leave the city and head along the New Jersey Turnpike (Interstate 95) to Newark Liberty International Airport where we drop off the rental car. The Newark Airport Express takes us to Grand Central Station in New York City and we take the subway to our hotel.
There is just time to reach the Circle Line pier to catch the Harbour Lights Cruise. The sun is low as we cruise down the Hudson River, around the Battery, up the East River, and back via the Statue of Liberty. As the sun sets and the skyline comes alive with millions of lights, we gaze in wonder at the hugely impressive scene and plan our next few days in the city that never sleeps.
Remote tropical destinations appeal to many as a prime choice for getaways. Clear, turquoise water, powdery sandy beaches, palm trees swaying the breeze and plenty of sunshine make for the idyllic location to relax and unwind. While there are many popular places around the world to enjoy the perfect vacation, there are a number of less frequented islands, which offer the chance to avoid crowds. Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine while enjoying the quiet and laid back atmosphere away from daily life stress.
The pristine island is found off the northern coast of Cuba and favored for the miles of white, sandy beaches and sparkling, clear waters. Embark on a catamaran or a kayak. Explore the world beneath the water where one of the largest reefs on the planet serves as home to a wealth of colorful tropical fish including angelfish and parrotfish. Indulge in a deep sea fishing excursion Ernest Hemingway style. With more than 150 species of birds living here, Cayo Coco is perfect for bird-watching enthusiasts. In the evening, enjoy horseback riding along the beach. Venture to a waterfront restaurant and listen to the live music while feasting on a lobster dinner.
Stay: Pullman Cayo Coco has eight bars, a nightclub, eight pools, a fitness center and activities for the entire family.
Isla Robinson Crusoe inspired Daniel Defoe to write his now famous novel about a shipwrecked sailor. Despite the small village of San Juan Bautista, the destination remains one of the few unspoiled islands on the planet. The island also remains one of the most interesting of the tropical places to vacation. The magical landscape varies from picturesque beaches and clear water to greenery-covered mountains. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, sailing or swimming with the indigenous fur seals. Venture forth on a trekking journey to Centinela Hill, Puerto Frances or Puntas de Isla. Perhaps go horseback riding through the Rabanal Forest.
Stay:Crusoe Island Lodge features a pool, spa, pub, and restaurant, which prepares meals using local produce and fresh seafood.
Koh Yao Noi remains one of the quietest islands in Thailand. The magical location lies in the fantasy-like picturesque Phang Nga Bay and is bordered by Krabi and Phuket. The unique destination is a photography enthusiast’s dream. Things to do in Koh Yao Noi include adventure activities like kayaking the calm waters and going island hopping. Make a stop at James Bond island. Venture to the scenic and secluded lagoons or tour the caves. Explore the knotted forest or unwind on Buddha Beach or Hat Yao Beach. Rock climbing is fast becoming a popular sport, and frequented crags include the Grateful Wall and the Mitt.
Stay: Coastal Escape Resort lies right along the beach and features amazing views over the bay.
The local reef teems with marine life, which brings snorkelers and scuba divers to the tropical Malaysian location. Guests thrill at the chance to come face-to-face and photograph the many species of colorful fish and pelagics, which lurk beneath the sea. The calm waters around the island lend themselves to ocean kayaking. Relax under the warmth of the sun on the beach or indulge in an invigorating spa treatment. Perhaps catch a glimpse of sea turtles coming to and fro at night. The island is conveniently small enough to experience the entire destination by foot.
Stay: Sipadan-Mabul Resort offers a selection of dozens of detached and semi-detached chalets and private verandas. The resort is surrounded by a mature coconut grove and lies just steps from the waterfront.
The French Island lies in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and Mauritius. Reunion has a fascinating history that dates back to the 12th century. The terrain varies from scenic beaches to forested mountains and the Maido Volcano. There are miles and miles of roads and routes to explore by vehicle or bicycle. Swim and snorkel in local waters to catch a glimpse of the dolphins and whales which frequent the Marine Nature Reserve. Explore the animal and plant life lining the ocean floor. If preferring to remain on land, the Reunion Aquarium at Saint-Gilles provides the chance to see hundreds of marine life species from around the world. Experience the Creole culture by sampling the cuisine, hearing the music and gazing at the architecture.
Stay:Tsilaosa provides world-class amenities and a perfect view of the Piton des Neiges in the heart of the island.
Montserrat is one of the Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles archipelago. Many arrive at the tropical destination to witness the Soufriere Hills Volcano and the destruction caused on part of the island. The Montserrat Volcano Observatory monitors the region and welcomes guests to learn more about the site. Venture to the Centre Hills Forest, which serves as home to many rare animal and plant species. The Botanical and Herbal Garden cares for a number of indigenous and endangered plants including the Heliconia, the Epidendrum Montserratians, the Pribby, and orchids. Explore the unique rock formations or bird watch along the black sandy shores of New Beach.
Stay: Miles Away Villa Resort offers all the amenities of home plus spectacular ocean views.
If you’ve never visited the United States, or not had a chance to make it to the cultural capital, you’ve likely dreamt of the day (and night) you can visit New York City. Perhaps the most iconic destination in the western world, countless cinematic representations of the Big Apple have raised its gritty day-to-day lifestyle to a glamorous status. For not only are the buildings and monuments widely celebrated, but the very experience of being in the definitive metropolis makes it a bucket list essential for any eager traveler.
To fully take advantage of that sense of lifestyle, though, you really need to dedicate at least one full night of your trip to staying awake and enjoying the non-stop nightlife, vampire-style. It can begin as the sun sets, with a ticket to the live recording of Seth Meyers’ famous Late Night show. Afterwards, you can fill your shopping bags (or browse for free!) at late night market, the Brooklyn Bazaar. They’ll lay on karaoke, DJs and games to boot!
Once you’re warmed up, you can put those vocal cords to good effect at the live movie experience of The Rocky Horror Show, which will see you through the midnight hour in Manhattan. A drink at Jay-Z’s 40/40 club will soothe your throat and recharge you in time for some all-night bowling at Whitestone Lanes.
If you’re starting to flag by now, take it easy with a bit of pampering at Koreatown’s Juvenex Spa. You’ll be out in time to see the sun rise over the Statue of Liberty – you can find the perfect view on a free ferry to Staten Island from Manhattan’s Whitehall Street Station. What an epic way to finish your first all-nighter in Gotham!
For all the details and more ideas on how to fill those small hours between dusk and dawn, check out Expedia’s new infographic. You can’t say you’ve done in New York until you’ve pulled an all-nighter!
Deciding which Hawaiian island to visit for the first time you visit can seem a bit overwhelming. Each of the different major islands–Oahu, Hawaii island, Kauai, Maui–have something unique and different to offer travellers.
The beautiful island of Oahu offers the traveler many options. Whether you like the hustle and bustle of big city life in Honolulu; enjoy the serenity of nature in the magnificent Kuala mountains; or want to catch some surf vibes along the North Shore–Oahu has something for everybody!
On the island of Oahu, you’ll find a vibrant mix of culture, arts, and entertainment. There’s plenty of shopping available on Oahu. You can also visit museums, cultural centres, and even attend an authentic Luau.
If spending time on the beach is more your style–Oahu has a number of beaches that meet the needs of whatever beach style you prefer. If you like the busy beaches with plenty of people, bars, and restaurants then Waikiki Beach is a must. But if you prefer more to see a more laid back Hawaii–head to the North Shore and find beautiful sandy beaches with sea turtles, surfers, and unique Hawaiian eats.
Oahu is an island best suited for someone who wants the full Hawaiian experience. Urban explorers can wander Honolulu, culture absorbers will fall for the Polynesian Cultural Centre, history buffs can visit the hallowed grounds of Pearl Harbour, nature lovers can visit some of the greatest beaches and swim in some of the most magnificent water. It’s truly an island for everyone and is our choice as the best island for vacation in Hawaii.
Hawaii Island, known as the Big Island, is the largest of the Hawaiian islands–with an area larger than all the other islands combined. This island offers unique biomes with eleven different climatic zones–you can visit sandy beaches, snow-capped mountains, and active volcanoes–all on one island!
The Big Island is home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park–a national treasure and the largest volcano on the islands, Kilauea is a must see. You can go hiking and find waterfalls, natural pools, and lush green mountains on Hawaii Island. If you’re lucky, you may encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and whales.
Even the beaches of the Big Island have their own unique characteristics from the black sand on Punalu’u Beach, the white sand on Hāpuna Beach, to the green sand on Papakōlea Beach–these beaches really have something to marvel over.
Hawaii Island is best suited for the naturalist. The variety of climatic zones available on the island brings a depth of life that cannot be matched anywhere else. Active volcanoes, colourful beaches, and incredible landscapes await on the Big Island.
Even hearing the name Maui invokes a relaxed, calm, island vibe. There is perhaps a no better word to associate with Hawaii than Maui. 30 miles of beaches, the ancient volcano–Haleakala, and the spectacular waterfalls of Ohe’o Gulch are but a few highlights for those that wish to visit the old Hawaii.
Maui is a terrific year round destination with its mild, consistent weather allowing visitors to enjoy the island at its most brilliant. Beaches for every type line the island’s perimeter. Secluded beaches await those looking for privacy. The sports enthusiasts will enjoy the largest surfable waves in North America. Head to the windy side to take up your new favourite hobby of kiteboarding. Want to relax and spend a day on the water without the water thrashing your body–snorkelling meccas are everywhere.
The island is also home to some of the greatest hiking trails in the word. Maui is host to Haleakala National Park. Celebrating Hawaiian culture–both modern and ancient–the park offers a taste of history. Learn how the interactions humans make on their environment shapes the landscape. Don’t want to spend your time inside the fascinating museums–grab your backpack and spend a night under the darkest sky imaginable. Gaze up at the milky way with your naked eye as you fall asleep in the Hawaiian wilderness.
The people of Maui’s dedication to eco-friendly and sustainable farming means that a lot of the food produced on the island stays on the island. It’s a wonderful island for foodies as the locavore scene is exploding. Farm to table restaurants highlighting the glory of Hawaiian food culture dot the island.
Maui is an island best suited for the outdoor loving foodie. After a long day of hiking and exploring, coming back to your hotel, home, or camp with some of the tastiest local food imaginable…priceless.
Located in the centre of the Hawaiian archipelago lies Kauai. Perhaps the most beautiful of the Hawaiian islands–Kauai is home to some of the best beaches and mountain ranges in the world.
Kauai lays claim to one of the best beaches to visit in Hawaii. Hanalei Bay is a haven for water lovers. Surrounded by majestic forested mountains, to say this location is picturesque doesn’t do it enough justice. In the summer, the ocean’s waves calm and the water is as still as glass. Outside of the summer, surfers from around the world come to enjoy the beauty and splendour of Hanalei Bay.
Known as perhaps the most gorgeous landscape in the United States and perhaps the earth, the Na Pali coastline invites you to take in the lush, tropical environment. See this wonder of geology, with its rocky crags and dense, green foliage by sea, air, or, for the more adventurous, by foot along one of the greatest hiking trails in the world–The Kailua Trail.
Kauai is an island suited best for the adventurous and active. Getting out and interacting with this incredible island is key to the ultimate Kauai experience.
Choosing where to stay in Hawaii doesn’t have to be a difficult decision. Just think about what you want out of your next vacation. Whether it’s beaches, fine dining, city life, history, or wild landscapes–Hawaii has something for everyone. The best island for vacation in Hawaii is the one that will provide you with the most long-lasting memories that you can share with others.
People in Canada welcome the Christmas season along with the New Year through parties and celebrations either at their respective homes or in clubs, lounges, and pubs. The type of celebration may vary depending on the area you are in Canada like in rural areas of Quebec; people love to spend the night ice fishing with their beloved ones. Most of the day on the 1st January is consumed recovering from the celebrations the previous night or till wee hours early morning. Many people do escape out of Canada during this season for a vacation at a comparatively warmer location.
The 1st of January is declared as a statutory holiday, and if this day falls on the weekend, then the statutory holiday is shifted to the next day. Businesses, organizations, schools and universities are closed on this day. Even the public transport system enjoys a holiday or is open for short duration through the day. Some provinces and municipalities vary the rules and regulations; so don’t be surprised if you find the stores shut down in some locations.
Ottawa
Located on the south bank of the Ottawa River towards the east of Southern Ontario, Ottawa is the capital city of Canada. The season celebrations kick off with an illumination ceremony held in the first week of December. The Parliament Building itself is covered with vibrant colored lights. The ceremony also provides free distribution of hot chocolate, Christmas carols, and Beaver Tails, which is often followed by wonderfully illuminated displays in the entire month. Some of the popular hotels in Ottawa, which are known for their celebrations during this festive season, are Comfort Inn Ottawa East Hotel, Residence Inn Ottawa Downtown Hotel, National Hotel and Suites, Les Suites Hotel Ottawa, and Capital Hill & Suites Ottawa Hotel.
Toronto
The capital province of Ontario and the largest city in Canada, Toronto is located in the southern part of Ontario towards the northern shore of Lake Ontario. Toronto is home to the biggest Santa parades in the world, there are thousands of visitors who love to be a part of this parade. This 6-kilometer route runs through the heart of the city. The Cavalcade of Lights takes places through the entire month of December. This festival starts off with the lighting of the gigantic Christmas tree in front of the City Hall in Nathan Philips Square. Some of the popular hotels in town are Thompson Toronto Hotel, Best Western Plus Travel Toronto Airport, Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto Hotel, Howard Johnson Yorkville, and Easton Chelsea Hotel. Book early to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Quebec
A Province, which is located in east-central Canada. An area, which is predominate with French-speaking people and the only province that has French as an official provincial language. A great place to be during the Christmas holidays, which is home to beautiful & fluffy white snow, cobblestone lanes, marvelous historical architecture. The Quebec-Adabra, which is a festival offering large-scale illuminations. An authentic German Christmas market and a beautiful light show are some of the key attractions of this festival. You can count the celebrations during the Christmas season is one of the best held in North America. The best hotels in the region are Marie Rollet Hotel, Hotel le Priori, Delta Quebec Hotel, Jardin Ste Anne, and Hotel Le Louisbourg, etc.
Vancouver
The coastal seaport city on the mainland of British Columbia. Considered to one of the largest municipality in Canada, there is an annual tradition, which is followed for more than 50 years, where hundreds of boats decorated with light parades around Deep Cove, Port Moody, and False Creek move into the water for celebrations. Book a romantic cruise dinner with your partner if you are looking forward to some private moments. Other attractions include Stanley Park, which is one of the finest additions to the green space of Canada. Some of the best hotels in Vancouver are The Burrard Hotel, Hyatt Regency Vancouver Hotel, Empire Landmark Hotel, Wedgewood Hotel & Spa, and Pan Pacific Vancouver Hotel, etc.
Edmonton
This is the capital city of Alberta, a province in Canada. The Christmas along with the New Year is considered to one of the most vividly celebrated seasons here. Some of the star attractions to check out are Candy Cane Lane, where you will find festivals running all through the month of December. Get ready for peak nights with bustling crowds during the weekends leading to Christmas.
Enjoy upcoming Christmas and new year with your family and friends in top most cities of Canada. Don’t keep your loved ones waiting, plan your Canada trip today and enjoy the fantastic new year & Christmas in Canadian style.
An increasing number of us are travelling both within our country and abroad for business engagements.
Business Travel on the Rise
The Business Travel Magazine reported that UK business travellers alone spent over £5.8 billion heading abroad in 2014, a rise of a staggering 30% on previous years. All in all, business travel is increasingly important to a number of UK industries.
Even with the aid of calling and conference apps like Skype, it’s still very important that we meet with business peers, clients and partners to talk face to face to further our success and learn more about our industries.
For anyone who has travelled for a business engagement, the whole experience is very different to jetting off on a relaxing holiday.
There is a great deal more to consider other than organising flights and hotel rooms. The majority of businesses will expect you to do some level of work between destinations, you also might have to prepare for a presentation or do some level of research ahead of a conference.
It’s fair to say that all of this responsibility while travelling can make business trips quite stressful, but they don’t necessarily need to be.
Infographic
There are lots of ways to make even the busiest business trip go as smoothly as possible. There are plenty in this handy infographic from Central London Apartments.
Titled ’21 life Hacks Every Business Traveller Needs to Know’, this infographic covers all of the necessary areas of a business trip, providing actionable tips to make your journey as easy as possible.
From planning your trip to all of your luggage essentials, from how to stay connected on the move to communicating with the locals, this infographic offers essential tips that even a seasoned business traveller can benefit from.
To make sure you make the most of your next business trip, take a look at the infographic below.
After working hard all year round and saving every penny possible, there’s nothing better than getting away for a week or two on a summer holiday to relax and recharge.
As summer begins to approach, we start searching for all the usual destinations to find a great deal.
Popular Destinations
There are a number of locations which we all love to return to every year. For example, this UK Business Insider article shows that UK residents love heading back to the likes of Benidorm, Crete and Gran Canaria each summer.
It’s also true that even though we all love to return to the same locations, more of us than ever are able to travel a little further afield.
Destinations like Central and South America, Southeast Asia and even Australia and New Zealand are continuously on the rise as long distance flights have become increasingly affordable.
Staycations
There are also plenty of us that prefer to enjoy a holiday without heading abroad. ‘Staycations’ as they have become known, are more popular than ever.
This article from the Guardian suggests that up to 2.5 million UK residents chose to enjoy a staycation instead of heading abroad. The most popular locations in the UK include the Lake District and Cornwall.
However, no matter how much money we manage to save each year, it’s fair to say that we all have our limits.
There are always a few locations or certain resorts that we could only dream of booking.
The Turks and Caicos Islands are the very definition of a Caribbean paradise, with sun, sea, and sand providing the perfect place to kick back and relax.
However, it’s not all about the sandy white beaches, and there’s plenty to enjoy for the more active holidaymakers, such as boat trips, scuba diving, and snorkelling.
Here are five of our favourite things to do in the Turks & Caicos Islands.
Grace Bay Beach
Grace Bay is not just the number one beach in Turks and Caicos, it’s the number one beach in the world!
With breath-taking views over the ocean and soft sand underfoot, as well as being right next to plenty of shops and restaurants, there’s certainly a lot to love about Grace Bay.
What’s more, it’s situated right next to most of the resorts so you won’t have far to travel once you roll out of bed!
So whether you want to spend the day sunbathing or cooling off in the ocean, there’s no better place than these 12 miles of sheer paradise.
Boat Tours
While Providenciales (or Provo as it’s known to locals) is the biggest island, and where you’ll find most of the resorts, shops, and beaches, the islands are actually made up of around 40 tiny islands, many of which are totally uninhabited.
So why not hire out a boat for the day or take in a tour to explore some of these true desert island paradises.
If you visit between February and April, you could even take a whale watching tour, in the hope of spotting these gentle giants at an amazingly close range.
Provo Golf Club
Image courtesy of www.golficity.com
If your idea of relaxing is spending your afternoon getting 18 holes under your belt, what better place to do so than shaded by palm trees with the Caribbean sun on your back?
The Provo Golf Club is the only course on the islands, but the perfect conditions make it ideal for getting a few rounds in.
After all, where else are you going to be able to play a round of golf with flamingos chilling out by the side of the green!
Taylor Bay Beach
Image courtesy of www.islandescapestci.com
If you’re after a beach that’s a little more secluded than Grace Bay, look no further than Taylor Bay.
This beach is also perfect for parents with young children, with the shallow waters with no steep drop-offs perfect for paddling around in.
The relative quiet of Taylor Bay does come with something of a drawback as it can take a little longer to get to, but it’s more than worth it when you discover its tranquil rippling sands.
Scuba Diving / Snorkelling
Image courtesy of www.sevenstarsgracebay.com
If you want to get up close and personal with some of the marine wildlife that the islands have to offer, what better way than by trying out scuba diving or snorkelling.
One of the best destinations to do so is Bight Reef, just offshore from Provo. Check out all of the various mini-caves and crevices to discover a whole new world of colourful fish in their natural habitats.
And with reefs varying from as shallow as 3 feet to as deep as 16 feet, there’s something for every level of experience.
For a much more comprehensive of list of all of the great things to do on these gorgeous islands, check out this list of 78 Things to Do on Turks & Caicos Islands from Beach House.
British Columbia is known around the world as an incredible destination for skiers, but no holiday to the province would be complete without experiencing the Rockies up close and personal. Heli-skiing can give you that intimate perspective by flying you to the remote peaks of these beautiful mountains. High above the typical resort, far from the limits of a lift, a helicopter will soar to the heights of the Kootenay Rockies before dropping you off at one of the summits.
There’s no better adventure once you leave the helicopter and start you descent. Cutting tracks down the side of the mountain will be unlike any other ski trip you’ve ever taken. No one but your small group of fellow heli skiers will be on the peaks, so you don’t have to contend with crowds as you navigate you way down – which means you’ll have the freedom to gain as much speed as you can. The natural conditions of the area lend itself to flying down the mountain. This particular part of southeastern British Columbia sees perfect, snow-filled glades, steeps, and bowls – all of which are waiting for you to claim for your own.
Image Courtesy of www.skiwildwest.com
Booking a holiday in the Kootenay Rockies is simple. British Columbia has a large volume of heli skiing operators, but not all of them can afford you exclusive access to parts of the mountains. Only boutique operators that put your experience first can offer a unique and customized experience of the Rockies. Operators like Great Canadian Heli Skiing will limit their packages to four visitors, so you never have to coordinate your stay with strangers. It’ll only be you and three of your closest friends chasing speed and vertical. Their focus on small groups is just one of the ways they create a boutique feel to such a high-octane adventure. To learn more about their packages, check out Canadianheli-skiing.com today.
Image Courtesy of www.canadianheli-skiing.com
Set against some of the most stunning backdrops in the world, a BC heli skiing vacation is truly a unique experienced. Travellers will have a unique and personalized experience, treated personally by the friendly people at a boutique operator. It’s important to remember that as you cut down the mountain. As you gain speed, all thoughts will go towards your increasing vertical, but it’s a good idea to stop and enjoy the scenery once and while. Take a few selfies in front of the beautiful landscape. You’ll want to immortalize the feeling you had on your very first heli skiing trip.
Best Travel Guides to Destinations Around the World
