Category Archives: Destinations

Australia, Travel Tips

Australia’s East Coast Highlights

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Australia’s East Coast Highlights

Words: Len Rutledge Images: Phensri Rutledge

Australia continues to attract many visitors because of its animals, lifestyle and sunshine but just about all are surprised at its size. Australia is larger than Europe so don’t expect to be able to see the whole country in one visit unless you are planning on a three month vacation or a two year working holiday. The East Coast is the most populated area so this is not a bad place to start. From Melbourne in the south to Cairns in the north is around 3000 kilometres but there are several great places to visit in between.

Melbourne

We start in the World’s Most Liveable City and quickly see why it has scored this award for several years. Melbourne is Australia’s sporting, coffee, restaurant and arts capital. Depending on your interest you can attend the Australian Tennis Open, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, the AFL Football Final Series, the Melbourne Cup Horse Racing Carnival and international cricket tests. A recent study found Melbourne hosts over 60,000 live concerts annually, making it one of the live music capitals of the world. The city has more theatres and performance venues than anywhere else in Australia. There are approximately 5000 cafes and restaurants in the city, the highest per capita in the world. Many are top class.

East coast

Flinders Street Railway Station, Melbourne

Canberra

Australia’s little-known capital is well worth a visit. There is nothing old here but there are modern buildings aplenty. Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library of Australia, the National Science and Technology Centre, the National Zoo and Aquarium, the National Museum of Australia and more, will have you extending your stay.

east coast

Looking towards Parliament House from the Australian War Memorial, Canberra

Sydney

Located on the East Coast of Australia, Sydney is the oldest and largest of the Australian cities and today the city’s attractions are dominated by the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. There is a guided walking tour of the Opera House and you can join a guided ascent of the bridge. Between these two is Circular Quay, the city’s main ferry terminal and just nearby is The Rocks where more than 100 heritage sites and buildings jostle along the narrow streets. Elsewhere, Darling Harbour is a waterfront pedestrian precinct packed with shops, restaurants, museums, exhibitions, and entertainment venues. Sydney is famous for its beaches from tiny harbourside strips of sand to Bondi, Coogee, Bronte, Tamarama, Maroubra, Manly Collaroy, Dee Why, and Narrabeen on the Pacific Ocean.

east coast

Circular Quay with fountain, Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney

Brisbane

Once it was called a big country town but Brisbane has now grown up. Across the river from the CBD, South Bank is home to the Cultural Centre with its world-class galleries and entertainment. You can climb the Storey Bridge, cuddle a koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, while Morton Island is the place to feed wild dolphins and snorkel around an old ship wreck. One hundred kilometres to the south is the famous Gold Coast with its excellent beaches, theme parks, restaurants and nightlife. To the north is the Sunshine Coast for more beach activity.

east coast

South Bank artificial beach looking towards Brisbane CBD

North Queensland Islands

With rugged coastlines and surrounding reefs bursting with life, you are spoiled for choice when choosing an island off the coast of North Queensland. Many are wholly or partly National Parks and many have nature viewing, snorkelling and sailing opportunities, and bush trails. Quite a few have accommodation. Some are very up-market such as One & Only Hayman, Hamilton, Orpheus, Badarra and Lizard while others have a range of rooms from excellent to budget. Magnetic Island off Townsville is the easiest to reach with ferries and car barges making the crossing multiple times a day.

east coast

Visitors to our room on Daydream Island

The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef. This is one of the seven wonders of the natural world, larger than the Great Wall of China, and the only living thing on earth visible from space. A visitor can enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, aircraft or helicopter tours, bare boats (self-sail), glass-bottomed boat viewing, semi-submersibles and educational trips, whale watching, and swimming with dolphins. Townsville is the headquarters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and it is home to the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium. Reef trips leave from many other northern towns including Cairns and Port Douglas.

east coast australia

The headquarters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Townsville

www.lenrutledge.com

Australia, Travel Tips

4 Best Day Trips from Brisbane

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Whether you live in Brisbane or you’re planning on visiting it in near future, consider taking a one day trip to some of the local destinations that will blow your mind with their beauty and an insanely large number of fun activities. These four destinations are just some of them you should not miss out on. 

Noosa Heads

One of the best destinations you can opt for is Noosa. It is located on the Sunshine Coast and it is only about two hours away from Brisbane. Noosa is a favourite destination for Aussies who are looking for a relaxing beach escape. Noosa Heads is the perfect place if you want to relax, enjoy fantastic restaurants, and explore the wild-life wilderness and stunningly beautiful golden beaches. You can have the most amazing nightlife in Brisbane but after a few nights of partying it is nice to go somewhere where you can rest and relax even just for one day. It is also a very attractive destination for passionate swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers who want to swim in the Noosa’s blue waves and bask on the sand. 

This destination also offers beautifully designed walking trail threads along the rugged headland in Noosa National Park where you are able to see brush turkeys snuffling in the bush, and koalas clinging to eucalyptus trees. And a five-minute stroll from the beach will take you to a string of amazing restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and galleries that you can visit while you’re there. There are so many fun activities this destination offers. You just have to go and discover the possibilities as you enjoy your time with friends or family. 

Lamington National Park

Another destination that is pretty close to Brisbane and worth visiting is Lamington National Park. It is absolute heaven on Earth for nature lovers and birders. Lamington National Park has beautiful luxuriant rainforest with waterfalls that create such a peaceful and lovely setting for hiking adventures. It offers an unbelievable range of diverse wildlife. Some of its most popular residents are bowerbirds that are known for building elaborate arches adorned with bright blue objects they use in order to impress the females. Many other bird species find their home in this National Park including squadrons of king parrots and crimson rosellas. They also have some other exotic and beautiful animal species such as marsupials, red-necked pademelons and long-nosed bandicoots.

Most visitors of this lovely Park tend to go to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat and take a guest house, spa, and restaurant. It is a great location because from there you can explore the park on O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk, many interesting suspension bridges and walkaway strung that stretches about 16 metres above the rainforest floor. Also, stunning views of the region from Mount Tamborine are another great reason for you to jump into your car and go for a one day trip to Lamington National Park right away. 

Gold Coast

If you are looking for a location that offers a variety of different activities, the Gold Coast is the right place for you. For instance, whale watching is very popular at this destination. It is an experience of a lifetime. If you go to Gold Coast you will be able to see a migratory group of humpback whales as they make their way from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef every year. 

It is estimated that they number over 30,000 based on a whale census. Their numbers are recovering annually. The best chance of having some good sightings of these magnificent creatures is somewhere between August and October. The best option would be to go in the morning because winds and waves tend to increase later in the day. So, what are you waiting for? Search some fishing charters Gold Coast that you can book right away and go for an adventure with your friends. 

Surfers Paradise

If you want to visit Brisbane at least once in your lifetime, take this chance to discover some of the nearby locations and beaches as well. A two-hour drive towards the south of Brisbane will take you to another great destination, Surfers Paradise. It is a location that offers amazing beaches and glittering surf. It is one of the best tourist destinations that buzzes with life no matter what season it is. There are many high-rises and hotels that line the sun-soaked Surfers Paradise beach. It even has many boutiques. 

This place also offers some theme-park attractions. That includes SeaWorld, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Dreamworld. Also, passionate wildlife lovers get a chance to commune with Aussie creatures at Currumbin Sanctuary. Another activity you could try is to go on a canal cruise to see the homes of the rich and famous. This cruise comes with the full-day Surfers Paradise Day Trip and Whale watching Tour that offers a perfect blend of natural and urban attractions. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, visiting these locations will be one in a lifetime experience. You’ll get to explore the wildlife and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world while having fun with your friends. You should definitely consider these locations if you ever find yourself in Brisbane.

North America, Travel Tips

4 Historical Sites in Cleveland

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Are you going to be in Cleveland for a few days? There’s plenty to see and do. Here is a list of some of the top-rated historical sites for this Ohio city.

4 Historical Sites in Cleveland

cleveland

1.   Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Maybe most writers wouldn’t place the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on a list of historical sites for Cleveland. Those other writers are wrong.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is all about history. Not only will you read displays about the beginnings of the genre, but you will also see historical items like John Lennon’s glasses and the first issue of Rolling Stone.

Sure, this historical site doesn’t celebrate the native people of the area or the founders of the city. But this fantastic museum celebrates one of the things that makes America great — rock and roll music. This museum should be on everyone’s bucket list.

2. Lake View Cemetery

One would expect to find a cemetery on the top travel lists in New Orleans, but why should you make a point to visit this cemetery in Cleveland?

First, at Lake View Cemetery, you will be able to visit the Garfield Monument, a beautifully designed structure that was dedicated in 1890. The Memorial Hall has beautiful stained glass, red-granite columns, and an outdoor balcony that offers a view of Lake Erie. You will also see President Garfield’s casket, which is the only presidential casket that is fully displayed.

Besides seeing the impressive Memorial Hall, you can also stroll around the remarkable 285-acres that make up the cemetery. You may visit the cemetery to be impressed by the human-made attractions, but you will also enjoy all the beautiful trees and shrubs that adorn the grounds.

3. USS Cod Submarine Memorial

Take a tour of the USS Cod Submarine Memorial. This National Historic Landmark is located near the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The USS Cod was used during the second world war, and its crews are credited with sinking at least twelve enemy vessels.

Check the website before you visit since the site may be open at different times throughout the year.

4. A Christmas Story House

Visit the house that was depicted in the film “A Christmas Story.” The home has been lovingly restored to look exactly like the home that was featured in the movie.

First, visit the museum and gift shop located across the street. Once you have purchased your ticket, you can cross the street to walk into Ralphie’s front door. From there, you are on your own to wander around the home. You can take as many photos as you like with all the props available.

Crawl under the sink like Ralphie’s kid brother. Sit on the toilet while decoding a secret message from Little Orphan Annie. Unpack the major award from the crate marked “fragile.”

Finally, what better way is there to get to know a community than to check out the Cleveland houses for sale. Find out how much it would cost to live down the street from Ralphie’s house or near Lake View Cemetery.

Editor's Picks, North America, Travel Tips

Downtown Los Angeles’ museums and music venues

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Words: Len Rutledge   Images: Phensri Rutledge

Los Angeles is recognised as the centre of the USA video and film industry but it also has a growing recognition as a music and museum hotspot. Much of this is centred on the rejuvenated downtown area where new apartment blocks, office complexes and accommodation facilities are rising from long degraded areas. A real authentic cultural buzz is associated with this area and every visitor should experience it.

This is a partial list of what I found on a recent visit. It would take you days to give each place the time it deserves.

LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes is a cultural museum dedicated to telling the story of the Mexican origins of Los Angeles. It occupies the first two floors of two 1880s buildings adjacent to La Placita Church, across Main Street from the gazebo and Mexican Market at Olvera Street. It traces the history of Los Angeles from Old Mexico to annexation, and from the first settlers to the new immigrants. Upstairs there is a mini Main Street with a variety of shops designed for kids and adults to explore.

The Chinese American Museum is symbolically housed in the oldest and last surviving structure of Los Angeles’ original Chinatown. It reflects the vibrant development of an immigrant history that began over 150 years ago when the first major Chinese settlement was documented in Los Angeles. The free museum has three permanent exhibitions and usually one or more temporary exhibits.

The Plaza Firehouse Museum is in the oldest fire station in the city. It features helmets, photos, and firefighting equipment of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

los angeles
Fountain in front of Music Centre

The Music Center

The LA Music Center is one of the largest and most active performing arts centres in the United States.  It is home to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, a 3200-seat theatre; The 2000-seat Ahmanson Theater; the 240 seat Mark Taper Forum; the Roy and Edna Disney/Cal Arts Theater; and the stunning Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Each year, The Music Center welcomes more than 1.3 million people to performances and if you have the time you should see a performance by one of its four internationally renowned resident companies: Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Opera, Los Angeles Master Chorale, and Center Theater Group.

The metallic ship-like structure of the Walt Disney Concert Hall seems to be sailing down Grand Avenue. One of the most unique aspects of the building is that it is designed to be explored. Stairways and walkways allow you to climb up and around the sweeping stainless-steel sails to get really unique views of the structure and the downtown landscape. Best of all, it’s open to exploring inside and out during the day totally free of charge.

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Other Museums

Right next to the concert hall is The Broad a contemporary art museum offering free general admission and an active program of rotating exhibitions. The museum is named for philanthropist Eli Broad, who financed the $140 million building. Timed tickets are recommended to avoid long waits and can be reserved online. If you just turn up you may have a long wait for same day visits.

Across the road is the main site of the Museum of Contemporary Art which is home to almost 5,000 artworks created since 1940, including masterpieces by classic contemporary artists, and inspiring new works by emerging and mid-career artists.

The free Wells Fargo Museum is something completely different. The Museum is located in the Wells Fargo Centre on Bunker Hill. Exhibits depict the history and development of Wells Fargo Bank and the West since the company’s founding in 1852. Highlights include an authentic 19th-century Concord stagecoach and a replica you can climb into, the 26-ounce Challenge nugget, and historic maps of Los Angeles.

Old coach in Wells Fargo Museum

The A & D Museum located on 4th Street is a museum for architecture and design. Through exhibits, multi-disciplinary projects, educational and community programming, A+D serves as a showcase for the work of important regional, national and international designers, providing a forum for contemporary issues in architecture, urbanism, and design that are helping to shape the city.

L.A. LIVE

This is an entertainment complex adjacent to the Staples Center and the Los Angeles Convention Center.It has ballrooms, bars, concert theatres, restaurants, movie theatres, and a 54-storey hotel and condominium tower.

Xbox Plaza is an open-air plaza that serves as the central meeting place for L.A. LIVE. The square provides a broadcast venue featuring giant LED screens. Microsoft Theater is a music and theatre venue seating 7,100, while The Novo is an intimate venue with a seating capacity of 2,300 for live music and cultural events.

The Grammy Museum opened in 2008 for the Grammy Awards 50th anniversary. It consists of four floors with historical music artefacts. Embedded in the footpaths of the LA Live streets are bronze disks honouring each year’s top winners, for Record of the Year, Best New Artist, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year.

IF YOU GO

Numerous airlines fly to Los Angeles. There are five-star hotels to budget properties in central Los Angeles, but prices tend to be high. Cheaper accommodation is available in other parts of the city.

www.LenRutledge.com

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX5HUmGP1lR2aoscn3O8P2Q

Len Rutledge is the author of the Experience Guides travel books available from amazon (https://www.amazon.com/s?k=len+rutledge&ref=nb_sb_noss)

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX5HUmGP1lR2aoscn3O8P2Q

Asia, Travel Planning

5 Ways Indian Travel Agency Helps You

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Travel is a pleasant exposure to keep you happy. Nowadays everyone is prone to travelling and touring new places. It is a religion and probably a lifestyle for the people in India. If you understand and plan travelling, the Indian Travel Agency will help you to make the plan successful. Have a see on some points on how the travel agents help you.

The Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
  1. Specialise The Travel Plan: Suppose you have planned your travel in someplace. Still, you lack some information about travel packages and other useful tips on how to sort out the travelling agenda and all. You may browse through the internet and find some accommodation, and you wonder wow! But in reality, it is quite more laborious for you to find the cheapest packages for the travel which Indian Travel Agency may show you by their experience.
  2. Giving A Personal Guidance To The Clients: The travel agents are very loyal to their clients. In case of any arising issues, people approach them to have some reassurance on their travel. Nowadays, emails, messages and useful contents provided by the Indian Travel Agency help people understand the overall experience of travelling. Giving visitors that much attention boosts their confidence in repeated travelling.
  3. Identify The Great Travelling Demands: It is the task of travel agencies. The quick accessibility of the travelling places is enough to show diverse experience of travelling among the people. Hence identifying the value-added services and maintaining the integrity among various people is the primary goal of the Travel Agency. This continuous effort and related procedure make the Indians keen for their next tour.
  4. Finding The New Possibilities: In the changing world, the method of travel arrangement is also touching the new heights. Hence the travel agents must see the need of the people. They streamline with other beneficial services to give some extra effort to provide the best travelling strategy. India is such a country with numerous travelling places where a little effort can make the people convinced about travelling.
  5. The Technology Factor: It is useful to manage travel hoodoo more easily. The support team is always available 24*7 to help you out in any issue. The supplier tools provide the best of offers, and you may book online after watching the sample video representation on the websites. The travel agents are available to make your journey with fewer struggles and more happiness inside out — the valuable and compelling information you would find with the help of them. The same thing is to describe it as beneficial to have some idea about the location, pricing, etc.
  6. While you are in travel, make your mind free from the problems in the world and ask yourself why you want to travel. While you want to become a creative person, the travel agents are the canvas upon which you dream to draw the great painting. Find your soul in the travel, and it is something to keep your mind floating in the beaches, hills, or lakes. Have a great time!
Europe, Travel Tips

Research Finds Camping and Caravanning Can Help with Depression and Anxiety

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Earlier this month, we celebrated World Mental Health Day and new research has found that a third of Brits felt that camping or caravanning has had a very positive impact on their mental health.

22% believe it has a positive effect on their physical health, and 12% of people believe it has helped them to become closer to their family.

The research from Specialised Covers also found that 70% of the UK public believe “outside therapy” should be prescribed to people suffering from depression or anxiety.

Those based in London and Manchester were most enthusiastic about outside therapy (82% and 80% respectively) perhaps showing that those in larger cities crave the calming effects of prolonged time in nature more than others. Only 54% of people in Southampton thought prescribing outdoor therapy was a good thing, alongside 57% of people in Norwich.

Sometimes called “forest bathing”, outside therapy is the practice of spending time in nature and practising mindfulness in the great outdoors. Research suggests that this could calm those who feel stressed or anxious and help people (especially children) fight the “always-on” culture promoted by social media.

A recent government study found that people who spend more time in nature are significantly more likely to report good health and higher psychological wellbeing than those who don’t visit nature at all. Places like The Woodland Trust are now campaigning for the NHS to encourage more patients to spend prolonged periods of time outdoors.

When it comes to experiencing nature, the UK public agree that camping and caravanning is one of the best ways to do it. 93% of people believe that a caravanning holiday is “calming”, 44% think its “family-friendly” and 93% think its “affordable”. However, only 8% of the UK public would call it “glamorous”, and only 14% would describe caravan holidays as “modern”.

camping

Those aged between 35-44 seem to believe in the healing powers of caravanning the most (44%), with those aged 65+ the most sceptical (20%). Surprisingly, the younger generation (18-24) are very enthusiastic about spending time in nature, with 27% believing a caravan holiday has helped them become closer to their family, 31% believing it has had a positive effect on their physical health, with 40% wishing they could caravan more often.

Fitness Coach Amy Elisabeth believes in the physical benefits of prolonged periods of time outside. She says:

“Spending time outside increases our Vitamin D levels and balances our Melatonin levels. Vitamin D helps regulate the calcium and phosphate in our bodies and melatonin regulates our sleeping cycle, so both are very important when it comes to the feeling of well-being.

“With fewer modern-day distractions (such as watching tv just before bed), people get better sleep as well, helping with their overall health.”

Katie Fishwick from Specialised Covers said: “We all feel the benefits of relaxing outdoors when we do it, but it’s often hard to make time in our busy schedules to really get immersed in nature.

“It’s great to see how many people are getting behind the healing benefits of outdoor therapy, and perhaps if it was prescribed, people would take more time to connect with the outdoors.

“Caravanning and camping are shedding their out-dated reputations and rightfully being seen as a wonderful way of relaxing, switching off, and connecting with ourselves and our families.”

Europe, Travel Tips

5 Best Places to Visit in the UK for the Winter Holidays

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winter

Winter is a great time to travel as some of the sceneries you can catch this way are as magical as a place can get. Add to this the spirit of the holidays that are getting closer and closer by the day, and you get a sure recipe for an unforgettable trip. The holidays can sometimes be stressful, so deciding to take it easy and spending the holidays at a lovely destination might be exactly what you need at the end of the year.

Every city has its own traditions and celebrates the holidays differently, so wherever you decide to go, you can probably expect to see something interesting. However, there is no doubt the UK is a splendid choice for a winter holiday as the countryside is tranquil and scenic while the locals really know how to celebrate. If you’re curious about their traditions, or if you are in fact from the UK, looking for the best places to visit in your own country, here are a few suggestions that will help you decide.

York

Few would argue that York is one of the best places to spend Christmastime in. Especially for those who want a more dynamic experience, this is the place to go as York’s Christmas festival has a lot to offer. Lasting from the 14th of November all the way to the 22nd of December, you will have a chance to see ice sculptures and sip on mulled wine while also enjoying the Christmas concerts of notable performers such as Kate Rusby. If you’re traveling with children, you will be delighted to hear that there are so many programs catering to them that they will have a hard time choosing what they want to see. Magical lanterns, wreath-making workshops and encounters with Santa are all at your fingertips! What’s more, you can also break a sweat and have some fun if you take a trip to Stockeld Park, just half an hour’s drive from York, and try their artificial Nordic ski trail that takes you through an illuminated forest.

winter

Edinburgh

Exploring the historic streets of Edinburgh, Scotland during the winter holidays is a great idea. Wander through the Old Town to feel like you have been transported to a different time period, marvel at the charming street lights that bring the Christmas spirit even closer, check out little stalls and enjoy some fresh-baked goods, or even go for a Ferris wheel ride to see the spectacular view from up above. Another option you have if you decide to go to Scotland is hopping on a train and exploring the highlands for yourself. The journey will already be an experience of its own as you stare out the window and marvel at the majestic views along the way. The Scottish Highlands are well worth traveling to if you are a nature lover for whom nothing compares to the sight of snow-capped mountains. Bring plenty of warm clothes and you’ll be fine!

winter

Bath

A contender of York, Bath is surely among the top Christmas destinations in the UK. The Christmas market in this city is unparalleled – starting from November 28 and lasting for 18 days, Bath’s Christmas market is the biggest such shopping event in the southwest of the country. You will feel the holiday spirit once you see the beautiful wooden chalets lining the street, and you will feel tempted to stock up on Christmas presents. Indeed, few things make a better Christmas present than the unique, handmade items that constitute the majority of the articles sold at the markets, but even if you don’t purchase anything for your significant other, you will certainly get inspired to get some lovely Christmas gifts for him. What will make this trip even more memorable is the beautiful historic architecture this city is so well-known for. Shopping and relaxation can be the keywords of your Bath holiday, especially if you check out some of the natural hot springs, too.

Scarborough

While York is still a great choice, traveling a bit further north to North Yorkshire might be what those who want something less urban are looking for. If rather than in a crowded street, you’d like to spend the winter holidays by the sea, Scarborough is a lovely seaside town that could prove to be your perfect destination. Active travelers can enjoy a winter bike ride or just simply stroll by the harbor, enjoying the refreshing wind. In case the breathtaking sceneries are not enough in themselves, something in the area that is worth exploring is, for example, Burton Agnes Hall, a historic building where you can check out the nicely decorated rooms. Or if you are feeling creative, you can try to make your own willow deer in a workshop.

Leeds

From the 8th of November all the way to 22nd of December, Leeds boasts a magical Christmas market too, featuring more than 40 chalets selling all kinds of pretty things. What makes this market different is that it’s a German-style market, which means that you can expect to see lots of food stalls that sell delicious local and authentic German foods and drinks. As if that were not enough, the centerpiece of the market and everyone’s favorite is certainly the beautiful traditional carousel that makes for a nice backdrop for all of your photos. If you’re traveling with family, rest assured there are lots of children’s activities planned too, while adults can expect concerts to entertain them through the night.

When winter comes, all corners of the UK assume the holiday spirit and towns all over the country turn into magical winter wonderlands with twinkling lights, delicious traditional foods, and wintery landscapes. Sip some mulled wine, try ice-skating on one of the outdoor rinks, soak in the historic atmosphere among the beautiful Georgian buildings and forget about stressful days back at home. Whichever of the aforementioned destinations you decide to visit, you will have the chance to savor the local tastes and mingle with the crowd, and of course, have a lot of fun.

North America, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

Road Trip to New York: The Experience of An American Sporting Event

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Road Trip to New York: The Experience of An American Sporting Event

New York draws in a large number of visitors all throughout the year. Some come for the fast life, while some for its islands, parks; and whichever reason you have, New York does not disappoint its tourists. The Big Apple also has a lot in store for sports lovers. There is the sports giant, Superbowl, and of course, who hasn’t heard of NASCAR!  All throughout the year, NY city is bustling with sports fans right from Times Square to every nook and corner of the city.

new york

Sounds like the kind of place you would like to be at? Of course! So, if you have set your heart upon living your best life in NYC, we recommend you reach the playground via an ultimate road trip. Why a road trip? because you could couple the prime attraction of attending an American sports event, along with other historical and cultural venues in the area.

However, in the States, things may be slightly complicated for first-time traveller, especially if you to drive your way there. So, in this article, we have compiled a list of tips which should get you in and around your life’s biggest sports event in NYC:

  • State laws:

In the US, there are two types of laws: Federal laws and State laws. The majority of the traffic laws belong to the state category, and hence, the rules prevalent at one state might differ from another, and you may need to cross several states to reach your stadium. So, we recommend you read about the state laws well in advance.

  • Speed Limit and Traffic Lights:

The whole of America drives on the right side, except for the US Virgin Islands. So, this may come as a cultural shock to people hailing from left-lane countries. Further to your shock, there are speed limits regulated in each country, which need to be strictly followed at all times, and the speed limits to vary from one state to another.

  • Additional Rules You Should Follow:

The US has some strict rules for leaving children unattended in the car and there are mandatory rules to have the child buckled with a proper seat belt at all times. Some states would demand you to have a special seat for the child too, and smoking isn’t allowed inside the car. Using your mobile is another subject which varies according to the state laws. Some states permit the use of phones while driving, while most restrict it to internet usage strictly, and some don’t permit it at all.

  • Make travel arrangements as early as possible:

New York events are very high in demand, and hence, you should book your tickets well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues. If you are confused or don’t know the exact event details, then you could visit travel sites such as Sports Where I Am, which especially look after sports lovers.

  • Plan out your finances:

You could book a hotel that is closer to the venue of the sports event, but chances are that anything in a commercial area would be expensive. New York, being the most alpha city in the world, isn’t anything close to “reasonably priced”. Be prepared to splurge and always keep an extra cash deposit ready. If this is your first time in New York, you are in for surprises!

  • Arrive Early:

Always try to reach the spectator’s arena before time. We would not want you to miss even a single highlight of the game. Queues at the entrance, and deficit parking spot: Two problems that any New Yorker knows all too well! These issues could keep you busy while your game is afoot. Thus, most locals would reach the venue well before time.

New York is a big city and you would enjoy every bit of the long drive. Not to forget, our cherry on the American cake: The Grand Game, that’s been on your bucket list for so long, would finally be checked!

So, get set and go!

Destinations, Europe, Travel Tips

4 Reasons Why You Should Visit Portugal For a Winter Break

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4 Reasons Why You Should Visit Portugal For a Winter Break

If you’re feeling a winter holiday this year, then you’ll likely have many different destinations in mind. Depending on the type of getaway you’re after, whether it be a relaxing beach holiday or city escape, then Portugal is one of the best places to consider for a winter break. Not only does the country have an outstanding reputation for great weather, with almost year-round sunshine, but it is extremely budget-friendly.

portugal

Portugal has boomed in terms of popularity over the past few years, but winter is one of the best times to visit as you avoid the majority of tourists and can still rest assured that you’ll get good weather. With historic towns, beautiful scenery and great food and drink, Portugal truly excels when it comes to a winter break holiday destination.

Guaranteed Winter Sunshine

When winter comes around, many of us long for the warm, long days of summer. Unlike most of Europe, Portugal doesn’t tend to get many dips in temperature or grey skies in the middle of the winter months. Whilst there are some places in Portugal that see snow, the Atlantic coastline sees plenty of sunshine and blue skies all year round.

The Algarve is perhaps one of the best areas of Portugal to visit during the winter, thanks to its location. In November, the average temperature in the Algarve varies between 16 and 20º, which is still warm enough to sit by the sea and enjoy a glass of wine or two!

Low Tourist Numbers

The Algarve has long been a favourite destination for European holidaymakers, but it has been a bit of a hidden secret until recent years. Now, Porto and Lisbon are must-visit destinations for many travellers, with many visitors year-round but, during the summer months, these places are extremely busy.

If you visit during the winter, then you can expect queues for many of the top visitor attractions to be extremely small and it is easier to get into many of the top bars and restaurants thanks to fewer visitors. Whilst the weather might not be exactly what it is in the summer, you will likely have a much less stressful and crowded getaway.

Save Money

As there are fewer visitors in the winter, you’ll find that the everyday expenses that you expect when you go away will be slightly less than they are in the height of summer. Flights are often much cheaper, train fares are reduced meaning you can go exploring the inner cities or coastal areas and you’ll find that accommodation is easier to find between the months of November and March.

Whilst hotel and accommodation prices skyrocket in the summer season, it isn’t unusual to see prices decrease by anything up to 50% in the winter months. This is a perfect time to splash out on something a little more luxurious, especially if you want a couple’s break or are travelling with a group, as often luxury villas Vale do Labo, Vilamoura, and Loule based are much more worthwhile when it comes to pricing in these months. 

Enjoy Traditional Dishes

Portuguese isn’t all that well-known outside of Europe, which considering the magnitude of fresh ingredients included in many of the dishes, is surprising. With a penchant to create simple and delicious seafood dishes and great local wine, the cuisine in Portugal matches the culture – relaxed and enjoyable. Whilst lighter dishes are more common in the summer months, winter sees more hearty dishes come out for the slightly cooler months.

Cozido, which is a type of meat stew, regularly makes an appearance and is served alongside boiled potatoes and vegetables. Each and every region has one or two different traditional versions, so it is unlikely that you get the same once twice – Cozido is a local dish and is unlikely to be found in tourist hotspots. You can still get all of the same great dishes, such as fresh fish, caldo verde and pastel de natas, but be sure to give some of the seasonal choices a try too!

Destinations, Oceania, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

Top 5 Mistakes Tourists Make in New Zealand

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Top 5 Mistakes Tourists Make in New Zealand

New Zealand is full of amazing places and sights to see and is one of those hidden gems that are definitely worth your time and effort. However, this sort of trip requires a lot of planning, no matter where you come from and how old you are, especially if you want to avoid some of the most common mistakes tourists generally make when visiting New Zealand. So, here are five of these mistakes, as well as some tips on how to avoid them.

Weather conditions

This is one of the most common misconceptions about New Zealand – the weather there isn’t always warm! It’s just as changeable and unpredictable as everywhere in the world, and this is something you have to remember when planning your trip there. This means you have to explore the weather conditions beforehand and get informed, especially while packing your bags.

Whether you come in the spring or fall, the chances are you’ll be spending tons of time in the rain and wind. So, pack lots of clothes and pay attention to layers. If you decide to go in the winter, though, you’ll have to pack lots of warm things, as well as a jacket. Winters in New Zealand can be quite tricky, and you have to do whatever you can to avoid feeling cold all the time.

new zealand

Driving in New Zealand

Depending on where you come from, the traffic in New Zealand is either going to be a breeze or the worst thing you’ve ever experienced. If you come from the UK or Australia, you won’t have a problem adjusting to driving on the left – if you come from almost anywhere else, this could take a while. However, the main issue isn’t the side of the road you’re using, but the rules and laws you have to obey.

People in New Zealand are very disciplined and organized when it comes to driving, which is why lots of roads are covered with road cameras. You’ll get a ticket for speeding as well because the speed limit is generally 50 kilometers per hour, which is about 30 miles per hour. In case you drive faster than that in urban areas, you might be dealing with the local police, and that’s never fun.

Using time properly

New Zealand is a huge place, and if you want to visit everything worth visiting, you’re going to need at least a couple of months. That’s why you have to make a proper plan and get organized before you arrive there. Making a list of things you consider important is the best way to go, and then all you have to do is follow your plan.

Another problem with New Zealand is its location – since it’s quite far from basically every other place in the world, you’ll probably be dealing with some jetlag once you get there. That’s why planning a trip that lasts for a couple of days doesn’t make much sense at all. But, if you manage to stay here for at least a week or fortnight, you might be having the time of your life.

Check your mobile plan

Again, being ready is a must, especially when you’re traveling abroad. This includes your mobile plan as well unless you want to be cut off from the world. Some cell phones simply don’t work in certain locations, and there’s very little you can do if you notice that’s the case with your phone upon coming to New Zealand.

What you can do, though, is make a plan beforehand, and solve this problem before it occurs. Getting your personal New Zealand SIM card might help you a lot, and give you a mobile plan you can rely on. That way, you’ll be able to enjoy New Zealand even more and use all those apps that will help you take your experience to the next level.

The best season to visit New Zealand

Even though it may not be the most popular tourist location in the world, New Zealand is still quite popular. That’s why lots of people come here regularly and spend time enjoying the beauties of this wonderful place. But, because of that, there are certain times of the year when lots of tourists arrive at once, and that’s when you should avoid coming here.

The high season in New Zealand is between December and February, because of the nice weather. However, if you come in the off-season, you’ll still get lots of sunny days and warm weather you can enjoy, but you won’t be surrounded by so many tourists.

As you can see, New Zealand is definitely a place you should visit – with so many tourist attractions and amazing locations, you can easily spend weeks here without getting bored. So, get organized in advance and make a proper plan, and you’ll surely make the most of the time you’re about to spend in New Zealand.