With geysers, grizzlies, an impressive grand canyon, and great mud pools, Yellowstone National Park in America’s west is dramatic, imposing and at times overwhelming. The world’s first national park, established in 1872, is a wonderful blend of land, water, forest, grassland, wildlife and geothermal features. It challenges your senses and stirs your soul.
Old Faithful
The first expedition to reach here
returned with accounts that were rebuffed by magazine editors and politicians who
said their accounts were too far-fetched to be believed. Writers need to be
careful even today. Fortunately, images and video readily available on our
screens confirm todays words.
Yellowstone is in Wyoming with small parts spilling over into
Montana and Idaho. Heat and volcanic activity from the depths of Earth power
this dramatic landscape which is visited by four million visitors
each year. In 1978, Yellowstone was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are several different approaches that feed into the
Grand Loop Road, a figure-eight highway in the middle of the park. Rather than
a single focus, Yellowstone has several hubs so travelling around is essential.
Most visitors do this by car but various tours are available which visit most
areas. During my recent visit, I thought these were some of the park highlights.
Old Faithful Village
A highlight here is Old Faithful Inn, a masterpiece of national park rustic architecture, with the lobby containing a massive stone fireplace and soaring timber ceiling. Just outside, Old Faithfull Geyser erupts around 17 times per day to an average height of 40 metres. Wait on the wooden boardwalk built around the geyser and watch it erupt with your camera in hand. With its reliable eruption times it’s easy to plan a visit to witness a blowout.
Old Faithful Inn
Afterwards, the Old Faithful Visitor Education Centre explains
the geology behind the world’s most famous geyser. Visitors can then easily hike
the Upper Geyser Basin, home to around 60 percent of the world’s geysers.
Further north is the Norris Geyser Basin, where geological wonders like Artist Paint Pots, Roaring Mountain, and Steamboat Geyser are complemented by the indoor exhibits of two museums. Visitors can also explore the eerie Norris-Canyon Blowdown with its ghost trees, or fly fish for trout in the swift-flowing Gibson River.
Colourful hot spring
Grand Prismatic Spring
Yellowstone’s
largest hot spring, is in the Midway Geyser Basinand is accessible by
boardwalk. It is a large turquoise pool ringed with orange and yellow with
steam coming off the surface. Temperatures around the pool are high, especially
during the summer. The rainbow colours are best viewed from a height so take a
slightly strenuous hike up the Midway Bluff trailfor the perfect
vantage point.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
This is an immense multicoloured trench that stretches 38 kilometres and rises as much as 360 metres above the Yellowstone River. Trails lead to outstanding viewpoints like Artist’s Point on the south rim and Lookout Point on the north rim, for great views of the 100-metre-high Lower Yellowstone Falls. The canyon is marked by steep white-and-yellow cliffs and its vents and spires reveal thermal activity that continues unabated underground.
Lower Yellowstone Falls
Yellowstone Lake
The largest high-altitude lake in North America offers the
park’s best opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront camping but it
is too cold for swimming. There are rental boats, guided fishing charters, and
scenic lake cruises, as well as shuttle services to remote campsites along the
141-mile lakeshore.
Lamar Valley
This is the best place in Yellowstone to get a glimpse of the
wolves that have been reintroduced to the park. Bison and elk also frequent the
valley with its lush grasslands.
Here and elsewhere there is abundant wildlife, including elk,
bison, grizzlies, black bear, pronghorn antelope, moose, and bighorn sheep. March and April are the best months to view
bear, while the winter months are best for wolves and bighorn sheep. Elk,
moose, bison, and mountain goats can be spotted during the summer months.
You are guaranteed to see bison. The
park’s herd dwindled to just 23 animals during the late 19th century, but the
population later bounced back thanks to more effective protection and now totals
roughly 5,500.
Surrounded by mountain towns immediately to the north, east,
and west, and bordered by Grand Teton National Park to the south, there is
plenty to do not only within, but also around the park.
Accommodation
These hotels provide accommodation in the park. Old Faithful Inn is the world’s largest log
structure with restaurants, bars and shop. Lake Yellowstone Hotel with its
Greek Revival facade is the park’s oldest hotel overlooking the lake. Mammoth
Hot Springs Hotel is a classic motor lodge with motel-style rooms and cabins,
restaurant, shop, and map room.
The park has 12 developed campgrounds, including Mammoth,
Canyon, and Grant Village.
The Humpback Whale Come-Back: An Amazing Success Story
We have been
protecting the Humpback Whale since the 1970s, and many conservationists are
understandably very happy with the results, which has effectively removed the
species from the endangered list in 9 separate global locations. The National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOA) has confirmed that the numbers of
Humpbacks have increased sufficiently to remove them from the endangered list
in 9 locations.
Complex
Intelligence
These majestic creatures
can migrate up to 16,000 km and research has shown that they are very
intelligent creatures that can problem solve, and they are still using the same
routes in their migrations, only now they are not being hunted. One of the
reasons for the Humpback’s popularity is the way they put on a show for whale
watchers, and that’s why Sydney
Whale watching is such a popular day out.
Worldwide
Hunting Ban
The year was 1970,
and finally the US declared the Humpback Whale as being an endangered species,
and in 1982, The International Whaling Committee put an end to whale hunting,
and that ban is still in effect today.
South Africa
Perhaps the best
results are found in the waters off South Africa, where it is believed there
are more than 30,000 Humpbacks in the Western Indian Ocean, and this was one
region where the whale hunting was so prevalent. For the species to have
bounced back is a reflection of the right actions that were taken by
governments and international bodies.
Queensland and
New South Wales
Off the Sydney
coast, the Humpbacks can be seen on their migratory routes to and from the
Antarctica, and if you would like to have a close-up experience with these
amazing animals, book a whale watching trip that leaves from Sydney and you are
likely to witness the breaching and many other surface behaviours the Humpback
Whales exhibit. From April to November offers the best chances of seeing these
creatures perform, as they use this route to give birth to calves and also to
feed on the rich krill deposits found in Antarctica. The whales were almost
hunted to extinction in the past century, and no one would have thought that in
a few years, they would recover so quickly. Of course, there are similar
success stories of the Humpback numbers increasing in many parts of the world,
but the waters off the coast of Sydney have been particularly productive, with
numbers rising steadily. The females are breeding every few years, and with
tighter fishing controls, less young whales are accidently caught by commercial
fishing boats.
Sydney Whale
Watching
Every person that
experiences a day out whale watching is affected by the presence of these
unique creatures, and they are aware they are being watched and very often like
to put on a show. If you would like to book a whale watching trip, search
online for the established whale watching company that is based in Sydney, and
you can literally choose your date.
A secure online
payment reserves your space, and this is something you won’t forget in a hurry,
as 30 tons of mammal comes crashing down nearby.
Donegal is the second-largest county with unquestionably rich scenery in Ireland. From the 300-kilometer stretch coastline, intoxicating headlands, high sea cliffs to natural parks, there is a lot to explore from this region in Ireland. If you are planning a trip and wondering what you will be treated to, below are just but a few items to enjoy while in Donegal.
The Malin Head
The
Malin’s head is probably the most northern part of Ireland. This makes it worth
a visit, especially if you have been to the County Cork, which is the
south-western part of Ireland. The site offers exquisite views with a lot of
walking and biking opportunities to challenge your outdoor self.
At
some point in the Malin Head, you will see the words “Eire” written with stones
on the grass. This recent discovery is said to have been engraved during the
Second World War so that the above-flying Germans could know that they were
flying over Ireland, who were neutral during the war. This came after they
accidentally bombed Dublin, thinking it wasn’t part of Ireland.
The Atlantic Drive
Donegal has several stunning beaches, and it is a pity if you don’t get good weather to enjoy them. Among the best beaches is the Portsalon Beach that has a stunning stretch of water with different shades of blue and golden sand. If you need more of the beach view, take an Atlantic drive.
If
you have your own campervan, car or using a tour guided car, you should go for
the Atlantic Drive. This is part of the longest Wild Atlantic Way, which is the
longest coastal road excursion. There are countless beautiful views, and photo
lovers will enjoy this trip here.
Boat ride to Tory Island
Tory island is one of the many remote and intriguing islands in Ireland. Despite the remote nature, it is worth a visit, especially for history enthusiasts. There are a lot of interesting things about this small Island.
With
a population of about 200 people, you will find deeply rooted Irish language
speakers and conservatives who still keep traditional Irish culture. The fact
that a king rules them says a lot about this Island. Therefore, spend at least
one day learning more about Ireland’s culture on this Island.
There
are other interesting things to see during your Donegal trip. Some key centres
that shouldn’t miss in your schedule include;
The Glenveagh Castle
Slieve League Cliffs
The Lough Derg
The Famine Village
The Letterkenny Catherdral
Accommodation in Donegal
Accommodation
is probably one of the major concerns for freebies looking to enjoy their stay
in Donegal. However, there should be no course to worry about. Imagine waking
up to chirping birds, the mouth licking smell of Irish breakfast wafting from
the kitchenette and amazing morning view from the surrounding coastline. This
is just a portion of what you get by checking into Donegal Thatch Cottages. You can book through Airbnb for a bed and
breakfast option. Hosts in the cottages are very welcoming, and you will surely
enjoy your stay here.
Instagram influences holiday choices of more than 10.6 Million Brits
According to a new study, upwards of 10.6 million Brits are said to be shunning more traditional guidebooks and holiday brochures and turning instead to social media for inspiration and making bookings regarding their travel plans.
The research, conducted by villa holiday tour operator Villa Plus, surveyed 1,000 British tourists to determine what factors influence their getaways, and which services they turn to when it’s time to book.
Results showed that despite more than a third of Brits admit to being influenced by friends and family when it comes to the holiday-making process, social media platforms such as Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook, now play a key role in both the way in which Brits browse for holiday inspiration and the method we turn to for making that all-important booking too.
Coming a long way since it’s humble beginnings, platforms such as Instagram are now much more than a way of showcasing your holiday snaps. In fact, advancements in the software mean users can are now no longer restricted to simply browsing their grid for inspiration but can now also buy or book life’s luxuries such as holidays too – and many of the products needed to take away with you as well.
The data mirrored said advancements and the clear generational shift in terms of both travel priorities and the way in which social media is utilised.
For more than a fifth of 25-34 year olds (22.2%), ensuring your vacation destination is “Instagram-worthy” was a main priority, whilst in contrast, more than a quarter of 55-64 year olds prefer to prioritise the experience itself, admitting they would actively attempt to relive their previous holidays time and again.
For some, price is much more appealing than and the perfect Instagram snap. Men were found to be the more frugal of the sexes, as nearly four times more men than women were likely to choose a location based on whether they could source a cheap deal.
The research also revealed which cities are most influenced by the Instagrammability of their vacation spot:
Newcastle claimed the crown, as upwards of 52,000 Geordies believed that an Insta-worthy location was paramount when deciding where to book their holiday.
Despite a fifth of those hailing from Manchester also admitting to being heavily influenced by social media when making choices in relation to location, just 2% stated that they had used the platforms to make a booking.
Similarly, when it came to the booking stage, over a fifth (21%) of 65+ year olds reveal they still prefer more traditional methods, opting to complete these transactions over the phone.
That said, more than 10% of Belfast residents, however, claim to have done so directly through social media.
The truth is that Singapore has numerous must-visit attractions. The list is endless because this island state is a complete package of fun and adventure. Choosing only seven may seem incomplete in a way, but these are the essential destinations that you do not want to miss. The list is a compilation of both natural and man-made attractions that will not only thrill you but also offer experiences that are unforgettable. So, let us dive into this list now.
Singapore Zoo
For flora and fauna lovers, this place is an excellent starting point. Although the animals are enclosed, they still enjoy a natural environment that protects them and people. Here, you and your family or friends will get to enjoy amazing wildlife.
Gardens by the Bay
For both kids and adults who love to interact with a mix of nature, artificial lights and breathtaking landscapes, this is the perfect place to visit. It is one of a kind in the world as it features 18 vertical gardens that are as high as 16-story buildings. The evening is even more beautiful, and the garden is fully lit with a mixture of colors.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Students who are studying botany and related fields must not miss a tour of this park. It is one of the oldest in the Lion City, and the gardens are carefully maintained. Surprisingly, the Singapore Botanic Gardens boast over 10,000 plant species. The flowers of different colors and the insects that follow their bright petals and nectar are truly amazing. Indeed, it is a park that includes a lot.
Singapore Flyer
After obtaining your Singapore visa as a tourist, the excitement to experience the vivid life of the city can overwhelm you. However, nothing should stop you from visiting one of the largest observation wheels in the world. On a lucky day, you will enjoy the horizons and even some views that go beyond the borders of Singapore. It is best enjoyed when you are with your romantic partner.
Universal Studios Singapore
Are you traveling with kids? Well, none of you will get enough of Universal Studios Singapore. This theme park has numerous rides and themed zones suitable for Halloween, shows and much more fun. In addition to kids, most adults really enjoy this resort also.
The Beaches
Singapore has numerous beaches that are tranquil yet full of life. Sentosa Island’s beaches top the list of the beach life fun that you will not want to miss. According to travel agents, you must give your beach tour a full day. Changi Beach Park is another great beach here.
National Gallery Singapore
This is one of the most recent attractions in Singapore that you must visit. It is the home of various historical and cultural artifacts not only from Singapore but also all of Asia and Europe, particularly countries that have influenced Singapore in one way or another. It is the best place to learn more about this place.
Now that you know the top attractions here, you will no longer be faced with the dilemma of where to visit especially when you have a limited time for your trip.
For many adventurous nomads who travel and work their way around the world, Bangkok, Thailand is a must-stop destination. With a rich blend of history and natural beauty to rival any place in the world, the country has much to offer the wandering visitor. Places to stay are relatively cheap, choices of foods are rich, diverse, and reasonably priced, coworking spaces in Bangkok are efficient and affordable, and there is always something to see or do in the city and beyond. To plan your Bangkok first time smoothly, check out the guide below.
Fresh off the Boat (or Airplane)
For visitors new to Asia generally, and visiting for the first time in Bangkok especially, the city can seem to be a bit overwhelming. Some first-time visitors who arrive to live and work in the city choose a guesthouse or hostel that is likely to offer abundant opportunities to meet other travelers and talk with locals who can offer advice and guidance to get the most out of the city while advising on how to avoid risks.
In general, Bangkok is safe and pleasant for travelers, whether backpacking nomads or first-time visitors on guided tours of the area. Some basic knowledge and common sense will help to avoid risks that are common to any large metropolitan area that is popular with tourists from around the world.
Where to Stay
For traditional backpackers and nomads, the Khao San Road area is known as a destination in Bangkok with many budget accommodations, a wide range of food and entertainment options, and places to work remotely while in the country. In many a Bangkok guide for first-timers, hostels and guesthouses in the area are rated and ranked according to price (very affordable) and quality (widely variable). The area that attracts tourists and foreign workers has grown to stretch out to the entire Banglamphu area, with a diverse range of housing and coworking spaces in Bangkok available around this part of the city.
Beyond the traditional nomad and backpacker’s first choice area in the Khao San Road area, which some first-time visitors find too busy and commercial, there are choices of living areas near Siam Square, Sukhumvit, Thonglor, Ekkamai or Silom. From these communities, you can connect to other parts of the city by the Skytrain as a transit option.
Where to Work
With the rise of wandering digital nomads who do their work from wherever they are in the world, Bangkok has developed a network of coworking spaces and temporary office options that allow many opportunities for setting up shop on your terms. Digital nomads communities within Bangkok allow for easy access to all the modern amenities of the connection while living in one of the richest historical and cultural centers of Asia.
Getting Around Smoothly
Bangkok has a range of options for transportation, from public transit by bus throughout the entire area, or rail to some areas of the city and beyond to the countryside. Taxis are plentiful, convenient and reasonably priced (be aware to ensure that your driver uses the meter and takes a direct route to your destination to keep taxi charges fair).
You may even try a boat along the Chao Phraya River for a traditional mode of transportation from one part of the city to another. Enjoy the unique view along the waterway that has served as a transportation artery through Bangkok for ages past, viewing modern skyscrapers and traditional boats and residences along the river as you go.
Places to Go in Bangkok
Among the places to go in Bangkok, there are some classic Buddhist temples that are worth a visit. The Grand Palace, the city’s most popular attraction, offers history and culture in the heart of the city. The Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is a stunning mosaic of glittering tiles and glass. The neighboring Wat Pho, one of the biggest and oldest temples in Thailand, which is also full of stunning works of artistry and devotion.
Among the city’s unique experiences, a historical home that should be on the must-see list for everyone on their first time in Bangkok is called Jim Thompson’s House. An American merchant and spy in the mid-twentieth century, Thompson lived in a gorgeous classic Thai home with extensive features of teak as well as lush gardens, all now preserved as a museum. The house near Siam Square is worth a visit to appreciate a part of the history of the city that seems to be of another time.
Beyond Bangkok, the entire country of Thailand is known for stunning old Buddhist temples, dense jungles, and lush beaches. Many digital nomad communities divide time between the urban experiences of Bangkok and the outlying beauty of islands, beaches, and forests that can fill an entire journey’s worth of sightseeing opportunities. For first-timers in the country, tours can introduce you to the countryside beyond Bangkok and help you to find your way around, from beaches to rivers, forests, and temples that are worth a visit.
The Night in Bangkok
When the sunsets in Bangkok a vibrant city emerges to entertain. The Sapanput Night market is popular among the trendy young Thais who shop for fashion, accessories, and shoes as well as second-hand goods.
For anyone looking for live music, there is plenty to choose from. Try The Brick Bar where a live music mix is available and customers are encouraged to dance on the tables.
Food of all types is found everywhere from the street vendors to sky bar restaurants in Bangkok. For a treat why not try the elegant surroundings of The Cielo Sky Bar & Restaurant to enjoy the 360-degree panoramic view of Bangkok.
Find Your Place
When you have settled into the rhythm of Thai life and sampled the experiences of Bangkok and beyond, you may be ready to find a place to stay to live and work locally. Living expenses generally are reasonable, and opportunities are abundant to find a comfortable place of your own near coworking spaces in Bangkok to combine the best of residence and workspace in the neighborhood of your choice.
Paris, Rome, or Seashells all sound wonderful, but some of those seemingly romantic places are filled with tourists and hyped to attract even more of them. Unlike renowned Europe’s capitals, New Zealand is a story on its own. Nowhere on the planet will you find a country so unique, captivating and alluring, that would make every couple’s stay a truly memorable experience. Whether you are searching for a romantic destination for your wedding day or honeymoon, or you are just looking to get away from the daily hustle and bustle, New Zealand is filled with an abundance of incredibly mesmerizing places to relish in each other’s company. From beautiful landscapes to riveting glaciers, New Zealand has it all. And here are some of the regions that stand out from the rest.
Enliven all your senses in Rotorua
If you simply want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the daily lives and have a relaxing and therapeutic weekend with your loved one, then you must head out to Hells Gate Geothermal Park and Mud Spa in Rotorua. This spectacular geothermal scenery is a real New Zealand’s gem. Not only will you have a chance to totally unwind in a therapeutic mud bath together, but you can try out the sulfur spa even under the stars. Let your love blossom around the erupting waters steaming fumaroles, pools of boiling mud just like the ancient Maori people and other European settlers did. Hells Gate is only 5 minutes away from Rotorua International Airport, so it is easily accessible.
Oh, Auckland. There aren’t many urban cities that can be as alluring as the North Island’s biggest city. You can have a picnic in any of its beautiful parks, or catch an outdoor movie while holding hands and sharing popcorn. Amongst tone of other romantic things to do in Auckland, couples absolutely adore going for a horse trek ride along the nearby idyllic Muriwai Beach, or a romantic stroll along black sand, rolling dunes, and scenic forest. Many couples actually tied the knot here and said ‘I do’ in a hot air balloon during sunrise while overlooking the majestic circle of Rangitoto, an island that can boast with the finest 360-degree views of the entire Auckland region.
Try out dreamy stargazing at Mt. Cook National Park
One region that stands out from the rest is the Mount Cook National Park region which is about 3 hours away by car from Queenstown and about 4 hours from Christchurch. But, once your rich this majestic place, you will be totally captivated by the sheer natural wonders it disposes of. Strenuous mountains with snow-peaked tops, luscious plains with lavender fields, and glorious wilderness that will make your stay for the night even more captivating. Yes, this is the place all lover should go stargazing. New Zealand is home to the largest International Dark Sky Reserve at Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park where you can snuggle with your particularly and focus your attention heavenward to witness the dazzling stars that shimmer throughout the whole night sky. It sounds like an ideal location to propose, doesn’t it? From the wedding photos taken from professionals at Grey Area Productions, the best wedding photos were taken in the dreamy and charming Mount Cook National Park.
Thrill-seeking couples who are looking to completely lose themselves in an untamed underground world, should without a doubt head out to the Waitomo Caves. There is something absolutely inspiring and chilling when you descend about 100 meters below Earth’s surface. If you are in for some tender and whimsical together-time, then all couples will certainly enjoy embarking in an illuminating cruise to see thousands of tiny mesmerizing glowing worms. Even if it sounds like a cave full of worms, this is truly one-of-a-kind sight that will sparkle up your fiery romance. Other couples can try other fun activities around Waitomo like spelunking, abseiling and black water rafting.
Delve into New Zealand’s sensuous wine regions
Newlyweds, long-lasting partners, or couples who have just started dating all desire some serene intimacy. And the perfect getaway is going to some of New Zealand’s wine regions like in Waiheke Island or around Marlborough. A couple who visits Waiheke can not only go wine tasting some of the world’s renowned wines, but also explore and walk along luscious vineyards, go cycling and zip-lining, and even swim in white sandy beaches. Basically, a perfect getaway from the city commotions. If you visit the Marlborough region you will also have the opportunity to try exquisite New Zealand’s wine plus book a perfect place for your future wedding reception, since there are multitude wineries where you can seal your love for eternity.
It is hard to rule out the most romantic regions in New Zealand’s since there are numerous other sights, beaches and captivating places where you can let loose and enjoy each other’s company. However, if you wish to keep a romance flowing, this list is an absolute must-see.
Exotic, alluring, romantic and appealing: These, and many other adjectives over the decades have been used to describe the island paradise that is Bali. Laying in the Indian Ocean, one of the thousands of islands that make up the Indonesian archipelago, the island has an allure, charm, and lifestyle that draws millions of visitors to its shores every year.
Bali holidays have also become increasingly popular with visitors seeking healthy holiday options. Fine dining restaurants, relaxing spas, or a stay at a Yoga or fitness retreat are becoming increasingly popular. The following are a few ideas on how to make the most of your first visit, and how to avoid the dreaded Bali-belly.
1. Bali Health Retreat Packages
A stay in a fitness retreat in Bali can provide all the attractions of a hotel holiday and more. Stunning white-sand beaches trips to visit the many attractions, and organized hiking and biking outings, are combined with fitness rooms, health clubs, saunas, Pilates and Yoga classes, and healthy dining. All designed to improve the wellbeing of mind and body.
2. Consider a Spa Hotel Break
If you’ve enjoyed one of those short spa breaks at home, you’ll have an idea of what to expect. Bali spa treatments include hot-stone massages, deep-tissue massages, sports injury massages, and the famous Thai massage. Other therapies include Ayurveda (a traditional Hindu massage using oils), mud baths, a sauna, steam room, and reflexology and hydrotherapy treatments.
3. Fasting and Detox Retreats
If you’re looking to give your spiritual and emotional well-being a bit of a boost, consider a holiday in one of Bali’s growing numbers of fasting and detox retreats. Although fasting and detoxing have become increasingly popular in the West during the last two decades, it is an Asian culture based on nature, which has been a part of Eastern life for hundreds of years. Fasting is not just about food. It can mean abstinence from smoking, alcohol, sex, speaking, and company, as well as food.
If you have recently given up overindulgence in alcohol, tobacco or other stimulants, but are struggling with the after-effects, a visit to a detox retreat will help cleanse the body of those stubborn hangers-on. A properly monitored detox fast can help reduce acidity and inflammation and remove chemical residues, contaminants, and cravings. It is a great way to reset the clock for a fitter, healthier, more active you in the future.
4. Happy Holidays
Not everyone is inclined to spa hotels and health retreats. Many just want an enjoyable holiday exploring everything Bali has to offer, free of any of those health issues that can be waiting to strike. Stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea are the most prevalent health problems travelers the world over suffer when visiting holiday destinations. For some, just a change of diet can bring on a period of ‘the trots’, which usually disappears in a day or two. For others, hospital stays and intravenous drips can ruin that holiday of a lifetime. Here are a few things to consider when you are out and about.
5. Choosing Where You Eat
Whether in your hotel, out sightseeing, or on the beach, only ever drink bottled water. While dining in your hotel is usually trouble-free, when out and about take care where you eat. The high temperatures mean raw fish and meat sitting in trays for long periods waiting to be cooked, are open to attack from bugs and flies. When visiting the loo, make sure hands are scrupulously washed for the same reason. Choose local cafes, bars, and restaurants that are busy. It indicates a high turnover of products and a popular eatery. Look around and note what other patrons are eating, and what dishes seem most popular. If you want to sample local dishes, do it in your hotel’s restaurant, or a local restaurant that has been recommended.
6. Steer Clear of Arak
Acting the seasoned traveler, and insisting on sampling the local cuisine, wines, spirits and, beers is fine when you’re absolutely sure what you’re doing. In Bali, the local rice wine is a case in point. Available everywhere, some Arak, poorly distilled by local businesses, has claimed the lives of tens of tourists due to contamination by methanol. If you must try it, ask for a glass in your hotel, but never in local bars or restaurants.
7. Care When Visiting Macaque Monkeys
They may look cute, cuddly and friendly, but they are wild animals. Keep your distance, their claws are sharp and teeth strong, and you are likely to get scratched or bitten if they can’t get what they want. In that event, a trip to the nearest doctor to get the wound treated and disinfected is a must, if you don’t want to risk very real health problems.
The Little Things to Take Note
Make sure your travel insurance covers you for motorcycle or scooter hire, and extreme sports such as paragliding or jet-skiing.
If you want to get a tattoo, ask around for recommendations. Finally, don’t forget to use the sunblock, and go home refreshed, relaxed and healthy, from your Bali experience.
If you ever doubted the power of social media, you need to visit Page, Arizona, USA. There are two attractions nearby that were hardly known by anyone other than locals twenty years ago. Then came Instagram, and Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend have become internationally known tourist attractions that everyone visiting the western USA wants to see.
Antelope
Canyon is a slot canyon on Navajo Indian land. It has two separate, scenic
sections; Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. The two canyons are
distinct but are within a 10-minute drive of each other. You can choose to do
both in one day and each will take roughly two hours. But it’s not as easy as that
because you need to book ahead and tours are often running late.
Antelope Canyon was formed
by erosion primarily due to flash flooding. Rainwater
runs into the extensive basin above the slot canyon sections, picking up speed
and sand as it rushes into the narrow passageways. Over time the passageways
eroded away, making the corridors deeper and smoothing hard edges.
Antelope
Canyon is a very popular location for photographers and sightseers, and a
source of tourism business for the Navajo Nation since the first tour in 1997.
All visits are through one of several licensed tour operators. It is not
possible to visit the Canyon independently. You will need to rent a car or take
an organised tour to reach Antelope Canyon since there is no bus or public
transportation.
You cannot
drive your car straight to the entrance of the canyons. Instead, you drive to
your tour provider, park at their shop, and then your tour provider transports
you to the canyon, either by car for Upper Antelope Canyon or by foot for Lower
Antelope Canyon.
Lower Antelope Canyon
Because I
was on a very tight schedule, I could only visit the lower canyon where two
operators provide tours. As far as I can tell they operate almost identical
tours at a similar cost. To a large extent the success of the tour depends on
the guide. Our guide was very helpful in taking photos and told us stories
surrounding the rock formations.
Lower
Antelope is a more difficult hike than Upper Antelope. It is longer, narrower
in spots, and there is uneven footing in some parts. Five flights of steep stairs
are available to aid in descent and ascent. It is not recommended for people
with walking difficulties, pregnant women or the very obese.
Antelope
Canyon is visited exclusively through guided tours, in part because rains
during monsoon season can quickly flood the canyon. Rain does not have to fall
on or near the Antelope Canyon slots for flash floods to whip through, as rain
falling many kilometres away upstream of the canyons can funnel into them with
little prior notice.
Visitors start their guided
Lower Antelope Canyon tours with a short 10-minute walk from the ticket booth
to the entrance of the canyon. The trail leading to the entrance is both rocky
and sandy, so appropriate shoes are necessary.
The Antelope slot Canyon
tours are all-walking tours that are about one and a half hours long. Visitors
walk just over 1,800 meters round trip. Visitors are welcome to take photos
with handheld devices (no tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, or GoPros are
allowed). It would be a pity to visit without some photographs because the
canyon is really spectacular.
Horseshoe
Bend
This Instagram favourite is a horseshoe-shaped incised meander of the Colorado
River (think Grand Canyon) within Glen
Canyon National Recreation Area, about 6 km southwest of Page. Just like
Antelope Canyon, social media has dramatically increased the number of visitors
who come here and the parking lot has just been tripled in size to help
accommodate the rush.
It is a 2.5 kilometre
round-trip from the parking lot to an outlook point. The track is a bit rough
in places and it descends some distance so it’s not suitable for wheelchairs or
those with restricted movement. Make sure you
take water with you when the weather is hot and there isn’t any shade. The
overlook is 1,300 m above sea level, and the Colorado River is at 980 m, making
it a 320 m drop.
There is usually
a large, steady stream of people walking to and from the bend and once you get
there everyone is jockeying for a photo spot. I’m surprised that people don’t
fall over the edge on a regular basis because there is no barrier along most
parts. You will be amazed by the view and by the craziness of some people
taking extreme measures for their perfect picture. Most visitors get in, get
the picture, and get out within an hour or so.
Insta-worthy dream holiday without having to pack your bags!
Holidays are one of the best ways to tick off those outstanding items on your bucket list. The holiday provides us with the opportunity to do those ‘once in a lifetime’ things that we dream about in our day-to-day, a chance to live those exhilarating experiences and collect those unforgettable memories.
But what if you didn’t have to wait for a big, expensive holiday to a far-flung destination to do all the things on your list? What if you could do those same incredible activities in the UK or Ireland?
Stena Line asked the UK public what they would most want to do on their dream holiday. Here are the top 5:
Surfing
Safari experience
Thermal springs
Whale watching
Skiing
So, how can you have an Insta-worthy dream holiday without having to pack your bags and fly around the world?
1. Surfing
Surfing has (excuse the pun) really made a
splash with holidaymakers over the last decade or so. It’s grown from an
ancient practice in Polynesia to a rebellious sub-culture in California and now
it can be found all over the world.
Surfing is a perfect holiday activity because
it combines a little bit of learning — perfect to keep the brain stimulated
when it might otherwise switch off — with a fun physical challenge and plenty
of time in the sun.
The dream: Hawaii, USA
Though Californian surf culture made the
practice famous in contemporary society, the best surfing can still be found
where it all started. Hawaii is known for its profound surf culture and
world-class waves. Its white beaches and sub-tropical climate make it a surfer’s
dream.
Getting there, however, is not a laid-back
experience. From the UK, it takes at least 17 hours to get to Hawaii, not
including transfer time, which can quickly stack up to nearly an entire day of
flying. And the flights, as you might expect, aren’t cheap. We found that
return flights were £1,244 per person.
Once you’ve landed, you could technically surf
for free (no one owns the ocean, after all), but it’s unlikely that you’ll haul
a surfboard halfway around the world with you.
Instead, you’ll probably want to hire your
gear when you’re there. If you go for, let’s say, five days (you’ve gone all
that way, after all!), you can hire a beginner board for a week for $80
(£61.35). Five nights in a good mid-range hotel in Honolulu will set you back £890.
Oh, and don’t forget: Hawaii is part of the
USA, which means you’ll need to purchase a $14 (£10.55) ESTA to get through
customs.
Altogether,
that clocks in at £2,205.90.
Close to home: Llangennith, Wales
Over the last decade or so, there’s been a marked
rise in the number of people going ‘cold water’ surfing in North America and
Europe.
One of the best places for that? Wales —
specifically, Llangennith, a long beach where surfers can get stuck in to the
Gower, a reef renowned for its waves. The Gower has been called the heartland
of Welsh surfing, offering waves for surfers of all abilities, whether you’re
after those mellow troughs or those gnarly thirty-footers.
Some of the best surfers in the UK refine
their craft in the waves off the shores of Llangennith, so it’s definitely one
for your bucket list.
Unlike Hawaii, you won’t need to worry about
getting flights to Llangennith if you’re in the UK. Surf gear is a little more
expensive than Hawaii — about £80 to buy a beginner board and wetsuit — but you
won’t need to pay for a visa or an ESTA to get there.
Because it’s only a short journey, you could
probably visit Llangennith for a couple of days before heading back, but for
the sake of being fair, let’s say that you’re staying for five days.
Accommodation in Llangennith is around £85 per room for a mid-range hotel so
your hotel costs for the week would come in at about £425.
The sum
total takes you to just £505.00.
Saving:
£1,700.90 (77%)
2. Safari experience
Getting out onto the plains of Africa is the
dream of many a wildlife enthusiast, which is why a safari is at the top of
many people’s bucket lists. They’re often the only opportunity that people have
to see some of the world’s most incredible animals out in the wild, up close,
from gigantic elephants and hippos to lion prides and ferocious crocodiles.
The dream: Maasai Mara, Kenya
No continent does a safari quite like Africa —
its stretching plains and varied wildlife makes it a haven for animal-lovers.
One of the best-known safaris in Africa is the Maasai Mara National Reserve in
Kenya. Maasai Mara shares a common border with the Serengeti and is famous for
its plentiful populations of lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras and wildebeest.
The problem is that going on a safari in
Maasai Mara is an all-in experience; planning a day trip out onto the plains
isn’t easy to do. The shortest safari package we could find was a 3-day outing
that started at $746 (£564.20) per person. Assuming you would stay an absolute
minimum of 2 nights, that puts accommodation at £500 per room if you want to
stay near Maasai Mara. Cheaper rooms are available in Narok, the nearest town,
but it’s a three-hour drive away.
Getting to Kenya in the first place is fairly
pricey. Return tickets are about £378 per person, but you’ll also need to
factor in getting a visa for entry for $51 (£38.72) and the shots you’ll need
for typhoid and yellow fever (£141.95). That
puts the entire trip at £1,622.87 per person, excluding food and airport
transfers.
Close to home: Birmingham, England
You’d be mistaken in believing that you have
to leave the UK and Ireland to enjoy an engrossing safari experience. The West
Midland Safari Park — located just half an hour or so outside of Birmingham —
offers one of Europe’s best wildlife experiences. Lions? Check. Zebras? Check.
Elephants and rhinos and cheetahs and pretty much everything else you’d spot on
the Serengeti plains? All check. And you can see them all in one day!
Admission, as you might expect, is much
cheaper than booking an African experience. Day passes start from £24 per
person, though you can book a VIP package if you want something more immersive.
Accommodation in Birmingham is agreeable, too, with mid-range hotels starting
at about £43 per room. And since it’s in
the UK, you won’t need to pay anything for flights, visas or vaccines, which
puts the total at just £67.
Saving: £1,555.87 (96%)
3. Thermal springs
Everyone loves a good spa day, but there’s
something magical about the restorative powers of the earth itself. Though
thermal spas have been around for millennia (they were a particularly big hit
with the Romans), they’ve recently had a rapid increase in popularity. Genuine
thermal spas are a rarity, which is why they’re sought after by holidaymakers
who are looking for unique experiences.
The dream: Blue Lagoon, Iceland
The tourism statistics for Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
have benefitted massively from the Instagram generation. It’s one of the most
beautiful places in the world, sporting an azure blue volcanic lake that
contrasts sharply with the stark igneous landscape that surrounds it. For that
reason, it’s become a top destination for modern travellers to go to.
It isn’t cheap, though. Iceland is notoriously
pricey — in fact, it’s cited by many as the most expensive tourist destination in the world,
due to high import costs and taxation on food and alcohol. The Blue Lagoon is
ISK 6,990 (£44.60) for just one hour in the pool, and that’s if you book in
advance. If you want to stay over, the on-site hotel is your only real option,
as the spa is in the middle of nowhere. A stay at the Silica Hotel starts at
ISK 70,400 (£448.83) per night. Add the
flights on top of that — £173 return from the UK — and your total comes to
£666.43.
Close to home: Bath, England
Bath is, in the minds of many, the original
thermal spa town. It’s even named
after the Roman baths. That’s because of the plentiful geothermal springs
underground that allowed Roman settlers to create hot bathhouses, some of which
still stand today.
You can actually enjoy a dip in a genuine
geothermal spa when you visit Bath by going to the Thermae Spa. Admission to
the New Royal Bath is £36 on weekdays, for which you’ll get a two-hour spa
session and access to the open-air rooftop pool and the Minerva Bath, the
largest of the thermal baths. Accommodation
in Bath is about £67 per night, and without flights to worry about, your total
comes to just £103.
Saving:
£563.43 (85%)
4. Whale watching
Whales are incredible creatures. With the
largest of them measuring almost 30 metres long, it’s understanding that the
vast majority of them don’t fit in an aquarium or sea life centre. You have to
go out into the wild to see them for real — and spotting them is one of the top
things that we want to do on holiday.
The dream: Húsavík, Iceland
One of the best spots to see whales in the
world is off the northeast coast of Iceland. The coastal town of Húsavík has
become a hotspot for budding whale-spotters, and as such, there are several
companies that run world-class whale-watching tours out of Skjálfandi Bay on
traditional oak boats.
As mentioned earlier, though, Iceland is
expensive. The three hours you spend on the water will cost you 10,500 ISK
(£66.52) per person, and a night spent in Húsavík will cost you around £100 per
room — and that’s at the low end of the spectrum. Return flights to Akureyri —
the nearest airport to Húsavík — are about £396 from the UK.
That means that even without food costs and
airport transfers — which can be two or three times what you may spend in the
UK — you’ll be spending £565.52 to do a
day of whale watching in Iceland.
Close to home: Cork, Ireland
Did you know that the Irish government
declared the coastal waters of Ireland a whale and dolphin sanctuary during the
early 1990s? Ireland’s policies on the preservation of sea life have turned it
into one of Europe’s top spots for seeing Minke, Fin, Baleen and even Humpback
whales in their natural habitat.
You can go whale watching from West Cork for
just €50 (£42.67) per person for 4 hours out on the water. Accommodation in
Cork is around £87 per night for a mid-range hotel, and getting to Cork from
the UK is easy — you can hop aboard a ferry from just £41 per person for an
overnight stay, which gives you as much as 36 hours in Ireland.
Altogether,
you’ll be spending just £170.67.
Saving:
£415.85 (74%)
5. Skiing
Skiing has a sort of vintage charm about it —
maybe that’s because its popularity grew rapidly in the 50s and 60s when metal
skis made it easy, even fun, for amateurs to ski as well as pros. Since then,
it’s become a top holiday recreation, complete with cosy lodges and alpine
tipples.
The dream: Cervinia, Italy
What skiing hotspot can compete with the
world-famous Matterhorn? It’s instantly recognisable by its pyramid shape and
its looming presence in the Alps, crossing the borders of both Italy and
Switzerland. One of the best ski resorts at the base of the Matterhorn is
Cervinia, Italy, where you can take a lift up to some of the best parts of the
mountain and ski to your heart’s desire.
Flights to Cervinia are very reasonable from
the UK, with return flights coming in at only about £72 off-peak. A day-pass to
the Cervinia resort is €43 (£35.59), with ski hire coming it at £18.87 per day
if you book online. However, accommodation is pretty pricey, probably because
of how remote the hotels are. For two nights, you’ll be looking at about £426
per room.
For argument sake, let’s say you just want to
ski for one full day — that takes your
total to £552.46.
At home: Glenshee, Scotland
Bet you didn’t know there were ski resorts in
the UK! In fact, Glenshee Ski Resort in Scotland sees a great deal of snowfall
throughout the year, and with a few gentler slopes than Cervinia, it’s ideal
for beginners and intermediates.
Admission to the ski resort is a little
cheaper than Cervinia, with a 1-day lift pass coming in at £32 (although if you
just want to hit the beginner slopes, you can get to them for just £20 a day).
Ski hire is £23 a day for skis, boots and poles.
The biggest saving you’ll make is on
accommodation. You can stay at a mid-range hotel in Ballater — about half an
hour’s drive from Glenshee — for about £55 a night, so £110 if we’re going to
match the two nights you’d spend in Cervinia.
That
puts your total at just £165.
Saving:
£387.46 (70%)
The Dream: £5613.18
Home: £947.67
Saving: £4,665.51
83%
A dream holiday from home
If you have plenty of money — and time, too — you might be willing to travel the world to complete your holiday bucket list. For the rest of us, though, the good news is that all the activities we dream about for our perfect holiday are right on our doorstep here in the UK and Ireland.
Here’s to a staycation that exceeds all
expectations!
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