Category Archives: Destinations

Asia, Travel Planning

Taking a Gap Year: Destination Hong Kong

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So, you’ve finished high school and would like to take a gap year before figuring out what you’re going to do next? So many people your age are in the same situation and have decided to do the same. Now, the question is what you should do during the gap year so that it’s not wasted. Well, you’ll be spoiled for choice, to be honest.

The best way to spend your gap year depends on you and your ambitions and goals. You might look for some work experience, experiment with a new career, do some volunteering work or simply travel for fun. Whatever your motive, one of the places where you can achieve your goals is definitely Hong Kong.

Why Hong Kong?

To begin with, English is one of the official languages, which makes it a natural choice for many young people. Also, there are very good employment opportunities for those interested in working hard and broadening their horizons. We should probably also mention that it’s one of the most popular destinations for adventure and cultural travel. As you can see, Hong Kong is definitely an option worth considering.

Ngong Ping 360, Hong Kong, monk
Photo by Tiplada Mekvisan on Unsplash

Fun and culture

Despite its size, Hong Kong offers a range of fun and exciting activities, from backpacking and camping on the beach to rock climbing. With many national parks, you can also immerse yourself in some of the most stunning sceneries in the world.

Hong Kong, as you might know, has a lot of historical significance. It is also an excellent starting point for exploring other parts of Asia, particularly China. The city itself is a magnificent mixture of cultures, which makes it rather unique.

Teaching English

Despite the fact that English is one of the official languages, there is a great opportunity for native and non-native speakers to teach in Hong Kong. One of the things you could do to improve your chances of landing a great job as a teacher is to sign up for the renowned Monkey Tree TEFL courses and get the necessary qualifications.

Choi Hung Estate, Hong Kong, playground
Photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash

Volunteering

Another option worth considering is sharing your time and skills with those in need. Some volunteering opportunities are through church organizations, but you can also find many other options. They range from helping children learn English and working with the physically challenged to making crafts. You can choose a program that fits your interests and you’re bound to be rewarded, though not financially.

Internship

Hong Kong also offers many internship opportunities, allowing you to explore the life there in the best possible way. Working in such a culturally diverse environment can provide you with invaluable experience, which you probably couldn’t get at home. By joining an internship program in Hong Kong, you’ll be able to develop not only professionally, but personally as well. Just imagine living and working in a foreign culture, possibly learning another language and meeting people from all over the world!

Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong, sunset
Photo by Leonardo Yip on Unsplash

Living in Hong Kong

You need to know that living in Hong Kong is more expensive than in most other cities in Asia and be prepared to pay around $20,000 HKD (approx. $2800 USD) for a two-bedroom apartment. Utilities average around $1000 HKD (approx. $ 120 USD) and you should also count on spending $450 HKD (approx. $65 USD) per month for public transport. Other expenses depend on your lifestyle.

Culture and etiquette

Hong Kong is dominated by Cantonese habits and customs. Whatever you do and whatever you achieve is a reflection upon your family. People address each other by their family names unless the host or colleague asks you to use their first name.

In terms of personal space, you can expect people to stand quite close when talking to you, but they will refrain from touching you. Also, friends and couples like to hold hands, but such examples of affection are seldom seen in public.

Ngong Ping, Hong Kong, temple
Photo by Meckl Antal on Unsplash

Health and safety

You’d be glad to hear that Hong Kong has very high standards with regards to health. Restaurants and other public places are regularly inspected and tap water is safe, though many people don’t like the taste and choose bottled water. Hospitals provide excellent care, should you need it. Also, it’s safe to walk around even at night, but you still have to be careful, since pickpockets operate in high traffic areas.

As you can see, Hong Kong is really an attractive destination for your gap year or at least a part of it. The potential benefits of your stay there by far outweigh any concerns you might have. So, don’t miss such a great opportunity to travel and spend at least a small part of your life there.

Australia

Unforgettable Travel Experience — A Taste of Tasmania

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Most people who pick Australia as their vacation destination don’t even know that they are missing a whole world of excitement by not visiting Tasmania. So, don’t be one of these amateur tourists and make sure to put Tassie on your travel checklist. Here’s why visiting this southern state is a must.

See Port Arthur

There’s no place like Port Arthur, so you must visit it during your Tasmanian trip. This unique convict site will show you a glimpse of the olden times with its restored buildings, asylums and prisons. Together with your admission ticket, you get a short cruise around the Isle of the Dead! If that menacing name sparked your interest, you might also want to book a guided Ghost Tour, which will send shivers down your spine.

Visit the capital

Surely, Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, will be one of the first stops at your Tasmanian adventure. Almost all Tasmanian cruises from Sydney make a whole-day stop in Hobart, which gives you plenty of time to explore this vibrant city. Make sure to visit Salamanca Market and shop for fresh produce, second-hand clothes, antiques and souvenirs. And, if you find yourself in Hobart on Friday, you simply must try to fast throughout the day, and feast in the evening at the Street Eats in Franklin Square. From 4 to 9 PM the whole square is filled with food trucks, stalls and drink stands!

Get a taste of art

While you’re enjoying your day in Hobart, you can set some time aside to get cultured and inspired. Take a short ferry ride from the harbor and visit the Museum of Old & New Art (MONA for short) and get the chance to see some of the most controversial and challenging pieces of modern art. You might not like or understand everything you see, but you’ll definitely enjoy debating over the meaning of the pieces and subjects behind them. It’s really a unique art experience.

Chill at a pub

Most people think Australia and Tasmania are always sunny. Mostly they are, but there are periods of cold, rain and even snow when outdoor activities are a bit limited! That’s why Tasmanians know plenty about pubs, bars, restaurants and indoor fun. So, when you get tired of exploring, find a seat at a local pub, enjoy a hearty meal and revitalize with a pint of beer or a glass of wine! This is the best way to meet locals, try local food and get warm during the winter.

Test your limits with a nice bushwalk

If you’re staying in Tasmania for over a week, you can embark on a real adventure that will test your endurance and reward you with amazing views and experiences if you persevere. Your bushwalk will take you on a 65km adventure from Cradle Valley to Lake St Clair over Tasmania’s peaks, eucalyptus forests and flower-covered fields. The so-called Overland Track is best hiked in summer, when the nature is in bloom and the weather is pleasant. Only experienced hikers should tackle this track in winter, so keep that in mind!

Bring your driver’s license

Sure, you can book a bus tour to explore Tasmania, but driving yourself is a much better experience. Plus, you only need about 3 hours to drive from one end to another, so it’s not an exhausting drive either! Most roads are very well maintained and traffic is pretty slow, so you’ll find it really relaxing to drive in Tasmania. The best thing is that you’ll get to be your own boss, make as many stops as you like and see everything that catches your eye.

So, put Tasmania on your travel map right now! Don’t miss a chance to experience some Tasmania-only adventures, tours and excitements that will leave you breathless!

Asia, Australia, Europe, Food, North America

Eat Your Way Around The World At The Top Foodie Destinations

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Travelling the world allows you to grow as a person, get to know different cultures and people, but most importantly, it lets you try an array of new foods. This is a dream come true for any foodie. So when you’re planning on a vacation and choosing your destinations, take the local specialities in account. After all, where else are you going to try these exotic and authentic specialities? In fact, you can see the entire world following your stomach.

Enjoy the tropical punch in Hawaii

The US is famous for many things, but some would argue good food isn’t one of them. They’ve obviously never been to a high-grade restaurant in Hawaii. Of course, in this case, the high-grade restaurants are actually authentic food trucks.

Though it may sound tacky, this is actually the best way to taste Hawaii. You can steal a piece of heaven while relaxing on the beach and eating whatever the food truck chef has recommended. After all, they incorporate regional foods with classic cooking techniques as part of a fusion method which colors your taste buds in a range of different flavours.

Discover the specialties of Hong Kong

Even though Hong Kong is one of the most urban centers of China, they still incorporate traditional specialties to their menus. You may think that there’s no point trying Chinese food when you can just get takeout in your hometown, but it’s really not the same.

Nothing beats dim sum prepared with fresh and local ingredients, sampled in an authentic Chinese restaurant. The same goes for other recipes, and you can discover them all on your visit to Hong Kong. There’s so much to see and explore, and there’s no way your home takeout menu carries the items on Hong Kong’s list.

Wake up your senses in Hunter Valley

Located in NSW, Australia, Hunter Valley is the perfect stop on the south side of the globe. There are a lot of first-class restaurants you can visit and experience all Australia has to offer food-wise. Aside from food, you can also go on one of the Valley’s famous wine tours.

When you get tired of wining and dining, you can explore the gorgeous gardens nearby or just relax in your room. Make sure your accommodation in Hunter Valley is conveniently located, so you can easily explore the whole place. Since this is a vacation of the senses, wake them up in every way possible- starting with food.

Find adventure in Paris

Who said that getting your adrenaline going had to imply doing something extreme? It’s enough to experience something new and magical. Where better to do that than in the gastronomical capital of Europe, Paris?

There’s no other place where you’ll be able to try the most bizarre yet delicious foods in the world. From snails to frog legs, and even “Tete de Veau” (calf head), Paris is bound to keep you on your toes and really give you something to talk about. Of course, you can still experience the enchanting nature of French cuisine even if you don’t opt for something so unusual.

Conclusion

In conclusion, travelling the world can completely revolve around food and still allow you to experience everything else our beautiful Earth has to offer. Focusing on food in different countries allows you to experience a layer of culture most people miss. Food is how we show our love and passion, so it’s by far the best way to get to know a new culture and travel the world.

Asia, Editor's Picks, Travel Blogging

Six Reasons You Must Visit Tokyo

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Tokyo, an exotic oriental oasis known for its modern skyline, ancient (literally) history and vibrant culture. When planning a trip to such a locale, it’s overwhelming to decide what to take in during your stay. It has enough restaurants, stores and attractions to keep you busy for weeks, but which should you take in?

Look no further than this list of a few of Tokyo’s must-see amenities.

Food

When you think of Japanese food, you might assume it’s all variations on sushi and nothing more. You couldn’t be more wrong. Tokyo’s cuisine is unlike any other. In addition to having an acute attention to detail, the amount of options when it comes to food is nothing short of overwhelming. There’s something for everyone, whether you want to spend $10 or $100. Some of the best places are found in the large food courts found beneath shopping centers. These expansive dining rooms have seemingly endless options.

If you’re looking for something a little nicer, check out the restaurant that was made famous in the movie Kill Bill, Gonpachi Nishiazabu. In the movie, Uma Thurmond’s character killed several underground criminals in this restaurant. Unfortunately, Gonpachi Nishiazabu wasn’t actually in the movie, but after director Quentin Tarantino visited the restaurant, he made an exact replica of its dining room to film the scene in Hollywood.

Pop culture aside, the food at Gonpachi Nishiazabu is really quite good. It has many options for more adventurous eaters and the portions are surprisingly shareable.

Public Transit

Did you know that Tokyo has the world’s busiest subway system? Every day, more than six million people use this public transit system. The sheer volume of riders is intimidating, but don’t let that stop you from experiencing this innovative mode of transportation. Although very busy, the subway system is sprawling. It’s 14 lines cover 882 stations, all of which run quickly and with little error. Stations can be chaotic, but the trains are known for being clean, comfortable and, most importantly, timely.

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, take the bullet (“shinkansen”) train to Kyoto for some fresh air. On your way, enjoy the stunning views of Mount Fuji. Please note that train etiquette is very important. Line up in an orderly fashion with the other riders and do not use your time on the train to talk on the phone, eat or hold loud conversations. When in doubt, do as the Japanese do.

Nightlife

This might surprise you, but the after-hours scene is Tokyo is nuts. There is so much to do and only so many hours of the night! Karaoke bars are one of the most popular places to visit, but there are dance clubs and cocktail bars, and a surprising amount of strip clubs.

If nightlife is your thing, check out the Roppongi district. Here, you will find the who’s who of models, foreigners, celebrities and young locals. They gather in Roppongi to drink, dance and date. It’s a busy place, but if you don’t mind the crowds and are willing to pay cover charges, then it’s worth a visit.

Consider a Tokyo hotel in Roppongi to make your walk home after a night of partying a little easier.

Fireworks

Really, fireworks? Yes, really. Granted, fireworks are detonated in nearly every other part of the world, but not like in Tokyo. You may not realize this, but fireworks are a major part of Japanese culture. They have been using fireworks to celebrate for centuries and, as a result, have hundreds of incredible firework shows throughout the year. These shows typically take place in summer, but that doesn’t keep them from creating elaborate displays to celebrate the new year and cherry blossoms.

Kabuki Theater

Going to a Kabuki show is a true Japanese experience. These plays, which began in the 1600’s, are typically dramas performed by all men. They paint their faces bright white and apply colorful makeup. In some cases, they wear detailed masks.

During the play, the actors use dance, mime and music to tell their stories. This style of expression is truly unique to Japanese culture and was recently added to the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Cherry Blossoms (Sakura)

Every spring, millions of cherry blossoms bloom on thousands of trees that line Tokyo’s rivers, streets and parks. The unspeakable beauty of the cherry blossoms is fleeting—they’re usually in bloom the last week of March and the first week of April. If you want to see them, plan your trip well in advance.

Tokyo is a magical, surprising place. It is home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world, yet it’s modern amenities and entertainment are entrapping. This city has so much to offer, far beyond what was covered on this list, and is a must-visit for any curious traveler.

Europe, Travel Blogging

5 Best Croatian Seaside Cities

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Croatia is a country that is among the top tourist destination with the main attraction being the rich cultural, history and wonderful beaches. One of the most unique features of this country is that it is home to many islands with the mainland and touring these islands give a person a lifetimeadventure. Majority of visitors to Croatia chose to tour the big cities however the beauty and culture rich places lies in small towns. The beaches in these towns are smartly marked with first-rate hospitality from local people and boat charter make the exploration to these places unforgettable and easy. The following are some of the best Croatian seaside cities.

1. Dubrovnik

This is one of the big city in Croatia and is characterized by rocky beaches and steep cliffs which make this town one of its kind. The city wall gives the locals a spectacular place to dive into the rocky water which is near the old town. There are several top class hotels that offer that chance for a person to enjoy the luxurious beach experience.

2.Brela

Brela is a municipality town with the best beaches and it is located northwest of Makarska and one of its beaches Punta Rata was named top ten beaches in the world in 2004. The landmark of this town which appears on a postcard as a unique feature of this place is the Brela stone covered beautiful pine tree. Another unique attraction of this town is Biokovo Nature Park locate about twenty minutes drive from Brela and offers a perfect day walk.

3. Omis

Omis is a small town located southeast of Split and it is well known for its rich traditional culture which is a key attraction to the visitors in this area. The town host many outdoor activities like rafting, Zipline and Kayaking. There are also two distinguishing monuments Fortica and Mirabella fortresses which give visitors a chance to view the town all around.

4. Hvar island

Hvar is located at the cost of Split and its beaches are lovely which are rocky and sandy with many people preferring rocky beaches. What makes the rocky beaches favourite to many people is due to their clear water and people walking there cannot have sand on their body. There are wonderful beach clubs which offers a brilliant chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful view of the area.

5. Primosten

Primosten is a small town with a small population and it is famous for rural tourism due to its beauty. The Dalmatian tradition is a key attraction with its music, music instrument and also the tradition of domestic animals in the area. This town attracts especially young people due to its night activity like parties and live concerts. The traditional Folklore concert which is held in the main town square is a significant Attraction in the area.

There is many more seaside town in Croatia with attractive beaches and many visitors all over the world visit these places for their holidays and vacation. Many people visit during the summer season and it is, therefore, advisable for a person planning to visit a different part of Croatia to make an early arrangement. The bottom line is Croatia is indeed among the best place to visit.

Australia

Discover 8 Secret Places in Sydney

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Sydney is, without a doubt, one of the best cities in the world – if not the best. With a vivid cityscape bustling with life, gourmet places, amazing architecture and a unique mixture of art and culture wherever you look, it is certainly a dream destination for many. However, there is so much more to Sydney than just the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. To experience a different side of this city that goes beyond the usual tourist attractions, you’ll have to do your research beforehand. To help you with that, here are eight secret places in Sydney you will love.

Paddington Reservoir Gardens

The Paddington Reservoir Gardens is certainly not what you’d expect in the middle of the busy streets. This park, that was once a water reservoir, is a calm and serene retreat that will make you forget you are in Sydney! It is a great location to take a breather or even have a picnic while taking pictures among the many plants and interesting structures that were restored and are now a unique mixture between the old and new. The place also has a lot of stories to tell!

Paddington Reservoir Gardens Sydney

Milk Beach

If you’d rather chill and sunbathe on a beach but you want to avoid the overcrowded surfers’ hotspots, check out Milk Beach, which is a lesser known, small Sydney beach that boasts a great view of the city. It can be a challenge to find it at first, which is exactly why it can still be called a hidden gem in the middle of the bustling city. It’s also great for afternoon picnics with your family if you want to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Wendy’s Secret Garden

Located in Lavender Bay, Wendy’s Secret Garden is just as magical as it sounds. It was originally just a piece of unused land at the foot of Wendy Whiteley’s and her husband’s, the late artist Brett Whiteley’s home, overgrown with shrubs and rubbish. Following the death of the renowned artist, Wendy started to clear out the land and construct a beautiful garden in its place. While no longer a “secret”, this place remains a hidden paradise, which is easily accessible if you find accommodation in serviced apartments in Lower North Shore.

Wendy’s Secret Garden Sydney

Collins Flat Beach

Another hidden little beach is Collins Flat Beach, located in the Sydney Harbour National Park. It’s a beautiful spot with little waterfalls and clear, calm water perfect for taking a refreshing dip. You can even embark on a short bushwalking adventure here – the track is easy enough for kids to enjoy as well, and the views are really worth it!

Bradley’s Head

If you’re up for a little more difficult hiking adventure in Mosman, only 20 minutes away from the CBD, check out Bradley’s Head and the amazing views from this spot over the harbor. Then, consider taking on a hike to Chowder Bay: this grade 3 track will walk you all the way along the coast, so you can marvel at the ocean while enjoying the cooling shadows of the trees.

Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Located on Palm Beach, this lighthouse is a scenic view in itself, but what you can see from up there will take your breath away! The walk can be a little tiring, so come prepared, but the 360-degree view is well worth it. Moreover, you can stop by at Palm Beach and enjoy a dinner at one of the many great restaurants or even go for a kayak tour in the area!

Auburn Botanic Gardens

Another magical garden that will make you feel like you are on a different continent is Auburn Botanic Gardens. It boasts a beautiful Japanese garden with Cherry Blossoms, a maze that can be fun for kids and adults alike, and even some native animals such as kangaroos and emus. In the spring, you can take some amazing photos here!

Shark Island

Shark Island is a little piece of land located one kilometer away from Rose Bay, accessible by taking a ferry. With beautiful beaches, it is a great spot for both watersports and relaxing in silence. The view is amazing, so you can spend hours exploring the foreshore or swimming in the calm water. It’s a good day-trip destination for those who want to get away from the city.

Sydney is amazing, yes, but sometimes you just want to slow down for a day or two and enjoy a different side of it – a calm, natural paradise that makes you forget about your daily responsibilities. This list is a good starting point for both tourist and locals who feel like they never got to explore some of the hidden gems of this huge, colorful city.

Destinations, Sport and Adventure

4 of the Best Yoga and Diving Retreats

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4 of the Best Yoga and Diving Retreats

While some people dream of going to a vacation that provides them with an adventurous and extreme getaway, others are more interested in a calming and health-beneficial destination. Speaking of such activities, both yoga and diving appear at the very top of the list. Not only are these two activities calm, relaxing and mind-opening but they also help you learn something about nature, the world and, at the end of the day, yourself. With that in mind and without further ado, here are four of the best yoga and diving retreats in the world.

Inspiring trip to St. Lucia

Probably the first place you need to visit on this voyage is the famous St. Lucia, place renowned for its beautiful beaches, Pigeon Island and some of the most incredible local art in the world. Apart from this visiting St. Lucia is a genuine body holiday due to its numerous and extraordinary fitness sessions throughout the day. As for the diving, one of the things that makes it so amazing in St. Lucia is the fact that the fish population is both high and varied. You even have a chance to encounter an octopus, cuttlefish or an eagle ray while snorkeling.

Serene and tranquil Lizard Island, Australia

diving

The amazing Lizard Island is located at the Great Barrier Reef, which means that you get a chance to dive in the vicinity of the largest living thing on the globe. Speaking about establishing the connection with the world around us, it really doesn’t get any better. So, get your diving equipment, book a holiday here and start exploring the serene and tranquil depths of Lizard Island. After the day of diving, there’s nothing more fulfilling than being able to relax your mind and body in a yoga session.

A spiritual journey to Thailand

Every world traveler knows that Thailand is a promised land for those who travel for spiritual reasons, as well as for those who are interested in lush wildlife and beautiful landscapes. In other words, this is a land that simply has it all. For those who want to learn how to dive, visiting Koh Tao should probably be a top priority. In fact, one of the unique things about diving here is that you can see a wreck of a U.S. Navy ship Sattakut which is also an interesting piece of history. Needless to say, this can make the prospect of diving here even more interesting. This place is also a home to a renowned yoga studio, which satisfies the other dimension of what we’ve just talked about.

Exploring your mindfulness in Bali, Indonesia

At the very end, it is no secret that Indonesia is a go-to destination for every serious diver out there. The best thing about diving in Indonesia is the fact that the place is so vast that it offers a wide array of different diving experiences. However, if you had to further localize your visit, going to Bali is definitely not a decision that you’ll ever come to regret. Here, you’ll find areas that are beginner-friendly, for those willing to start out, as well as places for more seasoned divers. As for the yoga, there are more than several places where you can find the spirit of yoga, particularly various yoga retreats.

In conclusion

Due to the popularity of both of these activities, it’s fairly easy to find a location that entails both of them. Still, the availability alone is not enough. No matter how fulfilling, you can’t dive and do yoga 24/7.

Australia

Top Destinations to Find Your Zen in Australia

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Do you feel like you’re out of balance and desperate for a change of scenery? All you need in order to relax and find your inner peace is to book a plane ticket and head down south. When we have Tibet, Nepal, India and all those tropical islands, not many people think of Australia as a place where they will Zen out and reach harmony. However, this country has so much to offer for everyone. So, if you’re interested in having a Zen vacation, here’s where to go in the Land of Oz.

Blue Mountains

Just a few hours from Sydney, the Blue Mountains start to grace the landscape and they are like nothing you’ve ever seen, especially in Australia. The Blue Mountains are a true natural oasis, speckled with waterfalls, amusing rock formations and scenic hiking paths. No matter if you’re having a day trip to the mountains or you opted for a longer stay, the stunning views from the Blue Mountains will clear your mind. Additionally, they will provide you with a perfect environment for practicing meditation, yoga or mindfulness. Also, don’t miss visiting Lincoln’s Rock and its little cave with the best views of the sunset in whole Australia! There’s no better way to end a beautiful day!

Melbourne

Those who want to mix relaxation with a bit of urban life should definitely go to Melbourne. People from Melbourne have a great appreciation for a healthy lifestyle, wellness and all things Zen. That’s why it’s not a surprise that it has a huge yoga and meditation community. Most retreats are located in the countryside, so you can always check out the reliable Avis Car Hire and use one of their vehicles to explore the surroundings. Take a more active approach to mindfulness and take a clean cooking class or join a power yoga session! Alternatively, going to a new age concert will help you achieve harmony, too.

Uluru

Uluru doesn’t need long introductions. This monolith in the middle of the Australian Outback is a holy place worshiped by the Aborigines and respected by all Australians. The Aborigines believe that their ancestors’ spirits live on Uluru, so they perform different ceremonies and rituals at the base of the rock. The whole place has an amazing energy and so much history that it’s truly a perfect place to practice your spirituality, pay respects to nature and the people who came before you and just surrender.

Ningaloo

West Australia is home to one of the most spectacular regions of Australia—Ningaloo. It has all that one seeking enlightenment might ask for! The stunning natural beauty of Cape Range National Park, a beautiful coastline and amazing sunsets will stay with you forever! And, if you’re inspired by wildlife, check the calendar for shark and dolphin migrations that are very eye-opening. Sure, there are great eco-retreats in Ningaloo, but there’s nothing like camping to achieve harmony with planet Earth and all its living beings. So, make sure to grab some quality camping and outdoor gear for your outing. Enjoy the wild sea, beautiful beaches, native flora and fauna and perfect peace that will definitely help center you. Do your morning meditation as the sun rises, finish your days overlooking the untamable ocean and just be present.

Byron Bay

If you prefer to seek for your Zen at the beach, then choose Byron Bay for your travel destination. Sure, it’s quite popular with tourists, but if you dig a bit deeper, you’ll find many hidden gems that offer perfect peace and amazing ocean views. However, if you still want to embark on a spiritual adventure, don’t hesitate to hike to Minyon Falls. Go for a nice, relaxing swim, and then climb up to Mt Warning for an unforgettable sunrise that will surely make you one with nature.

Australia will definitely help you relax, unwind, re-energize and focus. So, pick one of these destinations and enjoy your new-found Zen!

Europe, Food

5 Best Food You Should Try When Visiting Croatia

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A great way you can connect with the culture, essence, and flavor of Croatia is by tasting local dishes. Croatia is a country full of culinary delights hugely influenced by many different cultures including the Mediterranean and Central European traditions.
Croatian cuisine is geographically distinct, with each part of this country having a distinctive regional delicacy. In addition, there’s a big emphasis on preparing meals homestyle and on making use of fresh seasonal ingredients in restaurants all across the country.
On your Croatian culinary discovery, your palate will be met by spicy meat stews to light seafood fare, Croatia’s own pasta, as well as bizarre’ bites! For all the foodies out there, we’ve prepared a list of 5 meals you should try once you’re in Croatia. Be sure to pair the dishes with local wines for a complete dining experience.

1. Dalmatian Peka

Courtesy of www.total-croatia-news.com

Ispod peke’ is something you should try at least once when you visit Croatia. Peka is a word that actually refers to a specific way the ingredients are prepared. Popular in Dalmatia, Peka is an ancient traditional slow-cooking method that combines chicken, lamb, veal, or octopus and vegetables with a generous drizzle of olive oil. The dish is then left to cook over an open fireplace. Fresh herbs White wine and fresh herbs can be added for that extra flavor. The dish is left to simmer slowly in its own juices until the meat is tender. Cooking using this method knocks out Croatia’s most loved, divinely tender dish by the same name.
Most local taverns feature peka on their menu.

2. Ćevapi (or Ćevapčići)

Cevapi is a famous food in the region and certainly worth a try when you’re in Croatia. This small finger-shaped and tasty grilled skinless seasoned sausages are usually made with a combination of both beef, pork, and lamb, and served with chopped raw onions and spices, kajmak (a soft creamy cheese) and ajvar (a relish made from-peppers) on flatbread. The heritage of this dish is Middle-Eastern in origin.

3. Brudet

Courtesy of www.sailingeurope.com

Sometimes called “brodeto” or “brodet”, this dish is a rich fish stew from Croatian regions of Istria, Dalmatia, and Kvarner. This traditional fisherman’s stew is a perfect summer delicacy and hails from Italy’s Marche region.
Brodet is made all-year round and comes in various versions. It typically consists of at least 3 types of fish and tomato-based sauce enriched with garlic, onion and white wine. It’s usually served with polenta as a side dish which soaks-up the tasty fish broth.

4. Zagorski Štrukli

Courtesy of www.recepti.hr

This is a traditional delicacy popular in the regions of Zagreb and Hrvatsko Zagorje in northern Croatia. Its inspiration probably comes from the Turkish borek and Austrian strudel although this meal is now distinctly Croatian.
The Zagorje specialty is composed of a flat, thin pastry and various types of filling, like eggs, cheese, and sour cream. Štrukli resembles a kind of strudel which can be made either as a savory or sweet dish. Sugar is usually added when preparing the sweet version of the dish and it is then either baked in the oven or cooked.
A real true traditional Croatian meal and the capital’s signature bite, this humble cheese, and cream pastry is even proclaimed an intangible cultural icon by Croatia’s Ministry of Culture, all the more reason you should try it.

5. Black Risotto

Courtesy of www.chasingthedonkey.com

Known locally as crni rizot, this dish is a popular cuisine in coastal Croatia, particularly in Dalmatia. Black risotto is basically a rice dish prepared with squid, garlic, red wine, and olive oil and is quite similar in some ways to Italian risotto. This dish is special for the deep-black color it gets from squid ink, which gives the cuisine an intense seafood flavor. It can be prepared also with other types of seafood like octopus or cuttlefish or even shellfish like mussels and clams.
Bon appetit and be sure to explore more including the Croatia property market!

Australia

Visit the Most Exquisite National Parks of Australia

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Visit the Most Exquisite National Parks of Australia

Australia is sure famous for its bustling cities, historic spots, good wine and popular surfing paradises. What also should not be forgotten is what a vast natural wonder this entire continent is with unparalleled vistas that are bound to take your breath away. Australia offers some of the best natural escapade opportunities both beginners and experienced hikers can enjoy and take home memories that will make them want to come back for more. Given that it’s an incredibly huge area to cover, we singled out some of the most exquisite national parks of the continent so that you can decide more easily which route to take. Read on.

Whitsundays National Park

Located in Queensland and right by the Great Barrier Reef, this national park consisting of over 70 islands is a must-see if it is spectacular beaches that you want to see. Its most famous beach, the 7-km long Whitehaven Beach, is no less than an award-winning paradise with sparkly, turquoise water. Its beautiful, white sand (thanks to which this beach is regarded as one of the purest in the world!) is actually made from 98% pure silica, which makes it even more special. In Whitsundays National Park, you can go snorkeling, sailing, or you can just relax on one of the most magnificent beaches you have ever seen and enjoy the sun.

Freycinet National Park

Most people can agree that Freycinet National Park is one of Australia’s bests. With its dramatic coastline of charming coves and white sandy beaches, it sweeps anyone off their feet. Here you can take a look at the impressive Hazards mountain range that gives the scenery an impressive look with its pink granite cliffs. The mountains connect two of the most famous bays in the national park, Coles Bay and Wineglass Bay. Coles Bay offers numerous opportunities for various activities including fishing and kayaking, while Wineglass Bay, which got its name thanks to its unique shape, is deservedly among the top 10 beaches in the world, so make sure you don’t miss it. To get the best possible look at all the sceneries, choose one of the many guided Freycinet walks and snap some amazing photos! You can even opt for a pack-free walk if you’re not big on hiking with huge backpacks.

Daintree National Park

If you want to see a different side of Queensland than the one Whitsundays National Park shows, Daintree National Park has got you covered. It has the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, with its oldest part estimated to be 150 million years old, which makes it older than dinosaurs! Make sure you drop by the Daintree Discovery Centre that will allow you to explore this jungle’s raw beauty on all levels. This national park is a great place if you’re an animal lover too, as it has an enormous number of interesting species that inhabit the forest, some of which will make you say “What?” Visiting the tiny Daintree Village is another thing you simply must do when you are here.

Tasman National Park

Tasmania is truly an outstanding place that has escaped being spoiled like so many other natural havens on Earth, so it’s no wonder there is yet another national park on this list located on this island. The Tasman National Park, famous for its breathtaking rock formations, is often regarded as a “dramatic beauty” you will see nowhere else in the world. Just by taking a look at some of the pictures of the 300-meter high cliffs that adorn its coasts, you can feel its grand existence that is a unique experience to see in real life. Besides, there is vivid land and marine life in the area, so you might catch a glimpse of interesting bird species, seals, penguins, and even migrating whales. Again, if you want to make the most of it, booking a guided walk might be a good idea.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Last but not least, talking about Australia and not mentioning Uluru would be a sin. Visiting it will not only enrich you with a breathtaking view of this truly unique rock formation in the middle of the vast Australian desert, but it will also give you an authentic experience of the culture and long history of the indigenous people of the area. Visiting this landmark around sunrise or sunset will give you an unforgettable view of the red vastness, while visiting the cultural center will teach you about Anangu culture so that you can appreciate your journey even more deeply. There are many walks to choose from, so make sure you take a look at the rock from up close too!

Australia is teeming with untouched nature and opportunities to experience it all first-hand. Nothing will give you a better experience of this continent than exploring its origins, its age-old cliffs and ancient rainforests. So, choose your destination and pack your walking shoes!