Category Archives: Destinations

Asia, Cultural and Historical Heritage, Editor's Picks

6 Under-the-Radar Hidden Gems of Japan

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6 Under-the-Radar Hidden Gems of Japan

Most visitors to Japan, straight out go to cities like Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka, all of which are considered prime tourist hotspots. Locations like Himeji Castle, Tokyo Imperial Palace and, of course, Mount Fuji are usually at the very top of the list. However, why restrict yourself to these common tourist destinations when you can get so much more out of your tour. With that in mind and without further ado, here are top six under-the-radar hidden gems of Japan.

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji

History lovers are bound to visit Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, which is a smaller, lesser known relative of the Chinese Terracotta Army. Why? Well because the temple is surrounded with 1200 small Buddhist statues, each completely unique. One way to look at this is to call it the ancient garden gnome decoration plan taken to the extreme.

Umimirai Library

For any book nerd out there, a visit to the Umimirai Library in the city of Kanazawa should be a most definite must. This giant library is also an architectural wonder, which would, on its own, make it worthy of a visit. The very purpose of this place is to encourage you to stay and read in the library, instead of just borrowing a book to read back in your hotel room. In other words, this can customize your reading experience, making it much more unique.

Nozawa Onsen

Skiing and snowboarding fans have to acknowledge the fact that Japan is home to one of the oldest ski resorts, famous Nozawa Onsen. The hot springs beneath this place were discovered as early as 8th century. One of the most unique things about the place is the steam that can’t be contained by the thin surface layer, which makes it visible in all the streets, giving the place an even more mystical look to it. Some Japan snow packages offer everything from flight and accommodation in Nozawa to lift passes and guides, which makes them particularly appealing.

Zao Fox Village

If you ever wanted to have a pet fox, in Zao Fox Village you can come as close to this as possible without putting your life in danger. Here, you can get a privilege of mingling with (almost) domesticated Japanese red foxes, which you can even pet and feed. You can get appropriate snacks there, on spot for as little as $1.20. Keep in mind, however, that you still shouldn’t feed them by hand.

Kumano Kodo trail

For people who are interested in Shinto-Buddhism hybrid of Shugendo, Kumano Kodo trail is one of the first places they should visit. While this place is neglected since the Meiji Restoration, in the past it was one of the most important pilgrimage trails in the whole of Japan. The entire trip can be taken in a couple of days, and it is really an ultimate hiking experience.

Island of Yakushima

Those who want to see what Japan looked like before the civilization and urbanization reached its shores, should definitely visit the island of Yakushima. Its cedar forests amongst the most beautiful in the world and the western shore of the island is a home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls there are. All in all, it’s an incredible place definitely worth paying a visit to.

In conclusion

The main reason for writing this article in the first place was to remind everyone just how much fun can straying off course actually be. The best part comes from the cognition of how easy it would be to miss out on all of this and encourage you to customize tours you take in the future, as well.

Asia, Editor's Picks, Indonesia, Restaurant Reviews

The Great Taste at “Desa Wisata Bebek Mebaris” Ubud Bali

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Foodlovers, have you ever visited Ubud Bali, Indonesia? Not yet? Wow, where have you been? Just kidding! Bali is well known as the beautiful place and island. You can visit Bali anytime and you will never feel bored. Some people comments about Bali: where every day is a holiday. You can find anything from the top to toe. Bali is a lovable island that still keeps their tradition well and they want to show to the tourism that Bali is unique and culture very well. That is the reason why people in Bali always wear their traditional clothes and they still follow their religion and trust in their daily life activities. Once you visit Bali and you will never want to go away from this place. Besides the beautiful scenery, you can also find so many delicious foods.

What kind of food can you find there? Too many. “Ayam Betutu”, “Lawar Kuwir”, “Serombotan”, “Nasi Jinggo”, “Nasi Tepeng”, “Sate Lilit”, you name it. If you love to eat traditional food in Bali then you can visit Ubud. Ubud is well known as the tourism village that will show you the green and fresh air. You can find many traditional villas with nature atmosphere, no one that can stay away from this homey place. In Ubud Bali, you can also taste the delicious food such as duck and prawn. They have a good place named “Desa Wisata Bebek Mebaris” (nickname: “Dewi Bebaris”). You should visit that village and feel the taste of the best duck and the great prawn that ever been! Dewi Bebaris is the culinary spot in Ubud that really famous. Many tourists from around the world and place in Indonesia that come to Bali also visit that village just to eat.

What would you find over there? In Dewi Bebaris, you will find “Bale Udang”, “Bebek Raja” and other restaurants inside that you should not be missed. Besides that, you can also find the outdoor activities that you can enjoy together with your family or partners. If you want to update your Instagram by taking some pictures or just get your relax time, then you should go there. Too many instragramable spots that you should try. Including the duck show. You may not find the other duck show on other places in Bali or even at your hometown.

Missing the traditional feeling that full of rice field? Why don’t visit this tourism village? You can even try to feed the duck and have good interaction with them. The staff also gives the guests who come here with good hospitality as their service. If you come to Bale Udang you can try to eat Fried Flying Gourami Fish, Honey Grilled Prawn, and Fried Roll Fermented Cassava. All of those three foods are special. They give their special recipe so that the ingredients can absorb well to the inside. When you visit the Bebek Raja restaurant then you can eat Fried Crispy Duck and “Bebek Lalah Ubud“. Special menu from this restaurant is all about duck. They can cook the duck with good style and make the taste become so unique, delicious and melted on your mouth. All of the meals that they have are delicious. One is never enough to satisfy your hunger.

Fried Flying Gourami Fish
Honey Grilled Prawn

Full of meals? Then try to play some games for your refreshing childhood moment. Desa Wisata Bebek Mebaris also has traditional games originally from Indonesia. The place is located at “Kebun Pisang”. You can just ask their staff when you want to play it. They have “Enggrang”, “Bakiak” and others traditional games. You can try to play them outdoor and on the playground of Kebun Pisang.

Fried Roll Fermented Cassava

For their opening hours, you can come from 11 AM to 11 PM every day. For the big spaces then you can order first to their service so that they can prepare for the spot special for you. On Sunday they also have fun day theme. Enjoy the outdoor picnic on Kebun Pisang in between eating your meal or chit-chat with your beloved one. Don’t miss to try special package, Bebek Raja, that consist of three different menus such as Fried Duck package, Lalah Duck package and also Timbungan Duck package. Just grab every single promo that they have. If you love to stay out the door; then they also give live music performance. Enjoy the sounds of the fresh air on the green grass there.

Fried Crispy Duck
Bebek Lalah Ubud

Today, finding the green and natural place like on homey village become a rare thing but you can find all here. You don’t need to walk away to enjoy all the things you need. You can stay in the good village with choose of type. You can play on the playground with the fresh water. You can walk on the rice field and get the fresh air every single day. Your holiday will never enough at Ubud Bali. And of course, don’t forget to try their best snack for your tea time. Each of them is delicious and made with love. When you come here, do not just let anything disturb you. If you always feel busy with your job and do not have free time then you should come here for your relaxing moment. You can get back your energy. Remember that the holiday is not only about the mall and shopping only. You need to give good energy to your soul.

Desa Wisata Bebek Mebaris is such a great choice to enjoy Bali. After eating the choice of food there then you can travel around Ubud. Just make sure you bring your sweater because the weather is cold enough. You can enjoy driving the traditional boat and enjoying the natural river there. No one that can change the sophistication feeling with the money while staying there. Bali is everything that you need to visit. The best time to visit this place is in your free time. You may feel crowded at weekend but when you book first then there will always available free space for you to sit. Play the water and enjoy the relaxing moment with your beloved one will be so precious.

Location:

Desa Wisata Bebek Mebaris (Dewi Bebaris)

Jalan Raya Goa Gajah, Peliatan, Ubud, Peliatan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80582, Indonesia

Phone: +62 361 978754
Website: www.dewibebaris.com / www.baleudang.com
Asia, Travel Tips

Top Reasons Why Hong Kong is Among the Prettiest Cities in The World

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Top Reasons Why Hong Kong is Among the Prettiest Cities in The World

Are you looking for your next travel destination? This place should definitely be in your bucket list. Located in South East Asia, Hong Kong is a beautiful city that lies between the Mainland China and the South China Sea. According to statistics, this city is one of the most visited cities in the world. The city boasts of many tourist attractions that attract millions of local and international tourists each year. So, you might be curious as why this city is so much popular. Here are some of the top reasons why Hong Kong is definitely ranking among the prettiest cities in the world today.
hong kong

1. The skyscrapers tell it all.

It does not matter whether it is during the day or night, the view of Hong Kong’s skyscrapers is just epic. This city boasts of having around 1,302 skyscrapers. The tallest building in the city is the International Commerce Centre, which has at least 108 stories. The view of these skyscrapers is simply breath-taking and will be worth a few camera shots when you are in Hong Kong for vacation.

2.Theme parks.
This place is a favourite holiday destination for many because it has two theme parks, Disneyland and also an aquarium-zoo-theme-park. This makes the beautiful Asian city a favourite for many tourists. You will never run out of things to do when you visit these gorgeous theme parks. There is plenty of activities to do and things to do, not to forget getting the therapeutic Hong Kong massage.

3.The Victoria Harbour

Your stay in this city is not complete if you have not witnessed the breath-taking light show at Victoria Harbour that is complimented by the harmonious sounds of the world’s prettiest city. This takes place at 8 pm every day so you are likely not to miss it.

4.The Hiking Trails.

For all the lovers of hiking, Hong Kong has amazing hiking trails like the Dragon’s back and the Lion rock. This is a great way to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the busy Hong Kong city centre and the crowded streets. The scenic beauty of the mountains and the sea will just take you to another world of fantasy.

5. Almost everyone prefers public transport.

Hong Kong is one of those cities where most people prefer using public transport because it is very affordable and a very convenient way of getting around. The buses here are double-deckers and serve the dense population of Hong Kong very well.

In a nutshell, Hong Kong, being one of the most visited cities in the world is also among the prettiest cities in the world. The city of Hong Kong also has a very rich history and it also boasts of having a great combination of the West and Asian cultures. During your stay in this beautiful city, you will also experience using the star ferry when crossing the river that separates Hong Kong as an island from Kowloon. Make sure to make your stay memorable by capturing all the wonderful memories in Hong Kong.
Destinations, Editor's Picks, Europe

Würzburg has that winning combination

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Words: Len Rutledge  Images: Phensri Rutledge

Three Irish missionary monks visited Würzburg in A.D. 686 to Christianize the local ‘barbarians’. The inhospitable locals beheaded them. Fortunately, we find the citizens are much friendlier today, and we also discover there are many things to do, great places to see, and excellent wine and food to enjoy.

Würzburg, at the northern end of Germany’s Romantic Road, has much history, culture, rich cuisine, religious landmarks, and idyllic scenery. It is a great place to visit and the bonus is you can walk between most sites.

Residenz

We start our sightseeing at the majestic UNESCO World Heritage listed 400-room Residenz, one of the most important Baroque palaces in Europe. Unlike many other huge buildings, it was built in a short period of time and was completed in 1780. The building includes a much-acclaimed staircase and awe-inspiring frescos.

We are told that Napoleon Bonaparte slept here for one night in 1812 en route to his unsuccessful invasion of Russia. It is a place we must see. We visit by a self-guided walking tour but there is also a guided tour which allows access to some of the rooms you can’t visit by yourself.

Don’t miss the on-site church. After the walls were completed, a group of court artists created what is one of the most decorative churches you will ever see.

The palace grounds are considered some of the most impressive Rococo gardens in Germany. There is an artificial lake including fountains and some beautifully carved sculptures. There’s a wonderful symmetry that can be appreciated from the higher ground.

Old Town

It is not far from here to the Old Town. Our first stop is at the scenic Market Square, where a daily bustling food and flower market is in full swing. Overlooking the square stands St Mary’s Chapel (Marienkapelle) with its spire 70 metres into the sky. The striking red-and-white facade of the Gothic church is considered the most important building from that era in the city.

Most of Würzburg’s old city is a pedestrian zone so it’s a great place to walk. When you have done enough of that, pull up a chair at a sidewalk café for some people and tram watching.

The construction of Würzburg Cathedral with its twin towers began in 1040 and went on for nearly 200 years. Today, it is the fourth largest Romanesque church in Germany. It is one of the city’s most important landmarks and can be seen from almost everywhere. The interior is fresh after a renovation and is well worth a visit.

The old Würzburg Town Hall sits on Domstrasse between the old bridge and the cathedral. It is a complex of buildings of different periods. The tower dates from the early 1200s and another part of the building is the only surviving secular building in Würzburg that was built in the Romanesque style.

Marienberg Fortress

The old Main Bridge from 1120 spans the river of the same name and is considered the oldest stone bridge in Germany. It connects the old town with the nearby Marienberg Fortress. In 1730, the bridge was further decorated with twelve statues of saints and emperors.

The Fortress, towering over the city and surrounded by vineyards, was began in 704 AD. It was originally a church then the building was expanded in the Renaissance and Baroque periods with the addition of fortifications. For nearly five centuries it served as a home to the local prince-bishops.

Today, the Marienberg Fortress houses the Franconian Museum. You can visit the museum and see the rooms with their period furniture, tapestries and paintings but most people come for the views. Würzburg is surrounded by vineyards cascading down the slopes on both sides of the river and it’s easy to see why this is a good wine producing area. Perched on top of a nearby hill sits the Kappele Church with its onion-domed towers.

Sleeping, eating, and drinking

Don’t miss the opportunity of having a hearty Franconian meal and tasting some of the local wines. A good place to indulge in German regional specialties is The Bürgerspital wine estate restaurant. You can also take a tour through the estate’s famous wine cellar. The best city restaurant is probably the one-Michelin-starred KUNO 1408. It has created its own particular variation on the Franconian theme.

Germany appears to have no restrictions against drinking in public, so apart from drinking in bars you can buy your own bottle of wine or beer and sit on the old bridge enjoying the view.

Würzburg is a great stop either before or after your Romantic Road tour because it has many hotels, inns and B&Bs, including a number of excellent hotels in the Old Town.

www.LenRutledge.com

Festivals, North America, Sport and Adventure, Travel Tips

Experience the American Culture: 7 All-Time Classics

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If you’ve decided to spend your vacation in America, you’re in for a treat. A myriad of exhilarating activities and mesmerizing sights will leave you breathless for sure, but only if you know what experiences to look for. In the sea of fabulous destinations and activities, you’ll have to choose only a few on your short travel through the USA, and here are the top seven experiences that’ll help you immerse into American culture completely.

Gathering of Nations

Every April, Albuquerque becomes the center of events for many indigenous tribes from across North America. This is the time when the Gathering of Nations is held to offer Americans a weekend of dancing and celebration. The Pit arena floor becomes a temporary home for hundreds of dancers, where numerous dance competitions and demonstrations, as well as food and music, make one weekend in April special. If you’ve thought about having a unique American experience, feel free to visit precisely at that time of the year and attend the largest gathering of tribes in the world.

Native American, dance
Photo credit Pixabay

Drink whiskey

Want to know more about whiskey? Well, there’s no place in America better than the home of Jack Daniel’s liquor to do it. Take a nice little walk down Tennessee and listen to stories about Jack himself. Use a unique opportunity to visit the distillery and taste the fine whiskey, or if you don’t drink, just enjoy a “dry tour” and relish in the thrilling history.

Cooking class

Louisiana is the place to be if you want to improve your cooking skills. Move forward from the good old chicken stir-fry, and spend four days in Lafayette on a “culinary tour” at the Louisiana School of Cooking. If you’ve been a true master chef of various barbecue specialties before, now you’ll learn how to prepare a jambalaya and a seafood gumbo, and have a unique culinary experience.

barbecue, BBQ, fire
Photo credit Pexels

Be a cowboy for a day

Can you even say you’ve been to America if you haven’t visited a ranch? We don’t think so; which is why you should definitely think about going to a cow ranch in Idaho and meeting an authentic cowboy. Not only will you get to hang out with him, but you’ll also be introduced to all the peculiarities of this riveting job. Learn to ride, herd livestock, shoe horses and all the other interesting stuff known to cowboys until today.

Enjoy the Colorado Springs

If you’re a spa lover, Colorado Springs is the destination you can’t miss. However, you’ll have to be prepared for an 8.5-mile hike before you can lay eyes on this natural wonder because natural heated pools are located some 11,200 feet above sea level. So, if you want to mix a little bit of adventure with a lot of indulging, later on, head to the Maroon Bells–Snowmass Wilderness area and soak in the steamy water while admiring the fascinating views of the spectacular Colorado mountain landscape.

Colorado Springs, mountain peak
Photo credit Pixabay

Watch a basketball game

Americans are probably one of the nations who worship sports the most. That’s precisely why attending a game anywhere in America must be a one-of-a-kind experience you should not miss out on. If you end up in Indianapolis by any chance, make sure you watch a basketball game in Hinkle Fieldhouse.  The building has also been placed on the National Registry of Historic Places, which makes it an even more unique site for you to visit and watch a game at.

Seaside boardwalks

The first boardwalk was built in Atlantic City in 1870 as one of the ways to prevent sand from filling shorefront hotel entryways. While Atlantic City remains the oldest city to own a boardwalk, you can easily find more than 60 others all over America’s coasts. One of the most interesting boardwalks to visit is definitely the Venice Boardwalk in California with its bodybuilders, artists, trinket sellers, magicians and boutique shops. If you choose the East coast, Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York is a boardwalk worth visiting, because you can take a ride on a roller coaster, have fun with carnival attractions, and try Nathan’s Famous hot dogs.

Final thoughts

America is probably one of the most thrilling countries to visit since every part of it is so diverse. If you ever decide to spend your holiday in the United States, make sure you try at least some of the aforementioned seven experiences so you can get to know the mentality and culture of Americans at least to a certain extent.

Hotels and Resorts, North America

Georgia Cabin Rentals Serve as A Getaway   

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Georgia cabin rentals offer a nice way of getting away from city life. Renting a cabin is better for families who can enjoy all the home amenities and take back long-lasting memories. The North Georgia Mountains are located at an elevation so all the air is fresh and the waters are clean. You can see travelers enjoying the various attractions throughout the year. Summer and autumn are relatively busier as more people come out to enjoy the water sports. The whitewater rafting is very popular and if you like snowfall renting a cabin in the winters will be a very good idea.

Georgia cabin rentals can be used in many ways. You can take the family out for a yearly vacation or go out with friends to enjoy Mother Nature. It will do your lungs very good when you breathe in the fresh mountain air and walk in the forest woods which are very relaxing for your senses.

North Georgia is very famous for its vineyards and farms. To attract more tourists some farms, like to offer a very unique experience. You can find all types of animals at the petting zoos.  You can also experience the old tradition and culture of the Appalachian Mountains while they are there.

Those who like wine will be spending a lot of time tasting it at the vineyards. Each lends awesome views of the area and you will love sipping fine quality wine in a very relaxing setting. Cartecay Vineyards and Engelheim Vineyards are a must-visit for wine lovers. Cartecay Vineyards is located in Ellijay which is very close to Blue Ridge. These two small towns get a lot of touristic traffic and are well known for their hospitality. You can enjoy a concert at Cartecay Vineyards so plan to go there after checking their events calendar. When you plan your trip wisely you can get more out of it. They have a tasting room in the historic barn where you can sample a large variety of wines.

Engelheim Vineyards is a family-owned business. They harvest vintage wines. You can taste their wines in their stylish tasting room and take a tour of the facility while you are there. This way you can learn how they make their wines. Enjoy the peace and the dramatic views with Petite Manseng that won a 2018 gold medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Festival or the 2015 Humming that won a silver medal. They also teach their guests how to pair wines with food and if you do not know how you can learn something new on your trip. You can also plan to attend the art events or the music events which are quite enjoyable. If you are looking for a unique dining experience why not book for a dinner in the vineyard.

Besides wine tasting, you will enjoy whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River. This is where the 1996 Olympic Games rafting competitions took place. Within 15 minutes of Blue Ridge, you can find Chattahoochee River and the Toccoa River that are popular for fishing. Anglers head to Toccoa River for rainbow trout and brown trout fishing. If you like to catch black bass, bream, catfish, and walleye go over to the Lake Blue Ridge.

Georgia cabin rentals are available near the rivers and lakes so you can enjoy water sports. Book a cabin ahead of time and just bring your clothes. All other home comforts are available for guests.

Author Bio

I am Kevin Young who loves to write and loves to travel. My extensive travels are well documented and I make a point to regularly write about them on various blogs.

www.slidingrockcabins.com

Africa, Destinations, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

11 Tips for Your First SOLO Adventure in Stanford

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As a traveller, you like to travel to places that are quite happening and have much to offer in terms of adventure, food, activities, ancient building and other things. You enjoy your trip more when you are with family or friends. However, have you ever travelled alone? Travelling alone gives you the freedom to explore new places, meet new people, try new things and most importantly try places that are not on regular travellers’ itinerary.

One such place to visit is Stanford. A small village beyond Hermanus in South Africa is a great place to visit not just as a solo traveller but even with friends and family. The thing that makes Stanford the ideal place for solo adventure is its picturesque setting. Driving 23 kilometers from Hermanus viewing scenic beauty along the way, you will find the village of Stanford along the river Klein.

Abundance of activities, adventure, and serenity!! You can find them all in Stanford. However, if you are traveling solo, you might be a little skeptical about your trip.

Here we have some tips for you when traveling solo to Stanford:

1. Travel with an open mind: When you are traveling solo, the first thing that you have to do is to have an open mind. You are going to a new country, will meet new people, see cultural differences and will have to eat different food. So, keeping an open mind when traveling solo will always help. Stanford is a friendly place where you will find villagers gathering to have friendly chats over coffee. You can be at ease when you are traveling with an open mind.

2. Find a comfortable accommodation: finding a comfortable accommodation in Stanford is not difficult as it offers several options to you as a solo traveler. It depends on your requirements and your budget and Stanford offers them all. You can choose accommodation from bed & breakfast, bed only, camping, guest houses, self-catering, hotels, and lodges. You can also look for families that welcome paying guests.

3. Eat locally: Stanford has some amazing places that offer scrumptious meals prepared by the locals. What is more exciting is that you will find the chefs preparing meals using locally produced, seasonal and environmentally friendly ingredients. You can find a range of food destinations in Stanford including gourmet delights, fine dining, country cuisine and pup grub. Going solo here will help you understand the food habits and culture of the locals. Graze Slow Food Café, Yum Eat Café, Don Gelato Ice Cream Parlor; Coffee Shop & Trattoria are some places that you can visit.

Credit: www.tripadvisor.com

4. Be friendly with the locals: Stanford might be a small village but it has people with big hearts. They are friendly, warm and welcoming. They gather around the village square and frequently stop to have a friendly chat over coffee and freshly baked cake from the nearby eateries. Mixing with the locals will help you get away with your solo travel blues if any.

5. Visit the vineyards: Stanford is also home to some amazing vineyard estates. As a solo traveler, you can taste the local vines straight from the vineyards. This will give you a chance to understand how vine is prepared and meet the locals as well. Sir Robert Stanford Estate, Springfontein Wine Estate, Welgesind and Birkenhead Brewery & Walker Bay Winery are some of the more popular of the wine estates to visit.

Credit: www.pinterest.com

6. Adventure and activities: When you are traveling solo, you have all the time to try something new. If you haven’t had some adventure in the past time, here is your chance to do at Stanford. You can choose from various activities like horse riding, bird watching, boat cruises, Great White Shark cage diving, hiking and picnicking to get the taste of real adventure.

7. Explore the surrounding areas: Stanford and its surrounding areas offer much in terms of activities and relaxation. As a solo traveler, if you are looking to be yourself and need a place to retreat, you can check into one of the resorts or estates that are some distance from Stanford. Phillipskop Mountain Reserve, Mosaic Lagoon Lodge and Fynbos Retreat Self Catering are some places that can give you a tranquil getaway from the usual hustle bustle.

Credit: www.xplorio.com

8. Visit the cheese farmstead: A visit to the local cheese farmstead must be in your itinerary to complete your solo adventure to Stanford. Klein River Cheese Farmstead is a great place to visit to try the freshly prepared cheese platter. You will get a taste of the local cheese and a peek into the ingredients that make it so delicious.

Credit: www.culturecheesemag.com

9. Keep your camera ready: You never know when you might get a great shot. With a picturesque background, mountains and River Klein flowing nearby, Stanford can be a photographer’s delight. You can take hundreds of photos to remind you of the beautiful time that you spent with the amazing people of Stanford.

10. Record and journal everything: As a solo traveller, you must keep a journal to record what all you have seen. Stanford being a quite as well as adventurous destination provides a lot to write. Keeping a journal will help you relive the memories of Stanford, a few years down the line.

11. Learn the local lingo: If you want to have the best of time when travelling solo to Stanford, you can learn the local lingo. Although learning the local language in a short span of time is difficult, you can learn the basic phrases that will help you get along with the locals. This will also help you in understanding their way of life and their culture.

Africa, Asia, Australia, Destinations, Europe, North America, South America, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

Most Beautiful Cities From Each Continent

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While philosophers may debate whether beauty is objective or relative one thing they all agree on is that there are cities in the world which through sheer elegance help us transcend our ordinary existence and lift up our spirits to an almost divine plane of existence. These six cities are the best representation of this ideal.
6. Casablanca in Morocco, Africa
Few cities in the world can possibly hope to match the radiant beauty and overwhelming sense of history found in the city of Casablanca. As the main economic and cultural center of the North African Kingdom of Morocco, this cultural icon stands as a testament to the sheer will and resolve of a people to protect the sanctity of their heritage and sense of being. Casablanca first shot to global fame in 1942 when a movie with the same name was released with Humphrey Bogart as the main star of the film. Since then tourist have flocked to the North African city to be filled with a sense of awe as they experience the magical feeling of traveling through history as you walk among architectural marvels like the Hassan II Mosque and the Notre Dame Lourdes cathedral. Spanish and Portuguese influence can be felt throughout the city due to cultural exchange resulting from conquest and trade.
5. Gold Coast in Australia, Oceania
For anyone who loves the beach then Gold Coast feels like paradise on earth with elegant white sands and deep blue oceans. Surfers have the time of their lives riding monster waves and afterward relax watching a beautiful sunset while sipping margaritas. A whole host elegant restaurants adorn the city, several open cafes and pubs can make the place a delight for locals and tourist. Photographers often spend their time at the Currumbin wildlife sanctuary where there are cute koala bears, parrots, and exotic owls.
4. Venice in Italy, Europe
Try as it may modern architecture still struggles to match the beauty of classical architectural design and no city on earth embodies the beauty and values of classicism better than the Renaissance marvel of Venice. Venice is constructed on an archipelago of more than 100 islands through which the iconic canals of Venice pass through. Notable sites include Doge`s Palace, Rialto Bridge and the Hall of The Great Council.
3. Quebec in Canada, North America
Quebec which means where the river narrows is the second largest city in Canada featuring some of the oldest streets and buildings in North America. The Parc de La Chute-Montmorency offers one of the most scenic waterfalls in the world surrounded by the most breathtaking natural environment imaginable. Local artisans make handcrafted ornaments and commodities that come from the ancient wisdom passed on through the generations that have lived in the area for centuries. The Sainte Anne de Beaupre shrine is a divine center where pilgrims came to worship and remain as an iconic testament of the devout faith of the locals.
2. Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, South America
Perhaps one of the most iconic sites in the world is the statue of Christ the Redeemer atop a hill overlooking Rio De Janeiro. The Santa Teresa neighborhood is an elegant display of a cultural fusion between 19th century Portuguese and local architecture. Sugarloaf mountain stands at 1300ft above the harbor and is globally respected for the panoramic experience it presents to tourists who wish to see the city in all its spender. Whether its the elegant streets during carnivore celebration or white sandy beaches there can be no doubt that Rio is an iconic fit of human accomplishment.
1. Hong Kong in Asia.
The iconic Hong Kong skyline has been the source of inspiration for many photographers and filmmakers. During the night the light from the forest of skyscrapers can seem to light up the waters of Victoria Harbor and it should be no surprise that there are more skyscrapers in Hong Kong per sq ft, than anywhere else in the world. The chic modern skyscrapers put up during British occupation should not deceive you into thinking that Hong Kong doesn’t have a history. The walled village contains the spirit of the days past and embodied in the architecture of the place. The Ocean Park theme park is known as a local version of Disneyland possessing cultural symbols more relevant to the local people. So whether tourists want to enjoy a walk down history, have some fun in a theme park or even relax at one of the famous Hong Kong massage parlors, one thing to be certain of is that this place will not disappoint.
Australia

Off the Beaten Path: Australia’s Best-Kept Secret Destinations

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After you’ve seen the “headliners” of the Land Down Under, it is hard not to feel overwhelmed. Only after you finish the long rite of passage of seeing all the most iconic location Australia has to offer do you face the absolutely gargantuan land that brims with countless choices. It is nigh-impossible to run out of places to visit here, and nearly every nook and cranny has something intriguing to offer. This is when the true adventurist starts going off the beaten path, intent on uncovering Australia’s best-kept secret destinations.

Wave Rock

Uluru is by far the most famous rock formation in this part of the world, but it is not the only captivating one. In fact, it is not the Land Down Under’s only such supersized rock. If you want to gawk at the incredible geological formation, go and visit Wave Rock near Hyden. Even though it is more obscure than Uluru, it is not that hard to reach – it is only an hour drive away from Perth. Wave Rock looks exactly as its name suggests. It is a 15-meter-tall formation that looks like a petrified tsunami that stretches for 110 meters across the countryside. This outcrop of granite is a very unique geological phenomenon that needs to be seen in order to be believed.

Lake Bumbunga

Do you want to see a landscape that is truly out of this world? Lake Bumbunga is renowned for the absolutely fantastical pink hue of its waters. This salty lake is actually a completely natural phenomenon that can be found about two hours away from Adelaide via car. In fact, the lake has served as a legitimate salt extraction source, an activity that commenced as far back as 1881. Due to the rainwater influx, it has managed to survive as a truly incredible slice of natural wonder and it’s probably one of the most amazing places for a photo session you’ll ever find in your lifetime.

Camp at Glenworth Valley

If you are in the mood for a casual escapade among the bucolic landscapes of New South Wales, visit the beloved Glenworth Valley. Located about 65 kilometers away from Sydney, you can find this region fairly quickly. Best way to get there is to fly directly to Sydney and take a car as Central Coast is less than two hours away. Consult a reliable mobile mechanic from Sydney to check the integrity of the vehicle because the terrain can get a bit challenging once you get off the beaten path.

Still, you’ll get a chance to enjoy a camping weekend away from the cacophonous sounds of the city. The riverfront is truly tranquil and it can easily be mistaken for an area hidden away somewhere in central France. It only goes to show how diverse and truly remarkable the Australian continent is, as it offers a patchwork of varied biomes and climate conditions.

Porcupine Gorge

Australia’s little Grand Canyon is located deep within the Queensland Outback and it goes by the name of Porcupine Gorge. If you want a desert-laden adventure off the beaten path, head to this destination that is 64 kilometers away from the last remnant of civilization – the town of Hughenden. If you own a campervan and/or proper camping equipment, it is absolutely worth the trip. It can offer you an adventure “away from the world” just like Glenworth Valley, but this is a background for those who enjoy timeless desert landscapes. Take a dip in the ancient river at the bottom of the gorge that has been carving its path through this territory for eons.

Umpherston Sinkhole

Do you want to feel like Alice in Wonderland? Umpherston Sinkhole is a truly enchanting side-show for those of you who have dared venture on a road trip along the Great Ocean Road. A long time ago, it was a cave that formed from the dissolving limestone and once the roof of the cave collapsed, this impressively big sinkhole formed. However, the interesting part comes in later – as the floor turned out to offer opportune soil condition for the development of plant life, you can now visit the most beautiful, magical garden that is arranged on its floor and which was originally “sculpted” by James Umpherston back in the 1860s. The garden is still diligently kept today and it looks like a remarkable slice of Lewis Carroll’s world.

 

Even after you’ve visited some of the more obscure Australian destinations, you still haven’t even scratched the surface of what this continent has to offer. This is why traveling across the Land Down Under is such an exciting prospect. It is not only about picturesque locations and bustling cities. Most of the destinations you choose will also have an immensely colorful history behind it, as well as a plethora of activities to offer for the always thirsty adventurists. Australia is a playground for the ultimate escapade – a vast land that will easily engulf you with its captivating charms and make you yearn for a quick return whenever it is possible.

Australia, Travel Tips

More Than Sydney: 5 Reasons to Visit New South Wales

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Nobody will blame you if the very mention of New South Wales conjures up the images of Sydney’s captivating cityscape. It’s easy to be enraptured by this bustling metropolis and a global hub that represents all the promise of Western civilization. However, this is also truly unfair to the rest of the country that has its fair share of wonders. If you are interested to see more than Sydney, here are 5 reasons to visit New South Wales.

Road trips are a delight

If you are excited about road trips as a vacationing format, then you’ll fall in love with New South Wales if you decide to hit the road trip from Sydney to Canberra, the capital of the entire continent. It is practically a short drive – only three hours – but it will give you a good idea of what this corner of the Land Down Under has to offer when it comes to natural beauties.

If you were to pick a particular route, go down the Illawarra Highway so you’ll get a chance to cut through the Southern Highlands. The idyllic suburban townscapes (Bowral is a special highlight) and the staggeringly diverse flora that surrounds them will surely alter your opinion of Australian landscapes forever.

road sign
Photo credit Pixabay

Canberra is incredible

The capital of Australia technically belongs to the Australian Capital Territory, but this federal district is a small patch of land surrounded with New South Wales. It is more of an administrative matter than anything else. The reason you have to visit this city while you are darting about New South Wales is not only because it is a capital of Australia but also due to its unique layout. The city on Lake Burley Griffin is conceived from ground up as an expansive architectural marvel that echoes the spectacular appearances of monumental cities from the age of antiquity. This modern rendering of a perfect city will leave you gasping with wonder.

The beaches are captivating

The coastline of New South Wales is known for its impeccable preserved beauties and spectacular sights. Due to the high quality of air, mild climate and a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors, it has become the focal region for establishment and proliferation of numerous luxury retirement resorts. Most of such resorts are situated near the beachfront that is practically a treasure trove of idyllic surprises and concealed tropical lagoons.

Of course, some of the most renowned beaches of New South Wales are in Sydney, but as you travel across the countryside, give the other ones a chance. Hyams Beach is the station for aquatic activities such as snorkeling and Byron Bay is a wonderful hub of an impressive array of activities for all generations. It is a hippy commune of outdoor festivals, a spa center, and a beachside escapade.

beach, Australia, sunset
Photo credit Pixabay

The Blue Mountains are wondrous

After you’ve visited a few towns and beaches, your road-tripping activities around New South Wales are far from over. If you are a fan of mountain slopes and hiking, head to the Blue Mountains the first chance you get. As soon as its endless ranges enter your view, you’ll realize how this region earned its name – the blue haze of eucalyptus trees devours the horizon that stretches on into forever.

This is indeed a World Heritage Area that serves as a cobweb of forking paths into some truly amazing national parks. Make sure you bring all the necessary hiking equipment to explore this wilderness. If you are within your financial means to rent truly rustic yet luxurious accommodation (the type has become really popular in the region), you can spend as much time as you want to explore the greenery of New South Wales.

Blue Mountains, Australia, Three Sisters
Photo credit Pixabay

Vineyards are decadent

Australia is renowned around the world for its high-quality wines (as well as its rivalry in this field with New Zealand). New South Wales is an especially potent region for the cultivation of grapes due to the decidedly Mediterranean “demeanor” of the climate. If you are an avid connoisseur of decadent wines and delicious gourmet food, New South Wales will not disappoint. Visit the famous Hunter Valley for an exciting tour of wine cellars that will only leave you thirsty for more!

New South Wales is a staggeringly diverse region of spectacular coastlines, bucolic valleys and epic mountain ranges. Sydney is arguably the crown jewel of this proud state, but its other “ornaments” are well worth your attention. If you get a chance to explore its countless regions, you are bound to be surprised and delighted around every corner. Travelling across New South Wales is an experience you’ll hardly forget till the end of your days.