Category Archives: Entertainment

Asia, Cultural and Historical Heritage, Travel Tips

The Colours of Chiang Rai – Black, White and Blue

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The colours of Chiang Rai – Black, white and blue

Words: Len Rutledge  Images: Phensri Rutledge

Until recently, when you mentioned Northern Thailand most people thought of Chiang Mai. But now another place is also drawing attention. Chiang Rai, Thailand’s most northerly city, is firmly on the tourism route and for very good reasons.

Our recent visit showed that Chiang Rai City has an abundance of tourism attractions, headlined by three amazing architectural marvels. These can be summarised as the black, white and blue. The surrounding province contains some of Thailand’s most dramatic mountain scenery so a week in this area is not really enough.

The Black

The Baandam Museum (Black House) will astound you. Renowned Thai artist Thawan Duchanee spent more than fifty years building this somewhat controversial museum of folk art. It isn’t just one structure but a collection of around 40 buildings of varying shapes and sizes dotted around a peaceful garden. Each one is different and most are worth visiting.

Chiang Rai

Thawan was an incredibly talented recluse who lived in one of the houses on the site until his death in 2014. Now the whole complex has been taken over by the government. Black, gold and red were the three signature colours of the master painter. These striking contrasts permeate the collection of houses, sculptures, animal skins, bones and relics.

Located about 12 km north of Chiang Rai City, you will need at least 1 hour to look around. This is a very popular spot, so if you want to beat the crowds its best to go either early morning or an hour before the museum closes. Try the mini-pineapples while you are there and you will agree that they are the sweetest in the world.

The White

Wat Rong Khun or the White Temple was designed by national artist and native of Chiang Rai, Chalermchai Kositpipat. The entire complex is an enthralling fusion of religious sanctuary, museum and art gallery. It has evolved into the top attraction for first-time visitors to Chiang Rai and the complex is packed in the mornings with tourists who commute from Chiang Mai for the day.

It’s not really just a temple, despite the monks; it’s more of a wildly expensive and expansive art exhibition. Visitors are surprised to find curiously irreverent imagery on the exterior — as well as Hello Kitty, Michael Jackson and Spiderman on the inside. Some find this imagery kitschy and its sacrilege to others.

Chiang Rai

The emergence of the Predator from the ground is interesting and many hands reaching up as you traverse through the lifecycle of life, death and rebirth is a strange experience. But none of this should distract from what is probably the most artistic of Thailand’s temples.

Work on the temple will probably never really be finished, with present projects scheduled for many years but this on-going work does not distract a visitor. There is an art gallery, shop and café amongst the other structures in the compound.

The best time to visit is near dawn or dusk to miss the tour groups. The temple is 12 km south of Chiang Rai City. Foreigners are charged Baht 100 (about US$4) to enter.

The Blue

Wat Rong Suea Ten, commonly known as the ‘Blue Temple’, opened in 2016. An artist who studied under white temple artist, Chalermchai Kositpipat, completed the exterior and interior designs.

Chiang Rai

What’s instantly attractive about the Blue Temple is just how vibrant the colours are. The deep blue building decorated with golden detail is simply stunning to look at. Unlike the White Temple, you’re allowed to take photos inside the Blue Temple. You won’t find any pop-culture references inside this one as the interior has a more classic design. At the centre of the room sits a white Buddha lit up with bright blue lights.

The temple has quickly caught the imagination of visitors who flock to its courtyard to take photos and worship. Entrance is free. A popular activity is to buy and eat the blue ice cream available from a vendor on-site.

The tall

Wat Huay Pla Kung which is a new entry on Chiang Rai’s growing list of unusual temples combines gold and white. There is a giant white statue of the Bodhisattva Guan (Goddess of Mercy) within which you ride to the top in an elevator, a white temple decorated with Lanna-Chinese art, and a 9-storied gold pagoda.

Chiang Rai

The monk here has supposed healing powers and the mainly Thai Chinese who come to the temple to be healed have donated large amounts of money to build the Chinese statue. It is a giant landmark which dominates the local area.

Getting to Chiang Rai

There are many daily flights from Bangkok on several airlines which take about an hour and 15 minutes. If coming from Chiang Mai, the road trip takes about three and a half hours. The city has a wide variety of accommodation suitable for all tastes and budgets.

Len Rutledge is the author of Experience Thailand 2020 available as an e-book or paperback from amazon.com

https://www.LenRutledge.com

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

Sport and Adventure, Travel Planning

7 Car Safety Measures to Take Before Your Dream Roadtrip with Friends

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A road trip is an opportunity to leave your worries behind. Ditch your responsibilities for the weekend to hang out with your friends. You have a chance to bond with friends, enjoy vivid sights, and explore the open road. There’s something special about a road trip with the ones you love.

However, the perfect road trip takes planning and preparation. It doesn’t matter if your trip is for a few hours or cross-country; safety comes first. Preparation should also be inclusive of your guests.

The following guide will give you the top 7 safety tips to help you enjoy a dream road trip with your friends.

  1. Visit The Mechanic

If you’re driving your personal vehicle on your road trip, visiting the mechanic is important. You want to have a safe vehicle that will get you on the road and back. Your car has several operating components, and a mechanic can tell you in advance if your car is ready for a safe road trip. Few of the major points include checking the car mileage, comfort of the family members, proper boot space for the things to carry, and tyre inspection for its proper alignment and intensity to bear the rough roads. If not, ask the mechanic to suggest a place from where you can buy the new tyres. Or else you can also consider buying the tyres online after a brief research on type, prices and availability. A mechanic is also necessary for car or RV rentals.

What To Expect From The Mechanic

– a tune-up (i.e. oil change, air filter)

– top off all your fluids

– inspect your brakes

– windshield wipers

  1. Know Your Road Trip Guests

Travelling with your friends can be a lot of fun, but it can also have moments when it can get stressful. For example, each of you will have different personalities, and being together constantly can bring out annoying habits, you didn’t know your friends had. Travel experts agree that no matter the circumstances, a road trip can bring you and your friends closer together. Choose your road companions wisely. Let your friends give up ideas for a good road trip while you’re still in the planning stages. Choose a destination that will please everyone.

  1. First-Aid Kit

Your travellers first-aid kit will be an essential part of your road trip. Unfortunately, accidents do happen while you’re out travelling. A reliable road-trip should have all of the things you need to handle minor injuries or the essentials to apply first-aid until you can get your friend to the hospital for serious injuries.

What To Include In Your Roadtrip First-Aid Kit

– first-aid book (latest version)

– gauze

– adhesive tape

– antiseptic

– bandages

– repellent

– antihistamine cream

– important extras for your friends

  1. Emergency Funds

You should always create a budget for your road trip. However, emergency funds can help you with vehicle emergencies, cash shortages, gas, or surprise expenses. Finances can be a sensitive subject and should be discussed before your trip. Decide if you’ll manage your emergency funds or if everyone will have their own funds. Find out what the others may or may not be able to afford. Everyone will have a unique financial situation that should be considered according to your plans for a trip.

  1. Know Your Destination

You should always be realistic about your travelling destination. A map is important to have on every road trip. Never rely solely on a GPS system because they could exclude unforeseen road closures. A navigation system should be your secondary locator device. Furthermore, you should know how to read a map properly to get you to and from your destination. Choose a destination that also provides a safe location. A map can also help you find other great locations to explore on your trip.

  1. Checklist

You should have a checklist that includes all of your planned activities. Go over your planned checklist ahead of time with your friends. Do your best to stick to your list during the duration of your trip. If you make changes, it should be done before your trip departure. However, if there are changes made to the checklist after you’ve begun your trip, everyone should be aware of your changes. You can plan ahead for rest stops, bathroom breaks, and where you’re going to eat. 

  1. Safety Plan

Things will happen on your road trip but a safety plan can help. For instance, include a meeting place in case someone on your trip gets lost. In fact, in case of any type of road emergency, you should have a plan. Your safety plan should also include: what to do in case of danger. Nobody wants to think about danger on your trip but a safety plan can help everyone keep a mutual objective in case of eminent danger. Danger on your road trip could include an animal attack, criminal activity, or problems with law enforcement. Tell a friend or family member that’s not included in your road trip about your travelling plans.

Your dream road trip is impossible with the proper planning. Enjoy fun that will bring you and your friends closer together. According to the US Highway transportation reports; new millennials are travelling more than their parents, and their preferred method of travel is by car. A professional can also help you plan your next road trip with your friends. Travelling can be a rewarding experience with a group of your friends.

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.

Shopping Guide, Sponsored

Flower Bouquets What Flowers are Suitable for Men

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Men of the new generation are fond of flower bouquets too. It is no longer a strange thing to see men holding or accepting gifts of flowers. A Flower Delivery can be a gorgeous gift to give to male recipients or male celebrants. The Florist Singapore has huge selections of flowers to use for masculine floral arrangements. See this list of suitable flowers for men:

Red Roses

For romantic flower bouquets, red Roses are always perfect for all occasions even for male recipients. If you are thinking of a lovely gift to give to the man you love, you will never get disappointed when you send a florist delivery of red Roses arranged in a beautiful bouquet.

Alstroemeria

If you want to tell him that you are hopelessly devoted to him, send him a hand bouquet of Alstroemeria flowers. This type of flower is available in a wide variety of colors in its genus composing of 50 species. Check if flower shop has the color you want for the bouquet or ask your florist for the specific type and color you want.

Hydrangea

Men love blue Hydrangea flowers. For a timeless flower bouquet on many occasions, especially on happy times, this one will surely make your gift more special. The large globes are also stunning in its uniqueness.

Azaleas

A flower bouquet of Azaleas, whether in pot, planter, or vase, is a perfect gift for his celebration. This flower is available in the spring season and is always in gorgeous bright colors. They are easy to grow and care at home.

Chrysanthemums

Men are fond of the beauty and charm of Chrysanthemum flowers, which probably explains why some choose the design of this flower to be tattooed on their body. For any occasions, especially for friendly celebrations, you can send your male friend with a flower bouquet of Chrysanthemums.

Bamboo

Bamboo plants are in masculine arrangement and they are great for flower gifting. They symbolize good luck. With the online flower delivery, shopping for bamboo plants to give or send a gift to him will be easier.

These beautiful flowers are unique not only because they are meaningful but also because of the type of flowers that can be arranged and designed for make recipient. The next time you have a male friend or your boyfriend celebrates an occasion, you have the best flower bouquets to choose for Flower Delivery Singapore.

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.

Luxury Travel

Visiting Tahiti and Bora Bora – Most Amazing Islands of the Pacific Ocean

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Pacific - Tahiti

French Polynesia is so much more than a grouping of archipelagos – it is one of the biggest and most breathtaking collections of tropical islands and hidden paradises you can possibly imagine. It boasts a whopping 118 islands and covers over 7,000 square kilometers. Still, every such collective need a central hub and an administrative center, and the “capital” island of French Polynesia is a volcanic pearl of the Pacific known as Tahiti. It is part of the collection known as Society Island, which also boasts Bora Bora as its member – one of the most popular tourist spots in the entire world. If you are yearning to have a captivating adventure in this corner of the world, here’s what you need to know about visiting Tahiti and Bora Bora, the most amazing islands of the Pacific Ocean.

Tahiti flower

Tahiti – Basics

Tahiti is the largest of all islands in French Polynesia and it is a home to the collective’s capital city Papeete. With a population of circa 190,000 people, over 80% of them are of Polynesian descent. In fact, the ancient Polynesian people have settled into these corners of the world more than 4,000 years ago. The city lies on the north-western coast of the island, below Mount Orohena. It has a very distinctive appearance – it consists of two volcanic peaks that rise in a spectacular fashion out of the deep Pacific waves and which are connected with a narrow parcel of land. If you are arriving in Papeete via plane, the aerial view of the island is truly remarkable.

tahiti

Tahiti – Papeete

The capital city of French Polynesia is not exactly a metropolis but it boasts all the amenities and services the spoiled tourist might require. Most of all, it is a hectic harbor city that is constantly in flux – countless freighters, yachts and cruise liners course through its port. The town has many quaint accommodations and a lot of charming nooks and crannies which can easily be explored on foot since the town doesn’t cover a lot of square footage. Still, with a population of 27,000 people, it is the “biggest” urban area in entire French Polynesia.

tahiti

Bora Bora – Basics

Bora Bora is the jewel of French Polynesia and the most popular island in the grouping. It might not be the closest island to Tahiti (that would be Moorea) but it is the most renowned one for a very simple reason – it is the most gorgeous tropical paradise in the world. A volcanic island that is surrounded by the “ringed” reef looks more like a figment of someone’s playful imagination than a real place. It might not be the most populated island nor is the one that is rife with modern buildings or cutting-edge technology, but that exactly is the point! As unspoiled by civilization as it stands, Bora Bora is a marvel to behold and a playground to revel in!

bora-bora

Bora Bora – The accommodation

Since Bora Bora is so popular among the globe-trotting travelers, it boasts some of the most luxurious accommodations out there. However, these incredible locations, like for example the sumptuous St Regis Bora Bora resort, are not designed to stand out like a sore thumb in the lush landscape. Accommodations are made to blend in organically with the surrounding nature and one of the best and most iconic examples of this is the famous Bora Bora bungalows, which are as popular now as they ever were.

bora-bora

Bora Bora – the playground

Still, Bora Bora is not merely a convenient background for a number of interesting hotels. There are countless locations and activities to enjoy as you trek across the island and its reef. In fact, if you are a spoiled traveler, you should know that you can find a number of pampering establishments where you can get a spa, beauty treatments, and massages. However, be forewarned: because it is so popular and exclusive, Bora Bora is also incredibly expensive. Thankfully, there are ways to go about the island without spending too much money, but there are several things you definitely have to try out – like going on the underwater adventure through the lagoon to inspect the marine life up close in a way that is quite unprecedented!

bora-bora

Tahiti and Bora Bora are, for all intents and purposes, the absolute perfect “specimens” of tropical islands – the lush, beautiful, awe-inspiring corners of the world that have become engraved in the collective unconscious as the archetypes of tropical islands. Once you pay them a visit for the first time, it is easy to become addicted to the atmosphere, the vistas, the rhythm of life that pulsates through this region. Like the most beautiful people in the world (beautiful in all the ways that count), the Polynesians will grab you by the heart and make you wish you could stay with them forever.

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

Editor's Picks, Luxury Travel, North America

San Juan is not your normal U.S. city

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Words: Len Rutledge   Images: Phensri Rutledge

Narrow cobblestone streets, cute little squares with spraying fountains and huge trees, enormous Spanish-built forts and restaurants serving spicy Mexican and Cuban fare are not normal in most North American cities.

But then little about San Juan, Puerto Rico is normal. It is far from what we expected. My scant knowledge of Puerto Rico was strongly influenced by the musical ‘West Side Story” where white and Puerto Rican gangs battle for the streets of a section of New York.

Central square San Juan

I half expected to find knife-wielding gangs on the streets of San Juan. Instead, my wife and I found colourful buildings, delightful architecture, friendly people, and a love for an island that has a unique relationship with the USA. Hurricane Maria caused considerable damage to the island in 2017 but San Juan has bounced back and is again open for visitors.

Is it part of the USA?

Puerto Rico is technically part of the United States. Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens and make up about 1.3% of the total population of the U.S. They enjoy all the benefits of citizenship, except one: Puerto Ricans who live in Puerto Rico cannot vote for the U.S. President.

But it is not this straight forward. In the Olympic Games, Puerto Rico fields its own athletic team, separate from the USA team. Puerto Ricans don’t file federal income tax returns unless they work for the U.S. government. Bookstores in the U.S. put travel guides to Puerto Rico in their “International Travel” section rather than “Domestic Travel,” where they belong. No wonder we were confused!

Flags flying above the old Spanish fort

Old San Juan

Nearly two million people live in or near San Juan and many of them rarely set foot in Old San Juan. For tourists, it is entirely different. Many visitors see nothing of the wider city except for the drive from the airport to the old city.

Old San Juan lies within a 500-year-old walled citadel that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Medieval masonry and cantilevered balconies seem to float above the narrow cobblestone streets below. The streets are perfect for wandering and seem to insist you explore all their secret nooks and crannies.

They are lined with antique iron lampposts, arty shops and souvenir stores. There are pavement cafes in the squares and beautiful old buildings and churches look out to wide views of the ocean. Musicians play on the streets just like in Europe.

Cool courtyards decorated with European flair hide behind the shops and pavement cafes, inviting you to enter. It is more Spanish than many areas of Spain.

Spanish influence

In 1493, Christopher Columbus “discovered” Puerto Rico and claimed it for Spain. Some years later, the Spanish started their colonisation. Puerto Rico’s geographic position at the western edge of the Caribbean made San Juan one of the key frontier outposts of Spain’s West Indies Empire.

The Spanish built a small fort here in 1540 and then constructed the walls that encircled the city in 1634. The work continued into the mid 1700′s when the King of Spain decided to make San Juan virtually unconquerable.

The walls and two massive forts are some of the major attractions today. No visit would be complete without spending time exploring the fortifications and marvelling at the impressive structures. Guided tours are available for those who want them.

The city is surrounded by massive defence walls

Elsewhere in the city the Cathedral, which was commenced in 1521, is worth seeing and there are several museums. The Museum of the Americas is in a wonderfully restored building while the Museum of Art has local works displayed in a building which itself is a work of art. The Casa Blanca Museum showcases life in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Old San Juan is reasonably compact but it is hilly and is usually hot. If you are not comfortable with a lot of walking, there are free trolleys that will take you around the old city.

Eating, shopping and Staying

The area has some excellent restaurants, fast food outlets, markets, shops and several small hotels. The Hotel El Convento is generally considered the best (and most expensive) accommodation but there are several others in charming old buildings with Spanish ambiance.

Souvenir shopping in San Juan is a treat or a nightmare depending on your point of view. The Old City could be one of the most souvenir-clogged areas on the planet but there are some interesting buys amongst the ‘junk’. Iconic vejigante masks are found at numerous shops, hand-carved wooden figurines of saints called santos are unusual buys, and hand-made Panama hats are useful and a great keepsake.

Outside the Old City, Condado hugs the beach to the east and has many similarities to Miami Beach or Australia’s Gold Coast. Here’s where expensive hotels, and the casinos inside many of them, attract night-life-seeking locals and tourists alike.

A final suggestion is to visit the slick Casa Bacardi Visitor Center across San Juan Bay in Cataño. You’ll pass through seven different zones covering both the history of the company and the rum-making process and have a taste of some of the brew. The best part is that it’s all free.

If you go

Getting there: Various airlines fly to San Juan from mainland USA. There are also direct flights from Madrid, some Caribbean islands and a few South American countries.

Visas: Puerto Rico is technically part of the USA so the same visitor requirements apply. You need to organise a travel authorisation or a tourist visa before leaving home.

When to Visit: Puerto Rico is hot between June and September and warm at other times of the year. January to March receives less rain than other months.

 

www.LenRutledge.com

Asia, Destinations, Luxury Travel

Reaching New Heights: Visit the Burj Khalifa While Vacationing in Dubai

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Burj Khalifa, also known as the tallest building in the world, offers magnificent views and an almost endless array of activities to partake in. Being 2,722 feet tall, the tower is a must-see for those who are planning to stop in Dubai during their travels. Here are some of its highlights:

The observation deck

Whether you prefer to stand indoors and observe the scenery through transparent glass or marvel at it from an open-air terrace, the deserts and the oceans below will reside in your memory for all eternity. Should a particular long-distance object pique your interest, you can take a closer look at it through one of the telescopes available (yes, Burj Khalifa a well-equipped observatory). The scenery is quite a sight to behold when the night settles in.

The history of Dubai

Visit floor 124 and watch a multimedia presentation of Dubai’s history and the unique circumstances of its creation. While you’re there, why not pick up a souvenir to remind you of your travels?

The Burj Khalifa park

Blooming gardens, water fountains, and palm-lined walkways is what you’re going to encounter by setting foot on the grounds of the Burj Khalifa park. One of its most amazing features is the fact that the water fountains placed therein are watered by the condensation from the tower’s cooling system. At any time you’d like to engage in a more physically-draining activity instead of taking a peaceful walk in the park, be sure not to miss one of the two tennis courts located there.

The Dubai Mall

Belonging to the Burj Khalifa complex, it houses more 1200 shops for you to explore, including the Galeries Lafayette department store, Fashion Island, an organic food marketplace, jewellery retailers, and many more. Can you manage to visit them all within a single day? If not, don’t stress it; many 5-star hotels like the Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel are not too far from there, so you can treat yourself to a good night’s sleep at any time you feel like your feet won’t carry you any longer. But no matter what you do, be sure not to miss out on the Dubai Aquarium located in the very center of the mall, showcasing the world’s finest underwater animal species.

The Dubai Ice Rink

This portion of the Dubai Mall deserves its own section due to how extensive it is. In fact, it can take in more than 2,000 people at the same time. All you need to do is borrow a pair of ice skates, and you’re ready to join in on the action. Depending on your preferences, you can partake in educational, public, and disco sessions. Everyone is welcome to give it a shot, the young and the elderly included. After an action-packed round of ice skating, feel free to take a well-deserved break at one of the cafes nearby.

Conclusion

Burj Khalifa offers so many things to do it’s hard to decide what to focus on. But if you can stomach great heights and aren’t afraid to try something new, it can be an amazing destination for you and your family. Are you brave enough to stand atop the world’s tallest building and view the world from a completely different angle?