Category Archives: Travel Tips

Travel Blogging

7 Most Popular Beaches in the World

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When it comes to holidaying, seaside is one of the most common choices. Sea beaches are fun for everyone and the best part is that it is free! All you need to do is reach the city or country where you wish to be for your next holiday. So here are some spectacular beaches from all around the world, just for you!

Honokalani Beach

The Honokalani Beach at the Wai’anapanapa State Park, Maui, Hawaii is regarded by many as the best beach in the world. Its shoreline is colored jet black and its waters are of the shade of lapis lazuli. The foliage here is thick as well and resembles a jungle as such. All these features have made it a dream destination for anyone who loves taking a few photos. The sand here is in actuality made up of small lava pebbles.

Honopu Beach

The Honopu Beach at Kauai in Hawaii is also referred to as the Cathedral Beach. It is a lot like the Waipio Valley in the sense that it can be quite hard to reach the destination.

The only way to get there is through the water. However, one thing is for sure – all the trouble that you take in order to get to it is worth it.

Sunset Beach

The Sunset Beach at Oahu, Hawaii is thought to be one of the best destinations in the world as far as watching big wave surfing during the winter season is concerned. Incidentally, the beach also happens to be the home of the Vans Triple Crown as well. During the summer the water over here remains really calm.   

This makes it a great spot where you can indulge in some snorkeling.

El Nido

The El Nido beach is located at Palawan, Philippines. In spite of being such a highly rated beach, it is a bit surprising that it flies a bit under the radar. There are approximately 50 white sand beaches over here and the thing is that it is really hard to choose one from among them. Each and every one of these beaches is located close to limestone formations that can be described as dramatic.

Reduit Beach

The Reduit Beach is located in St. Lucia.

It is situated at a distance of around 10 minutes towards the south of the Pigeon Island National Park. Here you can lounge on your towel and also get views of the Fort Rodney that is located at some distance from here. This beach is located next to the Rodney Bay that is really picturesque.

Image credit: Surf Gear Ltd – https://www.cheapsurfgear.com/

Palm Beach

The Palm Beach of Aruba takes up an area of 2 miles and is located towards the northwestern part of the island. It is full of activities and is sure to keep you engaged all throughout a day. The best activities here are surely snorkeling and parasailing.

The barefoot lunch that you have at the Pelican Pier Bar can easily be one of the finest experiences you have ever had.

Matira Beach

The Matira Beach is located at Bora Bora, French Polynesia. It happens to be the most reputed one among all the beaches that are there in Tahiti and there are some jolly good reasons for the same as well. It stretches for a mile and the sands over here are silky and powdery white. The lagoon is of an emerald color thus further adding to its charm.

Conclusion

Sea beaches have always attracted travelers from all over the world. While there are numerous other beaches that are clean, pristine, and beautiful, the above-mentioned ones really deserve a visit once in your lifetime.

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.

Asia, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

Reasons Why Hong Kong is One of The Most Beautiful Cities in The World

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If you have not visited Hong Kong, you’re in for a surprising adventure. This Island city is truly a jewel in the Orient. Planning to visit Hong Kong will surely leave you with lasting memories and the wish to always return as fast as possible. The different terrain of Hong Kong, encompassing both rural and urban aspects, will leave you amazed.

hong kong

There’s no shortage of lovely activities when you’re visiting this beautiful city. Wherever your tastes lie, you’ll find something that will suit your interest. The city boasts many recreation facilities, sports and Hong Kong massage, whether you want to watch or participate. Hong Kong plays host to a lot of performing arts cultural events and festivals that are internationally popular and offer up a lot of opportunities to discover some surprising talent. In addition, it gives up many religious places of worship that are really worth viewing, starting from temples and shrines to monasteries. All these recreational, cultural, artistic, as well as devotional activities, are available in so diverse forms in Hong Kong, you’ll have a hard time selecting just a few while you’re there.

You’ll find that there’re diversified landscapes to also visit, from the heart of the urban center of Hong Kong which boasts superb-modern skyscrapers to the great desert islands as well as sandy, hidden beaches. The main office of Hong Kong bank is situated in the midst of the city, frequently described as among the world’s most magnificent buildings. The Convention Center and Central Plaza are as well, buildings of note which exemplify the high urbanity which it can give. Also, on the other side of the coin are the good-looking parks that share the city, and really make up around 40 percent of the terrain, balancing the hub of the metropolitan’s commerce as well as finance with a tranquil and peaceful place to take your lunch or a stop from a busy day to just enjoy its calming scenery.

The seascape and beaches provided by the Hong Kong’s Island nature can be seen on the beautiful beaches as well as coral reef aquarium that’s situated at the Ocean Park. There’re several bay areas that give amazing opportunities for swimming or fishing. The diversity of the city is perpetuated the more when including the nightlife observed at Causeway Bay and Nathan or Wanchai road, where restaurants and bars cater to the crowds of the late night and people who look to enjoy the certain nocturnal activity. Also, floating restaurants can be observed in the district of Aberdeen.

Hong Kong’s city is so interesting and diverse that everybody can find something of amazement and interest. Whether you’re interested in museums like The Museum of Fine Arts, or Madame Toussaud’s or Cosmonautics Museums or the Medical, you will be amazed at the assortment of choices available. You can hit up the financial district bustle or visit the Garden of Birds for you to relax and just enjoy the flowering plants. There’s indeed something that will suit all interests and tastes. You will be truly surprised by the beauty.

Travel Tech, Travel Tips

How To Choose The Best Travel Companies

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With the world getting smaller and national and cultural boundaries getting obliterated, more and more businesses are branching out throughout the planet. These days, international business travel has turned essential for the success of many businesses. However, travel is not always recommended for meeting with business partners and clients; it can be for leisure purpose.It is also a way to reward star employees who have earned more profits for the company. If you take a look on the Internet, you will notice that you have a good selection of travel companies to choose from. This is a reflection of the dominance of corporate travel in the current day and age.If you are looking for the best Travels Company for traveling purposes, the following tips will be useful for making the right choice.

Check the level of experience.

You should check the level of experience of the company in handling international and national travels. It is regarded as the primary factor to shortlist a travel agency for big events. Travel agencies that specialize in the management of corporate travels are generally chosen by companies. International travelers face big treats in the form of criminal assault, terrorism, petty crime and sickness. You should choose companies which are experienced in international travel safety.

Ensure luxury travel is available

It is a good idea to go for specialists. You should choose a company which offers a wide range of travel services and also specializes in luxury travel. These companies have the greatest influence in different important offshore areas. You can get helpful contacts, bookings in hotels of your choice, special types of privileges and the right local tour guides.

Look for Certification

Make sure that you hire certified business travel company which have got formal approval from authorized agencies. Companies that work with airlines have to get approvals from the International Airline Travel Agency Network. Those handling overseas travel must have agents with knowledge about important rules and regulations concerning international travel. They can provide you with exact information regarding passports and visas.

Check the network system.

The network system is one of the best things about a travel agency. An agency with proper online booking software can inform you immediately in case your flight is delayed due to bad weather conditions. They are qualified to make arrangements with different hotels and tour operators that organize special business travel. With a qualified and experienced travel agency with a proper network, you can be assured of putting faith on the best people to take care of your vacation arrangements.

Consider the pricing

The rates are of course something that you should care about. Make some research online and try to compare the rates offered by different travel companies. Make sure that you do not have to pay any veiled charges for some of the services offered. Unfortunately, some of the companies do not have transparent rates and services. It is a good idea to talk to the customer representative and clarify all the charges beforehand. Try to get the quotes mailed to you, so that you can use it as a future reference.

Destinations, Travel Tips

New Caledonia – A French Paradise in the South Pacific

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New Caledonia is the perfect destination for people who just want to get away from the world. Hidden in the endless blue expanse of the South Pacific, this incredibly diverse archipelago seamlessly combines French and Polynesian culture. If you want to find out why this archipelago is one of the most beloved tourist destinations in this corner of the world, then take a look at this comprehensive New Caledonia trip report, and learn all you need to know about this French paradise in the South Pacific.

New Caledonia, our lush mise en scène

New Caledonia appears to teeter on the very edge of the world, but this lush archipelago is far from lonely. In fact, New Caledonia lines the eastern border of the Coral Sea along with numerous island groupings, including Vanuatu to the north, and Solomon Islands to the north-west – while the western border of this sea is none other than the grand Australian coastline.

Now, you might ask yourself what makes New Caledonia so exceptional when compared to other island groupings in its vicinity? First of all, as mentioned before, Nouvelle-Calédonie boasts an eclectic mix of cultures that includes the rustic European appeal of French sensibilities which along with the exciting and mystifying heritage of Polynesian ancestry.

The residents of New Caledonia are incredibly welcoming people that can offer you a worldview so drastically different from your own. If you are travelling with family, this is an excellent opportunity to teach your children about multicultural environments and how big and surprising the world actually is.

Basic context

You might be asking yourself – how did this happen? Well, the archipelago became a French colony in 1853 and it actually served as a penal colony for the rest of the 19th century.  Though this circumstance is admittedly unfortunate, it actually paved the way for some truly arresting architectural work with late 19th century French influences. This is especially noticeable in New Caledonia’s capital Nouméa.

Nouméa is by far the largest urban area of the territory and it lies on the south-eastern tip of New Caledonia’s biggest island and central hub of tourism and commerce – Grand Terre. It is by no means a big city – with circa 100,000 residents occupying its households (over 180,000 if you count in the metropolitan area), it is a disarmingly charming urbanity that is easy to traverse.

Since this city’s airport is the touchdown spot for all international flights and the main port of embarkation for most cruise ships, Nouméa will be your first contact with and impression of this tropical paradise. If you are a newcomer, don’t miss the chance to ride Le Petit Train, an adorable motorized tour that offers a laid-back tour of the city.

A rundown for newcomers

However, New Caledonia did not remain a French colony forever. In 1956, it gained the title of “French Overseas Territory”, and it carries this moniker proudly to this very day. It has become intrinsic to the cultural identity of New Caledonia, and it’s easy to see how.

The currency is Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs and the official language is French. Even though Melanesian-Polynesian dialects are present, most people who are fluent in French understand the locals perfectly. Furthermore, over 60% of the populace is Roman Catholic, which is closely followed by the Protestant denomination (30%), with the final 10% being reserved for other religions. On July 14th, New Caledonia celebrates Bastille Day as a national holiday, just like the French.  

What to expect as a tourist?

When it comes to accommodation, Nouméa has you covered with moderately priced hotels like Le Surf or high-end establishments like Le Meridien Noumea and Ramada Plaza. If you truly want to “live large” while you are there and move out of the city, there is an incredible ocean view from Sheraton in New Caledonia, and a spa and golf resort straight out of a James Bond movie.

Once you’re settled in, you’ll get a chance to explore the surroundings quite extensively. Grand Terre is large and expansive in and of itself, but it is not the only hub New Caledonia has to offer. A modest archipelago known as Loyalty Islands is a true epitome of untamed Pacific paradise while the Isle of Pines looks like a location out of fantasy writer’s dream.

Take this unique opportunity to visit Tjibaou Cultural Centre, an impressive edifice that stands as a memorial to the history of Melanesian and Oceanic cultures, and learn a bit more about the distinctive customs and the way of life which was prevalent across the South Pacific.

No matter what, savor the rich and endemic biosphere that has species of flora and fauna which are completely unique to this part of the world. This list of natural wonders also includes the New Caledonia Barrier Reef which stretches along and after the Grand Terre and which is (understandably) a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you haven’t heard of New Caledonia before, this is a great chance to embark on an exciting new adventure. You can book a flight to this tropical dreamland, confident you will have a top-notch experience. Even though this tropical archipelago has all the hallmarks of the finest destinations, it still somehow manages to fly under the radar of many eager vacationers. It’s as if the ocean itself is jealously hiding it, like a beautiful secret only shared among the few chosen.

Travel Tips

Reasons Why Korcula Is One Of The Prettiest Cities In Croatia

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The attractive island of Korcula on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is a fabulous aim for a family European holiday. Korcula is effortlessly reachable from Port or Dubrovnik air terminal and 2012 sees a quick increment in the quantity of aircrafts traveling to these goals. This news implies more decision in flight times and less expensive ticket costs, both imperative contemplations when arranging a family holiday.

Korcula gives an extraordinary decision to family holiday convenience, suiting all financial plans, from campgrounds to extensive disengaged manors with swimming pools. Self-providing food is a decent choice for family gatherings and there are numerous moderate flats and houses accessible to lease on the island. For all intents and purposes self-providing food gives families greater adaptability with regards to supper times, more space than a standard lodging room and protection to travel every which way however you see fit the day. Most loved decisions on Korcula incorporate a huge rural style house in a beautiful cove near the town of Pupnat, enabling the entire family to unwind and appreciate the normal environment; a sumptuous and
comfortable estate in Racisce with bunches of present day accommodations and a lot of inward and outside space, so every family part has their own particular breathing space; and great esteem current flats with a huge open arrangement kitchen, eating and living region, near the ocean in the family-accommodating town of Lumbarda. Or maybe if you want to stay in the city itself there are luxury hotels in Korčula as well as affordable accommodation all around the city.

Albeit every one of the towns and towns on Korcula give perfect bases to a family holiday, Lumbarda is likely extraordinary compared to other choices if going with more youthful youngsters. Lumbarda is less occupied than Korcula Town, while as yet having a lot of eateries, bistros and diversion choices; it has shallow sandy shorelines, though most on the island are pebbled
and the water can turn out to be all of a sudden profound and everything is in simple strolling separation. Amid the mid year the tourist leading group of Lumbarda puts on various family occasions, an undisputed top choice being the jackass race (reasonable for kids and grown-ups!). There are likewise phenomenal partner fun water inflatables to slip, slide and bounce all finished
at Bili Zal shoreline in Lumbarda.

Obviously most exercises around Korcula happen at the shoreline or on the ocean. Keeping the youngsters engaged can some of the time be a test however get them dynamic in the water by swimming, swimming or kayaking. Shoreline recreations, for example, volleyball, bat and ball games or great antiquated sand-château working at the sandy shorelines are pleasant
approaches to invest the energy in the sun. Simply ensure you slap on bunch of suntan moisturizer and remain out of the solid midday sun. Fun days on Korcula can incorporate vessel trips to the adjacent Skoji islets, scrambling up and under the peculiar however charming rocks at the normal stop of Kocije in Zrnovo or what about taking a bike ride along the staggering coast, treating
your-self to a scoop or two of Korcula’s delightful dessert.

Following a day at the shoreline or accelerating around the beautiful Korcula wide open, there is nothing more pleasant than returining to your independent holiday settlement, maybe flame broiling up some crisp fish or playing a round of cards out on the patio, watching the sun tenderly set. It is these minutes when you genuinely value the family holiday.


Croatia is quick getting to be a standout amongst the most popular spots to take a get-away in Europe and is a more reasonable choice contrasted with its adversaries in the Euro-zone. It is a sheltered nation with moderately little wrongdoing and the general population inviting and cordial. This influences a great nation to spend you family to holiday this year.

Europe, Travel Tips

Taking a Vacation in Croatia

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Taking a vacation in Croatia

It was my enthusiastic dream for many years to take a vacation in Croatia at least once in my lifetime. I’m glad to say that my dream came true last year and one thing I’ll state unequivocally is that I had a home away from home experience during my visit to Croatia.

Croatia was indeed an amazing destination for my vacation. I could not have enough of the pristine beaches & palm groves, mountainous coastlines, clear waters of the Adriatic sea, spectacular architecture, numerous islands, sublime food, and most importantly, the hospitality of the Croatian people.

The following are some of the amazing things I did and the places I visited in Croatia.

Island hopping

With more than 1200 islands, I needed my whole lifetime to explore all the Croatian islands. But still, I tried my best. Every island I visited was special in its own way. Some islands offered the peace and quiet I had longed for. Others offered 24-hour parties, so whenever I wanted to experience Croatian nightlife, I never missed an island that offered unforgettable parties.

The first island I visited is the island of Brac. The splendid beaches, sheep cheese, seafood and mandarins in this destination will leave you yearning for more. I proceeded to the sunny island of Hvar. With its natural beauty, luxurious beaches, sunny weather, and excellent food, this is a destination I never wanted to leave. The island of Korcula, Krk, Losinj, Cres, Silba, Lastovo and many more had one thing in common; they offer an amazing paradise for travelers looking for a sunny island adventure. Hopping between islands was very simple since ferries, waterboats, and catamarans were readily available.

vacation in croatia

I explored Croatian National Parks

Out of the eight national parks in Croatia, I had an opportunity to visit three of them. The Plitvice Lakes National Park was really a stunning place one can ever visit. I took a bus from Zagreb and within two hours I was at the park. It was boundless funmeandering along the many wooden plank trails, taking pictures of the furious waterfalls and the 16 interconnected lakes. Thereafter, I took a day trip to the Krka National Park where I fell in love with the glistening waterfalls and boat excursions. I winded my national park tour by visiting Paklenica National Park where the largest mountain in Croatia is found.

vacation in croatia

I discovered history of Croatia

Despite being a small sized country, Croatia has seven UNESCO Heritage Sites where I got an opportunity to learn about the culture of Croatia. I visited all the seven historical sites and discovered many things which i never knew about. If you’re considering visiting Croatia, these historical places are worth visiting.

Sailing in the high seas

I’d say that a vacation in Croatia won’t be complete without sailing in the high seas. With my one month stay in this wonderful country, I learnt that it is a sailing paradise for people who love the activity. I rented a waterboat with crew at a very reasonable price. At the sea, my eyes were drawn out to the waters that seems to go forever. Sailing in Croatia gave me a lifetime chance to explore the coast and enjoy its beauty. I anchored just anywhere and soaked in the cool waters of the Adriatic sea. I alsodiscovered beautiful bays, hidden coves, and deserted islets. I also enjoyed fresh seafood in remote bay restaurants.

I discovered Croatian foods and wine

If you’re a foodie and you haven’t visited Croatia yet, you are missing mouthwatering, diverse and glorious foods. Most people in Croatia use seasonal ingredients and their food is indeed unique. Croatian cuisine is more of a Mediterranean cuisine consisting of fish, seafood, veggies and tasty olive oils. Istria had very delicious olive oils.

I fell in love with various traditional dishes such as brudet (fish stew with spices) crni riot, seafood served with blitva, mišanca and homemade pasta.

I also participated in loads of activities such as kayaking, rafting, kite-surfing, truffle hunting, zip-lining, rock climbing, golfing and paragliding.

I never wanted to go back to my home country, when my vacation was over. Croatia had numerous things to do as well as many places to visit. It is an amazing country. Certainly, it will be my obvious destination during my next trip and I cannot wait to take another vacation in Croatia.

Europe, Infographic, Street Food Guide, Travel Tips

How to Say Avocado on Toast Around the World

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It’s safe to say the world has been struck by avocado fever. Over the past five years, there has been a 405% increase in the number of online searches for ‘avocado on toast’ around the world.

If you’re wondering how to order the nations favourite dish ‘Avocado on toast’ look no further, Canvas Holidays compiled the ultimate guide to ordering it in 27 different languages as well as 5 fictional dialects.

Dorthaki (Game of Thrones)  – “Fichat anna havon zhavvorsa sovi” 

Elvish – (Lord of the Rings) – “Amin irma avocado coimas“

If you’re heading to Portugal, simply ask for “Desejo uma torrada com abacate por favor” 

As well as these languages, we’ve compared prices around some of the major cities in Europe.

With many of us now getting ready to book our 2018 holidays, we thought it would be useful to show you how to order your beloved ‘Avocado on Toast’ in every language in the EU… and a few others like Dothraki and Klingon in case you plan on travelling farther afield…

Infographic provided by https://www.canvasholidays.co.uk/blog/2018/02/01/ordering-avocado-on-toast-around-europe

Travel Planning, Travel Tips

7 Travel Trends for 2018 That Will Drive the Global Tourism Industry

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With population growth comes the rise in the demand for tourist packages and exciting vacations. Just like the entertainment industry, tourism is booming and coming back stronger every year, probably due to the same factor – pure, unadulterated hedonism. Throughout the year, the incessant pace of everyday obligations and soul-crushing work leaves people thirsty for a grand escapade, and in 2018, the menu has never been so long and varied. If this fact alone makes you pumped for the coming vacation, read on to find out what seven travel trends for 2018 will drive the global tourism industry.

Experience more important than comfort

Traveling used to be all about comfort. Even today, most casual travelers will look for tasteful hotels that offer scheduled meals and exclusive access to a nearby beach. However, there is a strikingly different subculture that is looking for completely opposite offers from agencies – flexible experiences that will provide them with the basics and leave them to revel in the experience.

Loose framework better than schedule

These people are looking for authentic bed and breakfast accommodations or Airbnb setups. They do not want scheduled guided tours; instead, they use their trusty cell phone to tell them where they are going, they gather information and use GPS completely independently from any guides. In many ways, this is the best way to “get your hands dirty” and truly get a feel of the country you are visiting.

Free marketing via social media shared photos and videos

In relation to the aforementioned cell phones, mobile bookings, ratings and social network activities are through the roof. With the access to high-quality phone cameras, people are making audio-visual diaries of their travels as they upload photos and videos to their social media profiles. This alone is a form of self-replicating marketing for many popular regions in the world. Furthermore, short video formats are slowly replacing the ever so popular endless photo-ops, which make the destination appear even more appealing.

LGBTQ travel is on the rise

Up to 7% of world trotting travelers identify as members of LGBTQ community, and vibrant tourism targeted for this population has been booming like mad over the last three years. In fact, the statistics are showing that LGBTQ identifying people are traveling more often and have different spending habits than members of the cisgender population.

And so is female solo traveling

80% of all travel decisions are made by women, married or single. Naturally, as western culture encourages equality and independence, this also reflects on tourism – there is a noticeable increase in arrangements made by solo female travelers who are just as bold and adventurous in their choice of packages as their male counterparts – in 2018, solo female travelers are looking for challenging traveling experiences more than comfortable, pampering setups in five star hotels and world-class spas.

Food tourism never goes out of style

Gourmet inspired vacations have actually been at the heart of traveling since forever – throughout history, many people have been prepared to embark on long pilgrimages just to mingle in the region that is known for their dream food, be it cheese or pasta.

Appropriately, there is a significant increase in interest in the food travel market. In fact, the World Food Travel Association has concluded that the industry is generating more than 150 billion US dollars per year. If this number does not give you a coronary, neither will a salty Bavarian weisswurst.

Adhering to this statistic, travel agencies are looking to capitalize on such a lucrative trend and offer some delish sounding packages. In fact, one of the popular trends right now consists of having an exquisite world-class meal in your living room by hiring a personal chef service, while regions like Singapore offer a bona fide event out of a visit to the farmer’s market where you haggle over condiments and watch food being prepared on the spot.

Blood-pumping adventures against mundane boredom

As it turns out, before your typical 2018 traveler indulges in a region-specific meal, they’re looking to fill up on something else – a blood-pumping activity or an experience that will leave them exasperated and excited. Plunging into the depths off the coast of the Cayman Islands to investigate haunting shipwrecks, hiking on the steep slopes of Swiss Alps or driving across the African safari as the wind blows-back your hair are only some of the adrenaline-inducing adventures travelers seek out. Additionally, it appears they mostly opt for bikes to move around, even when the terrain is not particularly friendly.

Travel preferences tend to evolve with the constant flow of dangerous hotspots and simmering conflict zones, but they never alter the landscape completely. People know what makes their heart flutter with excitement and they recognize true beauty when it stands right in front of them. Global safety concerns notwithstanding, the demand for more travel packages and preferences continues to grow at a relentless pace, and it appears 2018 will be a busy and exciting year for tourism. All things considered, it’s not hard to discern one thing from these travel trends – working hours might have become crueler around the world, but quite fittingly, people like to party and travel just as hard as they work.

Asia, Travel Tips

Best Places to Visit in Hong Kong – How to Experience this City to the Maximum

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Best places to visit in Hong Kong – How to experience this city to the maximum

It will take you more than one trip to explore all the best places in Hong Kong to the maximum. From temple visits, early morning hikes, unique dining experiences, shopping raids to theme park rides, overnight partying and racing track betting, Hong Kong has many amazing attractions for everyone and is suitable for all seasons. Its cultural diversity and rich history make this destination special, unique and endlessly fascinating. Here are some of the best places to visit in Hong Kong as well as things to see and do but remember that this is just a tip of the iceberg of one of the world’s most visited cities.

hong kong

1. The Star Ferry

The Star Ferry in Hong Kong can only be compared to the Eiffel Tower of Paris and is an absolute must while you are in this city. This vessel transports guests between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula providing them with a spectacular view of the city. The famous skyline of Hong Kong offers amazing photo opportunities, especially during the night.

2. The Street Markets

While on a tour of this great city, make sure to explore the diverse street markets that cater to different clienteles offering different kinds of merchandise. The Ladies’ Market, for example, specializes in different kinds of women’s clothing as well as accessories and is located in Mong Kok along Tung Choi street. The Temple Street Night Market is a nocturnal marketplace that is a favorite among visitors. With brightly lit stalls and a flurry of activity, you can find anything from culinary accessories, local food, electronics to clothing including opera singers and fortune tellers.

The Stanley Market is another place of note on Hong Kong Island’s Southern Coast. This marketplace occupies an old fishing village and is home to colorful souvenirs, jewellery as well as home decor. Visitors do not shy away from bargaining prices as low vendors are always willing to drop prices especially when you are about to walk away.

3. The Victoria Peak

Also known as The Peak, this tourist attraction site offers breathtaking views where visitors can experience Hong Kong’s blue waterways and skyscrapers. Victoria Peak is located atop Hong Kong Island’s highest point providing a spectacular scenic view of the Island.

4. The Ocean Park

This place provides an amazing natural scenery on the coastline with a diverse zoo where you can find plenty of dolphins and pandas. There is also an aquarium with rays and sharks as well as incredible carnival games and electrifying roller coasters. This is a good place to take your family for an underground funicular including a cable-car ride.

5. The Happy Valley Racecourse

Thousands of Hong Kong residents flock the Happy Valley Racecourse stands every Wednesday between September and July to watch the city’s only legal form of gambling. Horse racing gives happy valley an electric atmosphere and while many residents come here to bet, others simply visit this institution to watch the sparkling city skyline after the sun goes down.

6. The Nan Lian Garden

This is the perfect place to rest your feet and relax after a long day. Situated in Kowloon, this expansive garden is a public park with well-manicured trees, peaceful pathways, gurgling springs and lotus ponds as well as beautiful Chinese timber architecture.

After a long day of touring, there are several Hong Kong massage centers that can be accessed easily from several places in this city. You can get a pure massage including a traditional massage for total relaxation.