Have you ever thought of cruising along the most fascinating, loneliest road in America? If you nodded a Yes, you have landed on the right page. Just imagine you are in the middle of nowhere- with remote terrain all around, nature at its best and to discover a lot. When you are in that state, just believe that you are on Highway 50, the Loneliest Road in America.
It is not so long ago that a story showed up in Life magazine that claimed that US 50 via Nevada had no points of interest or tourist attractions. Later it was recommended that the motorists should not drive this highway till the time they are much confident about their survival skills. This year, it’s the 30th anniversary of Life’s Magazine designation of the Loneliest Road to US Highway 50. It is in fact 30th anniversary of the Great Basin National Park near Town Ely which is worth visiting for sure during your tour.
In fact, the Loneliest Road in America is a very popular one and has been traversed in the history of Nevada. The early explorers of the highway like John C. Fremont and Jedediah Smith travelled through this region just like the Pony Express carriers.
With the Pony Express Carrier, visitors can enjoy and experience the best of history, science, art and nature. The Pony Express Territory has it all and you will be able to enjoy exploring old mines, nature preserves, art sites and ghost towns. What more, under the stars of the sky at night, you can experience open-air observatory. Truly undisturbed, the carrier offers its services in the Pony Express Territory without the need to wait for long.
The undisturbed and picturesque Pony Express Territory is indeed 1840 miles wide space with rich heritage, black skies and rugged, pious nature. The Territory is the one where Pony Express riders galloped along the main trail; now called as Americas Loneliest Road that has a splendid national park and various adventurous towns. These include Dayton, Fernley, Fallon, Austin, Eureka and Ely from west to east where the travellers can stop and enjoy their scenic beauty.
With around 17 mountain ranges in 287 miles, the travellers can enjoy desert floors, mountain ranges and what not. There is in fact plenty to do and see while cruising along the loneliest road in America, one can also take the short trips to reveal what Nevada has to offer to its visitors. The towns of the territory span about 300 miles and while Fernley population is 19,000 in total, the other four towns have a total of just 13,000 citizens.
If you are adamant enough to cruise along US highway 50, then you will be pleased to know that there are a lot of things to do when on the Loneliest Road. The travellers can also access the historical cemeteries and ghost town sites for complete adventure and fun. They can further visit elk view areas as well as the picnic and camping spots that are in plenty on the Loneliest Road.
Loneliest road is not at all lonely in today’s time, depending on your level of adventure skills and spirit. Though the towns may be small, still they are historic to the core and have many places to visit. If you are interested in cruising along the most fascinating road in America, request the Americas Loneliest Road Hwy 50 Survival Guide at the PonyExpressNevada.comand you can easily start your journey whenever you want. It is as simple as that!
With summer vacation right around the corner, it is time to take out your suitcases, pack your bags, book your tickets and go on a summer vacation. Be it alone, with your friends or with your family, summer holidays have special place in most of our lives. Moreover, when it comes to choosing a destination for your summer holidays, you are truly spoilt for choice. Whatever might be your interest, be it the hills, the ocean, adventure, history or even shopping, the earth is home to some really gorgeous places that have the ability to make your holiday a memorable one. Let us take a look at the top 10 destinations you should consider for this summer vacation.
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Amsterdam
Summer is the perfect time to visit Amsterdam as the city is filled with fun and entertainment during this time of the year. You would get to spend a lot of time outdoors by not just sightseeing but also for doing several outdoor activities. You can ride a boat on the canal, host a barbeque party at a park, camp on a beach, watch a movie on the beach or on a rooftop, visit a secret island and do many such things. Moreover, with the beginning of the summer, Amsterdam hosts several festivals almost every weekend which add to the vibrancy and liveliness of the place.
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Singapore
Singapore is a South East Asian city that would surprise and amaze you. Although it is one of the top industrial cities in the world, it is also an amazing tourist destination. The city offers several tourist things that would appeal to the tourist in you. Some of these include the Marina Bay area, the Merlion Park, the Singapore Flyer, etc. While the city is filled with skyscrapers, Singapore has still preserved its natural beauty with its mangroves (where one can go kayaking), beaches, botanical gardens, etc. The Singapore Zoo and the Singapore Night Safari are two places you must not miss. If you have lot of time, do make it a point to visit the Sentosa Island which is a land specially built for entertainment. If you are planning to go to Singapore, you can get Singapore visa online.
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Paris
Paris is one of the top holiday destinations not just for summer but for the entire year. The Eiffel Tower, the Champs Elysées, the Notre Dame and all other iconic destinations of Paris have the ability to fill your senses and mesmerise you at all times of the year. However, the summer gives a special flavour to the entire city. The first thing that you would notice is that city is much less crowded during the summers. Apart from this, you would also be able to be a part of several art exhibitions, film festivals, etc that are held during the summer months. Moreover, you will find travelling in Paris during the summer a lot less expensive.
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India
Travelling to India during the summer months may not seem to be an agreeable idea as India is considered to have a warm climate. However, not many know that there are several hill stations in India where the climate remains quite pleasant and even chilly (at nights) even during summers. Some of the places in India that are ideal for your summer holidays are Shimla, Kulu-Manali, Darjeeling, Coorg, Mahabaleshwar, Ooty, Srinagar, etc. These places offer beautiful locales and picturesque views that would not fail to astonish you.
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The Bahamas
For most of us, summer brings the dream of enjoying the surf and the sand. If you are a beach lover, there is no better place than the Bahamas for your summer holidays this year. The Bahamas is home to several luxurious resorts, each attached to a beautiful place. By offering all the comforts and luxuries, these resorts would make sure that you have a perfect holiday. Moreover, with the ocean all around you, this is the perfect place to indulge in some water sports like snorkelling, sailing, diving, swimming with the dolphins, etc. Apart from this, the Bahamas also offers beautiful churches and some amazing shopping opportunities.
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Greece
Greece is another summer holiday location that offers you an abundance of sea and sand. Greece is home to almost 6000 islands and each has a different personality, giving you the opportunity to spend your time on an island as per your likes and dislikes. Some of the places that you must visit in Greece are Mykonos, Paros, Ios, etc. Greece is colourful and vibrant and perfect for youngsters. If you are looking for a place to spend your summer holidays with your friends or perhaps the special someone in your life, choose Greece. You would not regret it!
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Thailand
When the temperature soars high during summers, all you want to do is to take a dip in a refreshing pool. And, Thailand offers this in plenty! Thailand is a land of some of the most beautiful beaches where you relax and rejuvenate as well as enjoy an array of water sports like scuba diving, parasailing, snorkelling, etc. Apart from this, it has a picturesque beauty that would take your breath away. Added to these are the luxurious resorts and boutique hotels that are the highlight of Thailand. Most of these hotels and resorts have spas where you can get a relaxing Thai massage whenever you want. All in all, it would be a holiday where you can relieve all your stress and worries.
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London
When the cold winds die down and the sun starts shining, it is the perfect time to pack your bags and head to London. Apart from the regular sightseeing options in the city, London offers so much more both to the locals and the tourists during the summer months. Several festivals are conducted in London during summer, some of which include the Udderbelly Festival, the Notting Hill Carnival, etc. You would find something for everyone, be it the young or the old. Two things you must remember when visiting London in the summers is that it can be crowded and it can rain anytime, and so you must carry your umbrellas with you.
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Miami
The first thing that comes to mind when we think of Miami is a beach. While beaches are the major attraction of Miami, this city is not just about sand and surf. On the other hand, this place would surprise you with its historical attractions, bird and animal sanctuaries, parks and gardens, etc. Apart from this, the city is rich in arts and culture too and you would be able to catch up some amazing dance, theatre, art shows and music concerts when in Miami. In short, it can be said that Miami is an ideal place for a family holiday as it has several surprises for people of all ages.
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Prague
If the beaches, oceans and mountains do not appeal to you, and you are more of a person who is more interested in history, arts and culture, Prague would be a great place for you. The Prague Castle, Vltava River, Charles Bridge, Dancing House, Petrin, Riegrovy Sady, Vitkov, etc. are some of the major attractions of Prague. Apart from this, the city hosts several art and cultural events that you should not miss. The Museum Night, Festival of Italian Operas, Prague Folklore Days, music concerts, etc. are some of the events that you should look out for in the city.
Apart from the above-mentioned places, there are several other countries and cities in the world that would make your summer holidays memorable. All you need to do is look for a place that suits your personality and has something for all the members in the family. This is how you would be able to create the perfect holiday for you and your loved ones.
8 Travel Scams Happening Right Now in Europe and How to Avoid Them
Falling victim to a scam is something we want to try and avoid in life, but when we’re on our holidays we sometimes tend to be more relaxed and naïve to the local’s way of life. Researching the laws and culture before you venture out is really important, and could potentially stop you from falling victim to many of Europe’s tourism scams.
Being in ‘holiday’ mode is an exciting adventurous feeling often leading us to believe we’re invincible to danger, and not taking into consideration the risk and dangers still surrounding us. In more than enough cases we’ve all seen an intoxicated tourist in an unfit state, wondering down the strip alone – some laugh and others stare, but more freighting is organised scam artists are probably watching their every stumble.
One of the 8 common scams in Europe put together courtesy of AIG ,is the extortionate bill scam and it can start as early as you step of the plane, to adventuring out in search of nightlife entertainment. A few drinks later you look at your bill to see an extortionate surcharge and by the time you know it, your being marched to the cash machine and threatened.
Don’t be put off by these scams, just be wise and use your common sense, you may feel like you’re in paradise but the dark side is just metres away. Stick to the main bars, but if you want somewhere more local and relaxed check out the reviews, if it doesn’t feel right don’t go in.
Apart from this example there are many other common scams happening right now, from highway pirates to fake taxi drivers. Enjoy your travels but be pre-cautious, take a look at the infographic below and wise up in time for your adventure.
Booking a holiday can be an intimidating task, particularly if you’ve taken responsibility for a group to travel together. Needs and tastes can come into conflict, and while internet searches and social trends have widened the options of places to stay, sometimes the choice can be overwhelming. Be it a country cottage or urban hostel, treehouse or penthouse, each comes with its pros and cons, making them dream stays for some – and a nightmare proposition for others.
Help has arrived in the form of this handy flow chart by Wimdu, which breaks down your options by group and by holiday type to suggest the most appropriate category of accommodation, whatever your needs. Travelling alone? Simple. You know your desired level of comfort, your aesthetic values, and the kind of people you want to be around – or to avoid. Taking a romantic break with your S.O.? Decide whether a mellow retreat will rekindle your sense of adventure, or you want to hit the city lights and dance til dawn.
With friends or family, it can be trickier. Pleasing everybody is no mean achievement, and nobody wants to find themselves cooped up with a band of grumpy or unenthusiastic bunkmates. If it’s mates your travelling with, consider what prompted the trip – did the nightlife at home get too sleepy, or are you all in search of some detox and fresh air? If you’ve got kids with you, their needs can take priority. Planning around a fussy eater or an anarchic two-year-old can make the trip smoother for everyone – and tuning in with their current fads can result in an inspiring trip all round.
There’s no shortage of options for the modern holidaymaker searching for somewhere to stay. Whether you know just what kind of break you want or you’re still trying to balance everybody’s preferences, the first step is to point your finger at the top of the chart – and see where it takes you.
So you’ve set out on your travels in search of a tan, a rest, and maybe some adventure. But before you even reach your destination, you find yourself lumbered with pale skin, dizziness and nausea. Of course, you know this feeling from before – it’s the dreaded motion sickness that’s long blighted journeys by road, sea, or air.
Travel sickness is a common condition, though which means friendly advice and folk wisdom abound on the internet. While there’s no universal remedy, there are plenty of effective tips to help you reach your destination before you reach for that paper bag – and with a bit of trial and error, you can soon tailor a travel routine that minimizes suffering.
To start with, you can mount your defences before even leaving home by eating lightly, trying motion sickness tablets or antihistamines, and packing anything that will make the journey more comfortable for you – sucky sweets and gum come highly recommended! During the journey, getting physical can offset the weirdness of travel motion: mindful breathing and a stroll along the deck, aisle or service station forecourt can trick your body into forgetting what’s going on. And try fixing your eyes on the horizon or a distant object – in addition to reducing queasiness, people will think you’re deep in thought and stop pestering you with tiresome observations (okay, that last bit’s my own folk wisdom).
Science isn’t even 100% sure what causes motion sickness – and far less found a cure. But by combining tips from well-wishing travellers who’ve been through the same, you can significantly improve your travel experience. Check out the infographic below by Dive.In: popular solutions from the worldly-wise web have been totted up and cross-referenced to provide a no-nonsense primer for managing the condition – and making it a happy holiday after all.
In the land down under, there is no shortage of things to do. If you’re traveling to the most populated city in this land of extremes, you may be searching for the most extreme experiences to write home about. Here’s a few of the adventure sports Sydney has to offer your starved adrenaline glands.
Shark Dive in Sydney
This Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary shark dive will take your breath away. Well, not literally, as they do provide oxygen for all divers. But when you dip your toes into the main oceanarium and you see sharks, stingrays, and turtles circling you, you’ll wish everyone could witness you frolicking in this underwater wonderland. At 30 minutes long, this dive may seem short, until you remember you’ll be surrounded by sharks with sharp teeth that might bite you if they weren’t well-fed. After contemplating that, 30 minutes sounds like more than enough time to get a shot with your favorite enormous sea creature.
Jetboat Sydney Harbour
If you haven’t heard of jetboating, imagine sitting in a boat with your closest family and friends. Now imagine a madman takes the wheel. That’s the gist, and it’s way more fun than it sounds. This boat is designed for maximum speed and maneuverability, so you’ll be getting drenched as your skilled driver makes 180 and 270-degree spins, intense fishtails, turns and powerslides at high speeds. Every now and then, you’ll get a chance to breathe and take in the beautiful sights of Sydney Harbor as well. Just hold on tight!
Canyon in the Blue Mountains
If you’re looking for a challenging abseiling experience that mashes the thrill of witnessing pristine nature and adrenaline-pumping physical activity, canyoning in the Blue Mountains is for you. You’ll adventure through the highest and deepest of the canyon as you navigate the breathtaking terrain. Trek, climb, jump, swim, and rappel your way through Australia’s most beautiful region to get a personal look at untouched caves and magnificent waterfalls. There’s two difficulties to choose from, so if you aren’t up for the challenging Rainforest Canyoning experience, the beginner-friendly Empress Canyon welcomes you.
There’s plenty to do in Harbour City, but these experiences are guaranteed to get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping. Whether you’re an underwater adventurer, fan of extreme water-sports, or a hiker who enjoys a challenge, you’ll be happy you made it to Sydney.
Every trip is special as it is and you want to keep it in your memory forever. One of the most efficient tools to accomplish that is with your camera. Still, sometimes it seems as though all your photography skills cannot capture the impression of the place you have visited, not even nearly. To avoid the feeling of disappointment when you scroll through your vacation images, you will need a few tips on how to take your photographing to the next level. It is not nearly as difficult as you might think. With just a few changes, you will be able to have the most amazing photos. Just follow our lead.
Keep Your Camera Always By Your Side
Being at some entirely different place than your hometown is always exciting and almost any scene you are witnessing can be unique and special. That is why you should always keep your camera or smartphone by your side, so you could snap a shot in a second. Remember to be patient and not to give up, any moment now the ideal scene will come up. Sometimes it takes a couple of hours for the perfect setting and lighting.
Think About Composition
You do not have to be professional photographer to think about composition when taking your travel photos. Composition is a way of telling a good story by arranging the visual elements within the frame. One of the most common photography mistakes is not complying with the basic rules of composition. The rule of thirds means that the photo subject is located in the intersection of the lines of a tic-tac-toe grid.
Use People as Subjects
Photographs with people can be much more powerful than simple architecture or landscape photos. Not only that a person in the image will give a sense of perspective, but it will also enhance the scale. So the next time you see crowd walking in front of a monument you want to shoot, do not idly wait until they pass by, but capture them in the photo. You will see that the results are much more lively and exciting.
Get Creative
Photography is supposed to be fun. Trying your best to make everything perfect will only lead to poor results and dissatisfaction with your images. That is why you should play with different perspectives, shoot from the side, from high above or from down low. Add some dynamic to your photos. Use unusual things as the objects of your photos (an object that someone left behind in a coffee shop, an empty glass on the table, or just click here and find some new ideas from people who like to share their work).
Get Close
By placing your camera or smartphone near to the subject/object of the photo, you will add an interesting twist to your vacation album. If you are shooting some water surface you can bring your phone right to the water’s edge you will create a fun reflective effect. When shooting portraits, try to get as close as you can to capture the face expressions and to make the subject sharply focused.
Do Not Exaggerate with Editing
Usually, all it takes is a couple of touches to make your picture perfect. You can fix the composition with cropping the frame, enhance saturation for landscape photos and use some fine tuning moves to improve the overall appearance of the photo. If you are a filter-aficionado, try not to overuse them and to use them wisely. Black and white almost never goes well with landscape photos and HDR is not the perfect tool for portraits.
At the end relax and enjoy your travel. Never try too hard to get the perfect results. Some of the best photos in the world are made accidentally.
With its outstanding skyscrapers towering against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, Sydney, Australia, is considered by many as one of the most beautiful metropolitan areas in the world. Sydney is bustling with life and energy and provides a broad range of attractions and activities in which visitors can indulge when on holiday. Tourists can choose from a variety of options with something to please everyone. Below are five fun things to do in Sydney city:
The Sydney Opera House
Sydney boasts one of the world’s most renowned theatres, called the Sydney Opera House. Here, more than 1,000 performances take place on an annual basis. The Opera House, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to multiple stages where performances occur every day of the year. Anyone visiting the city will not want to miss a trip to this outstanding theatre.
The Harbour Bridge
The Harbour Bridge, which is arguably Australia’s most well-known symbol, is another attraction holidaymakers should place on their must-see list. This one-of-a-kind structure can be used as a viewing platform from where visitors can take in the spectacular landscape that surrounds the bridge. Walking across the famous arch is a popular activity among local residents and holidaymakers alike, and such an experience will never be forgotten.
Shopping and Nightlife
Sydney is also considered one of the world’s most fashionable cities by numerous designers across the globe. Australian Fashion Week, which is hosted by the city each year, is a favourite event of both consumers and those who own shops, boutiques, discount outlets or other apparel establishments. The city is also well known for its exciting and boisterous nightlife, where something can be found to please all travellers, from trendy nightclubs to traditional restaurants and bars. Kings Crossing and Circular Quay are two of the best areas for nightlife and shopping opportunities in Sydney.
Sydney’s Darling Quarter
The Darling Quarter should not be overlooked by any Sydney visitor, as a trip to this interesting and beautiful area is sure to be an intriguing experience. Sydney’s Darling Quarter is a new and vibrant community created by local builders and architects. It features beautifully designed buildings in contemporary style, as well as green open spaces, a vast array of cafés and bars, a wide selection of eateries featuring cuisine from around the world, and numerous children’s playgrounds and recreational areas.
The Rocks
Situated in the Circular Quay area is the city’s oldest and most beautiful colonial district. Often referred to by local residents as “The Rocks,” this part of the city is home to numerous pubs, shops, restaurants, art galleries and even a small museum. Settled at the end of the 18th century, The Rocks is a terrific starting point from which holidaymakers can begin a day of sightseeing and shopping.
With all the fun things to do in Sydney city, it is easy to find something to please any type of traveller. For this reason, a sojourn in this lovely and engaging Metropolis is guaranteed to be a one-of-a-kind experience.
The capital of Serbia is becoming a major hit among European tourists. It’s a city with hundreds of years of history, impressive architecture, and, as a focal point of life in Serbia, has an impressive art and nightlife scene. It’s interesting to see how the cultural spheres of the West and the East clash in Belgrade, making the city a unique amalgam of both. In Belgrade, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Belgrade fortress and Victor monument at sunset
Find a festival you like and visit it
There are over a hundred festivals held in Belgrade in an average year! The theme? Whatever you like – music, fashion, food & drink, art, theater, film. The most popular festivals are the Belgrade Summer Festival and the Beer Festival: the latter is one of the largest festivals in the region, with half a million visitors each year. It lasts five days, there is no entry fee, and visitors can enjoy various kinds of beer, concerts of many domestic and foreign stars.
Beautiful hostesses at Belgrade Beer Festival
Explore the Temple of St. Sava
One of the symbols of the city is located near its center; it’s actually hard to miss, seeing its more than 70 meters tall. Built out of white marble, the Temple can fit in more than ten thousand people. It’s one of the largest orthodox churches in the world, looming over the city with its massive, 12 meters tall white granite dome. Considered by many to be the most impressive building in Serbia, it’s a monument to Serbian culture, history, and religion which has shaped the local way of life for centuries.
Temple of St. Sava at Vracar plateau
Shop at Dorcol
Care for some shopping? Dorcol is the part of the city where all the brand and trendy stores of Belgrade are located, and some of the finest restaurants as well. Take a walk through its streets, enjoy your shopping, and perhaps grab some lunch afterward.
Visit the Savamala
One of the oldest parts of Belgrade is located on the right bank of the Sava. What’s so special about it? It’s the heart of Belgrade contemporary and alternative art scene, and there are a few cool night clubs as well. Lots of Belgrade-based artists and designers frequent the Savamala, its cultural centers, galleries, and ateliers. Start your visit by exploring the KC Grad, an old warehouse now turned into an exciting art gallery/coffee shop/library.
There are graffiti or various installations on every corner. The local contemporary art scene has a great reputation throughout Europe, the main reason for it being the awesome Savamala.
Street art in Savamala
Experience the Belgrade nightlife
Belgrade has become one of Europe’s most prestigious clubbing destinations, as its nightlife scene is pretty unique: most of the clubs are actually located on large boats or rafts on the Danube and Sava rivers. Playing a wide variety of music – from obscure techno subgenres to the popular local pop folk music, these rafts attract thousands every night, especially in the summer when the weather is nice. A usual night out in Belgrade means you’ll hop through a couple of clubs and feel the vibe of the Belgrade youth. And trust us, you’ll be back for more.
One of raft clubs on Sava river
A city like Belgrade has dozens of hotels, so finding a suitable accommodation should not be a problem. Although the tourist influx is high during the entire year, you should have no problem with booking your room. Of course, there are plenty of low-cost hostels as well, and you can even check out a few couch-surfing websites and try your luck that way: the people of Belgrade are very friendly and lots of them, especially the younger population, will gladly accept you.
With such a diverse and rich offer, plenty of landmarks and entertainment options, and great locals, Belgrade is truly the hottest European destination in 2016.
Best Travel Guides to Destinations Around the World
