North America, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

5 Best Tourist Attractions in Missoula, Montana

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5 Best Tourist Attractions in Missoula, Montana

The great city of Missoula sits near the edge of the western border of Montana and is approximately 45 miles from Utah. It’s the second-largest city in the state and sits along the Clark Fork River. It’s called the “Hub Of Five Valleys” due to its proximity to the Garnet Range, Rattlesnake Mountains, Sapphire Range, Bitterroot Mountains, and the Reservation Divide. Car rentals are popular, and with all of the scenic beauty surrounding Missoula, it has become one of the hottest destination spots for outdoor enthusiasts in Montana. Here are a few attractions you don’t want to miss when vacationing in Missoula. 

1 – Glacier National Park

Missoula

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/lake-mcdonald-glacier-national-park-1874263/

Glacier National Park is one of the most scenic natural wonders you can visit in the United States. The park is full of pristine lakes and colorful wildflowers that are a sight to see. With over 700 miles of hiking trails, it’s perfect for seasoned hikers and first-time tourists. Hikers can enjoy expansive views of the mountains and grassy mountain slopes and even see bighorn sheep and mountain goats grazing in the valley. 

If you’d like to see everything that Glacier National Park offers, take a drive on the Going To The Sun Road. You can drive from one end of the park to the other on this road in about two hours. It’s the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of Glacier National Park. While driving along the road, you’ll see everything from pastoral valleys to distant glacial lakes and wildlife. One of the most popular attractions on the drive is Logan Pass which is 6,000 feet in elevation and features a breathtaking view. It’s one of the highest points you can travel to by car and is the entry point to the Hidden Lake and Highline Trail hiking trails. 

2 – Canyon River Golf Club

Missoula

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/golf-golf-course-5490886/

Canyon River Golf Club is a premier destination for professional and amateur golfers of all skill levels and ages. In 2010, 2015, and 2020, the Pacific Northwest PGA Championships took place at this prestigious club and attracted professional golfers from all over the globe. This well-maintained championship-level course features deep greenside bunkers, multi-tiered greens, tall grasses, pine trees, and tons of sandtraps. It’s a challenging course that’s fun to play and sure to please. 

After enjoying a round of golf, you can relax in The Fox Den to indulge in a wide variety of food and beverages or visit one of the local breweries just a stone’s throw away from Canyon River Golf Club. The Bayern Brewing Company, Conflux Brewing Company, and the Tamarack Brewing Company are all within a 15-minute drive from the club. If you’re a fan of golf and love finishing off the day with a cold one, this is a no-brainer. 

3 – Lolo National Forest 

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/caravan-camping-rv-campsite-camper-1468411/

The Lolo National Forest is home to the northern portion of the Sapphire Mountains. Within its two million acres of forest, you will see elk, moose, mountain goats, black bears, grizzly bears, timber wolves, bighorn sheep, mule deer, and many other types of wildlife. Bald-head eagles, golden eagles, and trumpeter swans reside here, and there are close to 30 different species of ducks. In total, Lolo National Forest has 300 species of birds, 20 different types of fish, and over 60 mammals inside its borders. 

If camping is something you enjoy, Lolo National Forest is home to the Seeley Lake Campground. At Seeley Lake, patrons can rent boats, canoes, and mountain bikes to explore the surrounding lakes and trails. It’s the perfect location for boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, and bird watching. This campground has modern facilities with restrooms that are handicap accessible and drinking water. At $20 per night, this campsite is very popular with people who enjoy RV camping and tent camping. Each camping site comes with a fire ring and picnic table, and you can park your vehicle right next to your site. 

4 – Montana Snow Bowl

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/skiing-girl-sun-snow-winter-ski-1723857/

For close to 60 years, the Montana Snow Bowl has attracted downhill and alpine skiers from all over the country. With its steep runs and vertical heights, skiers can expect one of the most exhilarating experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Located in the Lolo National Forest, the Montana Snow Bowl offers ski packages and lodging at the C’Mon Inn and Gelandesprung Lodge. 

At the C’Mon Inn, guests can enjoy hot tubs, swimming pools for the adults and kids, and a waterfall inside the tropical courtyard. These luxurious accommodations include suites with private jacuzzis, gas fireplaces, and complimentary breakfast. The Inn also features a game room, business center, fitness center, and free internet & WiFi. 

For a truly unique experience, you can book at the Gelandesprung Lodge. It has a European-style lodge that sits right at the bottom of the slope and features ski in and ski out capabilities. Shared and private baths are available, hot tubs, and kitchen facilities. If you’re frugal and looking to save some money, the discount lift tickets will make this a very affordable place to stay.

5 – Garnet Ghost Town

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/garnet-ghost-town-montana-abandoned-3943047/

The town of Garnet has existed for more than two hundred years. Back in the 1800s, this was a place that miners migrated to with the dream of making life-changing profits by mining gold and other precious minerals. As the influx of miners increased, it became apparent that the free-floating goal did not exist in the amounts miners expected. Garnet’s infrastructure could not sustain that overwhelming growth and suffered the consequences. 

With the passing of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act in 1890, miners abandoned Garnet in mass for the more profitable mineral, silver. The government needed silver to mint coins and believed the act would boost the economy. But in 1893, that plan didn’t work out, and the price of silver dropped. As a result, there was a run on the United States gold reserve, and President Grover Cleveland repealed the act. 

The crash in silver drove miners back to Garnet to search for gold. When Garnet was booming, it had 13 saloons and 20 mines and was the epitome of the wild, wild west. But in 1912, the town was devastated by fire, and by 1940 Garnet was abandoned and became a ghost town. Garnet is a must-see if you’re a history buff or enjoy visiting once-in-a-lifetime attractions. 

The attractions listed in this article are just a few of the many gems that Missoula can offer to outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of history and culture. You can surf or kayak at the Clark Fork River, visit local breweries and vineyards, enjoy cultural icons such as the Wilma Theatre, the Missoula Art Museum, the Montana Natural History Center, or even take in a world-class symphony. Here in Missoula, you can discover a world you’ve never seen at an affordable price. 



Travel Tips

Exciting Activities You Can Try in Las Vegas

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Las Vegas famous landmarks

It’s time for your Las Vegas vacation! Wave a temporary goodbye to your 9-to-5 and hello to some much needed downtime. A little R&R is a great way to spend your hard-earned vacation time, but when the adventurer within calls, be sure to answer! Vegas is home to all things wild and weird. Affectionately known as the ultimate adult playground, this city is vibrant, buzzing with excitement, and jam-packed with fun things to do. 

Las Vegas is the ultimate tourist destination. Experience world class entertainment, Michelin Star fine dining, incredible nightly performances, unparalleled nightlife, and a plethora of unique attractions you won’t find anywhere else – including 4 of the 20 most expensive buildings in the world.

Unique Experiences 

Las Vegas is world renowned for its party scene, luxury casinos, and first rate shopping. Sin City is also home to a host of “off the beaten path” attractions. There are a ton of hidden gems inside the city limits that will excite you and get your adrenaline pumping.

Unleash your inner adventure seeker with a visit to The Gun Store. This world-famous newly remodeled, indoor shooting range offers multiple air conditioned lanes, more than 60 different firearms to choose from Safety is The Gun Store’s top priority at all times. They will even pick you up and drop you off with their shuttle service. Enjoy the ultimate adrenaline rush, safely, with this badass experience. Book online and get $10 off your package.

Speaking of shuttle service, it’s available for food, too! Don’t think that delivery is limited to pizza. Excite your taste buds with fantastic fare that you can wrap your mouth around via delivery from culinary experts at The Chefery.

Roll the Dice
Las Vegas casinos are a paradise for gamblers, shopping enthusiasts, foodies, and relaxation lovers alike. Each casino is a destination in itself — whether it’s the unique architecture of The Venetian, or the famous Bellagio fountains, you’ll never run out of things to see and do.

Las Vegas casinos

Vegas is synonymous with gambling, you can’t think of one without the other. There are over 100 casinos to explore, each with its own theme. Try your luck at thousands of slot machines and card tables. You’ll hit the jackpot (at least with your Vegas experience) with unlimited opportunities to win big. 

Not a big spender? There are a few ways to save some serious cash to do Vegas on the cheap.

Lap of Luxury

Luxury treatments

When you need a break from the excitement of the casino floor, check into one of Vegas’s luxury spas. Most casinos offer high-end, lavish spa services at state of the art facilities. Enjoy rejuvenating treatments from facials, to massages, to holistic healing therapies. Relax poolside with a drink in hand. You’ll leave looking more youthful and feeling completely zen. 

Supersized Shopping 

Las Vegas shopping

Vegas is a shopaholic’s dream come true, it’s home to many designer stores, bargain outlets, and souvenir shops. Splurge or window shop at The Shops at Crystals, a collection of high-end stores like Gucci, Tom Ford, and Fendi. Vegas’s Fashion Show is the perfect combination of luxury and accessible stores. It has big names like Saks 5th Avenue and trendy stores like Forever 21. There is something for everyone and every budget.

Unmatched Nightlife

The nightlife scene in Las Vegas is the stuff of legends, step foot inside any Vegas club or bar and you’ll understand why. Vegas nightclubs are a long standing, fan favorite, featuring bottle service, the hottest DJ’s, celebrity hosts, and of course dancing the night away. The venues are elaborately designed to feel like the party will never end! 

Las Vegas nightlife

If dance clubs aren’t your thing, there are also plenty of other places to grab a drink. Las Vegas bars and lounges offer a different, yet equally as fun atmosphere. Enjoy hand-crafted cocktails at down-to-earth spots that the locals love, sing along at a piano bar, or find an exclusive speakeasy!

Travel Planning, Travel Tips

What Are Some Unique Activities to Try on Vacation?

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What Are Some Unique Activities to Try on Vacation?

You will soon be saying sayonara to your 9-to-5 and hello to beaches and downtime—for days on end. But although you look forward to some R&R, your inner adventurer is also looking to experience some thrills and frills (and even chills).

The good news? It’s more than possible to find activities that will excite you, stimulate you, and even shock you as you navigate a foreign land or another city in the United States.

Here’s a rundown on the top unique activities to indulge in on your upcoming vacation if you’re serious about creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Sea Turtle Swimming

Headed to Cancun, Mexico? Consider taking time to go swimming with the gorgeous sea turtles there. In addition to swimming with the turtles, you may have the opportunity to go scuba diving, kayaking, or snorkeling with them as well. 
This surreal experience will allow you to get up close and personal with nature’s gentle giants (they can get as big as six feet long and 2,000 pounds). So, it can be both exciting and educational for any turtle lover.

Gel Ball

If you love playing paintball, it’s time to sign up for an experience that will blow paintball out of the water—gel style. The activity is called gel ball, and you can find it in Australia. 

With this activity, you’ll shoot at other people with water-filled balls instead of paintballs—or air pellets that have been compressed. You and your group will be divided into a couple of teams of 6-12 people, and every player will get five balls and plenty of water canisters. Whichever team gets 50 points (from 50 successful shots) first wins.

Whale Watching

Ready to get your heart racing—in a good way—and feel alive again? Book a Dana Point Whale Watching safari the next time you make your way to Southern California. This unique vacation activity will breathe new life into you by giving you an adrenaline rush each time you see the magical 100-foot-long creatures leap out of the water.

In addition to seeing whales, be prepared to see a wide variety of other creatures, too—creatures like birds, sea lions, sharks, and dolphins—during your whale watching safari.

unique activities

Whale Mammal Animal Marine – Free photo on Pixabay

Volcano Visit

Looking for a little sizzle in your vacation experience? Add visiting a volcano to your to-do list. 

For instance, if you’re visiting the Southwest Pacific Ocean island country of Vanuatu, you’ll come across some of the world’s most gorgeous volcanoes. These volcanoes are active and are, in fact, still growing as a result of tectonic movement. So, viewing them couldn’t be a better way to enjoy a unique, enthralling experience—and one you can capture proof of on camera.

Chocolate Factory Visit

Chocolate lovers unite! At an iconic chocolate factory located at your travel destination, such as Peru, you and fellow chocolate connoisseurs can satisfy both your sweet tooth and your curiosity about all things related to confection creation. 

Get ready to learn anything and everything there is to know about the making of chocolate. During your chocolate factory tour, you may learn about the process of roasting cocoa beans, boiling beans, and fermenting beans to remove the bitterness. You’ll also learn about the various types of chocolates made in the past following the discovery of cocoa plants. And the best part? You’ll have the chance to taste some of the chocolates being made—an irresistible way to top off the day.


Food Dessert Pralines – Free photo on Pixabay

Windsurfing

Imagine the feeling of the wind blowing in your face and washing all of your cares and stresses away one breezy gust at a time. This can easily become your reality if you choose to go windsurfing during your next vacation, especially if you’re going to a popular windsurfing destination, like Argentina.

During your excursion, you can take in the picturesque scenery surrounding you—

think shimmery waters and snow-capped mountains—as you unwind and relax. You’ll also simultaneously get a workout. That’s the added bonus you need to feel your best holistically, from a physical, mental, and emotional perspective

Cooking Fun

Want to unleash your inner chef and enjoy high-end cuisine in the process? Sign up for a cooking class during your next vacation, or embark on a food tour. Both of these excursions are excellent alternatives to simply dining at a restaurant yet again.

For instance, take a cooking class in the home of a local chef in countries like Portugal and Thailand, which will add to your local perspective. Meanwhile, on a food tour, you’ll walk to local eateries to indulge in a wide variety of local flavors over a two- to four-hour period. If you’re a libation lover, you can also enjoy paying a visit to a number of local breweries or distilleries to discover some new favorite beers or wines while also enjoying your old favorites.

Water Slide

If water activities are a must for you when you go on vacation, then carve out time for a water slide adventure. For instance, in Brazil, you can try out Agua Park or Beach Park along Rio De Janeiro’s east coast. 

Be prepared (as prepared as you can be) for quick-flowing rapids as well as bubbling pools of warm water. And take a break from the rapids from time to time by relaxing in large hammocks. You’ll feel like you’re living your best life at an oasis—and you’ll enjoy every minute of it.

Take Your Vacation Unique Activities to a Whole New Level Today!

Vacation is more than just an opportunity to break away from the day-to-day. It’s also an opportunity to get your feet wet (so to speak) and experience a range of emotions that have been buried for far too long—feelings like anticipation, excitement, and even stomach knots that come undone through adrenaline-filled moments of ecstasy.

Consider the above-mentioned unique activities on your next trip across the nation or the globe. With the right combination of unique activities, you can easily elevate your travel experience and learn firsthand what it means to live again.

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Travel Tips

10 Tips on How to Make Great Travel Videos

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10 tips on how to make great travel videos!

If traveling is your passion and you want to share your experiences with the world, starting to make travel videos is a fantastic idea. Video content is not only the most colorful and authentic way to present a destination, but it’s also a sought-after medium nowadays. However, a travel video needs to be very well-made in order to capture attention and create the desired effect. Here are 10 tips that will make your travel videos to the next level!

Prepare your gear

If you are a beginner at video making, you should start by getting the appropriate equipment and, even more importantly, familiarizing yourself with it. Today, smartphones have quite formidable capabilities so don’t feel like you have to immediately invest in an expensive camera for a good video. If you do decide to get a DSLR, make sure you pick a user-friendly one to get started with and study the settings in detail.

Get the technical aspect right

Today, high-definition content is the norm. Therefore, you have to ensure you get the settings right for the most enjoyable video quality. Besides the resolution, which would be optimal to keep at 1080p, you should also mind the frame rate of your video. Depending on the kind of footage you are shooting, you might want to vary between 30 and 60 fps. When there is a lot of motion, 60 fps can really add to the quality, but you should be mindful of the video size.

Keep it steady

No one likes shaky videos. However, you won’t always have the opportunity to use a tripod, nor should you. Your travel video should include dynamic footage in order to be interesting. So, make sure you look into one more piece of equipment which will transform your footage filmed during walks or hikes: a stabilizer. A gimbal stabilizer is a handy tool and it can even be rather compact so it won’t be a hassle to carry along.

Stay authentic

When presenting a place, you want it to look realistic and authentic. Therefore, you may want to skip using strong filters on your production. However, that does not mean you cannot correct your footage so that it gets the atmosphere across. Learn about color grading and keep modifications moderate for the best effect.

Find the perfect length

Pinpointing the ideal length for a travel video is quite tricky. As a general rule of thumb, you can stick to 2 to 3-minute long pieces. This length is ideal for presenting the best of a destination in a concise manner while not risking your viewers getting bored and clicking away. However, it should be noted that today, long-form videos are becoming more and more widespread. On platforms like YouTube, hitting the 10-minute mark can be beneficial depending on your goal.

Get close

You can make your travel video much more interesting by mixing it up a little. Get close to your subject and pique your audience’s interest by zooming in on the details. Show them the vegetation, bring them close to the food, make them appreciate architecture. It will also boost authenticity.

Learn some transitions

The importance of transitions cannot be stressed enough, particularly when you’re working on shorter, more dynamic videos. The right transitions improve the flow and give your video a sense of continuity, so practice some hand motions to get the right footage. Panning, dollying in and out, swiping or tilting the camera; there is a lot of room for creativity. Use these instead of effects on your video as those can make it look less professional.

Consider live

As mentioned earlier, people already consume a lot of long-form videos. Another type of video content that is on a massive rise is live video. High-quality live event streaming has taken the world by storm and the travel industry was not exempt from this. A lot of hospitality businesses adapted to the pandemic by implementing virtual tours but influencers are also finding that their audience likes the real interactions transmitted by such unedited footage, so it might be worth giving it a try.

Mind the audio

Video is a popular content format since it engages several of your senses at the same time. You can take advantage of this by giving ample attention to the auditory aspect of your video. Music plays an important part in setting the atmosphere, but it can even dictate your editing to create a cohesive whole, so pick your song wisely. Besides music, including sound effects will also make your production more immersive.

Stay dedicated!

Finally, making great travel videos is something that requires effort and dedication. You mustn’t let shyness or embarrassment get in your way, but you should also be prepared to go to lengths to get that perfect shot. Once you have a bit more experience, though, you will not hesitate to hike a few extra miles or wait a few extra hours if that means capturing an unrepeatable moment.

Today, anyone has the means to start making videos, but there is certainly a learning curve to making great ones. Hopefully, these tips will help you make your next travel video your best one so far!


Australia

5 Reasons to Visit Perth

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Located between the Indian Ocean and the Darling Scarp, Perth is one of the most beautiful cities in Western Australia. If you’ve always wanted to visit this city, just stay with us and keep on reading! Here are the top five reasons to visit Perth, so check them out and start planning your trip right away!

Reason #1: To explore Perth’s incredible food scene

In case you didn’t know, Perth prides itself on the amazing food scene you simply have to explore. When in Western Australia, you simply mustn’t skip traditional Aussie barbecue. No matter how weird or repulsive it may seem, kangaroo burgers and steaks are the first dishes you must try when visiting Perth. In fact, kangaroo meat is considered a true delicacy, so give it a try and you’ll see what we were talking about! For the best kangaroo loin, visit a restaurant called Balthazar. On the other hand, if you prefer Middle Eastern cuisine, you should probably book a table in Bivouac. Its warm ambience and fantastic service will definitely sweep you off your feet. However, if local seafood is your top choice, pay a visit to Madalena’s. One thing is certain – you won’t make a mistake whichever restaurant you opt for!

Perth beach

Reason #2: To swim at the world-class beaches

With more than 10,000 kilometers of coastline, Perth undoubtedly has some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. The first beach you must explore is Scarborough Beach, and it’s one of Perth’s most famous beaches. The shore is lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and surf shops, which makes it ideal for all travelers who love urban destinations. If you want to be active and enjoy water sports, you should choose Trigg Beach. This one can be quite challenging due to beach-breaking waves, rips, and undertows. So, try to avoid it if you want to swim only and opt for it if you’re a passionate surfer. However, if you don’t want to mix with big crowds of people, go visit Bathers Beach. It’s hidden between the rock breakwater of South Head and Challenger Harbour. This one is ideal if you just want to relax and unwind!

Reason #3: To look for the best education options

Did you know that studying in Australia is one of the best ways to explore this country on a budget? That’s right – Australia welcomes around 500,000 students who want to opt for foreign education! It actually is one of the most popular destinations among students simply because it has amazing universities, friendly people, and safe cities. Well, Perth is one of such cities, so don’t wait any longer and look for the best education options here. For example, if you’re all about beauty therapy, makeup, and spa treatments, you should check out Perth College of Beauty Therapy. It’s a great place to gain knowledge and valuable experience in the beauty industry. Besides that, you’ll also get a chance to explore Perth in the best possible way. Does it get better than that? We don’t think so! 

Reason #4: To explore Australia’s unique wildlife

If you’re an avid animal lover, you’ll have a lot to do in Perth. Needless to say, Australia is famous for its unique wildlife, and Perth is no exception. So, if you want to see kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, and other animals native to Australia, make sure to visit the Perth Zoo. This place will show you the lives of this country’s most loved animals – as well as around 160 other species from all around the globe. When you visit the Perth Zoo, you’ll get a chance to learn about Australia’s wildlife and plants in several different ways. Your journey will start with talks and presentations and end with close encounters with animals. For example, you can hang out with dingoes on Mondays and Thursdays or with red pandas on Wednesdays and Fridays. If you visit Perth during summer, you’ll be there for a season of incredible summer events, too!  

kangaroo Australia

Reason #5: To experience this city as a cultural hotspot

Last but not least, this city unquestionably is a cultural hotspot among everything else. And what does that mean? Well, it means that Perth is home to numerous museums and art galleries. Your first stop should be the Art Gallery of Western Australia. It houses the State Art Collection that includes one of the world’s finest collections of Indigenous art. You’ll be able to see the works of both historic and contemporary Australian artists here, which is a good enough reason to visit it. On the other hand, the Museum of Performing Arts is a great choice if you want to take a closer look at theatre history. You’ll be able to see fascinating items such as photographs, glamorous costumes, scripts, press clippings, and other historic pieces here at the Museum. So, if theatre history is one of your biggest interests, visit this place and you won’t regret it!

As you can tell, the reasons to visit Perth are truly numerous. However, these five are the best ones out there, so bear them in mind and plan your trip to this amazing city. All you have to do is to stick to our tips and you’ll certainly have the time of your life!

North America, Travel Tips

Monument Valley is A ‘Must-see’ for Movie Fans

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Words: Len Rutledge   Images: Phensri Rutledge

Anyone who is a cowboy movie fan has seen pictures of Monument Valley. It was originally shown to the world by Director John Ford who used the location for a number of his best-known films. Now it is a popular feature of Instagram. So, is it worthwhile to visit? My answer is definitely yes but international visitors will have to wait for the country to open up fully after the Covid19 shutdown.

It is located on the Arizona-Utah border in the USA and lies within the territory of the Navajo Nation Reservation. Because of this, it is not officially a National Park but the area that is most visited by tourists is known as Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. The main features are clusters of vast sandstone buttes, the largest reaching 300 m above the valley floor.

Monument Valley isn’t close to anything. The nearest airport is in Flagstaff some 300 km away but most international visitors end up renting a car from Las Vegas (640 km away) or Phoenix (500 km away) and driving to the Valley. Access to the Tribal Park is from US163 and you need to pay an entrance fee.

Monument Valley
The road towards Monument Valley

This takes you to the Visitor Centre and the View Hotel and also allows you to drive Valley Drive. Organised tours, which you pay extra for, provide access to other parts of the park.

Valley Drive

You can access this unpaved road in your own vehicle or take a tour with a Navajo guide. The drive is 27 kilometres long and typical times for the full trip are 2 to 4 hours. The road can become very busy during summer days, with queues at the major overlooks. I recommend early morning at this time of the year as the light is better for photography and there are far fewer people than later in the day. In summer, the park opens at 6 am and at 8 am for the rest of the year.

Monument Valley
Along Valley Drive

There is much to see along the Valley Drive. This part of Monument Valley is one of the most impressive large-scale landscapes anywhere in the Southwest of the USA. The best to photograph are the tall spires and thin buttes, and the contrasting smooth orange sand all around.

The initial descent from the Visitor Centre traverses a steep, rocky hillside via a series of switchbacks, then the road levels out and passes by three of the most famous Monument Valley formations; West Mitten Butte, Merrick Butte and East Mitten Butte. Further on, the Three Sisters are a group of thin pinnacles, eroded remnants of a narrow ridge extending southwards from one corner of Mitchell Mesa.

John Ford’s Point is a promontory at the edge of a plateau overlooking a large area of uneven, undulating desert land with several isolated peaks beyond. This is probably the best overlook in the park and has a large parking area because of its popularity.

Monument Valley
John Ford Point

A permanent Navajo jewelry store is located nearby, and you might be lucky to see an iconic image of a lone rider on a horse standing at the edge of the viewpoint as there are horses stationed here most of the day just for this purpose. This is the site where the famous Marlboro cigarette advertisement was shot.

The road continues from here as a one-way loop past Camel Butte, The Hub, Totem Pole and Yei Bi Chei, Sand Spring, Artist’s Point, North Window, and The Thumb before returning to the crossroads near John Ford’s Point.

Lower Monument Valley tour

This is a popular excursion, recommended for people interested in a thorough visual, historical and cultural insight. As well as the regular scenic wonders, you visit a traditional home where you see a demonstration of traditional Navajo rug weaving.

You also get to experience a traditional music performance with either the traditional drum, customary chant or flute playing in one of the valley’s largest natural arch amphitheatres. Most participants return with a new enlightenment and unforgettable memories.

Mystery Valley tour

If you’re looking for something extra in Monument Valley, you might want to explore Mystery Valley, home to labyrinth canyons, sandstone arches, and ancient ruins. This is only accessible with a Navajo guide who will share an insider perspective of this iconic area and teach you about Navajo culture and tradition.

You visit the ancient Anasazi dwellings and ruins with petroglyphs that look like they could have been scratched into the sandstone yesterday. Another feature is walking under many breathtaking arches.

Eating and staying

Inside the park, The View Hotel has rooms with scenic panoramas and they also have cabins. There are also RV sites or wilderness campsites.

Monument Valley
Through a window at the View Hotel

The hotel’s View Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner with a menu of Navajo inspired dishes and classic American cuisine. The adjacent View Express offers deli sandwiches, hot and cold food to take away, and cold drinks and ice cream.

Guided tours to Monument Valley are available from Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix and some other closer centres.

www.LenRutledge.com

Australia

5 Best Things to Do in Western Australia

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You’ve always wanted to visit Western Australia but never actually started to plan the trip of your dreams? Wait no longer because it’s about time you planned your upcoming journey to this part of the world! Here is a list of the five best things to do in Western Australia, so check it out and come up with a detailed itinerary. Just keep on reading and get down to it right away!

Explore Perth’s most popular attractions

If you’re one of those people who love to spend their vacation in urban areas, you should definitely put Perth on your must-visit list. This is the capital of the Australian state of Western Australia and this country’s fourth-most populous city. So, if you’re up for fabulous gourmet restaurants, magnificent skyscrapers, great boutiques, and amazing entertainment venues – Perth certainly is the right place for you! Besides that, this gorgeous city is the perfect choice for water sports such as surfing, sailing, and swimming, too. If you love to visit museums while traveling, don’t skip the Art Gallery of Western Australia. The Nostalgia Box is a fantastic choice for people who love to play video games from the 80s. Of course, try not to skip the typical Aussie barbecue that includes kangaroo steak or burgers. It’s a must-eat when in Australia! 

Perth

Visit the beautiful tourist town of Broome

Truth be told, Broome is one of the most popular Western Australian destinations at the moment. It’s a beautiful tourist town that’s a gateway to the outstanding Kimberley region at the same time. If you decide to visit this town, make sure not to skip Cable Beach – this town’s main attraction. This beach features a very impressive shoreline – white sands stretch for 22 kilometers! Its turquoise waters will sweep you off your feet, as well as romantic sunset camel rides. To learn more about this amazing town, be sure to visit the Broome Historical Museum. Did you know that Broom is famous for Staircase to the Moon, which is an extraordinary natural phenomenon? That’s right – when the full moon rises, people gather to watch the rays of light that gleam on the water. Those gleams create an optical illusion of steps leading to the moon. Don’t miss it when in Broome!

Go whale watching in Bremer Bay

Whale watching is one of the most popular activities in Western Australia, and the reasons for that are more than good. First of all, the small coastal township of Bremer Bay is home to the largest congregation of orcas in the southern hemisphere. Over 150 orcas gather here every summer, from January to March, and they visit the Bremer Canyon to feed on their prey. Apart from orcas, there are also pilot whales, sperm whales, and sunfish. All of them gather here during the first months of the year. The best way to get to Bremer Bay is by car, plane, or personalized bus transport. As for the whale watching itself, be sure to book a tour with Whale Watch Western Australia. This is the best way to experience these impressive creatures in their natural habitat! 

whale watch Australia

Check out Ningaloo Reef Marine Park

In case you didn’t know, Ningaloo Reef is the largest fringing reef in the world. It also is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which makes it one of the most popular places in Western Australia for a good reason. The Ningaloo Reef Marine Park extends for about 260 km. Unlike the Great Barrier Reef, this one is easily accessible from the shore. When it comes to its marine life, there are dugongs, manta rays, whale sharks, turtles, humpback whales, and many other species. Besides these, there are over 300 species of corals and 500 species of fish, which makes this place extremely diverse and exciting to explore. If you’re all about snorkeling, you must visit the gorgeous Turquoise Bay. Its white sand and crystal clear water will undoubtedly help you find your zen!

Go for a tour in Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park

Last but certainly not least, Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park is another amazing place you must see when in Western Australia. This destination is known for its remarkable rock formations that remained unknown to the outside world until 1983. When they were finally discovered, these were made a part of both the National and UNESCO World Heritage lists. Did you know that the Bungle Bungle hills were home to the Aboriginal tribes for thousands of years? That’s right, which is exactly what makes them so exciting to explore! The rock domes of Bungle Bungle are made of soft sandstone that was flawlessly carved into a beehive shape thanks to summer monsoon rains. Don’t skip this place and you’ll see what we were talking about!

As you can see, there are so many fantastic things to do in Australia, and these five are the best ones if you want to visit Western Australia. So, if you ever find yourself in this part of the world, just stick to our list and have the time of your life. A fabulous trip is guaranteed, without a shadow of a doubt!

Australia, Travel Tips

Tips to Find an Accommodation in Broken Hill, NSW

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Broken Hill History

To those who want to visit this historic place, let’s get some history about it. Broken Hill is a mining city that is west of outback New South Wales, Australia. It’s known for its mining and other economic histories. It was recognized as a prosperous mining town in the 1990s. Even though they had some hardships through the years it didn’t stop them from being registered in 2015 as the longest-running mining town on the National Heritage List.

Regardless of their decelerated circumstances this town manages to offer outstanding parks, eye-catching gardens and several attractions like their Living Desert Sculptures, Pro Hart’s painted Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow outside the gallery, and the Broken Hill houses with iron walls, which was built in the 1800s and 1900s just to name a few.

Things to do in Broken Hill

This city has a lot to offer not only for the locals but for the tourists. It has a lot of man-made attractions to offer the tourists. Historic buildings, walking trails, arts and galleries, the Silverton Camel Farm and several lakes. You will be able to tour the mining history of the town through their geology displays.

They are known for their Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia which is a medical service that provides medical care to people who live in the country who don’t have access to a hospital or a doctor’s office. It is the largest aeromedical business in the world. School of the Air reaches the school-age children for primary and secondary education who live in secluded areas in Australia.

Tips to Find the Best Accommodation in Broken Hill

Here are several tips to find the best lodging in Broken Hill. Looking for the best place to lodge can be tiresome, frustrating, and sometimes a headache. But here are a few suggestions. First, take a deep breath and dig in.

There are many Broken Hill accommodations in Australia, you do your due diligence. It lists motels, hotels, historic cottages, campgrounds, farm stays, townhouses, roadhouses and outback resorts. This is your choice.

  • You can search the internet by going to the website to check out what lodging they have to offer you in Broken Hill. Because each accommodation has its own special place. It just depends on what you are looking for and willing to pay.
  • You can call the visitors center in Broken Hill, Australia, request a brochure, talk to someone there to find out more information that way.
  • You can reach out to the hotels, motels, cottages, campgrounds, etc., to find out the best accommodation for yourself and your family. Visit the online travel sites that can give you the information you want and the prices of what the cost will be to stay there.
  • Another way to find the best accommodation in Broken Hill NSW is to read the reviews. People who have previously stayed will definitely tell you how their stay was. Believe them, because if a customer is unhappy it reflects badly on the hotel, motel or any lodging.
  • Call your local library if you don’t have access to anything else. You’ll enter a world full of information on every topic, city, state, and town. Basically, you will find what you are looking for.
Australia

Best Things to Do in Sydney for Active Travelers

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You’re an avid traveller who can’t wait to visit Sydney and explore everything this city has to offer? Look no further because we’re here to help you out! Here are the five best things to do in Sydney if you’re an avid traveller, so keep on reading and take notes!

Go kayaking both in Sydney and out of it

As Sydney is surrounded by water, kayaking is a fantastic way to explore this city at its finest. This is particularly true if you want to explore Sydney from the water – but without getting wet. If that’s the case with you, skip surfing and swimming and rent a kayak instead. This is a unique way to explore Sydney Harbour and the exciting ocean. Of course, just be sure not to go all by yourself, so opt for a guided kayaking tour. There are numerous tours that’ll take you in front of the Sydney Opera House and under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. On the other hand, there are kayaking tours out of Sydney as well. Kangaroo Creek in the Royal National Park and Lane Cove River in the Lane Cove National Park are just some of them, so give them a try and you won’t regret it! 

Sydney kayak

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Speaking of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it is one of the most famous symbols of Sydney you simply mustn’t miss. However, if you’re an adventurer who wants to experience an adrenaline rush on their trip, you shouldn’t stop at seeing this bridge from the ground. That’s right – you should climb it! This will make your entire trip a lifetime experience, so don’t skip it and you’ll see what we were talking about! Of course, there are several different types of climbs. So, make sure to pick one according to your personal preferences and current physical abilities. For example, the ultimate climb is a fully guided tour that takes around 3.5 hours. You’ll even get a certificate of achievement once you’re done with it! On the other hand, the summit express tour takes about 2.5 hours. However, don’t worry because this tour offers a certificate of achievement as well!

Work out in some of Sydney’s best gyms

Are you an active traveller who simply can’t skip their everyday workouts? If your answer is yes, you should keep up with your routine and continue working out while on the road. Finding a great gym in Sydney CBD doesn’t have to be as challenging as you probably think. This is particularly true when you know exactly what you want according to your preferred type of workout. For example, if you prefer strength training classes designed to boost your strength and improve athletic performance, you should definitely look for a gym that offers a LIFT program. However, if you simply adore HIIT training classes based on sweating and burning fat, look out for a gym that has a SWEAT program. Or why wouldn’t you opt for a gym that offers both? It’s a great way to stay fit and in shape when in Sydney!

Sydney surf

Go surfing at some of Sydney’s finest beaches

Many people will agree that your trip to Sydney can never be complete if you haven’t surfed, and you know what? We completely agree with them! So, try not to skip this amazing water sport while in Sydney, no matter if you’re an experienced surfer or just a novice. However, you must know that some beaches are ideal for beginners, whereas other ones are perfect for professionals. Manly Beach is a great choice for novices at surfing. The best thing about it is that there is Manly Surf School that offers both private and group lessons for kids, adults, and entire families. On the other hand, Tamarama Beach is a good choice for experienced surfers only. There are no surfing schools and you can’t rent a board at this beach, so try to stay away from it if you aren’t a complete pro!

Go hiking in the Blue Mountains

Last but certainly not least, hiking in the Blue Mountains is another amazing option for all active travellers. Truth be told, the Blue Mountains are a real paradise for bushwalkers. There are hundreds of amazing hikes to choose from, and a Three Sisters Walk is one of them. It’s only 1km long, so you’ll explore its natural wonders without breaking a sweat. The Honeymoon Bridge provides access to the first of the Three Sisters. There is also a Wentworth Pass, which is a 5km long circuit walking track. This one starts and ends at the Conversation Hut. It then passes through the Valley of the Waters and takes in multiple creek crossings and small waterfalls. However, if you want to make this experience even more extreme, you should go canyoning in the Blue Mountains instead. You won’t go wrong with this activity either!

Sydney Blue Mountains

As you can tell, there are so many amazing things to do in Sydney when you’re an active traveller who is always on the go. These five undoubtedly are the best ones of them, so make them a part of your itinerary and you won’t make a mistake. Trust us when you say that you’ll enjoy exploring Sydney while staying fit and active at the same time!

Asia

Want to Live in Bangkok? Your Guide to Starting a Business There

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Visiting Bangkok, Thailand for a few days can be an exciting experience. Moving to a new country on a permanent basis to start your own company can be downright exhilarating. If you are thinking about starting your own business there, what steps do you need to take to make your dream a reality?

bangkok

Get an overview of the Country

The first step is to get a general idea of the culture of Bangkok that you are moving to. You want to know how people make purchasing decisions, who controls the purse strings and what people are most interested in buying. You also need to know the median income of people living in the country and whether or not the government is friendly to business. Knowing this information ahead of time allows you to craft a marketing plan ahead of time that gets results.

Find Out What Has to Happen Before You Can Enter the Country

You will have a hard time running your company if you are not allowed to visit the factories or sit in on interviews. To ensure that you are able to run your company in Thailand, you need to know the immigration laws as well as the steps a foreigner needs to take to legally own the business.

Can You Bring Your Workers With You?

Immigration laws in the country where you start your company will determine whether or not you can bring workers or investors in your company with you. Immigration lawyers will be able to give you more information as to who is allowed to enter the country for work purposes and what has to happen for a foreign investor to enter the country to help you start your company. 

Make Sure You Hire Local Workers

While it may not be the law that you have to hire local workers when you start your company, it is always a good idea to do so as a sign of good faith. Hiring locals to work as middle managers is also a good idea because they will relate to the workers and understand what motivates them to work hard. If you are planning on hiring local workers to help build a factory or work on an assembly line, ask if there are any tax breaks that your business could benefit from.

Look for a Secured Storage Unit

Bangkok’s self-storage unit will allow you to make use of the space you have, while also giving peace of mind regarding safety. The use of storage lockers and lockboxes have continued to rise in the city of Bangkok and more are currently being built. There are many reputable companies to choose from when it comes to self-storage rental. Small business owners and individuals can rent these secure places for a few short months or for consecutive years. Most of them are equipped with trollies or elevators. This idea has continued to grow and has cut down on the high cost of business and living spaces.

Summary

Starting a company is a complicated endeavour regardless of where you are starting it. However, starting a company in Thailand presents challenges that you may need help to overcome. 

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