Destinations Archives - Page 3 of 4

What to do in Lanzarote!

By Derek July 10, 2014 July 10, 2014 Spain

For those that delight in taking regular breaks from life in the modern world, the Canary Islands have long been an option for rest and relaxation. While many choose to spend their time of the partying hotspot of Tenerife (and in the past, so have you), this time around, you decided to give one of the other isles in the archipelago a whirl.

So recently, you have been looking at flights to Lanzarote and with good reason, as this island has just as many unique attractions that Tenerife does. What can one do during an active holiday in Lanzarote, where one does more than simply cook under the Spanish sun? Below, we will profile what to do in Lanzarote so you can mix it up on your vacation with nature, culture, and new experiences.

1) Tour Timanfaya National Park

Lanzarote was created by the processes of volcanism millions of years ago in the same manner that the other islands in the Canaries, and those in the rest of Macaronesia were molded. These processes are still at work today, and have influenced the look of the landscape throughout much of Lanzarote. Timanfaya National Park protects this portion of Lanzarote, covering a quarter of its total land area.

Free exploration of this park is not possible due to safety hazards caused by active volcanic processes and due to extremely fragile flora that clings to the edge of existence in this hostile but starkly beautiful environment. Taking the official tour is still well worth it though, as guides will show you steaming geysers, rusty hills, and even roast meat over exposed hole in the ground, where the heat reaches hundreds of degrees Celsius only a few metres down.

2) Appreciate the arts at Los Jameos del Agua

The next can’t miss attraction in Lanzarote is also related to the island’s rampant volcanism, but this point of interest has more to do with the arts then with any active volcanic features. A tube of an extinct volcano that had a stunning lake within it was converted to a performance space many years ago, being named Los Jameos del Agua for the presence of that central water feature.

Seating 600 smartly dressed patrons (no beachwear folks!), musical performances are often held here, and if you feel like having dinner and a drink afterwards, a restaurant and bar will fill those needs handsomely.

3) Try surfing at Caleta de Famara

When was the last time you learned a new skill? If it’s been a while, then may we be as bold to suggest that you try surfing? If you’re up for the challenge, the best place on Lanzarote to take this on is in Caleta de Famara. Here, some of the most forgiving surf breaks in Europe and the presence of dedicated surf bums make this peaceful seaside village both an excellent place to learn how to carve up the waves, and chill out in a place largely unspoiled by mass commercial tourism.

Highlighting The Top Destinations In Niger

By Derek June 25, 2014 June 25, 2014 Niger

The top destinations in Niger may not be available to you at this moment because of an ongoing military coup. But they should not be buried and forgotten as far as African highlights are concerned. Niger is a beautiful country on the western end of the continent as it is fostered by the Niger River. And although it is landlocked by nations like Nigeria, Benin, Mali, Burkina Faso, Libya, Algeria and Chad, it still offers quite a number of amazing points of interest that make it a worthwhile pit stop in peace times.

One interesting thing people should take note about Niger is that 80% of its land area is covered by the Sahara desert. But you should not judge the tourist spots you’re bound to visit solely using this trivia.

Niger has a lot of thriving areas for you to explore. Among them is the W National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park actually stretches out to two other countries – Burkina Faso and Benin – as it covers 10,000 square kilometers. And it serves as home to large mammals, which include cheetahs, elephants, baboons, buffaloes, hippos, lions, and leopards, to name a few.

It is a protected reserve so human habitation is not allowed, not to mention poaching. But you can count on tour guides to be readily available if you do desire to go on a safari between February to late May, when the season is ideal for it. If you are wondering where are the giraffes in Niger, then you’ll have to travel to Koure on the southwestern portion as this is where West Africa’s last herd of giraffes reside.

If you wish for a more cultured retreat, you could head out to top destinations in Niger like the historic city of Agadez, which was founded back in the 11^th century by the Mali empire and used as one of the major stops of Saharan trade caravans. Though it currently is off limits because of the Tuareg rebellion, in earlier times, tourist from all around the world were able to enjoy numerous Islam inspired architecture such as the Mosque of Agadez and the Palace of the Sultan.

Zinder is also another recommendable destination if you’re into getting acquainted with local heritage since it is teeming with colorful craft markets as well as unique and notable infrastructures.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a complete travel experience if you do not spend a day in Niamey, which is also one of the top destinations in Niger. As its capital, this metropolis functions as the cultural, administrative and economic center of the republic. So you’re bound to find a bounty of facilities complementary to tourism intents.

Some of which are open-air markets, upscale shops, recreational depots as well as fine buildings such as the Musee National and Zoo, the Grand Mosque and Cathedral de Maorey.

Chicago, Illinois, USA!

By admin May 14, 2014 April 6, 2015 USA

One of America’s most iconic cities, Chicago, is a place with a rich history and a vibrant present. Famous for stockyards, gangsters and blues music, this hub of the Midwest was where the world’s first skyscrapers were built. Modern-day visitors can also enjoy the beaches on the shores of Lake Michigan, as well as a very warm welcome. All you need is some single trip travel insurance and a positive attitude.

Home of the Blues

Chicago is an exciting city for anyone who is interested in culture and the arts, especially American culture. The city occupies a unique place in American popular culture, being considered the home of electric blues, a genre which influenced an entire generation of British rockers, who then re-exported the music back to the US during the ‘British Invasion’. African-Americans were drawn to Chicago in the 19th century, due to its more tolerant attitudes to race relations than many other places. This has left a rich legacy of music, which visitors can explore at Willie Dixon’s Blues Heaven Foundation, the former location of Chess Records.

A Free Laugh or Two

As well as music, Chicago is also known for having a tradition of comedy performance. The likes of John Belushi, Gilda Radner and Mike Myers cut their comic teeth in the city, performing with a troupe known as The Second City. Visitors can see the current members of the troupe, occasionally augmented by previous alumni, perform for free every night except Friday. The club is located at 1616 North Wells Street.

Sporting Legends

Chicago possesses some of America’s iconic sports teams. The Chicago Bears NFL side play at the famous Soldier Field, while the Chicago Bulls basketball outfit are one of the NBA’s best known clubs. They play at the United Center on the Near West Side. The Chicago Cubs are a baseball team with a long history, and visitors can take in one of their games at Wrigley Field. They enjoy a rivalry with the Chicago White Sox, whose home ground is located at Cellular Park, in Bridgeport. The two three-game series held between the teams each year is one of the hottest sporting tickets in the USA.

Beach Life

There are no admission fees on any of the city’s beaches, bordering Lake Michigan. As well as the beaches, visitors can also enjoy the wonderful views from Hyde Park’s Promontory Point. A lakeside walk is a great way to bring down the curtain on an exciting day in Chicago.

If you’re from abroad, make sure to look into securing an ESTA visa before entering the states though. Save yourself some headache and apply before showing up at the airport.

What Are The Top Tourist Attractions In Newry?

By Derek May 12, 2014 May 12, 2014 Northern Ireland

There are a lot of places to visit in Northern Ireland but what you shouldn’t miss are the top tourist attractions in Newry owing to being endowed with such natural beauty that is definitely a sight to see. Newry is bordered by rich natural beauties of the mountains of Mourne and the Ring of Guillon, that’s why if you are expecting to get splendid views and wonderful landscapes then you came to the right place.

Furthermore, if you are looking for outdoor activities then you might as well gear yourself up because Newry has a lot of invigorating activities that you will love but if you feel like relaxing then there are also bars and restaurants for you to choose from.

One of the prides of Newry is the Derrymore house, which was built by Isaac Corry. The house was later on passed on. This beautiful 18^th century house has a very rich history and having a walk around it proves to be very delightful that’s why if you plan to visit the Derrymore house you’ll surely have a great time exploring it hence a place that should be included in your list of top destinations.

The next inclusion among the top tourist attractions in Newry are the Killevy churches. Though the place is in ruins its remains still shows the beauty it was once before. The place exudes tranquility and a serene atmosphere which always bring peacefulness to those who visit the area.

Lastly is the Newry and Mourne Museum, where you’ll get the best information and learn about the history and culture of Newry. The museum’s various collections that are aspects to the history of Newry are a must see but other than that the museum also has different programmes, activities and educational events that proves beneficial to those who visit. If you are into history then you will love this place but if not then there are still a lot for you to explore.

There’s still more to see in Newry and definitely a lot of things to do. It is not the ideal place for vacation but it is certainly a great place to have a peaceful and amazing holiday. The top tourist attractions in Newry are not something to be taken granted for because what it offers you is its natural beauty which makes it simply the best.

Top Destinations In Kirkcaldy

By Derek April 11, 2014 April 11, 2014 United Kingdom

Knowing the top destinations in Kirkcaldy, a town in Scotland and the United Kingdom, could benefit tourists who include this town in their holiday itinerary. Unfortunately, as far as tourism goes, Kirkcaldy is not really a very popular venue. This town is overshadowed by the neighboring cities of Edinburgh and Dundee. Simply put, this city do not often appear in the global tourism radar.

What is interesting about this Scottish city is that Kirkcaldy is recognized as the birthplace of a famous Scottish 18th Century economist named Adam Smith. This fact alone gives well-educated people a good idea on how its local commerce and industry is doing.

Kirkcaldy is the biggest manufacturers of linoleum but ages before its thriving industry includes salt mining, coal mining and nail making. Since medieval times it was an important trade center.

Another interesting historical fact about this city is that it was controlled by the clergy for a long time beginning in 1075 and only granted independence from abbey rule in 1644.

1. Kirkcaldy’s causeway

The town’s main esplanade is nothing unusual during ordinary days of winter, summer and autumn. However, it becomes one of the top destinations in Kirkcaldy for one reason.
Every spring peddlers all over the town gather around the entire length of the causeway to put up the Links Market. This tradition has existed since 700 years ago.

People who are looking for excellent bargains in grocery goods will find themselves fortunate to have visited this neighborhood during spring. The Links Market is considered the longest market of its kind in all of Europe.

2. Adam Smith Theatre

As mentioned earlier, Kirkcaldy is where the renowned economist Adam Smith was born. The Adam Smith Theatre is an establishment dedicated to his glorious reputation as the forerunner of the modern idea of capitalism – an idea that fueled progress not only in United States of America but the entire Western world itself. This theatre is lauded for its high quality live entertainment shows.

3. Beveridge Park

The Beveridge Park is one of the top destinations in Kirkcaldy that best suits the nature-loving type of tourist. This place is an ideal spot for picnic along the lakeside.

It is a cozy outdoor environment but for the restless nature-lover types, one can do boat rowing during the warm seasons. This park’s lake is teeming with elegant swans, adding appeal to its environment.

4. Ravenscraig Castle

The Ravenscraig Castle could be one of the most historical destinations in this town. One can only imagine this castle standing tall in the ancient times. Now, it is reduced to ruins.

Though the castle is only but a shadow of its former glory, it serves as a wonderful centerpiece landmark that offers a picturesque vista overlooking the vast sea beyond Kirkcaldy’s coast.

Go all inclusive in the city

By Derek February 17, 2014 March 3, 2014 Italy, Travel Tips

I absolutely love city breaks. Giving you the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, they are also usually the best choice for nightlife, cuisine and shopping. What’s not to like? For me, the way to get the most from a city stay is by booking into an all inclusive hotel – here’s why.

Why go all inclusive?

At first, recommending you stay in an all inclusive hotel might sound like a slightly odd tip – after all, your accommodation rental can’t make that much difference to your trip, can it? Well, actually it can – and in more ways than one.

The first is in terms of your budget. Most cities will offer a range of cheap all inclusive hotels, which is good news if you’re not feeling too flush. While you will, of course, need to read the fine print to check what your particular package offers, generally all inclusive deals will factor your meals and drinks into the price.

This is a big part of how they can save you money on any kind of holiday, but is particularly important on city breaks, where food and drink in the local restaurants is bound to be pricey.

But it’s not only your wallet that this kind of establishment is good for. You see, since all inclusive hotels take care of everything for you, you generally have more time. This can then be used to see as much of the destination as possible before heading home.

Great destinations for all inclusive city breaks

Now, let’s take a quick look at some of the best places to head to for all inclusive city breaks.

Milan

Milan is a city of art and fashion, so getting a taste of both is pretty much a must. In terms of art, the ultimate work to see is Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

World-famous, this painting depicts Jesus’s last meal before the crucifixion, and is considered to be one of the very best works of the Renaissance. You should book tickets to see it in advance to avoid disappointment.

In terms of fashion, you should definitely hit the designer stores that fill the city centre. But don’t worry, you don’t necessarily have to pay premium prices, because Milan is actually home to a fair few discount stores too – you just need to know where to look.

These include Il Salvagente on Via Fratelli Bronzetti, and Fox Town in Mendrisio (outside the city centre).

Rome

If you fancy seeing some of Europe’s greatest historical sights without breaking the bank, then booking an all inclusive hotel in Rome is a good way to go. Home to the spectacular Colosseum, this city is also famous for its romantic ambience and coffee culture.

The number one place to visit is, as you might have guessed, the Colosseum, which is around 2,000 years old. It was the largest amphitheatre in the Roman Empire, and in its heyday could hold a huge 50,000 to 80,000 spectators.

Attracting thousands of visitors year after year, this marvel can take a while to queue for, so it’s best to book tickets in advance to shorten your wait.

Trying some good Italian coffee is another must, and there are loads of historic coffee houses to choose from, like Caffe Greco. You’ll find this at 86 Via Condotti, where it has stood since opening back in 1760.

Europe’s top natural views

By Derek February 15, 2014 August 7, 2015 Croatia, Spain, Turkey

Europe has some amazing natural attractions and there are outstanding views on several of the top walking trails in the continent. We’re going to give you a rundown of a few of the best places to go if you want to enjoy amazing vistas while you’re hiking. Get out there and enjoy some of Europe’s top natural views!

Balcony Walk, Madeira

Madeira has long been renowned for being a hiking paradise, with a host of trails around the island’s coast and through its mountainous interior. Because of these peaks, many of the inland treks boast stunning views as they run around the mountains’ slopes.

One of the best is the Balcony Walk, which is among Madeira’s most famous hikes. It begins at Pico do Ariero, which is at an altitude of 1,818 m, and continues over some of the island’s high mountain passes, promising fantastic views throughout – provided the weather is clear.

It can be stunning to see the clouds drifting across the mountain slopes as you hike, revealing breathtaking panoramas when they pass. At certain points, the path runs close to the edge of steep cliffs, allowing you to look straight down at the valley below. This is just one of Madeira’s wonderful treks – for more ideas, visit this website.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

There are some amazing walks in Croatia, with the country boasting a variety of stunning landscapes both along its coast and further inland. One of the best places for hiking and wonderful views is the Plitvice Lakes National Park.

This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s home to a range of lakes, waterfalls and caves that all work together to make the scenery absolutely spectacular. There’s an outstanding trail here that takes you to a vantage point where you can look out over the forest-covered slopes of the hills, spot waterfalls as they tumble down cliffs and look at the tranquil blue lakes that are nestled among the valleys.

You should keep your eyes open for the wide variety of creatures that inhabit the national park, too, with more than 100 species of bird found here, as well as enchanting animals like wolves and bears.

Lycian Way, Turkey

The Lycian Way is a long-distance walking trail in Turkey that covers over 500 km and skirts along the country’s south-western coastline. Its name comes from the fact that there are a number of ruins and archaeological sites dating from the Lycian era along the route.

While there are many picturesque stretches on this hike, one of the most striking has to be near the starting point of Oludeniz. This beach and its lagoon is renowned for being one of Turkey’s most stunning seaside spots and you can have a wonderful view of it as you walk from the village of Ovacik up the slopes of Baba Dagi, a 1,989 m-high mountain.

Further along on this walk, you’ll be rewarded with another beautiful panorama from the head of Butterfly Valley, which runs down to a secluded beach that’s only accessible on foot or by boat. From the village of Faralya, you can look out over the sheer limestone cliffs that tower over the valley and end in the sea. If you find yourself in Istanbul, be sure to take a Bosphorus dinner cruise

This is just a snapshot of the amazing views you can find in Europe on a walking holiday – there are stunning vistas just waiting to be discovered all over the continent. For hassle free travel, you can apply for Turkish visa online before you take your trip to save you time.

Exploring the Serra de Tramuntana

By Derek January 25, 2014 February 15, 2014 Spain, Travel Tips

Adventurous types who love the great outdoors and venturing into unknown landscapes will feel right at home exploring the Serra de Tramuntana, Majorca’s famous mountain range and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Spanning almost the entirety of the island’s northern region, it is no easy feat taking on the spectacular slopes and forested hills that make up the Serra de Tramuntana. Once your flights are booked (click here if you haven’t done this yet), you’ll need to start planning how you want to explore the area, as there are various ways to choose from, each offering different perspectives of the awe-inspiring mountains.

Hiking

There are so many fantastic routes to take through the mountains that you are spoilt for choice, but only commit to hiking if you are an experienced walker and can handle sharp inclines and traversing across rocky terrain. You may feel the burn, but if you’re a proper hiker, you’ll love every minute of it!

This form of travel allows you to stop and admire the various magnificent ravines and valleys you’ll encounter during your journey, and take photographs for your loved ones back home to marvel at. You’ll also stumble upon the homes of wealthy families and some quaint little towns.

So that there is some structure to your hike, there are a number of dedicated trails you can choose to venture down, or you can explore the landscape as you wish.

If you want to be able to take in all the sights and smells of the mountains and enjoy views of picturesque villages, then travelling around on foot is the best option for you.

Cycling

Thrillseekers who enjoy feeling the wind in their hair as they discover new territory may want to venture through the mountains by bike. The restless traveller is more suited to this method of transport, as it drastically shortens the amount of time it takes to see the range in its entirety.

You must be careful, however, as the roads can be rocky and therefore quite unsafe. Remember to wear protective clothing so that should you take a tumble, you’re less likely to sustain an injury.

There are plenty of places on Majorca to rent bicycles, and for decent prices as well, so if you want to admire stunning views within minutes then you’ll love a cycling adventure.

Driving

If you’ve got a hire car, then you can enjoy the glorious scenery of the Serra de Tramuntana from the driver’s seat as you make your way around the winding mountain roads. Again, some precaution must be taken here, as the landscape is beautiful but unforgiving and particularly during the peak months of July and August, the roads can be dangerous.

But if you must hit the open road, then take the R710 route from Andratx to Pollenca, which is undoubtedly the most scenic. Ensure you make plenty of stops so you can take in the fresh mountain air and marvel at the sight of the island below.

The drive from Palma to Inca is also worth taking and is great for getting a bird’s eye view of Majorca.

Being one of the more visually spectacular Balearic Islands, Majorca has much in store for the adventrous traveler. Bring plenty of memory cards, pack your trekking boots, and be prepared to be wowed during your excursions on this stunning island!

A Resort With a Bit of Everything: Hisaronu

By Derek January 24, 2014 February 15, 2014 Turkey

Hisaronu is an excellent choice for a holiday in Turkey if you’re looking for a resort that’s got a bit of everything. It’s particularly good if you’ve never visited the country before, as it’s well placed to allow you to explore some of the surrounding area.

I’m going to give you a bit of information about Hisaronu itself, as well as some of the nearby attractions that are easily accessible – you can find out more about booking a holiday in the resort by clicking here.

Hisaronu: why go?

Hisaronu is one of the liveliest resorts on the Turquoise Coast, boasting numerous restaurants, bars and clubs, not to mention a variety of shops. This makes it perfect if you’re looking for somewhere with all the amenities you’ll need in a relatively small area.

It’s also great if you enjoy having a night out or two during your holidays, as there are plenty of places where you can let your hair down. Among the top bars are Hakuna Matata, the Grand Boozey and Zombie – although there are lots more to choose from.

Another thing that makes Hisaronu popular is its location set slightly back from the coast in the hills. While this may initially sound like a disadvantage, it’s actually something of a blessing as the town remains cooler in the hot summer months than the coastal locations, making it much more pleasant, particularly overnight.

It’s also within easy reach of the nearest beaches, so you don’t have to worry about travelling for hours on end just to reach the seaside.

Excursions from Hisaronu

I think one of the best things about Hisaronu is its location – nestled between Fethiye and Olu Deniz, it’s well placed for you to visit a range of attractions. Olu Deniz’s blue lagoon is one of the most popular spots to head to, but nearby you also have Babadag mountain (which is great for paragliding) and the start of the Lycian Way walking trail.

Another must-visit is Kayakoy, an abandoned village that is fascinating to explore. This was once home to a thriving Greek community, who all moved on in 1923 following the Greek and Turkish exchange of population agreement.

This ghost town is made up of well-preserved buildings, although many of them now have no roofs or windows. Among the landmarks you should look out for here are its various churches and its fountain that dates back to 1888.

It’s also worth taking your walking boots and following the trail that leads from the village to Cold Water Bay – a lovely, secluded spot where you can relax and go for a swim before heading back to Hisaronu. Another reason to come here is to visit the small restaurant that serves up a host of local dishes, including wild boar stew.

From Hisaronu you can also travel to another of the Turquoise Coast’s resorts – Dalyan. This charming town has a strong connection to the region’s Lycian past, with rock tombs carved into the cliffs behind the town. It is also close to the impressive archaeological site of Kaunos, where you can see ruins that are centuries old.

However, Dalyan’s main appeal is Iztuzu Beach, which is a protected area where no development is allowed. This is because it’s a nesting site for the endangered loggerhead turtle, which also means that there’s no public access to the beach overnight.

Dalyan isn’t right on the coast – it’s set slightly inland on the banks of the Dalyan River. The best way to get around here is by one of the local water taxis, which can take you to the beach for a relatively low cost.

Top Reasons To Visit Berlin

By Derek January 21, 2014 February 15, 2014 Destinations, Germany, Travel Tips

One of the top reasons to visit Berlin is the simple fact that it is the capital and largest city of Germany. Truthfully however, this is not enough reason to go there. And so we bring you six reasons why you should visit this city for business or pleasure.

1) Eat döner kebabs. It is the staple street food in Berlin and more popular than the “currywurst” which so many people recommend. Costing only 2 Euros, it is a cheap way to fill your stomach. The döner kebab originates from 1971 and was created by Turkish immigrant Mahmut Aygun. He made it for his restaurant called Hasir which is still open to this day.

2) Berlin has an upbeat nightlife. Most people in the city are young and are responsible for the lively night scene. Northern Neukolin is one of the most popular hang-outs in the city but if you want the same buzz minus the attitude, Kreuzberg is a better destination.

3) Oranienburger Strasse is not wildly popular among tourists but a good place to get cheap cocktails. A thriving nightlife is one of the top reasons to visit Berlin, Germany.

4) Berlin is the historic center of Germany. Explore important sites of the Third Reich such as Lutwaffe HQ. Take a walking tour of Topographie des Terrors which displays the horrors of the Nazi era. Reichstag, the throne of the German Parliament, is one of the best reasons for visiting the city. While its original structure burned down in 1933, it was renovated after German unification. The best attraction in Reichstag is the glass dome.

5) Pay your respects to Holocaust victims. A Holocaust Memorial was set up in Berlin in their memory. The memorial, though controversial, is one of the top reasons to visit Berlin. It has a unique structure wherein as you get closer, the concrete blocks become larger; as if to intimidate you. It was designed by Peter Eisenman.

6) Berlin has the most amazing street art. Others even jokingly call it the “street art capital” of the world. For the best graffiti, walk around Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain.

Category: Destinations