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[ad_1] In the past handful of years, I’ve been lucky enough to visit many incredible islands I only thought I’d ever see in my dreams. I’ve written about some of the best islands to visit for unique, local experiences before. But here, I thought I’d focus on those that are a little heavier on the wallet – and which are my winners when comparing the likes of the Maldives with Mauritius or two popular Caribbean beach getaways. Maldives vs Mauritius, Aruba or Antigua – these are some of the most famous, expensive and luxurious island vacations you can have. Having now been to all four (plus Fiji, because I couldn’t leave that beauty out), I’ve learnt a thing or two about not only cutting costs when heading to these bougie boltholes but also which island truly shines brightest. This is, of course, my subjective opinion, and depending on where you live, the flight times and costs might dictate which one of these luxury islands is best to visit. But below, I’ll try to compare the best reasons to visit each of these archipelagos. Maldives vs Mauritius Pristine sands and swaying palms, idyllic resorts, and legendary status – deciding between Maldives and Mauritius is actually pretty easy. I found these two island destinations a world apart from each other. A typical beach in Mauritius Mauritius Best for: Direct overnight flights from the UK | Watersports or epic hikes | Rum and culinary lovers | Friends, families or couples The island nation of Mauritius, tucked away off the south-eastern African coast, might conjure up ideas of untouched beaches and honeymoon escapes, and it offers that aplenty, but there is also much more to discover beyond the beaches. Plus, the absolute warmth of everyone I met was infectious. Unlike the Maldives, where I felt I didn’t really have the chance to interact with locals (as I was on a resort island; of course, it’s different if you go independent on a local island), I really appreciated all of the local insight and connections I made. Overall, Mauritius was truly one of the most surprising destinations for me. I knew the sands would be white, and the lapping waves would be calling, but it was the island adventures and the sheer number of things to do in Mauritius that really surprised me. Rochester Falls in Mauritius From crashing waterfalls without a soul in sight to rum distilleries and cocktails for days, there are so many fantastic places to visit in Mauritius. To start to get a true sampling of the island life, leave the resort and head to the central market in the capital of Port Louis before venturing off to explore the monkey-ridden hikes. Inland, you’ll also find tea plantations reaching the clouds, multicoloured Chamarel sands, and giant tortoises. Spots such as the majestic Grand Bassin, a lake surrounded by Hindu statues and temples, are also great for learning more about local culture. Mauritius reminded me a little of a small Sri Lanka, and that is certainly no bad thing. A bevvy of new AirBnB options is also making Mauritius a more affordable destination than many would imagine. Snorkelling off the beaches around Le Morne, the UNESCO mountain towering on the tip of Mauritius, is incredible, with the water and visibility some of the best I’ve ever seen. If you want a beach holiday but with plenty of activities to keep you entertained, Mauritius indeed will oblige. Cost-saving tips: Accommodation really does not have to cost a fortune in Mauritius, and I was amazed to find guest houses and apartments to rent for as little as $20. The bus network in Mauritius will also allow you to visit some key sights, though hiring a car will give you the most freedom. Don’t miss: The festivals of Mauritius are plentiful and a fantastic time to visit. Cavadee Festival, which happens between January/February, includes firewalking and sword climbing as the devotees travel to the temples with their offerings. Holi, the colourful

Hindu festival, is also celebrated here in March, while February brings perhaps one of the most impressive festivals, Maha Shivaratree. A luxury day in the Maldives The Maldives Best for: Indulgent luxury | Overwater bungalows | Big budgets | A couple bolthole with limited distractions The Maldives had never really been on my ‘must visit list’, but when my now-ex told me it was on theirs, I started looking for affordable ways to make it happen. After combining the trip with flights to Sri Lanka and hunting around for good value all-inclusive accommodation, it was made possible through great deals, travelling offseason slightly. The Adaaran Club Rannalhi ended up being a really surprising bargain, massively helped by being able to take a free boat transfer from Male rather than needing an expensive seaplane. I actually added my Maldives visit to my trip to Sri Lanka as when flying with Sri Lanka Airways, the extra flights to the Maldives, when booked together, were under $50. Still, it’s fair to say while the flights might have been cheaper to the Maldives than in Mauritius, I found that accommodation is significantly more expensive here. I loved my first few days in the Maldives: there indeed is something special about waking up on the water’s edge or being able to sip on unlimited cocktails at sunset. But after the excitement of the never-ending food and drinks and lapping azure waters wore off, I had itchy feet and was kinda ready to get to Sri Lanka a few days in. Don’t get me wrong, I love beautiful white sands – especially when your small, private island is necklaced by them. However, I also love exploring, meeting local people, and enjoying activities. And while scuba diving, snorkelling, and unlimited water activities were all fantastic, I can’t say the Maldives was the best place I’ve ever experienced those. However, if you’re heading to one of the private island resorts and want a check-in and absolutely chill-out kinda indulgent break – a true, special, unforgettable holiday – the Maldives absolutely beats Mauritius. It just very much depends on the kind of vacation you want. Cost-saving tips: Everything I’ve said above applies if you’re heading to a private resort island – the most common form of travel in the Maldives. However, solo and non-resort travel is booming right now in the Maldives, and homestays and guest houses on the inhabited local islands are a fraction of the cost of luxury resorts. If you have the luxury of time but not money, an island-hopping adventure on local boats to local islands is undoubtedly the most exciting way to explore the Maldives. Be aware, though, that local laws make alcohol illegal in the Maldives outside of resorts, and as per local customs, you may need to cover up fully when on beaches at certain islands. Don’t miss: Tie in your visit to the Maldives with a trip to Sri Lanka, combining luxury beach escapes with a multitude of adventures and activities available in the neighbouring nation. Mauritius vs the Maldives – Which is my winner? Chalk and cheese. You can have a luxury resort escape on each of them – but if you want true get-away-from-it-all indulgence, an overwater Bungalow in the Maldives wins. However, if you want a treat-yourself escape with the chance for culture, delicious cuisines, and exciting day trips, Mauritius beats the Maldives a thousand times over. Aruba or Antigua These two beautiful Caribbean islands are both well known for their sensational shorelines, beautiful resorts, and colourful capital cities. But which should you book – Aruba or Antigua? Dos Playa beach in Arikok National Park Aruba Best for: Visiting from the USA | Families, friends, or couples | Happy vibes | Scuba diving Aruba may be best known for its resorts and palm-fringed beaches, bustling casinos and sometimes chaotic cruise port, but drive five minutes away from these, and you’ll find an untouched landscape ripe for adventures. This small Caribbean island certainly packs a punch when it comes to outside activities.

From the rugged beaches and incredible snorkelling to the slightly deeper scuba diving adventures around shipwrecks and sunken aeroplanes, the water life here ticks all the boxes. The Arikok National Park, especially, provides numerous activities, from historical cave paintings to a cacti-stewed landscape with roaming goats, donkeys and off-roading adventures. And while kayaking and ziplining are fun in Antigua, I think Aruba has the edge on activities and things to do – especially as they are easier to enjoy without needing a tour from your resort. For sure, a popular way to visit islands such as Aruba is with a glamorous vacation package to the Caribbean – however, it’s really not needed. Getting around the cultural offerings isn’t a challenge. The Aruba Carnival, for example, which runs from January to March each year, is the big draw. As the streets come alive with colourful and bejewelled outfits, steel drums and brass bands ring out through the streets, and the passion and hospitality of the locals shine. Fear not, though, for if you visit outside of these months, the Thursday festivals in San Nicolas, the second city that is being revived through incredible street art and colourful facades, will give you a taster that will leave you wanting to return. But on the flip side, many would argue that Antigua and Barbuda’s carnival leads the way and that perhaps the twin islands retain more of their “authentic culture” than Aruba. Cost-saving tips: Aruba is a pretty pricey destination, and affordable accommodation is scarce. Forward planning will be the key to saving money here, though renting an apartment with a kitchen will allow you to bring costs down. Off-season travel (April – August) is when you will see lower accommodation rates, although the weather is similar all year round as Aruba is outside the hurricane belt. Don’t miss: The standout of Aruba for me was in its authentic side. Nothing captures this more than the annual Aruba carnival, which takes place from January to March each year. Colourful outfits, smiling dancers, and big bands bring the streets to life, making it the perfect time to visit. The private beach at the Verandah Resort by Elite Antigua Best for: Total beach relaxation | Relatively reasonably prices all-inclusives | Adult-only or family-friendly resorts Welcome to Antigua, one-half of Antigua and Barbuda, where beautiful beaches are in abundance, and all-inclusive resorts hug prime positions along the stunning coastline. The joy of Antigua is you can be as relaxed and totally guilt-free as you like. Unlike some other islands I’ve visited, where I’ve felt the need to rush around doing a tonne of activities and not allowing myself any beach time, life is so focused on the water here that it would be impossible. So, if luxurious resorts away from busy, public beaches are more your thing, Antigua is likely going to impress more than Aruba. Resorts vary from the super-opulent and luxurious to the more family-friendly Verandah Resort, where I stayed. The unlimited non-electric water sports, great food and quality drinks, and the rather private-looking wooden bungalows made it a fantastic option without breaking the bank. Of course, you should make time to venture from your resort, though, and there are a variety of options: from tours around the island’s historical and cultural sights to scuba-diving and party nights at the iconic Shirley Heights viewpoint, an R&R beach trip to Antigua can be topped up with a couple of excursions, and rum punches! Sunset at Shirley Heights, an iconic Antigua location Cost-saving tips: The best way to save money in Antigua is to opt for an all-inclusive resort if you are looking to stay on the luxurious side. Or, take a local guesthouse near Saint John’s for a more budget-friendly stay. Visiting during the off-season, May to November, will also see slightly lower prices, though there is a risk of hurricanes. The public

buses in Antigua, which cover a lot of the island and operate quite regularly, will also be a lot cheaper than using taxis if you decide to visit St John’s, the capital of the island. Don’t miss: It’s an obvious one, but the 366 incredible beaches – one for every day of the year, as locals will happily highlight. While I didn’t get a chance to visit Barbuda, the second half of this nation, on this trip, I’ve been told for the most untouched beaches, you should undoubtedly venture there via a short flight or more extended sailing connection. Aruba or Antigua – Which is my winner? For me, Aruba is the winner of this Caribbean face-off. Antigua’s beaches are abundant and beautiful for sure, but I found Aruba to have a little more to offer, and it was easier to explore and ‘get beyond the resort’, so to speak, as there’s more tourism infrastructure for DIY travel than Antigua. If you want to check in to a top-notch resort, enjoy private beaches, and maybe take a day trip or two, Antigua could be your winner. Seeking an even more natural, wild island? Dominica is where you’ll find an adventure – and a chunk of my heart! Private Islands in Fiji Or how about the South Pacific: Fiji Best for: Visiting from the Pacific and west coast USA | Families | Backpacker island hopping | Culture I couldn’t leave the South Pacific out. Especially Fiji, where I felt like I was being welcomed home by friends from the very first Bula! Arriving at customs with a guitar serenade put on by the airport, the island vibes, or Fiji time as the locals call it, began straight away. Laughter and smiles crack as often as coconuts here, and you can really tailor your island experience to suit you. Fiji had always been a huge bucket list dream for me, as from my little old home in the UK, it couldn’t feel more distant. And that’s why, I guess, for many, the other islands and archipelagos above are better – the flights are shorter and less expensive. But perhaps the Pacific is on your radar. And if so, you’re gonna love Fiji. Fiji’s main archipelago gateway is the island of Viti Levu, with Suva, the main cruise port, and Nadi, the airport. Backpacker travel is starting to grow here, based out of Nadi, thanks to more affordable options sprouting up around the airport and plenty of day trips from Nadi. A short drive away at Denarau Island, though not really an island, is where you’ll find some luxury resort deals. Island hopping is the name of the game here, especially if you want to visit some of the most pristine sands and escapes Fiji has to offer. The cost of these can quickly mount up though, but boats, including liveaboards and multiday trips, are preferred here to the crazy expensive seaplanes in the Maldives. Fiji still felt quite “real” to me as soon as I stepped out of the resorts, and I think that’s something you won’t always find on heavily touristed islands. Whether you want to relax on a beach with a massage, do watersports off a private island, stroll through lush national parks, or embrace the cultural side of island life, Fiji offers everything in a safe, family-friendly environment. Traditional Kava ceremony in Fiji Cost-saving tips: Fiji is quite pricey, but a handful of backpackers and hostels around Nadi offer cheap rates, although not at the best beaches. Look at Feejee Experience for some more inexpensive multi-day island hopping adventures. My friends and I actually befriended some local fishermen and joined them on their boat for the day. It indeed wasn’t a luxury ship, but we had a great laugh with them and saw some beautiful islands – including gatecrashing (accidentally) one of the most beautiful private resort islands I’ve ever seen: Castaway Island. Off-season travel (November -April) also significantly cuts the costs, but this is when storms are much more common. Don’t miss: The Yasawa Islands, which, although they are some of the most pricey islands to visit, offer up some of the best views of pristine islands you’ll ever see.

Also, be sure to embrace the cultural aspects of Fiji beyond the Kava ceremonies. Hiring a local guide and heading inland are great ways to start learning more about Fijian culture beyond the coastline. [ad_2] Source link

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[ad_1] Cramming all of Cambodia’s diverse attractions into one holiday is not easy. Here’s the perfect 2-week Cambodia itinerary covering Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampot and the beaches of Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem. By: Mark Barnes | Published: 4 Apr 2024 span box-shadow: none !important; filter: brightness(1) !important; ]]> As the essential slow-down country on a Southeast Asia itinerary, Cambodia is a diverse destination with an optimistic personality. Friendly locals who have persevered through a harsh history, welcome you with open arms, enticing you to explore their country’s star attractions. While the temples – in our opinion, some of the best in the world – hog the limelight, Cambodia also has majestic rivers, tropical islands, interesting colonial cities and jungle persevering against deforestation. The challenge is how to cram it all in. In this 2-week itinerary, we cover all the best sights Cambodia has to offer with a breakdown of suggested day-to-day activities, tips on where to stay and how to get around. If you have less time, we have suggested amendments to fit as much as possible into a shorter timeframe. KOH RONG CAMBODIA ITINERARY OVERVIEW Here is an overview of how we suggest you spend 2 weeks in Cambodia. Days 1-3:  Siem Reap – Temples and floating villages. Days 4-5: Phnom Penh – Grand palaces, markets and nightlife. Days 6-9: Island Beaches – Relaxing on Koh Rong. Days 10-11: Kampot & Kep – Unwind riverside. Days 12-14: Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s excellent museums. The itinerary begins in Siem Reap and ends in Phnom Penh. Both cities have international airports, or you can take the overland bus from Thailand or Vietnam. There is nothing to stop you from completing the itinerary backwards. Before leaving read all the things to know before you go to Cambodia.  KAMPOT KOH RONG BEST TIME TO VISIT Cambodia is hot throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F – 95°F). However, the year is split into two seasons. WET SEASON The wet season runs from May to October. During these months there can be considerable rain and lots of cloud. Blue skies are infrequent and if you are visiting the islands in the south, crossings can be rough. DRY SEASON The dry season runs from November to April. There is little rain during these months and a good chance of blue skies. Within the dry season December & January offer the best temperatures (25°C to 30°C) but it’s busy. March & April are the hottest months of the year peaking at around 35°C (95°F). February can be a good compromise, with fewer crowds but still good weather. KOH RONG KOH TOUCH, KOH RONG GETTING AROUND CAMBODIA For this Cambodia Itinerary, we recommend using buses or taxis to get between the major cities. BUSES A cheap, easy, and a pretty comfortable way to travel long distances in Cambodia. Multiple bus companies run different types of vehicles between the major cities. Transport ranges from a mix of minivans, minibusses, luxury buses and night buses. The quality of service with each company varies but we highly recommend Giant Ibis and Vireak Buntham – our experience of both was excellent. It’s worth spending an extra $2-$3 for the comfort of the larger luxury buses, some come with on-board service and the price includes coffee and lunch.  TAXIS Taxis are also great for long-distance trips, saving time on pickup and drop-off. If you are four people, they can be similar in price and more convenient than long-distance buses. Good bargaining skills are helpful! We will detail approximate prices for each option in the itinerary below. There’s more information on our Cambodia travel tips. ANGKOR WAT TONLÉ SAP JAYTAKAKA BARAY, ANGKOR ARRIVING IN SIEM REAP This itinerary begins in Siem Reap, there are two common ways to arrive, by international flight or overland on bus. INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS Siem Reap has a newly built international airport. There are regular flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Phnom Penh &

Ho Chi Minh. Travellers from Europe, India, and US will need to change at least once. Google Flights is an excellent way to find the best routes and deals. If you are flying via Bangkok or Singapore, consider stopping over for a few days. For ideas check out our things to do in Singapore, or our Bangkok 3-day itinerary. Siem Reap International Airport is 45 kilometres from the centre of the city. Taxis cost $30 and can be arranged through your guesthouse or hotel. A bus runs 8 times a day from just outside the terminal and costs $8. There are no tuk-tuks at the airport. INTERNATIONAL BUSES Regular overland buses run from Bangkok to Siem Reap and take 8 hours and 30 minutes. These bus journeys can be long and painful with often tedious stops at the border. Everyone we spoke to – expats and tourists alike – recommended Giant Ibis. The bus comes with an on-board service attendant who provides lunch, water and cold towels. They can also assist with the immigration process, making it as easy and stress-free as possible. Buses drop off in Siem Reap city centre. CAMBODIA ITINERARY TEMPLES DAYS 1-3: SIEM REAP Siem Reap is an essential stop on any Cambodia itinerary. Its calling card are the remarkable Khmer temples built in the 9th to 12th centuries. Lost for hundreds of years, these elegant stone cities are partially consumed by the forest, making them the most evocative religious buildings in the world. Just a few miles south is Tonlé Sap, the largest lake in Southeast Asia, where locals live in homes that float on the water. Tonlé Sap is a memorable experience and something we highly recommend in Cambodia. FURTHER READING Day 1 / SMALL CIRCUIT On your first full day in Siem Reap, complete the Angkor Temples Small Circuit which includes Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm. These are the most impressive temples near Siem Reap and they were the highlight of our trip. Day 2 / BENG MEALEA & TONLÉ SAP On day 2, hire a taxi to visit the incredible ruins of Beng Mealea and Banteay Srei. Further from the tourist route, these ruins quieter, more consumed by jungle and far more atmospheric. In the afternoon, organise a trip out to one of the floating villages. Read our guide covering the best floating villages of Tonlé Sap to decide. Day 3 / GRAND CIRCUIT For your final day in Siem Reap, do the Grand Circuit of the less visited, but still interesting, temples. Finish the day at Flare, the Cambodian Circus for a taste of local culture. You can find detailed instructions for each day on our 3-day Siem Reap itinerary. TONLÉ SAP BAYON ANGKOR WAT WHERE TO STAY There are some very good-value hotels in Siem Reap and a few luxury resorts on the river. Onederz Siem Reap ($) – Located beside the Old Market, this excellent hostel has private rooms and dormitories with free WIFI and two swimming pools. Jay House River Park ($$) – Located outside the busy area in a tropical garden, this beautiful property has excellent WIFI, air-conditioning, and a very enticing pool. Bopha Wat Bo Residence ($$$) – A smart clean hotel with a pool in a lovely garden setting. The breakfast is superb and it’s just a short stroll into the centre of town.   PALACES & MUSEUMS DAYS 4-5: PHNOM PENH Phnom Penh is one of our favourite cities in southeast Asia. It has all the intensity of Asian culture in a town that’s much quieter than its counterparts in other countries. Dusty, but leafy streets give it a lovely village-like feel. But you can also visit grand palaces, impressive temples and world-class museums. Due to the logistics of getting around Cambodia, we recommend two separate visits to Phnom Penh. For this first visit, we stick mostly to the riverside area. Day 4 AM / TRAVEL TO PHNOM PENH Make the journey from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh. The journey time is about 6 hours. SUV taxis cost about $75-85 and buses about $15-18. Vireak Buntham is a great quality bus service that comes with coffee and lunch. Day 4 PM / SI

SOWATH QUAY In the late afternoon wander up to Wat Phnom and then take a stroll along Sisowath Quay. As the sun sets grab a drink overlooking the river, take on a sunset cruise, or try the wonderful local food in the Phnom Penh Night Market. SISOWATH QUAY Day 5 AM / CENTRAL MARKET & PALACE Today, explore the riverside district of Phnom Penh. Start the morning at Central Market when the food stalls are at their busiest. Next, head over to the Grand Palace and Silver Pagoda. Keep in mind that there is a dress code at the palace (short shorts or skirts, hot pants or sleeveless tops at not allowed.) Day 5 PM / MUSEUMS Grab lunch at David’s Noodles and then go to either the Cambodia National Museum or Soroso Museum. You can read about both on our guide to the best things to do in Phnom Penh. In the evening, head up to Sora Bar, one of the best bars in Asia. They have a whisky library with the largest collection of single malts in Cambodia. CENTRAL MARKET SILVER PAGODA GRAND PALACE WHERE TO STAY For these two days in Phnom Penh, we suggest staying in Riverside or Sangkat Voat Phnum neighbourhoods. You can find all our recommendations for these two areas on our guide to where to stay in Phnom Penh. Here are a few favourites. Onederz ($) – Excellent hostel with a mix of dormitories and private rooms. The rooftop pool and bar has a fun atmosphere.  The Pavilion ($$) – This old colonial house is an oasis of calm in a bustling city. Its trees, garden, and pools offer a fantastic place to cool down after a busy day sightseeing. Adults only. Rosewood Phnom Penh ($$$) – 5-star luxury just around the corner from Wat Phnom with spacious modern rooms and a top-quality spa. Sora Bar is on the 37th floor. BEACHES DAYS 6-9: KOH RONG ISLANDS Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem are two idyllic islands just off the Cambodian mainland. A jungle interior is surrounded by white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. With just three to four days, we suggest you pick one to visit. Here are your choices:   Koh Rong is a little larger and more developed with smarter resorts. The beaches are stunning, and many of the resorts are excellent. In places it can feel a bit over-developed, but if you pick a good resort, you’re in for an extremely relaxing stay. Koh Rong Samloem is smaller and more laid backed. Its main beach is Saracen Bay where mid and upmarket resorts mix with backpacker hostels and local bars and restaurants. The western side has basic bungalows overlooking golden beaches. FURTHER READING Day 6 / SIHANOUKVILLE TO THE ISLANDS The boats to the islands leave from Sihanoukville Autonomous Port. The journey time to the port from Phnom Penh is about 3 hours. SUV taxis cost about $65-75 and buses about $12-15. The Rithy Express bus stops just next to the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, whereas the Vireak Buntham bus requires a $3 tuk-tuk ride. Boats leave to different piers on the islands, so make sure you pick the pier that’s nearest to your hotel and be sure to book the boat in advance ($25 return). We suggest leaving a good 90 minutes between the bus arrival and boat departure just in case there are delays. KOH RONG Days 7-9 / KOH RONG OR KOH RONG SAMLOEM Kick back and relax on the islands from days 7 to 9. Take a snorkelling or diving tour, or head out to see the bioluminescent plankton at night. If you’re on Koh Rong hire a scooter to explore the other beaches. If you are on Koh Rong Samloem hike across to the other side of the island. WHERE TO STAY For where to stay, read our Koh Rong Guide and Koh Rong Samloem Guide. SARACEN BAY, KOH RONG LONLEY BEACH, KOH RONG KOH RONG SAMLOEM RURAL CAMBODIA DAYS 10 – 11: KAMPOT & KEP Located at the foot of the Elephant Mountains, Kampot is a green, temperate riverside area that contrasts with the dustbowl of other Cambodian destinations. It’s a small town with an old colonial quarter that is slowly falling into disrepair; a decay that helps create Kampot’s relaxed, li

ved-in feel. FURTHER READING Day 10 / TRAVEL TO KAMPOT   Make the journey from Koh Rong or Rong Samloem to Kampot. Get an early morning boat back to Sihanoukville then get either a bus ($10-12) or a taxi to Kampot ($50-60). In the evening stroll around Kampot town, grab a drink in one of the many bars, and try one of the excellent local restaurants for dinner. We have suggestions in our things to do in Kampot guide.   Day 11 AM / KAMPOT CENTRAL Start the day with locally sourced Kampot coffee. Café Espresso Roastery and Monkey Republic both serve an excellent cup with a decent breakfast. Next explore the colonial French architecture as you head to Samaki Market, where locals go about their daily shop. Day 11 PM / KEP In the afternoon, organise a half-day tour to visit a pepper plantation, a salt field and the small seaside hub of Kep. Situated around 30 minutes drive from Kampot, Kep is famous for crab and the local crab market is one of the best in the country. All the details are on: things to do in Kampot. KEP KAMPOT MARKET KAMPOT RIVER WHERE TO STAY Kampot Riverfront Boutique ($/$$) – Bungalows set amongst the trees right on the river, run by a very friendly family, where you can swim or kayak from just outside your rooms. It’s a 10-minute tuk-tuk ($2) from the centre of town. Hotel La Java Bleue ($$) – There are just 5 rooms in this relaxed yet elegant hotel. It’s uniquely decorated, in a great location, and has a very helpful host. Hotel Old Cinema ($$) – A former cinema converted into a quirky art-deco hotel. Lovely gardens and pool with very friendly staff. It’s in a great location just set back from the river. HISTORY DAYS 12 – 14: PHNOM PENH Over the last decade, since our previous visit, Phnom Penh has become increasingly trendy. The lively traditional markets remain, with stylish cocktail bars and chilled speakeasies tucked among small tree-lined streets. The most lively areas are Bassac Lane, Langka Lane and Toul Tompoung. These areas are also home to the museums that tell the story of Cambodia’s recent tragic history. We suggest spending the next two to three days exploring these neighbourhoods. Day 12 / KAMPOT TO PHNOM PENH Before departing for Phnom Penh, have a morning kayak ride or just relax by the river. The journey from Kampot to Phnom Penh takes about 3 hours and costs $10 by bus and $50-60 by taxi. In the evening head to Bassac Lane, dine on the pavement and drop into one of the speakeasy bars. Day 13 AM / TUOL SLENG & RUSSIAN MARKET Start the day at Tuol Sleng S21, a concentration camp used by the Khmer Rouge. It’s a sobering reminder of the atrocities the country has endured, but an essential way to understand the resilience of Cambodia.   Next head to the Russian Market. It’s more for locals than tourists with a great energy and excellent photo opportunities. Have (an excellent) coffee and lunch at Lot 369 overlooking the market.  RUSSIAN MARKET RUSSIAN MARKET TUOL SLENG Day 13 PM / KILLING FIELDS In the afternoon go to Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre (Killing Fields) for an even more challenging reminder of the Cambodian genocide. A tuk-tuk driver should charge around $10US to take you out, wait and bring you back.     Day 13 Evening / LANKA LANE End the day on Langka Lane trying one of the excellent restaurants for dinner. Follow up with cocktails at any of the very cool bars in the area. We liked: Battbong, TicTic and The Groovy Room.    Day 14 / DEPART Depart from Phnom Penh on day 14. Phnom Penh International Airport is 12 kilometres from the centre of the city. Tuk-tuks charge about $5-10 and taxis $10-15. Both are easy to pick up on the street or order from your guesthouse. Overland buses head over the border to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. WHERE TO STAY For these three days in Phnom Penh, we suggest staying near the BKK1, Bassac or Tuol Tompoung neighbourhoods. You can find all our recommendations for those two areas on our guide: where to stay in Phnom Penh. Here are a few

favourites. La Chronique Hotel ($/$$) – The modern hotel with a French jazz vibe is great value for money. It’s a short walk to the bars and restaurants surrounding the Russian Market. Patio Hotel & Urban Resort ($$) – This great boutique hotel rises above the restaurants and bars of Langka Lane, and is just a short walk from Bassac Lane. The rooftop pool and bar are excellent. White Mansion ($$/$$$) – Former American Consulate in leafy surrounds. Outdoor dining, lap pool, and gardens wrap around the lovely exterior, creating an intimate feel. PATIO URBAN HOTEL CAMBODIA ITINERARY ADJUSTMENTS 7-Day Itinerary – If you only have 1 week in Cambodia, we recommend spending 4 days in Siem Reap and 3 in Phnom Penh. 10-Day Itinerary – If you only have 10 days to visit Cambodia, we recommend spending 3 days in Siem Reap, 3 days in Phnom Penh and 4 days on either Koh Rong or Koh Ron Samloem. Slower 2-Week Itinerary – This 2-week itinerary requires four longish bus or taxi journeys. If you want to slow the trip down, skip Kampot and spend longer on the beaches. You could spend all 6 days on one beach or split your time between Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem, which is what we did. Remote Wildlife – If you are not a beach person, you could skip the islands and go to Mondulkiri. This province, in the northeast of Cambodia, is home to 25% of the country’s wild elephants, as well as primates and hundreds of bird species. For what to do and how to get there, read our complete guide to Mondulkiri. BENG MEALEA ANGKOR WAT MORE CAMBODIA READING ANYWHERE WE ROAM ISREADER-SUPPORTED When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. You can also shout us a coffee. Thanks for your support – Paul & Mark. INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK [ad_2] Source link

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[ad_1] My visit was supported by #SpainByTrain Set on northern Spain‘s leafy and fertile ‘Green Coast’ overlooking the Bay of Biscay, Gijón has become a favourite beach escape for both local Asturians and Spaniards from further afield. Lured by the curved bay, golden sands, and gently lapping sapphire waves, it’s a refreshing escape when the mercury goes above 40 degrees in the country’s south. Gijón’s beaches aren’t the only pull, though, as the city provides all the seafood restaurants, nightlife, and Art Nouveau architecture that you’ll need for entertainment away from the waters. As the largest city in the autonomous community, with around 270,000 residents, it’s a proper city-cum-beach-break, albeit with a far different vibe than you’ll find in the likes of Benidorm or Mallorca. If you’re seeking small fishing villages or remote golden sands, you’ll need to head slightly further down the coast. Cudillero, a cluster of colourful houses around a terraced bay for the former, or the often footprint-free Playas de Ballota for the latter. But for a mix of mornings exploring Roman baths, afternoons lounging along the shore, and lively evenings sipping sidra (cider) as a seafood accompaniment, Gijón is an ideal Asturian coastal base.  The Gijón sign When to visit Gijón and Asturias  Summer is the most popular time to visit Gijón, as Asturians and travellers from afar descend on the city’s beach. The average daily temperatures of 23°C in summer are particularly inviting for those who want to avoid the frankly unbearable heat in the south of Spain. Trust me, I’ve spent the start of summer studying in Andalucia before, and that was enough! As a city break, it works well year-round, with daytime temperatures usually not falling below 13°C, though there are plenty more rainy days in the winter, which helps keep the region of Asturias so verdant. For me, the low season is always the best time to visit Spain’s most popular destinations. So, if you can, I suggest plumping for late spring or early autumn to avoid the crowds and get better deals on accommodation. Where to stay in Gijón, Spain  Gijón offers a varied choice of accommodation to suit all budgets, though you’ll want to book ahead in the summer months. Budget – Boogalow Hostel The dorms here aren’t the cheapest in town, but they are spacious and just seconds from San Lorenzo Beach. Mid-range – NH Gijón This modern-looking glass cube holiday is where I stayed on my last visit. It’s a short walk from the historic centre but seconds from the beach. Some rooms have sea and beach views, as does the rooftop bar. Luxury – Hotel Hernán Cortés Heritage building in a great location with more upscale rooms. Crystal-clear waters in Gijón, Spain Art Nouveau buildings What to do in Gijón, Spain  Although Gijón is something of an underrated European city, it is the largest in the Asturias region. So, there are plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained both in the city and nearby.  Top attractions in Gijón, Spain, include the Museo Ferrocarril (Asturias Railway Museum), the aquarium, and Jovellanos’ Birthplace Museum (a famed historical figure of the city). Eschewing these, I focused most of my visit around Cimavilla – the historic upper quarter of the city – covering what is listed below.  Gijón’s San Lorzeno Beach Sink in to San Lorenzo Beach Unsurprisingly, for many visitors, the main thing to do in Gijón is to lay out their towels on Playa de San Lorenzo. Like a first-quarter moon, the city’s largest beach curves along the promenade, and the welcoming warm sands lead you to the refreshing waters. While it’s a good spot for a paddle or dip, thanks to the beach break, you’ll see a fair few surfers out on the waters in autumn and winter.  Visit the Termas Romanas de Campo Valdes The Roman Baths of Gijón are at the western end of San Lorenzo Beach and offer an underground glimpse into the city’s history. Platforms cross over the archaeological

site and artefacts, which were constructed between the 1st and 4th centuries, so you can get a good look at what remains. While at first glance, the site might not seem impressive, if you look closely, you’ll see some well-preserved details, as they weren’t rediscovered until the start of the 20th century.  The entrance to Gijón’s Roman baths Inside the Gijón’s Roman bath Take in the views from Parque del Cerro Santa Catalina and Elogio del Horizonte Behind the Roman Baths, the Santa Catalina Headland provides a grassy stroll with vistas back across the beach, where you’ll soon spot some weathered 18th-century fortifications behind graffiti. The strangest concrete sighting is the Elogio del Horizonte sculpture, constructed in 1990. While this has become something of a symbol of the city, I’d be lying if I said I found it particularly impressive, but it’s there for you to make your own judgement of this sea-praising artwork.  The Statue in Gijón, Spain The cider tree of Gijón Spain People watching at Plaza del Marqués The Baroque Revillagigedo Palace (not mediaeval, although it appears so) is the backdrop to Marquis Square, a great spot to settle in for some people watching. With the tower to one side, pastel-hued buildings behind, and small yachts bobbing in the harbour in front, the al fresco terraces are ideal for an afternoon drink. Here, you’ll also find the sidra (cider) tree, a testament to the art of siping fermented apple juice, which is undoubtedly one of the things to do in Gijón.  Gijon’s historic centre Admire Art Nouveau architecture While Gijón’s architecture isn’t as impressive as some of the other best cities to visit in Spain, such as León, it does have a speciality to offer in the newer part of the city: plenty of Art Nouveau buildings. In the 19th century, the El Musel Port was booming, and plenty of wealth trickled into the city. This led to some rather fanciful houses being built, and the ornate details can be seen on windows, door frames, and the crowning of multi-floored townhouses. Some of the best examples can be found around the Jovellanos Theatre and the magnificent Café Dindurra next door.  The theatre in Theatre in Gijón, Spain Tour the ​​Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura One of the top attractions in Gijón, Spain, is actually a short trip outside the city. In around 15 minutes, a bus will bring you to this hulking building, which is shrouded in stories and history and has, for many, very negative connotations. Covering some 270,000 square metres, the Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura is regarded as the largest building in Spain. It’s mammoth and imposing, and it has something of a macabre feel—a feeling that makes sense when you know the building’s history.  Commissioned by Franco (Spain’s 20th-century dictator) and initially constructed as an orphanage for children of miners, this vast, classically designed space was meant to be something of a self-contained city. There are many stories and doubts about how true this purpose was, and I’ll admit, as you see the towering walls and stand in the central square, there is something of a hidden-away-from-everything feel to the place. Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura in Gijón Spain In 1957, however, construction stopped unexpectedly. By then, it was already being used as a Jesuit-led university, and it continued doing so, teaching trades to students from all across the country. In 1996, with no students left and the premises continuing to decline, the last nuns left, leaving it empty until the local government acquired it in 2001. Debates followed, especially around destroying the mammoth sites due to its Francoist past, even as far as blocking a UNESCO nomination for it. In the end, it was decided to save the vast building and repurpose it—although scars of the past remain, such as the empty and weathered swimming pools. Nowadays, it serves various purposes, from housing governmental buildings to hosting a cultural programme of events. To climb the tour and enter inside any of the buildings, you’ll need to arrange a tour in advance.

Read more: 25 ‘off the beaten path’ destinations in Spain The mammoth Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura just outside Gijón, Spain Go green at the Jardín Botánico Atlántico Gijón’s Botanic Gardens are a stone’s throw from the Laboral Ciudad de la Cultural, and they are a nice way to cheer yourself up and reconnect with nature after standing inside such an imposing building. I like how the gardens here are separated by the four seasons, giving each quarter its own personality, and with entry only a couple of euros, it’s a worthwhile hour or two before heading back into the city itself. Learn at the Muséu del Pueblu d’Asturies At the Museum of the Asturian People, you’ll be able to learn a little more about local life and the region’s history. It’s a little walk from the centre, but if you’re interested in learning about regional history, recipes, instruments and architecture, it’s a nice mid-afternoon break from the beach.  Art Nouveau in Gijón, Spain Art Nouveau Cafe in Gijón, Spain Take a day trip to Oviedo, Asturias’ capital city From Gijón, it’s only a 30-minute train journey to Oviedo, the capital of Asturias. I absolutely adore this city; it’s the perfect size, has great food, and is super clean and pretty. For me, Oviedo is one of the best city breaks in Spain, so it makes sense to visit while you’re in Gijón if time allows. Alternatively, if you want to explore a few more spots on a day trip, then there are some guide tour options available, ideal if you don’t have a car and want to maximise time. This trip to Luarca, Cudillero and Avilés, for example, will allow you to see more of Asturias in one day. What to eat in Gijón, Spain While a bounty of fresh seafood is available in Gijón, be sure to try some of the other typical regional dishes, too.  Chow down on Cachopo One of the most famed dishes in Asturian cuisine is a hearty, fried slab of veal, cheese and ham coated in breadcrumbs. Healthy? Not really. Delicious? You bet! Tuck into Cachopo Sample the sidra: trees, festivals and bars  Cider in Asturias isn’t just a drink; it’s a whole culture, and sidra pouring is an art form in itself. But it might be different to what you’re used to as it’s not sweet, and there is no yeast due to it being naturally fermented apple juice. It’s not even sparkling; the bubbles come from the high pour, so only a little should be poured at a time, and then it should be quickly drunk. If you’re used to sweet, commercial cider, it might take some getting used to, but it’s worth a taste, even if it’s just to try and master the pour. If you’re lucky enough to be here in August, you might catch the Festival of the Natural Cider of Gijón. Thousands of cider bottles are raised and poured simultaneously before the bottles are placed on the ‘tree’ you see for the rest of the year in Plaza del Marqués. Fabada asturiana might be more tempting in winter than in summer Warm up with a hearty Fabada Asturiana While the typical regional stew might be a bit heavy on a hot summer’s day, you should sample Fabada Asturiana at least once during your visit to Gijón. The base of the dish is a local white kidney bean (if it’s the premium Verdina bean, even better), which is cooked in a fragrant stew and then topped with chunks of meat, such as blood sausage, pancetta and pork shoulder. It can usually be ordered as a smaller starter or a hearty main course. Devour all the queso Asturias is the largest cheese-producing region in Spain – and maybe even Europe – and artisanal queso is a big deal here. If you ask a local how many different cheeses Asturias produces, you’ll hear numbers ranging from 50 to 300. While the maths might be debatable, the quality certainly isn’t, and some of the most famous cheeses to sample include the blue Cabrales, naturally aged in caves and the unpasteurized cow milk Casín. Boats in Gijón, Spain How to get to and around Gijón, Spain Exploring the city centre is easy on foot, with the beach and main attractions a short walk away. The city bus network is decent and reliable.

Travelling to Gijón by train and public transport If you’re coming from elsewhere in Spain and wondering how to get to Gijon, then using the train service is likely the best option, with buses being a decent alternative. From Madrid, the journey by train takes around 5 hours on Renfe’s Intercity service, while from nearby Oviedo, you can reach Gijón by train in just over 30 minutes. Train tickets, especially for long-distance journeys, should be booked in advance directly on the Renfe website for the cheapest prices or using one of the popular and best travel apps, such as Omio, for convenience. BlaBlaCar, a car-share service (where you book a spare seat in the car of someone already making a journey)  is also very popular in Spain, and worth checking out if you struggle to find a direct connection from your starting point. ALSA is the main bus company for intercity travel in Spain. Read more: 7 days in Spain itineraries Plaza Mayor, Gijón Spain Travelling to Gijón by plane The nearest airport to Gijon is Asturias Airport, a 45-minute bus journey from the city. Currently, there are limited flights from this airport, including from London; however, the schedules have been growing rapidly each year. Travelling to Gijón flight free from the UK You have two options if you want to visit Northern Spain from the UK without flying. The first is to take the Eurostar to London and, from there, the train to Bayonne. To cross from France to Spain, you can opt for a two bus connection via Bilbao (likely slightly cheaper). You can expect this route to take around 16 hours if timed well. By train, the best option is to travel from Paris to Perpignan, Barcelona, Madrid, and finally Gijon—this will be longer and more expensive. An alternative is to take the ferry from the UK, operated by Brittany Ferries, either departing Portsmouth or Plymouth (though some sailings are only in summer) and arriving in Santander or Bilbao. Both journeys involve two nights aboard the ship. From either arrival point, you can continue by car if driving, pick up a rental car, or take an approximately 5-hour bus or train journey to Gijón. If returning the same way, you might want to consider spending a night in San Sebastian before sailing back, another enchanting coastal destination with one of the best culinary scenes in the county. Oviedo, the capital of Asturias How is it pronounced: Xixón or Gijón? The city’s local name is actually Xixón, pronounced hee-hon, which comes from the Asturian language. Sadly, this is a minority language in Spain, so if you want to learn some keywords to get by with, you’d be better off focusing on learning some Spanish online before your visit. Where to travel after Gijón From Gijón, it’s easy to continue your journey by train to explore the beautiful city of Oviedo or the architecture-heavy cities in the neighbouring Castile and León region. Beyond, plenty more of Spain’s hidden gems await. This article was written following my #SpainByTrain trip in partnership with Spain Tourism and Asturias Tourism. [ad_2] Source link

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[ad_1] Deciding which of the world’s best beach destinations to visit is as challenging as writing a highly subjective list ranking them. A do-nothing beach vacation on a private Maldives island couldn’t be any more different from an active hiking adventure amongst Norway’s spectacular paper-white sands in Lofoten – yet they are both magical in their own ways. From Caribbean island escapes and Pacific Ocean hideaways to Europe’s best beach destinations and Africa’s often-overlooked shorelines, the most beautiful beaches in the world are found in all four corners. Here are nine of my favourite beach destinations worldwide, perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling, surfing, or simply soaking in the views while resting under the shade of a palm tree – absolute bliss! Florida, USA Why and when? There’s no need to fly to the Caribbean for excellent seafood and sugar-white sands when Florida is necklaced by bath-like waters and inviting sands. And for the most part, Florida’s climate makes these sensational spots welcoming year-round. Still, the most reliable and enjoyable weather is usually between November and April, especially as the Atlantic hurricane season is of concern from June until November, and the temperatures can almost be too hot to be pleasant in summer.   Where to stay for the best beaches? One of Florida’s many charms is that you’ve got the whole beach menu. Fancy a city break with spectacular shorelines on your doorstep? Head to ever-famous Fort Lauderdale or Clearwater, where the city’s barrier island beach and even more idyllic Caladesi Island won’t disappoint. For more shimmering turquoise and cyan waters, keep driving south to the Florida Keys, a dreamy archipelago where you can retreat to one of the best beach villas in Florida to enjoy picturesque sunbathing spots such as Smathers or the small clutch of islands in Dry Tortugas National Park. Not that you need to go that far when you could just slip away to a campsite in Saint George Island State Park for some of the most untouched and wild sands, dunes and wistful stargazing. Mauritius’ best beaches are usually backed by dense vegetation, providing privacy Mauritius  Why and when? Of all the beautiful beach destinations on this list, Mauritius is perhaps my favourite. There’s something about this Indian Ocean island that is almost too magical to put into words. Perhaps it’s all of the cultured festivals – come in late January for Cavadee, a Tamil festival of firewalking and temple offering, or March for Hindu Holi – or the fact there are plenty of hikes and waterfalls away from the beaches, but either way, it’s hard to trump. With just two seasons, the best time to visit Mauritius is generally considered to be on the season’s edges, so April and May or September and October. Still, the climate is pretty mild and enjoyable year-round. If you want the best deals, then January until March might be worth considering. Just be aware that cyclones can — and do, as I discovered first-hand when I went in March — be a problem during these months. Where to stay for the best beaches? Some of the top places to visit in Mauritius to make the most of the beaches are the snorkelling-friendly sands around Le Morne, Mauritius’ UNESCO-listed mountain, and Trou aux Biches, where I was lucky enough to stay at the oh-my-gosh-this-is-heaven Beachcomber Resort for a few nights. Flic en Flac and the swirling mix of white sands and vegetation at Île aux Cerfs are two more excellent choices, although I think it’s fair to say all of Mauritius’s beaches are top-notch. Padar Island in Komodo National Park, Indonesia East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia Why and when? I love staying in Bali, but if you’re heading to Indonesia for the beaches, there are better islands for a sand-based escape. My advice, travel a little further to the eastern group of the Lesser Sunda Islands in the East Nusa Tenggara province, where you’ll have around 500 islands to choose from, depending on the kind of trip you’re after.

The dry season, between April and October, is generally considered the best time for travelling in Indonesia. I know many people highlight December and January as a popular time for Aussies to vacation, but I’d disagree. Yes, the rain showers often pass quickly, but they can also leave the beaches and waters far from inviting.  Where to stay for the best beaches? With a pick of some of the world’s best beaches, this group of islands doesn’t disappoint. Seeking sunbathing, sensational views and some otherworldly animal encounters? Pick one of the islands within the Komodo National Park as your base, and you’ll have easy access to Komodo Dragons, pink beaches, and Padar’s viewpoints. Keen on a surf retreat? Head to the south of Sumba island, one of the largest and most diverse in this part of the country. Want to go more offbeat? Venture to the Alor Archipelago, where footprint-free beaches are abundant. Staying at the Adaaran Club Rannalhi resort The Maldives Why and when? The Maldives need little introduction. This is a beach destination superlative, after all. But while pristine, private island beaches and overwater bungalows are the typical Maldives’ postcard, you can also explore the archipelago more freely if you wish, hopping between local islands where you’ll have more opportunities to see the nation’s way of life. For most, the best time to holiday here for sun-kissed beach days is between November and April. During the low season, from May until October, lower prices are offset by a higher chance of rain. Where to stay for the best beaches? It’s hard to find a bad beach in the Maldives, but unlike other vacations where you can easily stumble upon new shorelines, here it’s all in the planning. Still, no matter which island you stay on, you’re pretty much guaranteed to have excellent snorkelling and scuba diving, silky soft sands, and gently lapping tranquil waters. It will be your budget (boat vs sea plane transfers) that will likely define the atoll you choose. When I visited, I found an excellent deal at the Adaaran Club Rannalhi, which allowed this otherwise out-of-budget destination to become a reality. When you’re planning your own trip, use a Maldives holiday specialist to help you work out the pros and cons of each resort and secure some better deals. The place we booked would have been nearly double the price if we had gone with the OTA I usually use to make hotel reservations.  Beautiful bays and beaches are common all across the Balearic Islands The Balearic Islands, Spain Why and when? From Barcelona’s urban shores to the year-round warm climates of the Canary Islands, Spain is home to many of the top beach destinations in Europe. But for me, it’s the Balearic Islands that shine brightest. South of Barcelona, the archipelago’s four main islands – Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera – all dazzle in their own way. Ibiza is best known for its world-class nightlife, Menorca is far more laid-back, and a city break in Palma de Mallorca will give you the best of both worlds. The best time to visit the island group is between April and October, when the weather is more reliable, and everything is open. Summer can be scorching and expensive, so I’d suggest a spring or autumn visit.  Where to stay for the best beaches? Deciding which of the Balearic beaches to use as a base will depend on the type of vacation you’re seeking. Once you’ve picked an island – there are ferries to island-hop if you prefer – based on your interests, you’ll be spoiled for choice regardless. In Mallorca, Cala Agulla and Caló del Moro are two of my favourites. Heading to Ibiza? Cala Carbó and Las Salinas are spectacular. You’ll find a few of Spain’s hidden gems here, too, especially if you’re willing to splurge on Formentera’s exclusive resorts (Calo des Mort is a great spot) or consider a more remote corner of Menorca.  Flying over Whitehaven Beach and then visiting it is one of my favourite Australian memories Queensland, Australia

Why and when? Australia’s “Sunshine State” is arguably the best beach destination in Australia (sorry, WA, you’re a close second!). Not that this narrows down much, as Queensland’s coastline is more than 4000 miles in length before you even consider the state’s incredible islands. From the subtropical climate of the south to the two seasons of the Far North, the gateway to rainforests and the famous Great Barrier Reef, the differences are noticeable. In the south, say around the Gold Coast, you’ll get sun for most of the year, with April until October being prime time. In the Far North, you might want to avoid the wet season between November and March – though really, having visited during January, it can still be a delight. Where to stay for the best beaches? Queensland’s best places are numerous, and you’ll find many of the world’s best beaches here, which was one of the reasons I was so keen to drive the whole State from bottom to top. K’gari (Fraser Island), the world’s largest island made entirely of sand, is incredible – with highways and runways being on the golden beaches. Whitehaven Beach, often given the crown of Australia’s best, is a boat- or flight-accessible delight of dazzling silica sands swirling with an endless palette of blues. Not that you need an island for an excellent beach. Some of the finest on Queensland’s mainland include Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas, the excellent surfing around Noosa, and the more untouched sands around Hervey Bay, ideal for launching off on a whale-watching trip. Aruba’s beaches are ideal for water sports or simply relaxing Aruba Why and when? Aruba packs a little bit of everything into a pocket-sized Caribbean escape. You’ve got some of the world’s best beaches, wild and rugged landscapes in the Arikok National Park, and colourful cities just a stone’s throw from silky soft sands. However, one of the best reasons to visit Aruba is its location outside the hurricane belt, making it a great Caribbean beach destination year-round. This is especially good for those wanting a deal, as the low season between April and August can be enjoyed with more reliable weather alongside better deals.  Where to stay for the best beaches? There’s a reason Aruba is one of the top beach destinations in the world – you’re never far from a sensational shoreline. And while the island is pretty small, that doesn’t mean its beaches lack diversity. My personal favourite is Mangel Halto, a secluded, mangrove-framed spot where cyan shallow waters offer excellent snorkelling. Prefer your snorkelling with turtle sightings? Head north to Malmok. Continue further, and you’ll reach the serene Sasarawichi Dunes, best admired after climbing the California Lighthouse. Then, you’ve got the more wild side of the island, with Dos Playa in the National Park being one of my favourite rugged swimming spots. Bring your scuba licence, too, as you can enjoy some of the best wreck diving in the world here. A beach club along the Albanian Riviera wedged into the cliffs The Albanian Riviera Why and when? The Albanian Riviera has fast become fashionable, and one of Europe’s more offbeat destinations is now a popular summer getaway. But summer (July and especially August) isn’t the best time to come to Albania’s spectacularly shimmering southern beaches, as you’ll be fighting with fellow beach-goers for the best spots. Instead, holiday here in June or September to enjoy a little more space and still fantastic weather – it’s only a ferry ride from Corfu, Greece, so the climate is enjoyable from April until October. Outside of these months, many beach clubs and facilities might not yet be open for the season. Albania is also an excellent value beach destination when compared to some of Europe’s better-established Mediterranean resorts.  Where to stay for the best beaches? The Albanian Riviera is a 75-mile-long stretch facing the Ionian Sea, making beach-hopping easy. Taking a boat trip to one of the tiny islands or hard-to-access craggy coves will only elevate your experience.

Around Sarandë, the most developed resort and city, you’ll likely find the best choice of affordable accommodation and plenty of restaurants or attractions. However, it’s the small and often extremely busy village of Ksamil that’s perhaps most photographed, especially the little islands just off the coast. My advice? Hop in a car and detour down a more bumpy road to spend your days at one of the beaches between the two, such as Shpella-Pëllumbave, where there will likely be less footfall. Plus, having a car will allow you to explore some of Albania’s other experiences, like the Ottoman architecture of Berat or hiking in the soaring mountains. Whichever of Fiji’s islands you end up at, the shores are sure not to disappoint Fiji Why and when? The Fijian archipelago is one of the best beach destinations in the South Pacific. Some 300-plus islands, plus many more sandbars, are scattered across the shimmering waters, offering island escapes for all budgets. The best season to visit Fiji is generally considered May until late September, as this is when the climate is most reliable, but for a good balance of accommodation deals and decent weather, consider May or perhaps even October. You’ll find even better prices in the low season between November and April, but rain and storms are more common during these months.  Where to stay for the best beaches? Viti Levu is Fiji’s main island and the gateway to the archipelago. Here, the resort-heavy Denarau Island or the main city of Nadi allow for day trips to some of the spectacular nearby islands, as the closer beaches aren’t the best. Castaway Island is arguably one of the most magnificent private island resorts I have visited, where the powdery soft sands slope down to coral reefs and shallow waters. If you don’t mind going further, the Yasawa Islands are a true escape, and booking an island-hopping trip will bring you to some of the most idyllic beaches on the planet. And when you’re tired of typical sands, you can step up your ocean cocktail experience at Cloud 9, one of Fiji’s floating bars. Pin it: 9 of the world’s best beach destinations [ad_2] Source link

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Whale Watching with Hermanus Whale Watchers

Experience the thrill of whale watching in Hermanus with Hermanus Whale Watchers. Join us on an unforgettable boat trip in Walker Bay, Hermanus on the Cape Whale Coast of South Africa. You will witness up close and intimate the mating and calving of these southern right whales.

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Plettenberg Bay: Unveiling the Hidden Charm Beyond its Pretty Name

Plettenberg Bay boasts some of the most breathtaking, sandy shores in the Garden Route. Central Beach and Lookout Beach are a surfer’s paradise, where wave enthusiasts can conquer the breaks and ride the waves. Sun-seekers can soak up the rays or take strolls along the shoreline. Whether you’re a beach bum or a wave warrior, these beaches offer something for everyone.

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Open vehicle Kruger Park safaris offer guests a whole new way to explore the Kruger

Embark on the ultimate Kruger Park adventure with our open vehicle safari! Our experienced rangers will guide you through Africa's greatest wildlife sanctuary, ensuring an unforgettable wildlife experience. From the iconic Big 5 to breathtaking landscapes, every moment is a chance to be amazed. Book your Kruger Park safari today and discover paradise in just one day! 🦁🐘🦏 #KrugerNationalPark #SafariAdventure #Big5Sighting

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Whale Watching June Special

Whale Watching in Hermanus Opening Special For June, we offer 50% off the Whale Watching seasonal rate! 🐳 Adults: R700 🐳 Children u/12 : R350 🐳 Kiddie under 3yrs- 0 Get close to the Southern Right Whales on you Boat Based Whale Trip Book online today whats app us: 0829318064

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The Bushbaby and Monkey Sanctuary in Hartbeespoort Dam, South Africa take in monkeys that people abandoned as pets ensuring a haven for these clever and cute creatures.

The monkeys roam freely while you walk through the enclosure with a bucket full of treats that they can come and get from you. Some jump on you and some grab from you - this was a great experience and so much fun!

There are lemurs,  squirrel monkeys and capuchins all running around trying to get their share of a treat of popcorn/cat food /fruit and some seeds that you carry in a bucket while walking in a pathway throughout their enclosure. Some were very shy/ some mischievous/some scared and all just very cute and clever!

This was truly an awesome experience although you would think it could be boring- it's not! ⭐️ A 5 star Review from Petrus Johannes van Zyl #monkey #bushbabies #monkeylove #monkeyfacts #didyouknowfacts #bushbabiesmonkeysanctuary #monkeysanctuarysouthafrica #monkeyshartbeespoortdam #thingstodoinhartbeespoortdam

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[ad_1] After several visits to the Dolomites, we’ve put together our favourite places to visit including picturesque locations, the most beautiful villages and dramatic mountains. We visit the Alps regularly and after several weeks in Switzerland this year, we came away with the conclusion that the Italian Dolomites is our number 1 hiking destination. The spiky peaks are unlike anywhere else. Likewise, the lush alpine meadows, high mountain passes and cable cars will leave you speechless. We’ve explored and written a lot about the Dolomites and we had a hard time curating this list to just 20 amazing places. But we think it’s the best the Dolomites has to offer. SASSOLUNGO HIKE MAP | PLACES TO VISIT IN THE DOLOMITES The Dolomites are the eastern section of the northern Italian Alps, a mountain region made up of glaciers, lakes, forests, and mountains. The UNESCO World Heritage Site covers an area of around 140,000 hectares. For details on how to get there, read our first-timer’s guide to the Dolomites. >> How to use this map / Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. Click on the top right corner of the map to open a larger version in a new tab or the star to save to your Google Maps.   1. VAL DI FUNES Val di Funes is a beautiful valley in Val Gardena which has become famous for a charming church nestled amongst rolling green meadows under jagged spires of rock. But, there’s so much more to do, and it was one of our favourite places in the Dolomites. We hiked the Panoramaweg and Sunnseitenweg trails, which are two beautiful walks that start from the village of Santa Maddalena. They are both easy hikes with great views of the valley. We also loved the more challenging Adolf Munkel Trail which cuts under the jagged spires of the Puez-Odle group. All the details are on our complete guide to visiting Val di Funes. VAL DI FUNES, ITALIAN DOLOMITES 2. ALPE DI SIUSI Alpe di Siusi is Europe’s largest alpine meadow, surrounded by towering peaks and soaring pinnacles. It’s one of the most spectacular destinations in the Dolomites. The sweeping panoramic views make it a great place to hike in summer. One of the best trails is the Monte Pana hike which is almost all downhill. Our highlight at Alpe di Siusi was lunch in the Rifugios. Click the below heading to see our favourites. ALPE DI SIUSI RIFUGIOS Gostner Schwaige for traditional Dolomites dishes with refined twists Rauchhütte serves alpine food including their famous venison ragu and locally sourced steak, accompanied by a serious wine list. Gostner Schwaige provides a gourmet dining experience at 3,000 feet with locally sourced food from the alpine meadows. Don’t miss the Heublütensuppe – a soup made from hay, flowers, and herb, served in bread. Access by private vehicle is limited, so the best way to get to the meadow is via the cable car in Ortisei. We hired e-bikes from Bamby Bike Rental which is a great way to see a lot more of the meadow while saving your legs. ALPE DI SIUSI ALPE DI SIUSI 3. SECEDA & THE PUEZ-ODLE GROUP The Seceda summit would have to be one of our favourite viewpoints anywhere in the world. It’s also very accessible via the cable car from Ortisei (the Furnes-Seceda Cable Car) which is only 100 metres from the viewpoint. So, there is hardly any walking to get to this incredible Dolomites location. We had a great day out by going up via the Furnes-Seceda Cable Car to the viewpoint, strolling downhill to have lunch at Baita Troier Hutte, and then walking down to Col Raiser to get the cable car to Santa Cristina. There’s a bus between Santa Cristina and Oritisei to get back to where you started. PUEZ-ODLE FROM SECEDA 4. SASSOLUNGO The Sassolungo Circuit is one of our favourite places in the Dolomites. It’s a stunning mountain range with 3 towering peaks, dramatically positioned rifugios and views of sweeping meadows.

You can see it on a full-day hike, which is one of our favourites in the area. We have all the details on our hiking the Sassolungo circuit guide. If you’re not up for the whole hike you can get the cable car from Selva or Santa Cristina to Campioni, which is the starting point for the hike. There’s a restaurant here where you can take in the views without doing the hike. The views from Col Rodella are also amazing. Take the cable car from just outside Canazei, then the short walk to the top of Col Rodella. 5. LAGO DI CAREZZA Lago di Carezza is a beautiful alpine lake whose emerald waters perfectly reflect the spiky Latemar mountains behind. The sunlight gracing its gentle waters have earned it the nickname “Lake of the Rainbow.” The lake is fed by underground springs so the water level rises and falls with the seasons. The best time to visit is in early spring when the snow has melted, and the lake starts to rise. Lago di Carezza is 26 kilometres southeast of Bolzano (about a 40-minute drive) on the Great Dolomite Road. There’s a large visitor centre with toilets and plenty of parking on site. LAGO DI CAREZZA, ITALIAN DOLOMITES 6. GREAT DOLOMITE ROAD The final section of the Great Dolomite Road opened in 1909, connecting towns in the Dolomites previously inaccessible thanks to the high mountains. The route runs from Bolzano to Cortina, collecting all the major Dolomites peaks in 110 kilometres of driving. Here is a quick itinerary for the Great Dolomite Road featuring some of our favourite highlights: Lago di Carezza – Beautiful Alpine Lake. Val di Fassa – Valley with striking alpine meadows. Passo Pordoi – One of the four passes on the Great Dolomites Road with 28 hairpin bends. Passo Falzarego – For the cable car to Rifugio Lagazuoi, used during WW1. Cortina d’Ampezzo – Read more in our Cortina guide. PASSO PORDOI 7. SASS PORDOI The Sass Pordoi Cable Car whisks you up to a 2,950-metre-high rocky wilderness in just a couple of minutes. It leaves from the top of the Passo Pordoi and the views are as good as anywhere in the Dolomites. The Sella Massif is like a massive sheer-sided boulder and the three peaks of Sassolungo lie just across the valley. If you’re feeling adventurous you can hike across the rocky desolation of Piz Boe, but it’s a great destination to just soak up the views with minimal effort. 8. VAJOLET TOWERS The Vajolet Towers are 6 dramatic peaks in the Catinaccio group and possibly the most photographed peaks in the Dolomites. It’s a popular destination for a very serious Via Ferrata (Ferrata Santner) as well as rock climbing for people with far more ability than us. But, if you’d like to experience a unique side of the Dolomites, there’s a medium-length, but fairly challenging hike to the base of the towers. The hike starts from Malga Frommer Alm. VAJOLET TOWERS VAJOLET TOWERS 9. BRENTA DOLOMITES The Brenta Dolomites is a remote area in the Western Dolomites with vertical walls and rocky summits. The best way to see the area is a hike down to the town of Madonna di Campiglio. We took the Grostè Gondola Lift, then walked southwest via path 316 to Rifiguio Tuckett. From here we walked down to Rifugio Brentei on path 328, then took a steep descent down to Rifugio Vallisnella. There is a bus from Rifugio Vallisnella to Madonna di Campiglio every 20 or 30 minutes. The Brenta Dolomites is a stunning landscape as you can see from the photos below. We highly recommend making the trip out here if you have the time. GROSTÈ GONDOLA TO MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO HIKE (CLICK TO OPEN) How far – 18 kilometres | How long – 6 hours | How hard – 200 metres of ascent; 1,300 metres of descent. BRENTA DOLOMITES, ITALY 10. VAL GENOVA Val Genova is a narrow, forested valley sometimes called the valley of waterfalls thanks to the multitude of waterfalls hidden among the trees. Two of the best waterfalls are Cascate Nardis and Cascate Di Laris and they are easily reached via a short walk from the parking lot.

The whole valley is a gentle and peaceful place, which feels a world away from the rugged mountain scenery surrounding it.   There is parking at Ponte Verde in Lower Val Genova which is open from 8 am to 5:30 pm. VAL GENOVA 11. MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO The town of Madonna di Campiglio is a wonderful year-round destination in the Dolomites. In summer it has hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and paragliding, while in winter it’s a lively ski resort. There is an extensive network of well-groomed slopes and modern ski lifts, so it’s good for beginners through to experienced skiers. It also has a great après-ski scene with vibrant nightlife, local restaurants, and elegant dining options. Nestled beneath the Brenta Dolomites, Madonna di Campiglio has a cosy atmosphere with chalet-style architecture and charming streets lined with boutiques. 12. TRENTO Trento is a charming, picturesque city in the Trentino-Alto Adige region with beautiful streets adorned with medieval and Renaissance-era buildings. It’s a wonderful place to visit in the Italian Dolomites and adds great variety to the dramatic mountain scenery. Click the below title for a few ideas for what to do in Trento. WHAT TO DO IN TRENTO Piazza Duomo: A vibrant square surrounded by historic buildings and charming cafes. Castello del Buonconsiglio and Gardens: A medieval castle consisting of several buildings, each reflecting different historical periods. Museo delle Scienze (MUSE): An innovative and interactive museum that explores various scientific and natural topics. Palazzo delle Albere: A unique Renaissance-style palace with contemporary art exhibitions. Sardagna Cable Car: Take the cable car to Sardagna for breathtaking views. TRENTO 13. TRENTINO VALLEY The Trento Valley is a beautiful wine-growing area where production is mostly done by small family-owned wineries. The chilly alpine climate is excellent for cultivating cabernet sauvignon and pinot noir. Most wine is sold locally with minimal exports so visiting the local vineyards while in the Dolomites is a great thing to do. Here are a few we recommend: Ferrari Trentino // The opulent 16th-century villa at Ferrari Trentino is stunning. Lunch and wine tasting can be booked ranging from €85 to €265. Cantina Tramin // Set in a stunning location, Cantina Tramin is a celebration of art, design, architecture, and wine. Guided tours with wine tasting can be booked starting from €17. Cantina Rotari // Cantina Rotari maximise the unique mountain climate of Trentino to produce sparkling wines from Chardonnay and Pinot grapes. Alois Lageder Paradeis // This family-run winery uses classical grape varieties to produce wines in harmony with the natural elements of the area. We had lunch here and it was top-notch. TRENTINO VALLEY 14. CORTINA D’AMPEZZO Cortina d’Ampezzo is the central hub of the Eastern Dolomites. It’s a beautiful village framed by mountains with high-end accommodation, up-market shopping, and top-quality restaurants. During the summer season, there are a host of wonderful things to do from Cortina, some of which involve hiking, while others are easy-to-get-to scenic viewpoints. Read more in our guide to Cortina d’Ampezzo. CORTINA D’AMPEZZO 15. TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO Possibly the finest hike in the entire Italian Dolomites, the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop offers stunning views of the three distinctive rocky peaks rising above a sea of barren rock. Numerous rifugios on the route provide wonderful breaks with stunning views and hearty Italian cooking. The trail is easy to follow with several scenic rest stops along the way. All the details are on our guide to hiking Tre Cime di Lavaredo. TRE CIME 16. CADINI DI MISURINA The Cadini di Misurina viewpoint offers some of the best views of the spiky mountain peaks that make the Dolomites so distinctive. There is a short hike to the viewpoint from the Rifugio Auronzo car park, which is where the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike mentioned above starts.

From the car park, take trail 117 towards Rifugio Col de Varda and walk about 1.5 kilometres to reach the viewpoint. There is a narrow trail on a grassy outcrop with dramatic views of the surrounding mountains. 17. LAGO DI BRAIES Lago di Braies is a picture-perfect lake and one of the most recognisable images of the Italian Dolomites. The vibrant turquoise lake is surrounded by blonde-shingle beaches and backed by sheer rocky cliffs. There are great photo opportunities from the shore but the best way to see it is via one of the wooden-paneled row boats. All the details including how to visit are in our guide to visiting Lago di Braies. 18. PRATO PIAZZA Prato Piazza is a wild alpine pasture set in the hills above Lago di Braies. You can only drive to the top of Prato Piazza early in the morning (before they close the road) or if you are staying in the hotel at the top, Hotel Gaisl. Otherwise, you can park at the large car park at the bottom and get the shuttle bus. More information is on our guide to Lago di Braies. We stayed the night at the hotel and were treated to a magical sunrise over the mountains and meadows dotted with wooden huts. If you have the time, we highly recommend it. PRATO PIAZZA 19. LAGAZUOI The Lagazuoi Cable Car climbs to Rifugio Lagazoui (2,753m) at the top of Falzarego Pass. Set on the side of the mountain, this “castle of rock” is peppered with spires and turrets, and offers a very dramatic view of the Dolomites. Lagazoui was the front line between the Italian and Austrian forces during World War I and you can still see some of the remnants of war today. There are fortified trenches, gun turrets and bunkers. Numerous excellent hikes start from the Rifugio. Check the latest cable car opening times and prices on the official Lagazuoi website. LAGAZUOI CABLE CAR 20. LAGO DI SORAPIS Lago di Sorapis is a stunning high alpine lake on a secluded ledge surrounded by the rugged slopes of Mount Sorapis (3,200 m). The lake is reached via a moderately challenging hike which includes forested trails, narrow ledges, and breathtaking views overlooking Tre Cime. During the summer months, there’s a wonderful return route that heads over a dramatic high pass. All the details, including how to get there, are in our guide to hiking to Lago di Sorapis.   LAGO DI SORAPIS MORE DOLOMITES GUIDES ANYWHERE WE ROAM ISREADER-SUPPORTED When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support. You can also buy us a coffee, and follow us on Instagram or Facebook. - Paul & Mark. [ad_2] Source link

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[ad_1] Val Gardena is the perfect base for exploring the central Dolomites with good transport links and beautiful scenery. Here’s our guide to Val Gardena including what to do and where to stay. By: Paul | Last Updated: 4 May 2024 The Dolomites is a mountain range in the north-east corner of Italy and its peaks are some of the most dramatic in Europe. Val Gardena is a beautiful valley that runs through the centre of the Dolomites and it’s one of the best places to base yourself to explore the region. The valley is surrounded by chains of mountain peaks with distinctively shaped pinnacles and large alpine meadows offering plenty of great things to do nearby. We’ve been to Val Gardena several times, mostly because it has some of our favourite hikes in the Dolomites. But, it’s also a great place to explore incredible scenery without much effort. This guide covers the layout of Val Gardena with recommendations on where to stay, plus all the great things to do in the area. SECEDA RIDGELINE WHY GO TO VAL GARDENA & THE CENTRAL DOLOMITES Val Gardena and its surrounding area has some of the most diverse and remarkable scenery in the Alps. It’s an excellent base for hiking, and all of these highlights can easily be reached by cable car and a short walk. Seceda Viewpoint – a stunning view of the jagged pinnacles of the Puez-Odle Group. Alpe di Siusi – the largest alpine meadow in Europe surrounded by rocky monoliths. Sassolungo Massif – 3 towering peaks provide the backdrop to a stunning hike. Val di Funes – a fairytale valley framed by soaring pinnacles. Sass Pordoi – a high viewpoint of dramatic and rocky desolation. SASS PORDOI VAL DI FUNES LAYOUT OF VAL GARDENA Val Gardena is a valley in the central Dolomites in the South Tyrol region of northeastern Italy. The valley has 3 main towns: Ortisei (St Ulrich), Santa Cristina (St Cristina), and Selva di Val Gardena (Wolkenstein in Gröden). The towns are connected by frequent buses, and each has an excellent network of cable cars that head up to the surrounding mountains. The combination of buses and cable cars makes Val Gardena an excellent destination for visiting the Dolomites without a car. However, if you want to explore more of the surrounding area (like Tre Cime and Lago di Braies) a car is helpful as public transport becomes patchier further away from the valley. > How to use this map / Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. Click on the top right corner of the map to open a larger version in a new tab or the star to save to your Google Maps.   WHERE TO STAY IN VAL GARDENA Thanks to the reliable bus service connecting the 3 main towns in Val Gardena, they each make a good base. However, they are all a little different, with their own attractions. ORTISEI (St Ulrich) Ortisei is the largest town in Val Gardena with the most choice when it comes to accommodation. It has a lively centre with a pedestrian area and the best shopping and nightlife in Val Gardena. Ortisei also has the best cable car links for reaching the most stunning viewpoints. From the town centre, you can get cable cars to Seceda, Resciesa, and Alpe di Siusi. We have stayed in both Selva and Ortisei and we recommend Ortisei as the best place to stay for easy access to the most photographed sights. ACCOMMODATION IN ORTISEI Residence Larciunei is a family-run chalet in the centre of Ortisei with fully equipped kitchenettes. Ski slopes are 600 metres away. Aquila Dolomites Residences is in a great location in the centre of town about 180 metres from the nearest ski lift. Hotel Garni Snaltnerhof is a family-run guesthouse with a traditional restaurant. It’s very convenient to the bus stop to Selva. ORITSEI SANTA CRISTINA (St Cristina) Santa Cristina is the smallest village in Val Gardena. It sits between Ortisei and Selva, so it’s convenient for getting to either of

them by bus. Cable cars head up either side of the valley from Santa Cristina. The Col Raiser and Fermeda chairlift brings you close to the Seceda Viewpoint; the Campioni and Monte Pana cable cars take you to the excellent hiking around the Sassolungo Massif. The main road bypasses Santa Cristina, so it’s a good option if you’re looking for a quieter stay. ACCOMMODATION IN SANTA CRISTINA Apartments Boè has panoramic views of the valley from their self-catering apartments in the centre of town. Smart Hotel Saslong is a clean modern property well located near the centre of town with a self-service bar and excellent breakfast. B&B Marina is a clean functional B&B. Some rooms have kitchen facilities making it a great choice for families. SELVA DI VAL GARDENA (Wolkenstein) Selva di Val Gardena is the highest village in the valley at 5,128 feet. It’s a lovely place with good facilities including some of the best restaurants in Val Gardena. The village has two excellent cable cars. One heads up to Campioni and the Sassolungo Massif, while the other climbs towards Passo Gardena. The hiking from both these places is excellent. The village also sits just under the two high passes (Passo Sella and Passo Gardena) and makes an excellent base to explore further afield if you have a car. We recommend staying in Selva if you are an avid hiker or plan to explore the wider area with a car. ACCOMMODATION IN SELVA Chalet Pra Ronch is close to some great hiking and it has ski-to-door access making it the perfect summer or winter stay. Linder Cycling Hotel is a smart modern property with a wonderful spa and indoor pool overlooking the mountain landscape. Residence Antares has traditionally styled apartments with kitchenettes making it a great choice for families. GETTING TO VAL GARDENA BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT The closest main train station to Val Gardena is in Bolzano. There are international train services to Bolzano from Innsbruck, Venice and Munich. If you’re already in Italy, you can get to Bolzano from Verona, Milan, Rome, Florence plus many more. Check all the services at trainline.com. From Bolzano, bus line 350 runs through Val Gardena stopping at Ortisei (1 hour), Santa Cristina and Selva (1 hour 20 minutes). BY CAR If you’re driving from the north, Selva/Ortisei is around 115 kilometres from Innsbruck Airport (about 1 hour, 45 minute drive). From the south, Verona Airport is around 2 hours away by car. VAL DI FUNES CATINACCIO GROUP HOW TO GET AROUND VAL GARDENA As we mentioned above, Val Gardena is one of the best destinations in the Dolomites to visit without a car. BUSES The Val Gardena Express travels between Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Sevla, and runs about every 30 minutes. It’s around 10 minutes from Selva to Santa Cristina and 15 minutes from Santa Cristina to Ortisei. Check the most up-to-date bus schedule at valgardena.it. Val Gardena Mobil Card – Most hotels in Val Gardena are affiliated with the tourist association and provide a Mobil Card which gives you free access to the public buses between Selva, Ortisei and Santa Cristina. CABLE CARS Val Gardena also has an excellent cable car network to get you to some beautiful destinations with minimal effort. Most cable cars operate from mid-June to mid-October, but some start or finish a little earlier or later. Dogs and bicycles can be taken on almost all cable cars. Check the most up-to-date cable car openings at val-gardena.com. BY CAR Although Val Gardena is easy to explore without a car, if you want to visit any of the places we have listed below under THINGS TO DO NEAR VAL GARDENA, a car will be much more convenient. VAL DI FUNES VAL DI FUNES ALPE DI SIUSI WHAT TO DO IN VAL GARDENA 1. THE SECEDA RIDGELINE The Seceda summit would have to be one of our favourite viewpoints anywhere and the best bit is that it’s very accessible. There’s a cable car from Ortisei (the Furnes-Seceda Cable Car) which is only 100 metres from th

e viewpoint. The other option is to leave from Santa Cristina and get the cable car to Col Raiser, then the Fermeda chairlift. From here it’s also just a short walk to the viewpoint. We had a great day out by going up via the Furnes-Seceda Cable Car to the viewpoint, strolling downhill to have lunch at Baita Troier Hutte, and then walking down to Col Raiser to get the cable car to Santa Cristina. There’s a bus between Santa Cristina and Oritisei to get back to where you started. PUEZ-ODLE FROM SECEDA SECEDA 2. EXPLORE THE MEADOWS OF ALPE DI SIUSI Alpe di Siusi is a stunning alpine meadow in the heart of the Dolomites, surrounded by towering peaks and soaring pinnacles. We hired e-bikes from Ortisei and took the cable car up to Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm). In just a few hours we were able to explore much more of the area than would be possible on foot. Bamby Bike Rental is just under the cable car station and they help you get the bikes onto the lift. We suggest you hire e-bikes because it’s not as flat as the word ‘meadow’ might suggest! ALPE DI SIUSI 3. HAVE LUNCH IN AN ALPINE HUT One of the things that gets us most excited about visiting this part of the Dolomites is the alpine huts. After a long day walking, it’s great to unwind with good food in a scenic location. Here are some of our favourite alpine huts in the area: Rauchhütte on Alpe di Siusi serves alpine food including their famous venison ragu and locally sourced steak, accompanied by a serious wine list. Baita Troier Hutte is perfectly positioned under the Seceda Ridgeline with excellent views of the Sassolungo Massif. Rifugio Friedrich August was our favourite stop on the Sassolungo walk with excellent food (and donuts!) in a picture-perfect location. FRIEDRICH AUGUST 4. DRIVE THE HIGH PASSES At the eastern end of Val Gardena, a road rises to head over two spectacular passes. It’s a wonderful drive and an easy way to take in some of the best scenery in the Dolomites. GARDENA PASS (PASSO GARDENA) Heading eastwards, Passo Gardena connects Val Gardena with Val Badia. The pass is at an elevation of 2,136 metres with jaw-dropping views of the incredible Puez-Odle peaks and Fanes Group. SELLA PASS (PASSO SELLA) Passo Sella links Val di Fassa with Val Gardena via a 12-kilometre windy road. Along this route, you’ll get excellent views of the towering peaks of Sassolungo and the impressive rocky monolith of the Sella group. PASSO PORDOI 5. HIKE SASSOLUNGO (OR JUST ENJOY THE VIEW) The Sassolungo Circuit is one of our favourite hikes in the Dolomites. It’s a full-day loop that takes a bit of effort, but it’s a thoroughly rewarding day out. The scenery is wonderfully diverse with high alpine meadows, rocky high passes and sweeping views. If this interests you, we have all the details on our hiking the Sassolungo circuit guide. If you’re not up for the whole hike you can get the cable car from Selva or Santa Cristina to Campioni, which is the starting point for the hike. There’s a restaurant here where you can take in the views without doing the hike. SASSOLUNGO 6. GO PARAGLIDING Val Gardena is one of the best locations for paragliding in the Dolomites with both stunning scenery and good thermals. Even with zero experience, you can take a tandem flight for an unforgettable day out in Val Gardena. Gardenafly and Fly2 are two reputable operators who have been soaring above Val Gardena for over 30 years. THINGS TO DO NEAR VAL GARDENA 7. EXPLORE THE STUNNING VAL DI FUNES Not far from Val Gardena, Val di Funes is famous for a charming church nestled amongst rolling green meadows under jagged spires of rock. But, there’s so much more to do and it’s well worth visiting while in the area. We hiked the Panoramaweg and Sunnseitenweg trails; two beautiful walks that start from the picture-perfect village of Santa Maddalena. We highly recommend both. The more challenging Adolf Munkel Trail is also a wonderful way to get up close to the jagged spires of the Puez-Odle group which form the backdrop to

the church. You can either get the bus from Val Gardena or hike from the Seceda Viewpoint. For more details, read our complete guide to visiting Val di Funes. VAL DI FUNES SAN GIOVANNI CHURCH, VAL DI FUNES 8. HIKE THE PUEZ ODLE ALTOPIANO Puez Odle Altopiano is one of the most popular walks in Val Gardena with amazing views of the jagged Dolomites peaks. From Selva take the Dantercepies Cable Car up to Passo Sella for the start of the walk. It takes around 6 hours to finish the 10-mile hike. Although it’s relatively long, the cable car takes a lot of the effort out of the ascent and the scenery is so amazing that the time flies by. Rifugio Puez is a great place to stop for lunch. 9. SEE THE VIEWS FROM SASS PORDOI Another great pass near Val Gardena is Passo Pordoi which reaches a height of 2,239 metres via 28 hairpins. At the top of the pass, we took the cable car up to Sass Pordoi which was probably the easiest and most stunning viewpoint we found in the Dolomites. The cable car climbs 700 metres in just a couple of minutes, taking you to a 2,950-metre-high rocky wilderness. From the top, you can see the Sella Massif which is like a colossal sheer-sided boulder. The three peaks of Sassolungo lie just across the valley. In summer five or six buses run daily from Val Gardena to Passo Pordoi. 10. VAJOLET TOWERS & THE SPIKY CATINACCIO GROUP The Catinaccio Group is a spiky mountain range near Val Gardena with several great hikes. The most dramatic is the Vajolet Towers walk. The Vajolet Towers are six summits that rise out of a rocky basin. We found hiking the zig-zagging path pretty strenuous, but the views at the top made it all worthwhile. To get to the trail, park in Vigo di Fassa at the base of the Vigo – Ciampedie cable car. Take the cable car up to Rifugio Ciampedie where the trail commences. Unfortunately, this is not easy to get to by public transport. VAJOLET TOWERS VAJOLET TOWERS 11. SOAK UP THE VIEWS FROM COL RODELLA Col Rodella is one of the best viewpoints in the Dolomites. From the top you can see Sassolungo, Alpe di Suisi, Sassopiatto and Sass Pordoi. There’s a rifugio on the summit which is around 10 minutes walk from the cable car station, so it’s very easy to get to. It was one of the most scenic beers we’ve ever had. The rifugio is open from 20 June to 30 September. To get to the top of Col Rodella, either take the cable car from just outside Canazei or a short-ish hike from the bus stop at the top of Passo Sella. SASSOLUNGO FROM COL RODELLA VIEWS FROM COL RODELLA 12. CATCH THE REFLECTIONS AT LAGO DI CAREZZA Lago di Carezza is a beautiful alpine lake whose emerald waters perfectly reflect the spiky Latemar mountains behind. The sunlight gracing its gentle waters, have earned it the nickname “Lake of the Rainbow.” The lake is fed by underground springs so the water level rises and falls with the seasons. The best time to visit is in early spring when the snow has melted, and the lake starts to rise. Lago di Carezza is the furthest attraction from Val Gardena that we’ve listed in this guide and the easiest way to get there is with a car. LAGO DI CAREZZA, ITALIAN DOLOMITES MORE DOLOMITES GUIDES ANYWHERE WE ROAM ISREADER-SUPPORTED When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. You can also shout us a coffee. Thanks for your support – Paul & Mark. INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK [ad_2] Source link

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[ad_1] Soho & The West End are two of London’s most exciting neighbourhoods. This historic part of the capital has drawn aristocrats, gangsters and musicians thanks to its reputation for debauchery. Today, it’s still a lively place to stay in London. By: Paul Healy | Published: 22 Apr 2024 span box-shadow: none !important; filter: brightness(1) !important; ]]> The West End is an informally defined area north of the Thames between Oxford Circus and Holborn. As the home of mainstream professional theatre in the country, it’s one of the liveliest areas in London.   Soho is a smaller area within the West End roughly defined by the triangle between Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus and Tottenham Court Road tube stations. This is one of the most exciting areas in London and somewhere we love to hang out when we’re not travelling. It has a buzzing atmosphere 24/7 with excellent live music and small lane ways packed with bars, cafes, restaurants and pubs. You could easily spend days strolling around Soho, popping into interesting shops and still not even scratch the surface. It’s a great base for your London stay if you are looking for somewhere with plenty of great nightlife while still retaining a village feel. It’s one of our favourite areas of London.  WHY STAY IN SOHO & THE WEST END? The West End is one of the busiest nightlife areas in London so if you stay here, you’ll have everything on your doorstep. You can enjoy a great night out, trying Soho’s small wine bars, live music venues, boutiques and excellent restaurants and easily walk back to your hotel. If you’ve come to London to do some shopping, Oxford Street and Regent Street, both in Soho, are a great place to start. Soho is also very central and walkable to many attractions. Some of London’s best art galleries are very close as are the popular tourist centres of Leicester Square, Covent Garden and Chinatown. The thing we love about Soho the most is that, while very popular with tourists, it still manages to hold on to a local feel. SOHO MAIN ATTRACTIONS IN SOHO & THE WEST END London’s LGBT Scene: The area around Old Compton Street is the heart of London’s LGBT scene where you’ll find plenty of great bars (they are open to everyone). Soho’s Laneways: Soho has a collection of small streets packed with cafes, boutiques, bars and restaurants. Some of the best streets are Dean Street, Firth Street, and Beak Street. Chinatown / Leicester Square: As the centre of touristy London, Chinatown and Leicester Square are good to explore, but probably in small doses. Galleries: The National Portrait Gallery (our favourite gallery in London) and the National Gallery are in the West End. Covent Garden: We love Covent Garden even though it’s very busy and touristy. It’s a beautiful square, the shopping is excellent and there are some very good restaurants. French House: The French house is a historic pub in Soho with no music, TV or phones. They famously sell half-pints only except on 1st April every year when you can get a full pint for charity. Berwick Street Market: Whenever we’re in Soho we make a beeline for the Berwick Street Market for some of the best street food in London. Our pick is Jerusalem Falafel. TUBE STATIONS IN THE WEST END Embankment | Charing Cross | Piccadilly Circus | Leicester Square | Covent Garden | Temple | Holborn | Chancery Lane NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY REGENT STREET WHERE TO STAY? Z HOTEL STRAND (£) It’s not easy to find decent-value hotels near the West End, but Z Hotels have a few, and the one on the Strand is probably the pick. It’s in an excellent location and the rooms are clean and tidy, although very small. 10 minute walk – Lincoln’s Inn Fields, Ronnie Scotts, Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Embankment | 20 minute walk – Oxford Circus, Googe Street, Buckingham Palace, Southwark. Z HOTEL SOHO (£) The Z Soho is trendy and hip with all the right de

sign quirks. Rooms are small but practical with comfortable bedding and open bathrooms. There are no wardrobes, just a bit of hanging space, so you need to be prepared to travel light. However, it’s a great value stay in central Soho. 10 minute walk – Leicester Square, Tottenham Court Road, Piccadilly, Charing Cross | 20 minute walk – Green Park, The Wallace Collection, Bond Street, Westminster Abbey, Chancery Lane. HAZLITT’S (££) In the heart of Soho, I’ve walked past this hotel many times and never known it was there. It oozes old-world charm across four Georgian townhouses with a wood-panelled library, leather-bound books, and antique furniture. 10 minute walk – Leicester Square, Tottenham Court Road, Piccadilly, Charing Cross, Oxford Circus, Savile Row | 20 minute walk – Green Park, The Wallace Collection, Bond Street, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Chancery Lane. L’OSCAR (£££) On the north-eastern corner of Covent Garden, this exquisitely designed boutique hotel is opulently decorated somewhere between 1920s glam and Studio 54. The friendly staff, excellent cocktails and above-average breakfast make this a great stay in Soho. 10 minute walk – Chancery Lane, Russel Square, Bloomsbury Square, Lincoln’s Inn Fields, Tottenham Court Road, Covent Garden | 20 minute walk – King’s Cross, Euston Square, Oxford Circus, BFI Imax, St Pauls, Smithfield Market. HAM YARD HOTEL (£££) Ham Yard Hotel is a cool urban village with a tree-filled courtyard, shops and a bowling alley. The rooms are beautifully designed with chic British sensitivities. The roof terrace has an edible garden and lovely London views.   10 minute walk – Piccadilly Circus, Liberty, Tottenham Court Road, Covent Garden, Fortnum & Mason, The Mall, Charing Cross | 20 minute walk – Great Portland Street, Russel Square, Southbank, Green Park, Buckingham Palace, Bond Street, Hyde Park Corner. HAZLITT’S SOHO MORE LONDON ACCOMMODATION GUIDES ANYWHERE WE ROAM ISREADER-SUPPORTED When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. You can also shout us a coffee. Thanks for your support – Paul & Mark. INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK [ad_2] Source link

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[ad_1] Cosy bars, majestic castles and timeless architecture make Lisbon a cool and entrancing city. Our 3-day Lisbon itinerary puts it all together, so you have time to savour it all. By: Paul Healy | Published: 16 Apr 2024 span box-shadow: none !important; filter: brightness(1) !important; ]]> Lisbon is cool. As a city unrestrained by convention, Lisbon is bursting with personality. Beside majestic architecture housing Portugal’s famous blue tiles, flea markets hum to the murmur of curious browsers. Re-purposed industrial areas give it an edge for artistic expression, while timeless monasteries captivate with beguiling designs.    Windy lanes climbing up and down narrow streets hide tiny bars serving simple tapas and local wines. Live music spills from open windows; the wistful warbling of fado fills squares with an inexplicable yearning. We’ve visited Lisbon several times, and this itinerary captures everything we love about this alluring city. From the best local areas to the top tourist spots; exquisite galleries to the coolest street art; glorious castles to quirky shops. And of course, pastel de nata. IN THIS GUIDE 3-DAY LISBON ITINERARY DAY 1 São Jorge Castle, São Vicente de Fora, Graca’s Campo de Santa Clara, National Palace, Cathedral DAY 2 Antiga Confeitara de Belém, Jerónimo’s Monastery, Museu Coleção Berardo, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, LX Factory, Santa Catarina DAY 3 Tram 28, Praça Luis de Camōes, Praça de Principe Real, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcãntara, Elevador da Gloria, Igreja de São Domingos, Convento do Carmo LISBON MAP | ABOUT THIS ITINERARY We’ve put this itinerary together after several visits to Lisbon. It has been designed to minimise the travel time between sights and you can follow most of this itinerary on foot. The map below is organised by each of the 3 days. >> DAY 1 – ALFAMA & OLD LISBON Alfama, perched up on the hill, is a maze of alleyways winding between grand historic buildings. There are sweeping views over the city and the sea, similar to some of the vistas in Porto. We always have a great time simply ambling around the area but here is a recommended route. SÃO JORGE CASTLE Start your 3 days in Lisbon at São Jorge Castle, high on the hill in Alfama. It was once a Moorish castle, but little remains from that period and most of it has been rebuilt over the years. The small museum could do with some improvements, but the views over the city from the rambling walls are excellent. Castelo de São Jorge / Skip-the-Line Tickets SÃO JORGE CASTLE CHURCH OF SÃO VICENTE DE FORA Grab a quality coffee at Copenhagen Coffee Lab and Bakery, before entering the Church of São Vicente de Fora. The church itself is decent and worth a look, but the monastery and cloisters next door are incredibly impressive. Blue tiles, protected by vaulted ceilings, shimmer on the white walls. The atmospheric side chapels have tombs adorned with skulls with a cloaked statue standing guard. Igreja de Sao Vicente de Fora / Check current opening times. SÃO VICENTE DE FORA GRACA’S CAMPO DE SANTA CLARA After the church, head over to Graca’s Campo de Santa Clara, where a massive flea market, Feira da Ladra, covers the streets (Tuesday and Saturday). It sells everything you will never need: old rotary phones, broken mannequins and pre-loved vinyl. The market is great for people watching and you may even pick up a bargain. LUNCH There are plenty of atmospheric places to grab lunch near the market, we loved Tabernita for the traditional Portuguese dishes. FEIRA DA LADRA NATIONAL PANTHEON In the afternoon, enter the striking Panteão Nacional. Originally built as a church it now houses monuments to the great and the good of Portuguese history including a shrine to Vasco da Gama who brought massive wealth to Lisbon. The entrance ticket allows access to the roof with excellent views of the city. From the upper terraces take in a birdseye view of the

marble hall. NATIONAL PANTHEON LISBON CATHEDRAL Next, stroll the tightly packed twisty streets of Alfama. Head past the cute stores and tiny bars to Miradouro das Portas do Sol observation deck for more views. Drop down the hill to the castellated fortress that is Lisbon Cathedral. The Romanesque Lisbon Cathedral dates back to the 12th century. With an imposing facade and two bell towers on either side, it rises like a medieval fortress from the old town.  The view from the loft was the highlight for us. LISBON CATHEDRAL PRAÇA DO COMÉRCIO Finally, leave Alfama and stroll down towards Praça do Comércio. The harbour-facing plaza is one of the largest in Portugal and the most beautiful in Europe. It was completely remodelled after the earthquake and today it’s the seat of the Portuguese state departments. The large ornate square an excellent photo opportunity, but we’d suggest avoiding the restaurants around the square. PRAÇA DO COMÉRCIO FADO + EVENING In the evening head to Bairro Alto. Grab a drink on the steps at Meson Andaluz. Then, choose from the daily changing menu of local dishes at the tiny but charming Taberna da Rua das Flores. Later in the evening, Tasca Do Chico offers an intimate great value fado experience. One block north, cool jazz drifts out of Páginas Tanta. At Portas Largas a mixed young crowd can be found enjoying live pop music. If you can’t decide, just go to all three. There’s no entrance charge and the drinks are cheap. DAY 2 – BELÉM & WEST LISBON The seafront area of Belém lies to the west of Lisbon city centre. Come here for engrossing architecture, the epicentre of modern art in the city, and the best pastel de nata in Lisbon. ANTIGA CONFEITARA DE BELÉM Take tram 15 to Belém and begin the second day of your 3-day Lisbon itinerary with coffee and pastel de nata (Portuguese custard tart) from Antiga Confeitara de Belém. Yes it has become a large tourist institution, but the pastel de nata is still the best in town. JERÓNIMO’S CHURCH AND MONASTERY After breakfast head to Jerónimo’s Church and Monastery. The remarkable vaulted ceiling of the church is held aloft by intricately carved stone pillars, illuminated by beams of light cascading through colourful stained glass windows. The tomb of Vasco de Gama – the first person to sail around the Cape of Good Hope and therefore enable Portugal to build an empire – takes pride of place. The church is free but we recommend paying to go into the monastery. The cloisters are magnificent and the view of the church from the upper choir is not to be missed. JERÓNIMO’S CHURCH AND MONASTERY MUSEU COLEÇÃO BERARDO End the morning at Museu Coleção Berardo, Lisbon’s best modern art offering. The permanent collection is well-labelled and offers a history lesson in the development of modern art. The temporary exhibitions have an excellent reputation, it was one of our favourite experiences in Lisbon on our last visit. MUSEU COLEÇÃO BERARDO BELÉM TOWER & PADRÃO DOS DESCOBRIMENTOS Cross the street and peer up at the tower of Belém. The climb up to the top is not really worth the wait, so we’d suggest skipping in and strolling along the seafront to find a spot for lunch. After recharging, pass by Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the photogenic monument to Portugal’s navigational prowess.   PADRÃO DOS DESCOBRIMENTOS BELÉM TOWER LX FACTORY Head toward the city on tram 15, but before you get there, jump off at LX Factory, an old textile factory that has been converted into a modern and creative space under the railway line. There’s some excellent street art on old factory walls, indie shops, a very cool bookstore and some of the best coffee in town. It’s a great place to hang out and relax. SANTA CATARINA Hopping back on tram 15, spend the evening in the quaint neighbourhood of Santa Catarina which sits on top of a hill. A drink at Noobai Café offers views over the water. To get here it’s a steep walk up the hill or you could take the fun way and ride up on Eleva

dor da Bica. LX FACTORY DAY 3 – BAIRRO ALTO, BAIXA & CHIADO The central area of Lisbon is an eclectic mix. Narrow alleyways crisscross grand shopping streets, dilapidated ruins sit next to striking hotels, and music wafts through open doors and windows. It’s a great part of the city. TRAM 28 On the last day of this 3-day Lisbon itinerary, get an early start (to avoid the queues) and head to Praça Martim Moniz to board Tram 28. This tram twists and turns up the hilliest, narrowest and most scenic lanes in Lisbon. It loops around Alfama, across the centre of town and back up into Chiado. PRAÇA DE PRINCIPE REAL Jump off the tram in Chiadom explore the shops around Praça Luis de Camōes and then head north into the tightly packed narrow lanes of Bairro Alto. Check out the various new concept stores around Praça de Principe Real before lunch at A Cevicheria. Sit at the counter under a giant octopus, and admire the chef preparing mouth-watering fish dishes. MIRADOURO DE SÃO PEDRO DE ALCÃNTARA After lunch check out the view at Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcãntara, which we think gives you the best view in the city. Then make your way down to Rossio and Baixa. You can either take the Elevador da Gloria tram or walk down the path alongside the tram tracks to inspect some of the coolest street art in Lisbon. IGREJA DE SÃO DOMINGOS You now find yourself in Rossio and Baixa – newer Lisbon neighbourhoods, built after the earthquake of 1755. Explore the squares and statues making sure you call in at Igreja de São Domingos. This atmospheric church suffered damage during the earthquake and was burnt down in 1959. The roof was destroyed and has been rebuilt but the walls bear the scars of both events. IGREJA DE SÃO DOMINGOS CONVENTO DO CARMO Skip the long queues and only average views of Elevador de Santa Justa and take the free supermarket lift to Rua Garrett. It’s less glamorous, but just as effective. Stroll the shops before visiting Convento do Carmo. The convent was damaged in the earthquake, and now only towering arches reach into the sky. The chapel at the back contains a strange mix of fascinating artefacts: tombs of the famous, a 2nd-century Egyptian sarcophagus and most interestingly, two mummies of Peruvian children. BAIRRO ALTO For the final evening, grab dinner at Artis Bar in Bairro Alto. It has a great local wine bar atmosphere and tasty dishes at decent prices. It’s also perfectly positioned for people spilling into the streets as music wafts in the air. CONVENTO DO CARMO WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON Lisbon is a relatively compact city, but it’s still a good idea to stay as centrally as possible. We recommend staying in Baixa/Chiado, Bairro Alto or Alfama. All these neighbourhoods ooze the charm that makes Lisbon the city that it is. They’re all centrally located allowing you to get an early start in the morning, and a late night in the evening. BUDGET CASA C’ALMA Casa C’Alma is a beautifully decorated B&B with a small, friendly vibe and a big continental breakfast. It’s located in a lovely neighbourhood about 1 mile from the city centre with plenty of restaurant options nearby. BOOKING.COM MID-MARKET CASA BALTHAZAR The modern, self-catering apartments of Casa Balthazar are bang in the centre of town, yet exude a relaxed chilled-out calm. The views are superb but upgrade to the Jacuzzi Terrace room for spacious luxury with landmark views. HOTELS.COM / BOOKING.COM UPMARKET MEMMO ALFAMA For an emphasis on design with all the latest gadgets, it’s hard to go past Memmo Alfama for your Lisbon stay. Although surrounded by some of the best attractions in Lisbon, it will be hard to leave the rooftop bar and pool with sweeping views over the Tagus River. HOTELS.COM / BOOKING.COM HOW TO GET AROUND LISBON Lisbon has a comprehensive public transport network including trams, funiculars, buses and a metro. A Navegante Card is a quick and easy way to pay for all your travel. The ca

rd costs €0.50 and can be charged with individual tickets, a day pass (€6.40 / £5.95 / $7.90), or with a balance of up to €40 to use as pay-as-you go. Cards can be purchased and charged at metro stations or small stores displaying the Navagante sign. However, the best way to get around the city is to walk. This Lisbon itinerary puts all the sights and experiences in the right order, so you don’t have to spend too much time between places. BEST TIME TO GO TO LISBON The best time to visit Lisbon is during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to October. Over this period, the temperatures are generally comfortable and there are fewer visitors. You might also snap up a bargain with accommodation places slightly cheaper over this period. As with most European destinations, summer is the peak season when both the temperature and visitor numbers are high. In winter it can be wet and windy, although in Lisbon it’s rarely uncomfortably cold. WHAT TO BOOK BEFORE A TRIP TO LISBON Most attractions in Lisbon don’t require pre-booking and we wouldn’t recommend getting too much in advance so you can leave your itinerary flexible. If you’re visiting during peak times, you may want to book ahead to beat the queue especially São Jorge Castle and Saint Jerónimos Monastery. SAVING LISBON CARD With access to 23 museums and free tram passes, the Lisbon Card is a very cost-effective way to see the main sights in the city. Cards can be purchased for 24, 28 or 72 hours. HOW MUCH TIME IN LISBON? Most of the main sights in Lisbon could be seen in 2 days. It’s a relatively compact city with good local transport so getting between all the main attractions is efficient.   We have provided a 3-day Lisbon itinerary because this allows you to see all the impressive historical sights and enjoy some local experiences. It also leaves a little time to wander the streets and soak up the atmosphere.   Lisbon is one of our favourite cities in Europe. It’s charming and easy; beautiful and interesting. Yet the nightlife is pumping, the wine free-flowing and the locals friendly. So, you could easily spend up to 4 or 5 days visiting Lisbon, especially if you added a day trip to Sintra, which you could either do on your own or join a tour.   TIPS FOR VISITING LISBON Firstly, read our guide to the best things to do in Lisbon which covers all our top highlights in more detail. TRAM 28 TIPS Getting on board Tram 28 at Praça Martim Moniz can be painful as queues are often long. Get their early or walk to the next stop at Rue Palme and hop on there. Tram 28 is a wonderful Lisbon experience but a pick-pocketers delight, so keep an eye on your stuff. STREET SELLING The whispers of “Hashish? Cocaine?” on the streets of Santa Maria Maior is part of a well-known fake drug annoyance embraced by Lisbon. Simply say “no thanks” and move on, in most cases, you’re just rejecting flour or crushed up bay leaves. AUTHENTIC FADO Fado is a moving experience in Lisbon, but the best never gets advertised or promoted to tourists. If you hear it wafting from a packed bar, but there are no signs, this is the place to check out. TOURIST RESTAURANTS Lisbon has grasped the concept of the tourist restaurant. If you want a local dining experience, gravitate towards places without English menus, and avoid places with people hassling you out the front. MIRADOUROS Always take the opportunity to collect the views at a miradouro; they’re a great place to hang out and Lisbon’s array of roof tiles is stunning. Some of the best are: Miradouro das Portas do Sol Miradouro da Graça Miradouro de Santa Catarina Miradouro de Senhora do Monte Miradouro de Monte Agudo MORE PORTUGAL READING ANYWHERE WE ROAM ISREADER-SUPPORTED When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. You can also shout us a coffee. Thanks for your support – Paul & Mark. INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK [ad

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[ad_1] With such a breathtaking stretch of coastline, you’ll want to find the best place to stay on the Jurassic Coast. Whether you are a hiker, a beachgoer, or a do-nothing-er; this guide helps you choose your perfect spot. By: Paul Healy | Published: 12 Apr 2024 span box-shadow: none !important; filter: brightness(1) !important; ]]> With 95 miles of coastline and 185 million years in the making, the Jurassic Coast is a geological marvel, a scenic refresher and a hiker’s paradise. Finding where to stay on the Jurassic Coast is just the start of a great escape to some of the best coastal activities the UK has to offer. Spend an afternoon in rejuvenation mode either hiking along rugged white clifftops or lazing on pebble beaches below them. Take in the Jurassic Coast light via a sunrise excursion to a decaying castle, or under the exposed lightbulbs of a hipster brewery producing artisanal ales. The Jurassic Coast is a 2-hour drive from one end to the other, so it’s important to understand where you want to stay. Pick from a stylish clifftop hotel staring, a shepherd’s hut, a cool treehouse or a traditional pub in a remote location. Whatever accommodation you are after, our guide to the best hotels on the Dorset Coast includes all the regions along the Jurassic Coast to help you plan your next long weekend in the UK. 1 – PURBECK PENINSULA Best place to stay on the Jurassic Coast for superb hikes and dramatic scenery The Purbeck Peninsula is a sixty square mile patch of England, jutting out into the English Channel and bordered on three sides by water. Nowhere along the Jurassic Coast is the scenery more dramatic than in the Purbeck Peninsula. Towering white cliffs and mighty stacks of rock drop precipitously to the sea. Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and Old Harry Rocks – the iconic sights of the south of England – are scattered across the peninsula, connected by scenic hikes on the Jurassic Coast. Just inland, the exceptionally photogenic Corfe Castle and several abandoned villages, add to the remote feel of the region. There are some great Dorset Coastal hotels on the Isle of Purbeck. Remote pubs all alone on the southwest coastal path, grand hotels in charming market towns or a bit of luxury along the bay in Studland. OSMINGTON MILLS SMUGGLERS INN The remote pub with traditionally furnished rooms perched right on the coastal path has stunning views over a rugged stretch of the Dorset coast. BOOKING.COM WAREHAM PRIORY HOTEL A grand hotel in the charming town of Wareham, the Priory Hotel is set within 4 acres of beautiful English cottage gardens. BOOKING.COM | HOTELS.COM STUDLAND PIG ON THE BEACH A gem of a 16th-century manor house on Studland Bay with a commitment to local produce and quality service. BOOKINGS STUDLAND COSY COTTAGE This cosy 3-bedroom cottage sleeps 5 and is ideal for families with all the facilities you’ll need for a Dorset coastal getaway. It’s a lovely 10-minute walk to the beach. VRBO.COM 2 – LYME REGIS  Best place to stay on the Jurassic Coast for a hip and welcoming seaside town There are a few seaside towns along the Jurassic Coast, but the pick of the bunch is Lyme Regis. Unlike some of the tourist-driven towns on the coast, Lyme Regis capitalises on the character of the area. Independent shops stocked with local produce line the high street beside quality restaurants and surprisingly good coffee.  The Lyme Regis micro-brewery perched over a tiny brook is a secret worth knowing about. Down on the front, the part shingle, part sandy beach bends in an arc backed with colourful huts and cute townhouses. It’s a lovely, authentic town with a working harbour that still clamours with activity in the early hours as fishermen head out to sea.   A little further afield, take part in a fossil-hunting expedition at Charmouth or enjoy a circular walk around the weird rock formations of West Bay. The barrel-vaulted, 14th Century Chapel at Abbotsbury is as traditionally English as you could h

ope to find. LYME REGIS CLOVELLY GUEST HOUSE  Great value guest house in the centre of Lyme Regis with help-yourself breakfast and very friendly hosts. The perfect Dorset welcome. BOOKING.COM LYME REGIS COVERDALE A comfortable and spacious 1 bedroom apartment located just 450 metres from the beach, this is a great choice if you’re planning on making the most of the beach. BOOKING.COM LYME REGIS THE PILOT BOAT  The recently refurbished beautiful rooms at the Pilot Boat are complete with finishing touches including robes, slippers and free beer. BOOKING.COM | HOTELS.COM 3 – DORCHESTER  Best place to stay on the Jurassic Coast for a charming market town with easy connections If you want to explore all the things to do on the Jurassic Coast then Dorchester is a great option. Centrally located between the Purbeck peninsula and Lyme Regis, it’s a great base to explore most of the main attractions on the coast. But as the capital of Dorset, Dorchester has its own appeal as well. The High Street is lined with grand and imposing architecture, excellent restaurants and museums. Perhaps more importantly, there’s good coffee at Coffee Saloon. As a major centre, it has a good range of accommodation from top quality B&B’s to grand Jurassic Coast hotels in landmark buildings. Dorchester is a great option for accommodation on the Dorset coast. In less than an hour’s drive you can be at many of the best spots anywhere along the coast.   DORCHESTER DUCHESS OF CORNWALL Classic market town hotel with a Georgian theme, modern amenities and beautiful decor. The Duchess of Cornwall is a classy stay on the Dorset coast. BOOKING.COM 4 – DESTINATION STAYS  Best Jurassic Coast hotels and innovative stays which are the attraction in themselves The Jurassic Coast has its fair share of quirky accommodation; places so good it hardly matters that you’re also in one of the most scenic parts of the country.   Go off-grid in a well-equipped and cosy Shepherds’ Hut set in the Dorset countryside, or unwind in stylish, quirky accommodation overlooking the sea. For something completely different, escape to the outdoor luxury accommodation of a treehouse; a unique stay on the Jurassic Coast and a memorable way to unwind. BURTON BRADSTOCK THE SEASIDE BOARDING HOUSE Stunning clifftop views from this stylish hotel with an on-site restaurant serving some of the best food in the area. BOOKINGS THANKS FOR VISITING // WHERE NEXT? A BIG THANK YOU We’ve been providing free travel content on Anywhere We Roam since 2017. If you appreciate what we do, here are some ways you can support us. Thank you! Paul & Mark FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM USE OUR RESOURCES PAGE [ad_2] Source link

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[ad_1] Funchal, the capital of Madeira, has a small-town vibe with big city credentials. Here’s what can happen when you mix Portuguese spirit with a subtropical climate in a city fuelled by fortified wine and Pastel de Nata. By: Paul Healy | Published: 9 Apr 2024 span box-shadow: none !important; filter: brightness(1) !important; ]]> Displayed like a football stadium, Funchal is an amphitheatre of terracotta houses curving down towards the Atlantic Ocean. High above the city, towering mountains provide a scenic backdrop to this colourful European centre. With a sub-tropical climate providing delightful year-round temperatures, Funchal is an excellent base for exploring the island. Enjoy a day of exhilarating outdoor activities and wind down with a glass of fortified wine. Have a slow stroll through the old town or take to the streets on an exhilarating toboggan ride. Funchal sets a relaxed pace under a lush, rugged canvas, making it a unique European destination for outdoor adventures and cultural kicks.    We visited Funchal with Jet2holidays. Here’s what we got up to. CARREIRO DO MONTE 1. FUNCHAL TO MONTE CABLE CAR Funchal is oriented around a small Old Town squeezed between the mountains and the sea. Midway up the hillside backdrop, Monte is a small village that sits around 550 metres above sea level. The Funchal-Monte Cable Car runs from the historic centre of Funchal up to the village of Monte. It’s a great way to take in the sweeping amphitheatre of Funchal and there are several great things to do once you get to the village. WHAT TO DO IN MONTE – Take the traditional wicker Toboggan ride back down to Funchal.   Stroll through the beautiful Tropical Gardens at Monte Palace. Admire the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte (Church of Our Lady of the Mount) Have coffee at Local Shop for an excellent drop with an even better view. Take the cable car over to the beautiful hilltop Botanical Gardens. Admire the cute little Babosas Chapel. Teleférico do Funchal – The cable car station is located in the garden of Almirante Reis, in the Funchal Old Town. For prices and opening times, see madeiracablecar.com. MONTE CHURCH 2. MONTE TOBOGGAN Wicker toboggan sledges were the original form of transport for locals who needed a speedy way to get from the hill of Monte down to Funchal in what was one of the world’s coolest commutes. Today, the Monte Wicker Toboggan ride is one of the most popular tourist activities in Funchal. Powered by 2 runners called Carreiros, the toboggan ride is an exhilarating dash down the streets of Funchal where corners are taken with an additional twist to extract screeches from delighted tourists. CARREIROS DO MONTE The cost is €27.50 for a one-person toboggan, reduced to €17.50 per person if you share with 1 or 2 people. If you are travelling by yourself, you’ll have plenty of time to make a friend to share a toboggan with. Queues can be snaking up the hill and it’s not uncommon to wait up to 2 hours. We highly recommending arriving as soon as the toboggans start running (9 am) to avoid queuing. The ride is 2 kilometres long and takes around 10 minutes. Starting Point – The starting point is just below the steps of the Monte Church (location). Buy your tickets from the booth first, then join the queue. Arrival Point – The toboggan ride finishes at Livramento (location). This is about a 40-minute walk back into the Old Town, but there are usually plenty of taxis nearby. Tips – The Carreiros will tip their Straw Boater hat at the end of the run expecting a tip, so make sure you have some cash with you if you want to tip. Hours – Monday to Saturday 9 am to 6 pm | Cost – €27.50 for 1 person; €35 for 2; and €52.50 for 3 people. MONTE TOBOGGAN RIDES 3. JARDIM TROPICAL MONTE PALACE The Tropical Garden at Monte Palace is a beautiful green space in a prime hilltop position overlooking Funchal Bay. Displayed over multiple terr

aced levels, the gardens contain over 100,000 species of exotic flora from all over the world. The highlight for us was the Oriental Garden, adorned with Buddhist sculptures, lanterns and red walkways. There’s an excellent collection of art throughout the gardens. The most notable are the large panels of Portuguese tiles, some of which date back to the 15th century. Inside the gardens, the Monte Palace Madeira Museum houses sculptures plus a unique mineral collection from all over the world. To get to the gardens, it’s a short walk from the top of the Funchal Cable Car. Hours – 9:30 am – 6 pm | Cost – €15, children under 15 years old have free entry. MONTE PALACE TROPICAL GARDEN 4. BOTANICAL GARDENS The Madeira Botanical Gardens cover 8 hectares of green space featuring ornamental shrubs, exotic orchids, and manicured lawns with wonderful views of Funchal. There are around 2,500 plants in the garden including succulents, palms and several species that grow only in Madeira. At the end of the gardens, there’s an area devoted to exotic birds, with around 300 species. The best way to get to the gardens is by taking the Jardim Botânico Cable Car which is just a short walk from the Monte station of the Funchal Cable Car. You can save 10% if you book online. Hours – 9 am – 6 pm, Monday to Saturday | Cost – €7.50 (over 12 years); €3 (6-12 years). Free on April 30 and July 1.  5. MERCADO DOS LAVRADORES Mercado dos Lavradores, or the Farmers’ Market, is a small but bustling market in the centre of Funchal. Out the front you’ll find the flower market, with the fruit and veg occupying a central courtyard. It’s a lovely place to stroll around with locals snapping up all kinds of delights, and tourists snapping photos. You may find some of the vendors excited to see you, but it’s nothing a polite “no thanks” can’t solve.   The highlight of the market is the fish section towards the back where you find locals in stiff negotiations for seafood. Tip – The best time to visit is early in the morning, up to around 1 pm, when the fish market is buzzing. Friday is the busiest day when most vendors are selling. MERCADO DOS LAVRADORES 6. THE PAINTED DOORS Rua da Santa Maria is one of the oldest streets in Funchal, lined with a mix of residential houses and café terraces. In 2014, local artists were invited to work their magic on 200 doors in the tiny laneway. The Arte de Portas Abertas project, or Art of Open Doors, has transformed what was once an unassuming street into the most vibrant area in the Old Town.   Now an open-air gallery, Rua da Santa Maria is completely free and one of the most colourful things to do in Funchal. After strolling down the laneway to admire the art, grab a treat from Padaria Pastelaria Mariazinha – one of the best bakeries in Madeira. Dinner Option – If you’re around Rua da Santa Maria in the evening, check out Já Fui Jaquet for dinner. Don’t be put off by the menu on their website, it’s quality Portuguese cooking. ARTE DE PORTAS ABERTAS OUR PICK // BEST RESTAURANTS IN FUNCHAL KAMPO – Refined dishes presented with style, featuring incredible flavours derived from local produce. HORTA – A beautiful space in natural tones with dishes derived mostly from their own garden. Vegetarian dishes take centre stage. AUDAX – Innovative modern Madeiran cuisine with wine pairing. Incredible food, but probably not the best choice for vegetarians. 7. MADEIRA WINE It’s said that Madeira wine was an accident of the island’s seafaring past when wine would over-ferment on long sea voyages. To solve the problem, additional alcohol was added, and the result was a sweet complex wine that’s now the pride of the island. Madeira wine is still fermented in American Oak with additional alcohol added. You can enjoy it from sweet to dry with a couple of levels of sweetness in between. It appears on all wine lists in Madeira, but a good way to try it is to do a wine tour at Blandy’s Wine Lodge. They’ll explain the whole process in their atmospheric distillery with tastin

gs included. BLANDY’S WINE LODGE 8. JARDIM MUNICIPAL The Municipal Gardens are a lovely spot to explore in Funchal when you’re looking for a quick way to unwind. It’s a small local garden, filled with exotic plants from the island and many from other parts of the world including macadamia trees, sausage tree, cotton wool tree, and purple jacaranda. You don’t need long to explore, but it’s worth popping in for a quick look. MUNICIPAL GARDENS COTTON WOOL TREE 9. PRAÇA DO MUNICÍPIO The Municipal Square is one of the most important squares in the historical centre of Funchal. It’s surrounded by interesting buildings with a fountain in the centre dating to 1942. Public events are held in the square including Funchal’s famous Christmas Market. The square is covered in traditional Portuguese black and white tiles which are laid in small repeating arcs creating a uniform central focal point in Funchal.   MUNICIPAL SQUARE 10. FUNCHAL CITY HALL The striking building in Municipal Square was built in 1758 and became the City Hall of Funchal in 1883. It’s free to pop in and admire the interior landscaped courtyard with the beautiful Battistini tiles. To learn more about the history of Madeira, you can book a guided tour (€3.50) on weekdays. Tours start at 11 am and take 1 hour. FUNCHAL CITY HALL 11. NATA 7 Pastel de Nata is something of an obsession in Portugal. This small parcel of flaky pastry packed with egg custard and burnt to perfection on top, can divide the nation if you ask where to find the best one. We have it on good authority that Nata 7 is the place to go. Judging by the steady stream of locals out front, it’s hard to argue. NATA 7 12. UAUCACAU Madeira has a wonderful artisan approach to their various crafts and Uaucacau Chocolate is a great way to experience one of the many quality treats you can get in Funchal. While the chocolate is imported, all the fillings are made from local ingredients. One of the most popular is passionfruit, but I was a big fan of the salted caramel. Wash down your chocolates or Pastel de Nata with a coffee from The Studio. I loved their flat white and it’s within easy walking distance of Praça Do Município, Nata 7 and Uaucacau. 13. SÉ CATEDRAL DO FUNCHAL The Funchal Cathedral looks unassuming from the outside, but the main religious building of the Madeira archipelago is packed with history and interesting architectural features. Building commenced in 1493 and was completed in the 16th century using characteristics from the Gothic period. The highlight is the cedarwood ceiling with ivory inlay. It’s a stunning example of Mudéjar decoration common throughout Moorish Iberia, especially Seville and Córdoba. The cathedral is free to enter. MUDÉJAR CEILING 14. JEEP TOUR A great way to see more of the Madeira Island is by taking a jeep tour. Tours will pick you up from your hotel around 9 am and visit various scenic locations where you can appreciate the rugged beauty of the island. West Island Tour – The West Island tour includes the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, the agricultural regions near Canhas and the Paul da Serra plateau. The tour returns via Seixal for incredible coastal scenery. East Island Tour – The East Island tour heads to the highest mountain in Madeira, Pico do Arieiro, before heading to the beautiful Balcões Viewpoint. After lunch you visit a rum factory, then Ponta de São Lourenço before returning to Funchal. Both tours include lunch. JEEP TOUR PONTA DE SÁO LOURENÇO BALCÕES VIEWPOINT GO BOOK YOUR TRIP Spend more time by the pool and less time in planning mode with a package holiday to Madeira with Jet2. They have deals with a wide selection of properties so you can find a stay that’s perfect for you. 15. LEVADA WALK Levadas are water canals that transport water around the island from the rainforests in the north. There are over 1400 kilometres of levada throughout Madeira with the longest being 90 kilometres. A popular way to get outdoors in Madeira is by doing a

Levada walk. There are several you can do on guided tours from Funchal, otherwise they are easy enough to do on your own as the hiking trail follows the canal. One of the best Levada walks is the 25 Fontes – Cascada de Risco, a beautiful hike with hundreds of little waterfalls. The trail is 9 kilometres (return), easy to follow and should take around 4 hours. This self-guided 25 Fontes walk includes pick-up from your hotel in Funchal. They get you to the start of the trail before other hikers so you’ll have it to yourself for the first couple of hours. LEVADA WALK MAP | FUNCHAL, MADEIRA All the attractions listed in this guide are on the below map so you can get your bearings in the Madeiran capital. >> How to use this map / Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. Click on the top right corner of the map to open a larger version in a new tab or the star to save to your Google Maps.   WHEN TO VISIT Madeira is a rock in the middle of the Atlantic and it can have two different weather systems depending on which side of the island you are on. As there are lots of great outdoor activities to enjoy from Funchal, it’s a good idea to avoid as much rain as possible. The best time to visit Funchal is from August to December which is the driest time of the year. The temperatures remain warm over most of this period and the sea is delightfully swimmable. Funchal has relatively consistent temperatures and it’s a great year-round destination. However, the warmest period is between July and October. WHERE TO STAY Madeira is made for the good life and all windy, scenic, mountain roads lead to Funchal – the capital of the island. We stayed at NEXT at Savoy Signature, a modern resort-style hotel with a cheeky personality and a cool modern design. They have a winning roof-top pool and bar, direct access to the sea and several quality restaurants. It’s a lovely 10-minute walk into the centre of the Old Town. NEXT AT SAVOY, FUNCHAL GETTING TO MADEIRA Jet2 has regular flights to Madeira from several UK airports including Birmingham, Bristol, Bournemouth, Manchester and London Stanstead. Look out for great deals on flights from Manchester Airport with Jet2 from where you can take off to over 60 destinations. MERCADO DOS LAVRADORES LOCAL SHOP MORE PORTUGAL READING ANYWHERE WE ROAM ISREADER-SUPPORTED When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. You can also shout us a coffee. Thanks for your support – Paul & Mark. INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK [ad_2] Source link

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[ad_1] Cambodia is a fascinating destination with historic landmarks, friendly culture, and wonderful attractions. But a trip to Cambodia requires some forward planning. This guide covers our tips to help make your trip both easy and memorable. By: Paul Healy | Published: 7 Apr 2024 span box-shadow: none !important; filter: brightness(1) !important; ]]> Cambodia has a winning combination of world-class tourist attractions and cheap cost of living. Short-term holidaymakers can dive into the history of the Angkor Temples, catch a political lesson in Phnom Penh and relax on unspoilt beaches. Longer-term travellers can throw in more remote destinations, stop in colonial towns and reduce the tempo. If you like to travel independently, like us, a well-planned trip is important for getting the most out of this diverse country. But even if you’re visiting Cambodia on a short stay, we can help you with money tips, booking suggestions and what to pack. Our guide covers the best time to go to Cambodia, how to get around, what to see plus important information for staying safe. To see how we put our trip together, read our 2-week Cambodia Itinerary. KOH RONG MONDULKIRI WHERE TO GO Cambodia has a lot to offer both tourists looking for a mini-break and long-term travellers on a wider trip. Here are some of the main places you’ll want to consider when planning a trip to Cambodia. You can see how we put most of these places together on our Cambodian itinerary. KAMPOT PRE RUP ROYAL PALACE, PHNOM PENH BEST TIME TO VISIT Cambodia is hot throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F – 95°F). However, the year is split into two seasons. WET SEASON The wet season runs from May to October. During these months there can be considerable rain and lots of cloud. Blue skies are infrequent and if you are visiting the islands in the south, crossings can be rough. DRY SEASON The dry season runs from November to April. There is little rain during these months and a good chance of blue skies. Within the dry season December & January offer the best temperatures (25°C to 30°C) but it’s busy. March & April are the hottest months of the year peaking at around 35°C (95°F). February can be a good compromise, with fewer crowds but still good weather. KAMPOT TONLÉ SAP HOW TO GET TO CAMBODIA INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS There are three international airports in Cambodia – Siem Reap (SAI), Phnom Penh (PNH) and Sihanoukville (KOS). Most trips to Cambodia involve at least 1 stopover, usually in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Taipei, or Singapore. Google Flights is an excellent way to find the best routes when planning your trip to Cambodia. SIEM REAP INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Opened in 2023, the new Siem Reap International Airport is 45 kilometres from the centre of the city. Taxis cost $30 and can be arranged through your guesthouse or hotel. A bus runs 8 times a day from just outside the terminal and costs $8. There are no tuk-tuks at the airport. PHNOM PENH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Phnom Penh International Airport is 12 kilometres from the centre of the city. The best ways to get to the centre of town are: Bus No 3 stops at the Central Market and the Night Market and costs about 50 cents. The Shuttle Train runs to Cambodia Railway Station and costs $2.50. Hiring a tuk tuk from the airport will cost about $5-$10. A taxi will cost around $10 – $15. SIHANOUKVILLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT There are not many flights into Sihanoukville, but it’s possible to fly here from Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City. CAMBODIA NATIONAL MUSEUM MONDULKIRI BENG MEALEA LAND CROSSINGS If you’re visiting Cambodia on a multi-country trip around Southeast Asia you might be looking at a land crossing by bus. It’s significantly cheaper than flying as it avoids both the cost of the flight and the transfers. Common routes are from: Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam) to Phnom Penh – 7 hours 30 minutes. Bangkok (Thailand) to Siem Reap – 8 hours

30 minutes. These bus journeys can be long and painful with tedious stops at the border. Sometimes bus and minivan companies dump you at one side, leave you to make your own way through immigration (where bribes might be sought), and then pick you up on the other side. It’s worth spending a bit extra to go with a reputable bus company.   Bus Tip – Everyone we spoke to – expats and tourists alike – recommended Giant Ibis. The bus comes with an on-board service attendant who provides lunch, water and cold towels. They can also assist with the immigration process, making it as easy and stress-free as possible. CAMBODIA BUS CAMBODIA ENTRY REQUIREMENTS When planning your trip to Cambodia, make sure you check the entry requirements from the country of your passport. Here are some standard arrival requirements as set by the Cambodian Government. Passport – Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date into Cambodia. Visa – 30-day tourist visas (Visa T) are available on arrival. However, it’s easier and less time consuming to apply online. Visas cost $36 and take about 3 business days to be processed. If you overstay the 30 days, you will be charged $10 a day for the first 30 days. IMPORTANT – NEW E-ARRIVAL CARD From 1 Jan 2024, Cambodia is trialling a new e-Arrival Card. This card will become mandatory from 1 July 2024. As part of the application process, you need to provide your length of stay, a contact address in the country (use a hotel), and health information. Most importantly it requires Proof of Onward Travel (POOT) where you must show a ticket for travel out of Cambodia. Most airlines are already checking for this when you board. If you want to stay flexible, either buy a cancellable exit ticket or a cheap one which you can write off. TONLÉ SAP FLOATING VILLAGE TONLÉ SAP SIEM REAP MARKET VACCINATIONS We are not health experts, so please check the latest requirements with your doctor. However, here are some broad guidelines to consider when planning a trip to Cambodia: Recommended vaccinations for all travellers – Tetanus & Hep A. Possible vaccinations for longer, remote stays – Hep B, Rabies & Typhoid. Malaria – Malaria is low risk across most of Cambodia but becomes a higher risk in the northeast provinces of Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri. If visiting the northeast some doctors may recommend anti-malarial tables, while others suggest just taking sensible precautions with DEET and long-sleeved shirts and trousers. Again, check with your doctor. HEALTH INSURANCE Cambodia’s health facilities have improved over recent years. Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have decent facilities, but many other areas are still quite basic. Make sure you travel with up-to-date and comprehensive health insurance. Travel tip – Hiring scooters is a common way to travel around Cambodia independently, but many insurance policies do not cover you when riding them. Check with your insurance in advance if you plan to hire a scooter. BAYON, ANGKOR ANGKOR WAT ANGKOR WAT WHAT TO PACK It’s always good to be prepared, and there are a few considerations when packing for Cambodia. Cambodia is a hot country any time of year, so plan accordingly: Light coloured layers. Wide brimmed hat. High factor sun-tan lotion. Cambodia is a conservative country, and a dress code is required in many temples: Lightweight full-length trousers. Shirts with sleeves. Light scarves. Insects are a menace, especially at dawn and dusk: Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts to help avoid bites. Insect repellent with high level of DEET. Anti-bite cream. Don’t add to the massive amount of plastic in Cambodia: Refillable water bottle. Reusable cutlery. Reusable coffee mug. Pharmacies are plentiful but it’s worth having some essentials with you: First Aid Kit. Imodium & Rehydration salts. Travel Tip – Cheap laundry facilities are available almost everywhere. It costs about $2 per kilogram and your freshly laundered clothes will be ready the next day. So, there’s no excuse for

overpacking. MONDULKIRI MONEY Cambodia’s official currency is the Cambodian riel. However, the country effectively operates a dual currency system, and you can pay in Cambodian riel or US dollars.  Guesthouses and hotels, tour operators, and smarter restaurants and shops will accept credit and debit cards where you get to choose the currency. The rest of the economy (tuk-tuks, taxis, street food, local restaurants, official museums) take cash only. Important: Using US Dollars – If you pay in US dollars the notes need to be perfect. The National Bank of Cambodia will not accept a note with any type of rip or mark on it – so neither will the vendor. If you have US dollars, check to makes sure there are no marks or rips and keep them well protected. Cash Machines – Cash in both US dollars and Cambodian riels can easily be obtained from ATMs, which are present in all the main tourist centres. There is an almost universal fee of $5-$6 for each transaction, so take out as much as you think you’ll need in one go. The Cathay United Bank was the only one that didn’t charge us a fee. PHNOM PENH PHNOM BAKHENG GETTING AROUND CAMBODIA Getting around Cambodia is surprisingly easy. Buses run between the big cities, tuk-tuk drivers are on hand everywhere, and scooters are easy to hire for independent travel. The only thing that’s not easy is walking! It’s often very hot and there is little by way of pavements. BUSES Buses are a cheap, easy, and pretty comfortable way to travel long distances in Cambodia. Multiple bus companies run different types of vehicles between the major cities. Transport ranges from a mix of minivans, minibuses, luxury buses and night buses. For an easy way to see which bus companies serve which routes check the aggregator CamboTicket. The quality of service with each company varies but we highly recommend Giant Ibis and Vireak Buntham – our experience of both were excellent. It’s worth spending an extra $2-$3 for the comfort of the larger luxury buses, some come with on-board service and the price includes coffee and lunch.  There are different prices for Cambodians and non-Cambodians. Common routes and prices for non-Cambodians are: JOURNEYCOSTTIMEPhnom Penh – Siem Reap$12-$176 hrPhnom Penh – Sihanoukville$12-$153.5 hrPhnom Penh – Kampot$8-$103 hrPhnom Penh – Mondulkiri$12-$166 hrKampot – Sihanoukville$8-$102.5 hr SARACEN BAY, KOH RONG SAMLOEM SARACEN BAY, KOH RONG KOH TOUCH BEACH INTERNAL FLIGHTS Buses are usually a better option than internal flights. However, the bus from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville takes about 10 hours, and the newly introduced Cambodia Angkor Air flight takes only 1 hour 10 minutes. TUK-TUKS Tuk-tuks are not designed for stability or speed, instead, they are a fun way to explore a city. They operate at about 12-24mph (20-40kph) and are great for trips up to about 15-20 miles away (taking about 1 hour). Short journeys of around 10 minutes within towns and cities are about $2-$4. Daily hire is about $20. If you ever have trouble communicating with your tuk tuk driver they will hand you their phone and get you to type your destination into Google maps. If you are going somewhere particularly obscure, it might be a good idea to have the address in Khmer on your phone. TAXIS Taxis are great for longer distances. They are more comfortable and come with air conditioning. You can hire them for a single journey or for a haIf or full day. If you are four people, they can be similar in price and more convenient than long-distance buses. Travel Tip: PassApp – Guesthouses can help arrange tuk-tuks and taxis, or you can bargain on the street. Alternatively, download the PassApp, an Uber-like service for taxis and tut tuks with a standard price generally cheaper than what you could negotiate yourself. When registering you need to enter a Cambodian telephone number, so either buy a Cambodian sim or ask your guesthouse owner to register with their number. SCOOTERS Scooters or mopeds can be rented almo

st anywhere. They cost about $8-$10 per day for unlimited mileage. They are great in more remote places, but the streets in the cities can be chaotic. Check that your insurance policy covers scooter use. ANGKOR SMALL CIRCUIT TA PROHM ANGKOR HEALTH & HYGIENE Nothing can ruin a holiday quicker than getting ill. Here’s a few health and hygiene tips to consider when planning a trip to Cambodia. Water – The tap water in Cambodia is not safe to drink. Bring a refillable water bottle which most guesthouses will let you fill up for free or for a small charge. Ice is generally fine as it’s made from filtered water.   Toilets – You may come across the odd squat toilet in Cambodia, but most are western style toilets and generally the standard of cleanliness is high. As with many Asian countries, toilet paper goes in the bin beside the toilet. In public restrooms, toilet paper and soap regularly run out, so carry your own with you. Pharmacies – There are many pharmacies in the main cities, and they are relatively well stocked. However, if you are going to more remote areas, especially the islands, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Traveller’s Diarrhoea – Cases of Traveller’s Diarrhoea is not uncommon in Cambodia so take the usual precautions including washing your hands regularly, avoiding all tap water and considering what you eat. The food markets in Cambodia are great but assess which ones appear to have good hygiene standards before you try their food. RUSSIAN MARKET, PHNOM PENH CENTRAL MARKET PHNOM PENH KOH RONG ELECTRICITY & DATA Electricity Sockets – Cambodia is the only country we have ever been to with electricity sockets designed to take all major plugs. Most hotels will have at least a few of these ingenious sockets that will take US, European, UK and Australian plugs. If another country exists with this feature, please let us know. Wi-Fi – Unless you are in a very remote location, almost all guesthouses and hotels have wi-fi. Mobile Data – We recommend getting an e-SIM before you travel which allows you to retain your mobile phone number, plus use data in Cambodia. We used Nomad which had good service throughout the country and Asia-wide plans so we could use it in other countries. You could also purchase a Cambodian Sim when you arrive which will be cheaper, but you have the hassle of going into a store to buy one. RUSSIAN MARKET, PHNOM PENH CRIME & SAFETY We felt very safe travelling around Cambodia and the Buddhist culture is friendly and welcoming. However, there are a couple of things to be aware of. Bag snatching – In recent years bag snatching in Phnom Penh has become more prevalent. Wear backpacks or keep single strapped backs tight to your person. Sex tourism – There is usually one or two streets in the major cities geared towards sex tourism. Prostitution, although extremely common, is illegal. Land Mines – Land mines are a terrible part of Cambodian history. They are most prevalent in the rural northwest, near the Thai border. De-mining activities continue, but if you’re hiking, don’t stray from the main trails.    LANGUAGE The main language in Cambodia is Khmer, but English is commonly spoken in most tourist areas and most tours operate in English. Travel Tip – Download Khmer on Google Translate before you travel. It can help in more remote areas and with tuk-tuk drivers. BENG MEALEA TONLÈ SAP KOH RONG MORE CAMBODIA READING ANYWHERE WE ROAM ISREADER-SUPPORTED When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. You can also shout us a coffee. Thanks for your support – Paul & Mark. INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK [ad_2] Source link

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[ad_1] At the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap Rivers lies a city with a tortured past that is emerging as Asia’s premier capital of cool. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Phnom Penh. By: Paul Healy | Published: 5 Apr 2024 span box-shadow: none !important; filter: brightness(1) !important; ]]> Phnom Penh is one of our favourite cities in southeast Asia. Dusty, but leafy streets give it a lovely village-like feel while grand palaces and world-class museums position Phnom Penh as a modern international city. But it also has a long and painful history. Cambodia’s harrowing past is bought to life in meaningful memorials that, while confronting, are important in understanding the compelling resistance of the Cambodian people. Phnom Penh has all the intensity of Asian culture in a town that can be both quiet and hectic, chilled yet buzzing with atmosphere. Here are all our favourite things to do in Phnom Penh.   RUSSIAN MARKET 1. SOSORO MUSEUM The Cambodian Museum of Economy and Money, the Sosoro Museum, provides a unique perspective of the tenuous link between money, politics and power. It’s a fascinating, well-organised museum and the highlight of our visit to Phnom Penh. The story starts with an early 7th-century coin discovered in the Russian Market in 2012, providing proof that ancient Angkor societies used money. From here, the exhibition covers the story of Cambodia through finance, trade, economics and politics. The best section is the history of the last 150 years which shows just how far Cambodia has come over the last few decades. If you only visit one museum in Phnom Penh, this is definitely the one. SOSORO MUSEUM 2. TUOL SLENG GENOCIDE MUSEUM (S-21) The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum was the largest torture centre of the Khmer Rouge where 12,000 people were tortured and murdered. The former high school was the height of the Khmer Rouge atrocities. When liberated by Vietnam, there were only 7 people left alive at Tuol Sleng. Photographs of those tortured and killed as Vietnam advanced on the city remain on the walls to this day. As with many genocidal regimes, the Khmer Rouge documented their insanity in great detail. Thousands of B&W photos of each prisoner are displayed often before and after torture, along with harrowing descriptions of what they did to them. Tours used to be given by some of the few survivors. However, there are now only two remaining inmates still alive, Bou Meng and Chum Mey. They are often in the grounds of the museum, selling their books. We highly recommend getting the audio guide to fully understand this important but harrowing museum. Allow around 2 hours to visit. 3. CHOEUNG EK KILLING FIELDS The Killing Fields are several sites across Cambodia where more than 1 million people were executed by the Khmer Rouge in state-sponsored genocide. The Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre is one of these killing fields where around 20,000 prisoners from Tuol Sleng were detained, tortured and executed. There are 129 mass graves, spread across 6 acres. Visiting is a humbling but important experience in understanding the atrocities Cambodia has experienced. An audio guide provides detailed information about the site, as well as personal accounts from survivors.   After the tour, visit the Memorial Stupa which contains 9,000 skulls, exhumed at the site, arranged by sex and age. To get to the Killing Fields organise a Tuk-Tuk driver who will charge around $US15 to take you out, wait and bring you back. Allow about 90 minutes to visit. CHOEUNG EK 4. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CAMBODIA The National Museum of Cambodia houses the largest collection of Khmer sculpture in the world. It contains sculptures and statues discovered from the Angkor Temples near Siem Reap as well as ceramics and textiles, some of which date from pre-Angkor times. One of the highlights at the museum is the building itself. Constructed in 1920, it’s a traditional Khmer building with a lovely centra

l courtyard. If you enter the building and turn left, you’ll see the collection in chronological order. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CAMBODIA 5. NIGHT MARKET (PSAR REATREY) The Phnom Penh Night Market is a riverside open air market selling clothing, handbags, fake designer goods and souvenirs. Past the stalls firmly focused on tourists, there’s a fantastic Cambodia street food market. Expect to pay around $US1 to $US2 for a steaming bowl of noodle soup, fried rice straight from the wok, or pork skewers, steamed buns and much more. Grab your food from one of the stalls then either sit on mats in the central space or at table and chairs around the edge. It’s one of the best local eating experiences in Phnom Penh. The entrance is on Sisowath Quay between street 106 and street 108. The night market is open every night from around 5 pm. NIGHT MARKET 6. ROYAL PALACE & SILVER PAGODA The Royal Palace is the official residence of the king. It’s a remarkable example of traditional Khmer architecture and well worth a visit on your trip to Phnom Penh. As a royal residence, many areas are closed to the public, but you can visit the Throne Hall, used for official ceremonies. It has a 59-metre tower inspired by Bayon at Angkor Wat. The other main highlight in the complex is the Silver Pagoda, named after the silver tiles covering the floor. Don’t miss the murals around the pagoda on the northwest side. You need to adhere to the dress code to visit the palace which is shorts that reach the knees and shirts that cover elbows. However, we it seemed that the rules were much stricter for women. ROYAL PALACE SILVER PAGODA 7. THE WAT’S OF PHNOM PENH There are a few temples in Phnom Penh worth visiting on your way past. The main one is Wat Phnom. Located on the top of a grassy hill (Phnom means hill), Wat Phnom is reached via a staircase adorned with lions and nāga (semi-divine, half-human, half-serpent creatures). There’s often great atmosphere at the bottom of the stairs with locals purchasing offerings to take to the temple. It’s $1 to visit and, as with all temples in Cambodia, you need to take your shoes off to enter. The second wat worth visiting is Wat Ounalom. This is the oldest Buddhist temple in Phnom Penh and the headquarters of Cambodian Buddhism. You’ll find lots of monks who live in the complex wandering around.  WAT OUNALOM WAT PHNOM WAT PHNOM 8. KOH DACH (SILK ISLAND) Koh Dach is a small island in the middle of the Mekong River, famous for its silk production. You can visit on your own steam; however, Silk Island is one of the few attractions we recommend visiting on an organised tour. Join a boat tour, where you can enjoy a relaxing ride down the river, then learn about the island and its silk traditions from a knowledgeable guide. You’ll be taken on a quick tour of the school before meeting the woman behind the silk production. Watch them create intricate patterns on traditional looms and follow the silk process from worm to finish scarf. There are toilets and a small hut selling drinks and snacks. Beer or soft drink is included for free on the boat. Book your Koh Dach tour which takes about 3 hours. SILK ISLAND 9. PHNOM PENH’S BEST MARKETS Life in Phnom Penh happens in the markets. No visit would be complete without soaking up the atmosphere of the city’s vibrant markets. They are all a little different but here are the ones we think you should visit. RUSSIAN MARKET (TUOL TOMPOUNG) The Russian Market is laid out under a patchwork of tin roofs with hundreds of stalls vying for space underneath. Find everything from fresh food and vegetables to pig’s trotters and spices, car parts and wicker baskets. Our tip: Visit Tuol Sleng in the morning, walk up to the Russian Market for lunch, then organise a tuk-tuk to go out to the Killing Fields. ORUSSEY MARKET Orussey Market is the true local market in Phnom Penh and there were almost no tourists when we were there. It’s spread o

ver 3 floors with clothing and fabrics on the top two and everything you could imagine on the ground floor. It’s a wonderful experience, with stalls stretching as far as the eye can see, but mostly for photo opportunities.    ORUSSEY MARKET CENTRAL MARKET (PSAR THMEI) The Central Market, often referred to as the New Market is an art deco landmark in Phnom Penh shaped like a giant beehive. The huge domed hall is one of the largest in the world and acts to keep the market as cool as possible. You’ll find jewellery, antique coins and watches, but the fresh food section is best for photography. Tip: Go in the morning when it’s busiest and have breakfast at the food stalls on the western side. CENTRAL MARKET 10. MONUMENTS OF PHNOM PENH Phnom Penh is a proud city with several monuments to Cambodia’s independence from various occupiers. You don’t need long to see them, but they are worth picking up as you stroll around the city. Independence Monument – Modelled on the central tower of Angkor Wat, the Independence Monument celebrates Cambodia’s independence from France. The design is beautiful, and it’s surrounded by a park which is a nice place to relax. Norodom Sihanouk – The 4.5-metre-tall statue of King Norodom Sihanouk is housed under a 27-metre stupa east of the Independence Monument. Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument – The Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument was built in 1979 by the communist regime that took over after the country was liberated by the Vietnamese. SIHANOUK STATUE VIETNAM FRIENDSHIP MONUMENT INDEPENDENCE MONUMENT 11. BASSAC LANE & LANGKA LANE Phnom Penh has a neighborhood vibe with tree-lined streets and cafes housed in ramshackle buildings. Although it maintains the intensity of Asian culture for the most part, there are a few areas specifically aimed at tourists which we loved. Bassac Lane – Also known as Street 308, Bassac Lane was a quiet residential lane that has been transformed into a hub for eating and drinking. Try White Rabbit for some of the best cocktails in town, Mama Wong for excellent homemade noodles, Yacht Club for stylish cocktails, and Elia Greek Kitchen for some tasty Mediterranean food. Langka Lane – Just around the corner, Langka Lane is a tiny street with a smart collection of stylish western bars. We loved, GroovyRoom lounge bar, TicTic for stylish cocktails and BattBong, a speakeasy hidden behind a Coca-Cola fridge. BASSAC LANE 12. SUNSET RIVER CRUISE A sunset cruise on the Mekong is a very cost-effective way to experience Phnom Penh from the river. See the lights of Phnom Penh fade and get a glimpse of local life from the other side of the Mekong. All tours include unlimited beer and soft drink plus a seasonal fruit platter. Most will pick you up from your hotel, but you need to find your own way back. Book your sunset river cruise here. After the cruise, walk down to the Night market for dinner. MORE CAMBODIA READIN ANYWHERE WE ROAM ISREADER-SUPPORTED When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. You can also shout us a coffee. Thanks for your support – Paul & Mark. INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK [ad_2] Source link