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11 Safety Concerns and Danger in Bali and How to Avoid Them

Author -  Dawn Pillay

This Article Content, information & images source (copyright) : https://indonesia.tripcanvas.co/bali/safety-concerns-dangers/

This time around, we’re back with more. While we adore Bali and all the island has to offer, travelling here may come with its own dangers.

Whenever you travel outside of your own country, there are always risks and dangers especially since you’ll be in unfamiliar territory.Thankfully, we’ve found 11 dangers (in our experience) in Bali, that you should certainly avoid – so nothing will spoil that amazing Bali holiday you’ve always wanted.

Image Source: travel center

1.  Aggressive monkeys – Jalan Monkey Forest, Ubud

When visiting the famed monkey forest in Ubud, make sure not to carry plastic bags with you – because it looks like there’s food insideSomehow, the clever primates there have associated plastic bags with food. We’ve seen monkeys snatch visitors’ plastic bags and tear them apart to see if there’s food, when it was only an umbrella.

In some cases, the monkeys may even bite them!We suggest you walk in with your belongings secured in your bag. Also make sure not to bring food in, as you won’t want the monkeys catching a whiff of that promising meal, resulting in a tussle for your food.In the event that they grab your things, do not play tug of war. Chances are, once they realise there’s nothing inside for them, they will drop it – and there really is no point getting bitten, especially if there’s nothing important inside.

Our Tips:

1. Do not carry plastic bags. 2. Do not let your kids wander too close to the monkeys. 3. Keep your accessories like sunglasses in your bag. 4. Avoid grinning (showing teeth is a sign of threat and aggression to monkeys!) to avoid provoking an unnecessary attack.

2. Killer waves – Devil’s Tears, Nusa Lembongan

If you’re read about the Devil’s Tears waterblow in our Nusa Islands’ Guide, you should know that it’s 1) beautiful, and 2) dangerous.The waterblow phenomenon happens when waves hit the rock cliffs where pressure builds, and water then blows up.

And unlike the waterblow in Nusa Dua, there are no safety railings on the cliffs to provide a bit of safety and security – and the water blow magnitude at Devil’s Tears is way greater than the one in Nusa Dua.It’s important to keep a distance as the waves can actually sweep you down from the cliff – not something you want to happen.

Real story: We actually have a friend who was with her friends standing in a corner of the cliff when a wave came and swept all three of them off their feet, hitting the reef pretty bad.One of them even got swept down to the ocean and eventually swam for 2 to 3 hours until some locals came by trying to help throw ropes to pull her out. It didn’t work and she only managed to survive (thankfully) by swimming to the shore in the end.

Our Tips:

1. Do not wander too near the waterblow.

2. If you’re taking photos, make sure to take them at a safe distance. You wouldn’t want to risk your safety for a selfie.

3. Driving in Bali – Use Google Maps wisely!

Take it from us, when driving in Bali, Google Maps is always helpful when it comes to figuring out the route to your destination.However, take heed to use the app wisely. Google Maps will often show the shortest path, which might not necessarily be the best.

Sometimes, the shorter routes Google Maps suggests, might be narrow, steep and mountainous paths that are simply not suitable for four-wheeled vehicles.We almost got ourselves into this trouble!

Photo by cassidy_lw

For example, the road from Lovina to Bedugul is extremely steep and windy. You will not want to get stuck or lost here.

Our Tips:

1. If possible, do learn some Bahasa Indonesia so you can ask the locals for directions in the event you are lost. If not, consider hiring a driver instead!

2. If you intend to explore the more rural areas of Bali, make sure that the car you are driving has enough horsepower by checking with your provider. It is really dangerous if your car stalls in the middle of a slope as you will have to reverse back to flat ground in order to gain momentum and charge back up the slope.

4. Tattoos – Make sure you get it done at a clean and reputable place

Not all tattoo places in Bali are clean, as is the case almost everywhere else in the world. Be very careful when getting your tattoos done.

In the worse case scenario, if you happen to visit a tattoo parlour that does not practice a certain level of hygiene and safety (reused needles?!), you might actually contract HIV.

Hence, make sure you check the forums for a reputable place, one that people trust and have experienced.

Our Tips:

1. If you really want a tattoo, visit internationally owned tattoo shops that follow strict international standards of hygiene.

2. Do your research before going down to get a tatto.

3. Do not go into any tattoo parlour you randomly pass and get a tattoo without first checking online.

4. Here are 3 safe and recommended tattoo parlours (with really beautiful distinct art too!)

i. Taco and tattoos Tuesday at Duex Ex Machina Seminyak – Jl. Batu Mejan no.8 – Canggu / +62 811 388 150

ii. Suku Suku Tatau – JL Nakula No 99 x, Seminyak, Bali / +62 815 9691475

iii. Tattoo Hut Bali – JL Benesari, Kuta, Bali / +62 822-3707-1957

5. Villa location – Before booking, make sure it’s easily accessible

Funnily enough, this happened in Ubud where we booked a stay.We hired a driver for the entire duration of our trip (Seminyak > Ubud), and when he drove us to the address of our Ubud accommodation, he exclaimed in mock horror “no carpark?!”.To cut the story short, we made a mistake and booked a stay which was not easily accessible. In order to reach it, you had to walk through a narrow space/alley/running stream between the locals’ homes for a good 10 minutes.

Imagine with me, walking on a narrow and uneven concrete path with loose concrete slabs, beside a running stream WITH your huge luggage. While the villa’s staff thankfully helped us carry our things all the way there, it was a pretty disastrous realisation.Even more so when we realised how unsafe it would be, making our way back after nights of exploring Ubud’s streets. (Two ladies, walking through that narrow alley with no lights but the ones from our phones. If we missed a step, we could have fallen right into the running stream/river!)

Our Tips:

1. Avoid booking an inaccessible stay simply be checking Google Maps’ street view or terrain view to check the walkable distance.

2. Before booking, contact the villa host to enquire about road conditions, how to get there, as well as if they would be able to help you with your luggage. (Some private villas will not offer assistance with your luggage, especially the budget ones.) 3. Bring a torch light with you or ask your host to give you one.

6. For the ladies in Kuta – Make sure not to walk alone late at night

Kuta is renowned for its nonstop parties, beach bars, and all that hectic stuff.

If you’re a lady, and you’re alone, it’s advisable not to walk alone at night in Kuta, as this can attract unnecessary attention.

Unwanted flirt and toutsBy avoiding walking alone late at night in Kuta, you’ll be saving yourself some potentially nasty trouble!

Our Tips:

1. If you have to take a cab back from Kuta after a night of partying, make sure the driver isn’t dodgy

2. Use Uber or GrabCar to get a ride. You’ll have the ID, name, number and photo of your driver – just in case.

3. If you do encounter a robbery or sexual harassment, call POLDA Bali (+62 361 227711) the main police headquarter in Denpasar, instead of the local police office.

4. There’s also a special police force for tourism known as PAM OBVIT Bali, which emphasises on the well-being of foreigners. You may contact them at +62 361-759687 or +62 361-224111, for help. 

  7. Villa security – Bring your valuables with you when you head out

In the news, there have been reports of missing cash or valuables when guests at certain villas left them in their rooms.While our Balinese friends are friendly, warm and hospitable, sometimes you just never know if you’ll get unlucky and bump into bad people.If you want to avoid losing your money and valuables (who doesn’t right?), then be sure not to leave any valuables in your villa.

PS: Our team has actually experienced hearing people in their villa’s bathroom at night when they were in bed.Whether it’s a good imagination, ghostly activity, or even people in the neighbouring village sneaking over to use the villa’s amenities (which has happened before!) – you just need to be really careful.

Our Tips:

1. Before booking, make sure to check reviews to see if there has been any mention of fraud. (If there are no reviews available, we advise to skip it and move on to another stay as a property with no reviews can be a very telling sign.) You should also check how long the villa has been run, just to make sure it’s reliable, since it’s been in business for a good amount of time.

2. Do lock your door from inside when you’re sleeping as people might climb into your villa’s toilet at night.

Close your windows and doors! You might not know what you might attract

3. Purchase a travel safe for an added layer of security and bring it along your trip to store money and valuables.

4. If your money or valuables are stolen, make an official report directly at POLDA Bali (+62 361 227711) the main police headquarter in Denpasar, instead of the local police office. 5. There’s also a special police force for tourism known as PAM OBVIT Bali, which emphasises on the well-being of foreigners. You may contact them at +62 361-759687 or +62 361-224111, for help with tackling difficult situations while in Bali. 6. Additionally, you may also make a report to your embassy in Indonesia. Australia // +62 21 2550 5555 China // +62 21 576 1039 Japan // +62 21 3192 4308 Singapore // +62 21 29950400 5. For other embassy contact information, please find them at – http://www.embassypages.com/indonesia

8. Driving in Uluwatu – Very few petrol stations available here!

Uluwatu is pretty hilly, and there are very few petrol stations around. If you are driving, you have to make sure you have enough (or more than enough!) petrol to get back.The last thing you’d want is to get stranded and lost somewhere in this hilly area.And if you can’t find any petrol stations, do note that you may purchase petrol from some local shops at 10,000 IDR per 1 litre bottle

Our Tips:

1. When topping up your petrol, watch your oil meter and calculate the consumption rate to see how much petrol is needed for a certain distance. Once you do this, you will know better exactly how much petrol you’ll need for the distance you’ll be driving, and if you should prepare petrol in case you run out.

2. For starters, a 1 litre bottle of petrol can last approximately 35km on a scooter, and 10km for a car. (These bottles of petrol may be purchased from local shops you pass along the way at 10,000 IDR.)

9. The traditional Balinese alcohol, Arak – Only drink at reputable places

Arak is a traditional Balinese spirit made from toddy palm trees, that is a popular drink among locals during festivals and ceremonies.Legal and extensively sold around the island, Arak can be found in many places from local drinking holes to bars in high-end hotels and restaurants.

In recent years however, occasional cases of methanol poisoning have been happening, due to the consumption of Arak.This problem is caused by unscrupulous vendors that mix methanol in the Arak, as it is cheaper than alcohol – do note that consuming this mixture may cause blindness or death.

Our Tips:

1. We strongly urge that you avoid drinking arak, or only consume it at reputable bars, after checking its source from the bartenders.

2. If you’d really like to try proper Arak though, check out Dewi Sri (Arak Bali and Hatten Wines winery are also under this company!). They’ve been producing traditional Arak since 1968. (Jl. Danau Tondano 58, Sanur, http://www.arakbali.com)

3. Remember to go straight to the source for your taste of Arak Attack instead of purchasing it off dodgy shops to avoid unnecessary poisoning.

10. Footpaths – Pay attention when you walk or even use a torch

If you don’t want to fall into uncovered drains, or basically take a bad tumble, you definitely should pay attention to the paths when you walk.One time in Ubud, we saw a couple walking in front of us going down Monkey Forest Road. It was dark, and the road was not well lit in certain areas.

Photo via : Clockwise pictures

All of a sudden, the man simply dropped into a drain because he didn’t see that the cover was off. He fell thigh deep and was stuck in the drain.Naturally, we rushed to help pull him out, and thankfully he was only scratched and shaken.While this experience wasn’t too bad, it could very well have been a lot worse. The man could have easily broken his leg or gotten a deep gash.

Our Tips:

1. Just make sure to pay attention when you walk.

2. Use a torch if the area isn’t well lit!

11. Check your passport – Be diligent when it comes to airport customs

Recently in Singapore’s local news, there have been reports of a Singaporean man posting about his bad experience with Bali’s airport customs on Facebook.

Photo via: Raymond Seow

The story goes that one of Bali’s airport customs officer had cut up his mother’s passport – then summoned her into a room, and only released her after she paid up.While this has not been verified, when it comes to your passport, it is crucial to ensure your passport’s validity (damaged passports before you travel, or the correct customs stamps when you’re arriving or departing a foreign country, etc).

Our Tips:

1. If airport security detains your passport unlawfully, make a report to your embassy in Indonesia.

Australia // +62 21 2550 5555

China // +62 21 576 1039

Japan // +62 21 3192 4308

Singapore // +62 21 29950400

For other embassy contact information, please find them at –

http://www.embassypages.com/indonesia

So now you know what we know.Some of these dangers we’ve shared might potentially lead to serious consequences if you’re careless. Make sure to take heed and practice safety, to ensure a funtastic vacation in the beloved land of Bali!Are there anymore dangers and annoyances in Bali you can share with us? Comment below to let us know!

Author: Dawn Pillay 

With a boheme outlook on life, Dawn loves exploring and immersing herself in all sorts of weird and wonderful adventures. Coupled with a persevering fondness for sharing all her quirky finds, Dawn has a passion for documenting her adventures through her photos and writing. When not busy working away on her MacBook, you will find Dawn going on more adventures, or simply cuddling up to her darling cat, Nyx.  

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6 best baths in Budapest

Enjoy a long hot soak at one of these luxurious bath houses in the 'City of Spas'.

Fancy de-stresssing from the daily grind? Got some r&r, or perhaps even discover the secret to eternal youth, in one of these beautiful bath houses.

Image source : Travel Agents in UK

Since the Bronze Age people have been bathing in Budapest’s natural thermal waters, believing them to cure lots of ailments, from skin conditions to stress. Whatever the medicinal properties might be of a mineral spring, few can deny the simple pleasure of a good, hot bath – and Budapest has these in abundance.

In fact, the so-called _City of Spas has _more than one hundred springs bubbling beneath it and the bath houses are a hub of Hungarian everyday life. Business meetings, chess matches, romantic dates and family parties all take place in these pools, making a dip a tradition rather than an indulgence. Here’s our pick of the best places to get soaking:

1. Gellert

A great choice if you only have time for one and are happy to tarry with the tourists. The Gellert has a beautiful tiled main pool for swimming (caps required) as well as indoor and outdoor thermal pools. The Art Nouveau steam baths are lovely, though this is one of the baths best visited in summer when the large open-air wave pool is open and the shaded terraces offer a relaxing spot in the heart of the city. There are also English-speaking staff and a range of additional treatments, such as Thai massage and private bathing

2. Szechenyi

This vast Neo-baroque bath in the heart of the city’s main park is ideal on sunny days, when the three outdoor pools really come into their own. Swimming caps are compulsory in the main swimming pool, where serious swimmers plough up and down. For a more sedentary soak, we recommend you stick to the whirlpool and the hot pool, where people play chess (bring your own set if you want to join in). Always mixed sex, this is an ideal choice for couples; use the rear entrance (from Állatkerti körút) for easier access to the private cabins. There are pool parties here on Saturday nights in summer too.

3. Kiraly

This is one of Budapest’s oldest baths, as well as one of its smallest. Built by the Turks in the 16th century, it retains much of its Turkish architecture including the traditional octagonal roof. It’s a beautiful place to relax, in four thermal pools said to help arthritis and joint problems, plus a steam bath and sauna. Once popular with the gay community, today it appeals more to couples with its daily mixed bathing. There are also treatments such as underwater jet massage and pedicures.

4. Rudas

Right on very edge of the Danube, Rudas has the best view from any Budapest bath – the circular whirlpool on the roof’s new Wellness section overlooks the river and Pest beyond. This is one of the city’s original Turkish baths, built in the 16th century, and when the sun breaks through the holes in the dome above the indoor octagonal pool there is nowhere lovelier for a soak. Mixed days here are Saturdays and Sundays, during the week it’s women only on Tuesdays, the rest of the days are men only. The Wellness area is mixed every day though and there’s mixed night bathing on Fridays and Saturdays from 10pm-4am too.

5. Veli Bej

Top pick of the Turkish-style baths is this complex at the Csaszar Hotel. It dates from the 16th century but the features are thoroughly modern, from the glass ceilings right down to the infra-sauna, which is heated by infrared light. Under the Turkish dome you’ll find the traditional octagonal pool, dimly lit for relaxation, with four smaller pools surrounding it with water of varying temperatures. Veli Bej is mixed sex at all times, but note that the numbers are limited so on weekends you may find it full.

6. Lukacs

Want something more local? Few tourists make it to Lukacs, and you won’t find grand architectural flourishes here. What you will find are five thermal pools, said to cure all sorts of joint and spinal problems. Look out for the marble tables proclaiming the gratitude of those cured here and don’t miss a chance to drink the therapeutic waters. The pools are arranged in two courtyards and there is also a steam room and sauna, plus a hospital offering water-based medical treatments.

A few tips:

Buy your entry ticket at the booth (penztar) on arrival. You’ll be given a plastic wristwatch-style key to get you through the turnstiles and into the baths. If you want to change in private you’ll need to stump up extra for a cabin, which is then yours for the duration of your time in the baths and gives you somewhere safe to keep your things too. Plus you can share with whoever you’re visiting with. Some baths have single-sex days, when there will be separate areas for men and women, so check in advance if this will be an issue. As well as your swimwear, bring flip flops and your own towel, and a swimming cap if you have one (they’re obligatory in some pools, though can always be hired or bought).

Looking for more info on Budapest? Check these out:

Top 10 things to see and do in Budapest

From pubs to spas, wine tasting to caving, find out the 10 best things to see and do in the Hungarian capital.

7 things to do in Budapest on a budget

In Buda and Pest, you get two for the price of one. Even better, you can see it all on a tight budget. We reveal seven of our favourite low-cost things to do on both sides on the Danube.

Find flights to Budapest

Hotels in Budapest

This article content & Information source (copyright) : https://www.skyscanner.net/news/6-best-baths-budapest

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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in England

Written by Bryan Dearsley

This article content & Images source (copyright) :  www.planetware.com/

One of the most visited countries in the world, England offers travellers endless possibilities when it comes to fun things to see and do. Part of the beautiful British Isles, this small but influential country is simply bursting with fascinating history, exciting cities and rich cultural traditions. Historic sites are found at every turn, from old castles dotting the picturesque countryside and colleges dating back to the Middle Ages to ancient Roman sites and centuries old royal palaces.

England is also extremely easy to get around, and whether you choose to tour the country by car or public transport, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

1 Stonehenge

Stonehenge, just 10 mi north of Salisbury on Salisbury Plain, is Britain's most famous ancient monument, and one of its most popular tourist attractions (the site is so popular visitors need to purchase a timed ticket in advance to guarantee entry).

Covering 8 sq mi, the "hanging stones" were placed here from 3000-1500 BC. The Bronze Age stone circles visible today were in use until the Roman era, when they were destroyed to prevent cults like the Druids from influencing the population. An excellent Visitor Centre is home to informative exhibitions, and includes a shop and café.

Location: Shrewton, Wiltshire

Accommodation: Where to Stay near Stonehenge - TripAdvisor.com

2 Tower of London

Prison, palace, treasure vault, observatory, and menagerie - the Tower of London has done it all. Widely considered the most important building in England, there's enough to see and do at this World Heritage Site to keep visitors busy for hours. The centerpiece is the White Tower. Built in 1078 by William the Conqueror, it's home to amazing exhibits such as Line of Kings, the world's oldest visitor attraction (1652) with its remarkable displays of royal armor. Other highlights include the wonderful Crown Jewels exhibition, classic Yeoman Warder Tours, the Royal Mint, and exhibits and displays regarding prisoners and executions. All told, the Tower of London covers some 18 acres, so there's a great deal of exploring to do.

Location: Tower of London, London

Accommodation: Where to Stay in London - TripAdvisor.com

3 The City of Bath

If you only have time to visit one smaller city in England, you couldn't do much better than Bath. This remarkably beautiful city boasts more fantastic tourist attractions than you could hope to visit in a day. While most famous for the magnificent 2,000-year-old Roman Baths built around the city's rejuvenating hot springs, it's equally well known for its honey-colored Georgian Townhouses such as those located on Royal Crescent. Some 500 of the city's buildings are considered of historical or architectural importance, a fact that has resulted in the entire city being granted World Heritage status. Bath makes an ideal location from which to explore some of England's most stunning countryside, including the Avon Valley, the Mendip Hills and countless other fantastic Somerset landmarks.

Location: Abbey Chambers, Abbey Churchyard, Bath

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bath - TripAdvisor.com

4 Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle has served as the summer residence of British Royals since William the Conqueror built the first fortress here in 1078. The largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor Castle is built around two spectacular courtyards, and entrance fees include admission to the State Apartments (closed when The Queen's at home, so check whether the royal flag's flying). Also of note is the wonderful Great Park, a magnificent 6 mi-long park that most North American visitors will already have seen from the air as they fly into Heathrow. And, of course, no visit to a royal palace would be complete without witnessing the Changing the Guard in the Castle Precincts.

Location: The Official Residences of The Queen, Windsor

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Windsor - TripAdvisor.com

5 Historic Yorkshire

Although Yorkshire is divided into four "ridings" - North, South, West and East Ridings - the habit of referring to the county by its traditional name runs deep in England (a habit picked up by most travellers). Traditional Yorkshire encompasses some of the most beautiful historic towns and cities in England, including Durham, Beverley and York with its magnificent half-timbered homes and shops, medieval guildhalls and churches, and romantic streets surrounded by 3 mi of magnificent town walls. York is also a great base from which to explore the countryside, in particular the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in York - TripAdvisor.com

6 Cambridge University

The old-world charm of Cambridge is a huge draw for visitors to England, and is an excellent (and easy) day-trip from London. Well-known for its university - as famous as its counterpart in Oxford - Cambridge boasts the country's largest collection of preserved historic buildings, much of it clustered around Cambridge University's 31 colleges. In addition to its vibrant shopping and dining, Cambridge hosts many excellent cultural events, including the 800-year-old Midsummer Fair and the famous Cambridge Folk Festival.

Location: The Old Schools, Trinity Lane, Cambridge

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Cambridge - TripAdvisor.com

7 Lake District National Park

Covering some 900 sq mi, the Lake District National Park is a must-visit destination for travellers to England. With 12 of the country's largest lakes and over 2,000 mi of rights of way waiting to be explored, there's little wonder the region continues to inspire with its magnificent views and scenery straight out of a painting. Other attractions are the park's many fells, including Scafell Pike (3,210 ft), the highest mountain in England, lovely little towns and villages such as Grasmere, as well as boat excursions across Lake Windermere and Ullswater.

Location: Murley Moss, Oxenholme Rd, Kendal

Accommodation: Where to Stay in the Lake District - TripAdvisor.com

8 Canterbury Cathedral

Located in the heart of the historic city that bears its name, Canterbury Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is home to the Archbishop of Canterbury and is the cradle of English Christianity. It all started when St Augustine converted the pagan Anglo Saxons here in 597 when he became the first bishop. But there's much more to this beautiful medieval city than its cathedral. Canterbury is also a popular cultural and entertainment destination with great shopping, galleries and cafés, as well as attractions such as those focused on Chaucer's medieval England and the city's Roman past.

Address: 11 The Precincts, Canterbury

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Canterbury - TripAdvisor.com

9 Eden Project

The incredible Eden Project is a collection of unique artificial biomes containing an amazing collection of plants from around the world. Located in a reclaimed quarry in Cornwall, the complex consists of huge domes that look rather like massive igloo-shaped greenhouses. Each houses thousands of different plant species in tropical and Mediterranean environments. As well as these stunning displays of plant life, the Eden Project hosts numerous fantastic arts and music events.

Hours: Open daily 9am-6pm (summer); hours vary during spring, fall, and winter

Admission: Adults, £23.50; Children 5-16, £23.50

Location: Bodelva, Cornwall

Official site:

www.edenproject.com

Accommodation: Where to Stay near the Eden Project - TripAdvisor.com

10 The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds cover some 787 sq mi and encompass parts of some of England's prettiest counties - Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Somerset, Worcestershire and Warwickshire. And all of it begs to be explored. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty due to its rare limestone grassland habitats and old growth beech woodlands, the beauty of the Cotswolds has as much to do with its quaint villages and towns, such as Castle Combe, Chipping Norton and Tetbury. Like so much of England, the Cotswolds is perfect to discover on foot, particularly along the Cotswold Way, a 10 mi footpath with spectacular views of the Severn Valley and the Vale of Evesham.

Location: Alexandra Warehouse, Llanthony Rd, Gloucester

Official site:

www.cotswolds.com

Accommodation: Where to Stay in The Cotswolds - TripAdvisor.com

11 Editor's PickChartwell

Chartwell - much-loved home of Britain's most famous Prime Minister, Winston Churchill - is perhaps not surprisingly one of the most visited of the National Trust's portfolio of historic buildings. It's where Churchill sought refuge and inspiration from 1924 until his death in 1965. This sumptuous home has been left as it was when the great man lived here, and is full of photos and mementoes evoking his career and interests (exhibits are rotated annually). Also worth exploring are the gardens, including lakes and looped walking trails through the adjoining woodland. (Please note: timed tickets are required for visits inside the home.)

Hours: Open daily year-round, but times vary depending upon season

Admission: Adults, £12.50; Children, £6.25

Location: Mapleton Rd, Westerham, Kent

Official site:

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

Accommodation: Where to Stay near Chartwell - TripAdvisor.com

12 Warwick Castle

If you're looking for a truly memorable English family excursion - one that offers a fascinating insight into life in medieval times - you couldn't do much better than visit Warwick Castle. Located in the beautiful city of Warwick on the River Avon, this impressive fortress has dominated the landscape and history of the region for over 900 years. Today, it serves as a backdrop to medieval-themed events and reenactments, from jousting festivals to fairs and concerts. Warwick is a great base from which to explore the Cotswolds, as well as nearby cities such as Stratford-upon-Avon, Liverpool and Manchester, all just an easy drive away.

Location: Warwick Castle, Warwick

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Warwick - TripAdvisor.com

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15 Best Tropical Vacations

http://www.planetware.com/karen-hastings-bio.htm

Written by Karen Hastings

Dreamy beaches, silky warm seas, lush scenery, and endless sunshine: These are some of the top ingredients of the ideal tropical vacation. But each destination offers its own sultry charms. Some dazzle with their natural beauty. Others add cultural attractions to the mix, with exotic customs, architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine. A few offer eco-adventures and wildlife-rich wilderness, and some sleepy islands seem to take you back in time. Divers flock to thriving coral reefs, and surfers seek the perfect wave. It's just a matter of finding the perfect fit. From Asia to Australia and the US to the Caribbean, this list of 15 tropical vacation hot spots covers some of the most beautiful islands in the world as well as ideas of fun things to do and destinations for all budgets, whether you're seeking an over-the-water bungalow in Bora Bora or a bamboo hut on a Bali beach.

1 Bora Bora, Tahiti

Bora Bora is the quintessential South Pacific paradise. This lush and dramatically beautiful island in French Polynesia rises to a sharp emerald peak ringed by an azure lagoon. Clusters of coconut palms bristle along the beaches, and luxury bungalows perch over the crystal-clear waters, some with glass floor panels so you can peer into the thriving sea below. While Bora Bora scores top points for natural beauty, it also ticks the box if you're seeking some cultural appeal. The official language is French, and you can taste the Gallic influence in the gourmet cuisine. Add a bevy of fun water sports, kayak trips to tiny motu (islands), picturesque hiking trails, and adventures such as shark dives, and, it's easy to see why many travelers rank pricey Bora Bora as a top honeymoon destination and the ultimate, once-in-a-lifetime place for the perfect tropical vacation.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bora Bora - TripAdvisor.com

2 Riviera Maya, Mexico

If you're looking for beautiful beaches, culture, and zesty cuisine all wrapped up with an affordable price tag, the Riviera Maya (Mayan Riviera) in Mexico is a great choice. On the tip of the Yucatán peninsula, along the Caribbean coast, the Mayan Riviera encompasses the resort destinations of Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and the island of Cozumel. You don't have to stay at a big bustling all-inclusive resort here, though you'll find plenty fronting the long, postcard-worthy beaches. Intimate boutique hotels and yoga retreats are also in the mix. Swimming with stingrays and dolphins, diving, snorkeling, and fishing are popular activities in the warm, clear waters, and culture vultures can explore the magnificent ancient ruins of Tulum, in a stunning setting above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, or Chichén Itzá, a few hours' drive away from the resort strip.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Riviera Maya - TripAdvisor.com

3 Maldives

Strung across the Indian Ocean southwest of India and Sri Lanka, the 26 natural atolls of the Maldives exude an almost surreal beauty due, in large part, to the luminous blue waters which surround them. If slipping into the crystal-clear, soul-warming sea is a top criteria for your perfect tropical vacation, this is the place to do it, as water comprises 99 percent of the Maldives. Paradoxically, it also threatens to inundate the shores of this low-lying island nation. Male' is the capital city, but most visitors head straight out to one of the remote atolls, where luxury resorts and bone-white beaches fringed by aquamarine waters await. Diving and snorkeling are world-class, and the Maldives is also a top surfing destination with the most popular surf spots in the North and South Male' Atolls. Other popular activities here include swimming with manta rays and whale sharks as well as big-game fishing. With water being a focal point and so many islands to choose from, the Maldives is also the perfect candidate for a cruise vacation.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Maldives - TripAdvisor.com

4 Aitutaki, Cook Islands

Aitutaki in the Cook Islands, with close ties to New Zealand, is a dream destination for would-be castaways. Blessed with a luminous aqua lagoon, lush peaks, sublime beaches bristling with palms, and some of the friendliest people in the South Pacific, Aitutaki ticks all the boxes for the perfect exotic tropical vacation. Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands, and the main tourist gateway, but Aitutaki, a 45-minute flight away, is the jewel in the crown, and that's saying plenty in an archipelago of 15 ravishing tropical isles. Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing are all fantastic, and the island offers a window into the laid-back village life, which slows to a halt on Sundays for church services. More than 20 motu (small islands) are sprinkled around the lagoon, and the small island of Tapuaetai (One Foot Island), in its southeast corner, is a popular excursion with a beautiful perspective of the lagoon. If you really want to splurge, opt for a luxurious over-the-water bungalow. From here, you can paddle to your own private motu, plonk down under a palm tree, and pretend you're Robinson Crusoe for a day.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Aitutaki - TripAdvisor.com

5 Kauaʻi, Hawaii

Called the Garden Isle, Kauaʻi is a tropical Eden, with lush rainforests, waterfalls, and spectacular green coastal peaks. A natural masterpiece of dramatic lava-sculpted landscapes, the island has a more laid-back vibe than its popular sister islands of Mauiand Oahu. Though Kauai is known for being home to one of the rainiest places on earth, the island is comprised of several microclimates, and the area around touristy Poipu tends to be drier. Underwater, you'll find colorful coral reefs, where turtles and tropical fish swim. On land, you can bask on golden beaches, admire the cloud-capped scenery from the cliffs above Hanalei Bay, hike among the velvety peaks of the breathtaking Nāpali Coast, and explore the deep and jungly 10-mile-long Waimea Canyon. Tropical gardens, waterfalls, cute coastal towns, and fantastic surf breaks are other top tourist attractions. Don't be surprised if you find yourself sharing the beach with slumbering monk seals; nature reigns here, and that's a big part of the island's allure.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Kauai - TripAdvisor.com

Read More:

9 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Kauai

6 The Mamanuca Islands, Fiji

If you're dreaming of an idyllic South Seas islands bathed in sunshine, the Mamanuca Islands in Fiji fit the bill. A short boat ride from the gateway town of Nadi, this picture-perfect string of about 20 islands are popular for their gleaming palm-studded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and thriving coral reefs. When you first glimpse these tropical beauties, it's easy to see why Survivor and the Tom Hanks movie Cast Away were filmed on islands in this chain. When choosing where to stay, your budget and interests will determine the best Fiji island for you.

Accommodation ranges from lively backpacker resorts to family-friendly hotels with thatched bures (traditional huts), and luxury hideaways like Vomo Island Resort, Likuliku Lagoon Resort, and the adults-only Tokoriki Island Resort. Popular mid-range resorts include Matamanoa Island Resort, Malolo Island Resort, Mana Island Resort, and Castaway Island. One of the planet's top surf breaks, Cloudbreak, lies about a mile away from Tavarua Island Resort, but you can access this legendary break from other island resorts as well. Fijians love children, so this is also a fabulous destination for families with youngsters looking to relax.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in the Mamanuca Islands - TripAdvisor.com

7 St. Barts, The Caribbean

If you like the glittering jet-setter scene, private villas, and pretty beaches, French-influenced St. Barts should be top on your list. But it all comes at a price. A constant stream of visiting movie stars and mega-moguls means that accommodation and food costs more here than other destinations - especially during high season. However, in return, you'll find beautiful blond beaches backed by green hills, world-class shopping and dining, and a cultural sophistication that many other tropical destinations lack. Like everywhere, low season offers great deals and all the beaches are public, so you can hide away in a private villa or boutique hotel and live the life of the rich and famous for less. Besides basking on the beaches, shopping, and feasting on mouthwatering continental delicacies, popular activities here include snorkeling, diving, kite-surfing, kayaking, fishing, surfing, and sailing. The top beaches are Saline Beach, Gouverneur Beach, and Lorient, and the red-roofed capital of Gustavia is one of the prettiest towns in the Caribbean.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in St. Barts - TripAdvisor.com

8 The Abacos, The Bahamas

Almost 300 kilometers east of Florida, the beautiful Abacos, in the Bahamas, offer some of the world's best waters for boating and sailing. These peaceful Atlantic islands, also called the Out Islands or Family Islands, seem a world away from the crowded tourist strips of nearby Florida, with their secluded pine-fringed beaches; flourishing coral reefs; and sleepy fishing villages, where golf carts and boats are the main mode of transport. British Loyalists settled these islands, and you can witness this heritage in the cute and colorful colonial cottages lining the narrow streets. Prime areas for a low-key vacations include cute Elbow Cay, with its famous candy-striped lighthouse; charming three-mile long Green Turtle Cay, which feels like stepping back in time to the old Bahamas; and Treasure Cay, on Great Abaco, with its ravishing white-sand beach lapped by waters in technicolor turquoise. Guana Cay, Walker's Cay, and Man "O' War Cay are other popular islands. Favorite pursuits include fishing, diving, snorkeling, relaxing, and chatting with the locals, and with miles of pristine beaches, it's easy to find your own private patch of soft, white sand.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in the Abacos - TripAdvisor.com

9 Ambergris Caye, Belize

Off the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula, Ambergris Caye in Belize is one of the country's top tourist destinations and the largest of its 200 cayes. While its Caribbean beaches are generally better for fishing than swimming, thanks to their flourishing turtle grass flats, the magnificent Hol Chan Marine Reserve more than compensates with superb diving and snorkeling less than a half-mile from shore. This underwater wonderland is part of the Belize Barrier Reef system, the second largest barrier reef in the world after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Shark Ray Alley is a popular site, where divers can come face to face with nurse sharks and stingrays. Anglers also flock here to prowl the flats for bonefish and try their luck for permit, tarpon, snook, and barracuda. Part of the island's charm is its colorful town of San Pedro, where golf carts rule the streets and funky restaurants showcase fresh seafood and Mexican-inspired cuisine. Since the northern part of the island lies a stone's throw from Mexico, the island has a strong Mexican influence, and many locals speak Spanish.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Ambergris Caye - TripAdvisor.com

10 Dominican Republic

On the eastern side of the island of Hispaniola, the Dominican Republic is a top choice for budget-minded travelers, but this popular vacation destination is much more than glorious beaches and great-value resorts. Rich in history and culture, "DR," as it's called, also boasts some of the most diverse eco-systems in the Caribbean, with steamy jungles, deserts, mangroves, coral reefs, savanna, and soaring green peaks.

Venture away from the tourist strips of Puerto Plata, Punta Cana, La Romana, and Samaná, where all-inclusive resorts cluster along idyllic sweeps of palm-fringed beach, and you'll discover a world of adventures. You can climb the highest peaks in the Caribbean, raft the white waters of the Río Yaque del Norte, hike to waterfalls through the steamy jungle, and bike through pine forests along alpine trails. Cultural attractions are also a highlight. The capital, Santo Domingo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with charming colonial architecture and a fascinating history. But if you just want to bask on a beautiful beach, dive, swim, surf, and snorkel, you'll find plenty of opportunities to do that, too.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in the Dominican Republic - TripAdvisor.com

11 Bali, Indonesia

For those seeking a tropical vacation with a spiritual side, Bali beckons with its mystical charm. Temples filled with fragrant incense; rice paddies glowing in the late amber sun; and the calm, gentle people of Bali add to this island's irresistible allure. If you're seeking a lively beach scene, with plenty of shops and restaurants, base yourself in busy Kuta or Seminyak, where you'll also find fantastic surf beaches. Sanur is a great spot for families, with its gentle waves, and Ubud, in the lush hills away from the coastal hubbub, is the island's emerald soul. Bali is also known for its relatively affordable spa treatments, so you can pamper yourself without the sticker shock. Accommodation includes everything from cheap-as-chips hostels to luxury villas staffed with personal chefs and drivers. The neighboring volcanic island of Lombok is also a popular destination, with less development than its famous sister island.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bali - TripAdvisor.com

Read More:

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bali

12 Port Douglas, Australia

About an hour's drive north of Cairns in Queensland, Port Douglas is an ideal destination for adventurous nature lovers. This upscale town has evolved from its humble origins as a snoozy fishing village into a popular tropical tourist resort and a handy base for reef trips and wilderness safaris. Two of the richest ecosystems in Australia lie a short hop from here: the Great Barrier Reef, with superb diving and snorkeling, and the Daintree Rainforest, part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Site, which tumbles to the reef-dappled waters of Cape Tribulation. The town's leafy streets are lined with mango trees and palms, as well as a cluster of upscale shops, cafes, and art galleries, and its star feature is Four Mile Beach, a blond crescent of jungle-fringed sand. Swimming is restricted here during marine stinger season (November through June), however it's always a favorite spot for a stroll. Other prime tourist attractions include the Wildlife Habitat and the Bally Hooley Sugar Train, which chugs through sugar cane fields to Mossman. Fishing trips and northbound expeditions through the rugged landscape of the Cape York Peninsula are also popular. The winter season, from May through September, is the best time to visit, when temperatures are cooler and drier weather prevails.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Port Douglas - TripAdvisor.com

13 The Andaman Coast, Thailand

The Andaman Coast is a convenient base for exploring the spectacular islands of the Andaman Sea. These lush limestone peaks rise from turquoise waters, creating one of the planet's most striking seascapes. Famous isles include the Phi Phi Islands such as Ko Phi Phi Don, with its many resorts, and Ko Phi Phi Leh, where the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach was filmed. These islands are on the popular Phuket Day Trip circuit, but you can still find your very own peaceful patch of paradise if you venture further afield. Phang Nga Bay is home to more than a hundred of these emerald beauties, including the famous James Bond Island.

Popular areas to use as a base for exploring all this natural beauty are Krabi or popular Phuket, Thailand's largest island. The dazzling scenery continues inland at Khao Sok National Park, where you can commune with elephants amid the jungle-cloaked peaks. Accommodation ranges from homestays and budget-priced beachfront bamboo shacks to luxury villa-style resorts perched on seas cliffs, but even high-end resorts tend to be more affordable here than other tropical destinations. This is a great choice if you're looking for exotic culture, fiery food, and ravishing scenery that doesn't break the budget. Try to avoid the southwest monsoon, which usually strikes the coast from the end of May through the middle of October.

14 The Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

On the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, the Nicoya Peninsula is a hot spot for surfers and eco-tourists, with its pockets of jungly forests and long beaches washed by perfect barrel breaks. Surfing can be great at any time of year. Prime tourist towns in the region include Tamarindo, the most developed town on the peninsula, with fantastic surfing for all skill levels at Playa Tamarindo, as well as a wide range of restaurants and hotels. It lures a colorful mix of fun-loving backpackers, surfers, families, and chilled-out expats. Around Tamarindo you can snorkel, dive, horseback ride, zip line, and watch turtles nesting from October through March at nearby Playa Grande, one of Costa Rica's most important nesting grounds for leatherback turtles. Upscale Santa Teresa in Mal Pais, along the peninsula's southwest corner, is also known for its fantastic surf, as well as yoga retreats, organic eateries, and boutique hideaways. Other prime areas to consider are beautiful Nosara, backed by a tangle of green forest, Montezuma, and peaceful Samara, one of the peninsula's least developed towns. Not far from these beach towns, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve protects one of the continent's last unspoiled pockets of cloud forest.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in the Nicoya Peninsula - TripAdvisor.com

15 Florida Keys

Home to the only coral reef in the United States, the Florida Keys offer a fun tropical fix, fantastic fishing, and a few pretty palm-lined stretches of sand. Trailing south of Miami for more than 110 miles to within about 90 miles of Cuba, the Keys are coral islands linked by causeways, so you can drive between them on the Overseas Highway, which runs from Key Largo south to Key West.

Top attractions include the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary off Key Largo, with great diving and snorkeling; Bahia Honda State Park, where you'll find some of the prettiest beaches; and the legendary Key West, where an anything-goes mentality complements the colorful Caribbean-style cottages and rich Hemingway history. You can also visit the southernmost tip of the Unites States here. Islamorada proclaims itself the "sportfishing capital of the world," with tarpon, bonefish, and permit to catch; and Marathon is also excellent for casting a line. Big-name fishing tournaments are held in the surrounding waters each year. While you're here, try to sample some conch, a type of marine snail, as well as the famous key lime pie.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in the Florida Keys - TripAdvisor.com

Read More:

8 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Florida Keys

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10 Best Party Hotels in Bali

Most Popular Hotels to Party in Bali

These best party hotels in Bali are handpicked for their convenient location, being within easy reach of the island’s great nightlife venues or being right in the middle of the excitement of Bali’s partying hot zones, namely Kuta, Legian and Seminyak. They also come in a great mix, catering to a wide range of budgets and style preferences. There are upmarket options in the Seminyak and between the Legian and Kuta area, while the latter two alsofeature budget options.

Most of these Bali party hotels and resorts will spoil you with regular rosters of DJs and bands that take to their flashy bars and some are even famous for their splashing pool parties. You can either join in the on-site fun, or walk mere steps out of your hotel to find even more choices to hang out and spend the night, including cocktails, lounging by the beach, or dancing into the wee hours. Go through these top picks below and have an awesome stay in Bali!

Dubbing itself as an ‘entertainment centre’,The Stones in Legiancombines stylish design, music and entertainment. The hotel’s multiple venues come to life in the evenings. Within its collection is Infamy, the hotel’s rooftop lounge featuring infinity view Jacuzzis adjacent a poolside lounge. Down below is Blue Sapphire, a club and bar where regular highlight events take place, and parties often start around 22.00 and last well into the wee hours. Read More

This music-themed hotel has regular gigs on its agenda by default, mainly held at its two great venues -Centerstage and Sand Island. Centerstage is a lobby bar that serves a larger purpose.An elevated platform with a complete drum and stage set is above the bar, where live bands perform nightly. The unique Sand Island adjoins the main pool, which is also where beach-themed parties and gigs take place in a great tropical outdoor setting. Read More

If your destination is Kuta, and your plan is mainly to enjoy a great partying scene, this oasis is for you. The Bounty Hotel is centrally located on Kuta’s famous Poppies IIlane, within walking distance ofKuta Beach. In addition to being near a collection of bars and clubs, it appeals to young partygoers with its daily pool parties. It has two swimming pools with swim-up bars.One is open 24 hours, dazzlingly lit-up with DJsnightly, and is a great place tomeet new friends. Read More

Head up to the topmost level of The 101 Bali Legian, either on a Wednesday, Friday or Sunday, and discover a great rooftop pool party known as 101’s Sky Pool Parties.Starting every afternoon,just in time for the sunsets, the party features light bites and barbecues, cocktails and live DJs. You can dance away to the beats in the pool or on the decks,join in on interactive games led by the interactive staff, or simply chill at the lounges or cabanas. Read More

This jewel in Seminyak’sPetitenget Beach area offers ultrafashionable amenities and facilities. Guestrooms feature high-tech entertainment systems, and its unique ‘Whatever/Whenever’ service philosophy has all your special requests catered to aroundtheclock. For a great sunset and chill-out experience, head to the Woo Bar near the avant-garde pool,where DJs regularly spin beats from the club and main bar, and enjoy amazing cocktails around the pool or on the deck. Read More

This fashion-themed hotel in Legianis home to a glitzy rooftop bar and club - the F Love Bar. Right on the outer deck is a sunset chill-out spot featuring a set of diamond-shaped Jacuzzis which you can soak in with a cocktail in hand. When the evening gets older, the clubbing scene shifts to the dance floors in front of the DJ booths indoors. An upper VIP lounge offers a private setting and lets you view the spectacular lighting and partying crowd below through floor-to-ceiling windows. Read More

In place of Bali’s once legendary party icon Double Six Club is the Double-Six Luxury Hotel in Seminyak, which caters to a more sophisticated crowd. Sling, above the main restaurant, is a martini bar that opens into the wee hours with its refined interiors and collection of fine martinis, single malts and champagnes. Further up is Double Six Rooftop, a large cocktail venue overlooking the dramatic Seminyak sunsets. Read More

Strategically located on Jalan Raya Kuta, only 10 minutes away from Ngurah Rai International Airport. HARRIS Hotel Raya Kuta offers 80 brand new & innovative HARRIS Rooms and Suites with free wifi. Relaxing at H'Spa & Happy Feet Reflexology or enjoy our rooftop jacuzzi. Read More

This hotel is ideal for those who wish to experience the central partying hub of Legian. It is located right next to Vi Ai Pi, and the 61 Legian nightlife complex that houses several great venues in a single building such as the Sky Garden Rooftop Lounge, the Sky Dome Super Club and the SKYY 90 VIP Lounge. Poppies Lane II, the famous alley lined with a mix of bars,is only a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Read More

Gaining popularity amongst young travellers who come to Kuta either for leisure or the great nightlife scenes, Grand Barong Resort is centrally-located between Kuta and Legian’s hotspots. The nightlife street of downtown Legian is just a hundred metres east from the resort, while the grand shopping and dining complex is west along the famous Poppies Lane. The hotel itself has a wonderful 24-hour pool bar where fun splashing parties are occasionally held. Read More

This Content and Images Source (copyright): http://www.bali-indonesia.com/magazine/10-best-party-hotels-bali.htm

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Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Backpack

Cheap Backpacking

Backpacking overseas is one of the most economic and adventurous ways to vacation. For years, penniless college students have enjoyed grabbing their gear, some good friends, a map, and setting out onto an unknown place. That’s how famous European traveller Rick Steves started out in 1973! But the world is changing, and there are some things you need to consider before you go, like where to backpack, your safety, what to bring and how money you can spend. Are you willing to camp, or will you be staying in hostels? How much will food cost? Finding cheap places to travel can be tricky, but with these top ten best places to backpack you are guaranteed to see the world without breaking the bank. Get ready, grab your gear and go:

1.Nepal

Nepal is a classic destination for backpacking on a budget. Home of Mount Everest and the Garden of Dreams, this country shares a border with Tibet and India. Head to Birgunj, the nation’s commercial capital, to see the Durga Temple, clock tower, and Shankar Acharya Gate, where India meets Nepal. If you’re looking for something a bit more spiritual, try Lumbini, where Lord Buddha was born 2500 years ago. In the wake of the 2015 earthquake, Nepal worked quickly to repair their tourism infrastructure, and wallet-friendly country is once again open for business. Four for you Nepal, you GO Nepal!

2. Thailand

Thailand is perfect for budget-conscious backpackers looking for a tropical land with a rich culture and (obvi) world-class cuisine. Students can enjoy Bangkok on as little as $20 a day. Try your hand at Thai Boxing, then fill up on the renowned street food and authentic Thai iced tea from the roadside stores. Wander around Buddhist temples and architectural masterpieces that are full of the country’s history, or explore the country's exotic islands. You can’t go wrong with a backpack trip to Thailand.

3. India

Eat, Pray, Love your way through this awe-inspiring country! We don't judge. Backpacking India is both easy and inexpensive. Student hostels are located in all the major cities, but you’ll have to leave luxuries like hot water pressure and air conditioning at home in exchange for miraculous sites (and some of the best people-watching on the planet). The vast subcontinent has everything from desert safaris to the beaches of Goa to the Himalayan Mountains. Whether you yearn to see the the Taj Mahal or to sleep in the city of Bollywood, India is a backpacker's BFF with dozens of cheap places to travel.

4. Sri Lanka

Like Thailand, a backpacker can do Sri Lanka on $20 a day, but they have to be careful. Eat at the local cafes, take public transportation, stay in cheap hostels or seaside cabanas, and avoid pricey sightseeing. National parks, cultural centers and archaeological sites often use two seperate entry fees — one for natives, and one for foreigners (which can easily be twice as much). But with a little forethought, and some haggling skills, this monkey-ridden tropical island can be a backpacker’s paradise.

5. Indonesia 

Indonesia is one of the best places to backpack, with literally thousands of islands for students to explore. Like literally literally. Something between 13 and 18 thousand, depending on who you ask. If you are scratching your head about where to start, head to Sumatra, where you can take in the morning mist from the window of a cozy lodge, listen to the wild monkeys’ calls, or read a book by the waterfall. If you prefer the sound of beachside yoga, Sumba Island is for you. It’s only 400km away from Bali, with equally exciting snorkeling, surfing, and fishing. Most of Indonesia can easily be accomplished on a backpacker’s budget, but be careful — if you want to go to every island, the transportation will add up.

6. Nicaragua

There’s plenty to do in this budget-friendly country. After seeing the colonial buildings of Granada, drive 20 minutes to the town of Masaya, where the volcanic lake Laguna de Apoyo dazzles visitors with its warm, bright blue waters. Nicaragua is also a great place to volunteer. December through February are the best months to travel, when the temperature stays below 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

7. Peru

With its world-famous rainforests, ruins and beaches, Peru is really an amazing (and cheap) place to visit. It’s best to have a little Spanish under your belt, as most of the population does not speak English. Otherwise, don’t stress—this laid-back country is kind to the disorganized traveler. The capital, Lima, is a good place to start your backpack trip if you don’t have a game plan, but you may end up hiking the Inca trail to Machu Picchu or partying in the beach town of Máncora. Backpacking Peru will be an unpredictable, unforgettable adventure.

8. Turkey

Turkey has become an increasingly popular backpacker destination due to its spectacular landscapes and unique history as the bridge between Asia and Europe. Turkey’s commercial capital of Istanbul also served as the political center of both the Ottoman and Byzantine empires. Start your journey here, where stretching your dollar is easy. Visit the Hagia Sophia Museum, the Chora Church and Istanbul Old Town, but do not miss the Grand Bazaar, a market that dates back to 15th century. Packed with thousands of shops, it is the pulse of the city, and the perfect place to absorb Turkish culture and cuisine.

9. Albania

Albania is a cheap alternative to Greece and Italy, which all feature gorgeous Mediterranean coastlines. Visit the capital, Tirana, to see how Albanian culture and architecture has been influenced by their relationships with the Ottoman Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Rome. Hike Mount Dajti to get a bird’s-eye view of the city. This is the best place to backpack on the Adriatic Sea. Unlike other European destinations, Albania has backpacker hostels that run from 9€-15€ a night, and equally affordable food. For almost no money at all you can spend your afternoons snacking on Balkan burek (a flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat and onions) and a cup of thick Turkish coffee.

10.  Costa Rica 

You might hear that Costa Rica is the most expensive destination in Central America, but with its incredible biodiversity, active volcanoes, natural hot springs and beautiful shorelines, you just can’t skip it. Keep your budget tight by camping, couchsurfing or staying at a backpacker’s dorm for just $10 a night. Eat at the “sodas,” or local Tico restaurants, where meals cost half of what they would at tourist spots. Just make sure you budget in activities, like the Corcovado National Park, where you can take an unforgettable hike through rainforests packed with 500 different tree species. Bring your camera to capture scarlet macaws, howler monkeys, jaguars, sloths, tamandua anteaters and the rare glass frog.

This Content Source (copyright):  https://www.studentuniverse.com/travel-guides/top-lists/top-10-cheapest-countries-to-backpack-through

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10 Best Nightlife in Pattaya

Nightlife in Pattaya entirely deserves its international reputation. This is a carefree party town where people seek for endless fun. There are other aspects of its reputation which it perhaps deserves less, but it cannot be denied that it is the place to go for a rollicking good time. Almost every part of the entire region has some form of nightlife, whether it’s naughty nightlife in gogo bars, live rock bands, international DJs, cabaret shows, pool parties, rooftop bars or just a quiet pint at your local away from home. Some of these Pattaya nightlife spots are family-friendly, though most are not. There is a lot of variety to be found in and around the city, with radically-different kinds of venues found within a very short distance of each other – sometimes side-by-side on the same street! Start planning your big night out in Pattaya with our top 10 guide. 

If you’ve heard of Pattaya, you’ve more likely than not heard of Walking Street. This half-kilometre beach-side street takes its name from the fact that it is closed to motorised traffic from 18:00 every night, at which point it immediately becomes thronged with party-going pedestrians. Almost every building on both sides of the road is a nightclub, bar or gogo bar of some description, with many of the surrounding small sois being much the same. Great nights out can be found from the so-called “Red Car Bar” – Gulliver’s Walking Street – at one end of the street to Mixx Discotheque at the other, with The Pier Disco Club, 808, Club Insomnia, Candyshop, Marine Disco, Play and Lucifer Disko amongst the best in between. On the racier side, Airport Club, Alcatraz, Baccara, Iron Club and X Zone are all highly-rated gogo bars amongst the very wide selection. Read more  

Opening Hours: Closed to road traffic 18:00 – 02:00. Bar opening times vary

Alcazar Cabaret Show Pattaya is widely regarded as one of the best ladyboy cabaret shows in Pattaya, which is saying a lot given the amount of high-quality competition for such a title. A 400-member team presents a 70-minute extravaganza of glitzy and glamorous entertainment in the well-established theatre by Pattaya Second Road. The Alcazar Caberet first opened in November 1981 with a 350-seat theatre, but that was replaced in February 1990 with the current 1,200-seat theatre with state-of-the-art light and sound systems. The facilities and show itself are continually being updated and improved, making sure that the performance remains fresh and entertaining, dazzling audiences year after year. Read more

Opening Hours: Shows start at 17:00, 18:30, 20:00 and 21:30  Location: 78/14 Pattaya Second Road, North Pattaya Tel: +66 (0)81 781 1703, +66 (0)3 842 2220 Website: https://www.facebook.com/alcazarcabaretshow

The Hilton Pattaya building dominates the city’s skyline, being easily the tallest building on Pattaya Beach Road, if not the tallest in the whole area. Right at the top – on the 34th floor – is the Horizon Bar – presumably so named because it’s so far up that you can see the curvature of the Earth from the balcony. The very best place to enjoy a drink with a view, the buy-one-get-one-free offer on selected cocktails (including old favourites and house specials) from 17:00 to 19:00 makes it a fantastic place to enjoy the marvellous sunsets. While there are comfortable sofas available, it is the high bar stools and the tables by the railings that you’ll see most people rushing to claim.  Read More

Opening Hours: 17:00 – 01:00  Tel: +66 (0)3 825 3000

Fun, wet and social spot with a great view across to Koh Larn, FFlic Cliff & Pool Club is one of the top places to enjoy a sundowner and then to keep the party going under the stars. A relative newcomer to the nightlife scene, it has dramatically woken up the sleepy Phratamnak area, being an instant hit with visitors and locals. It boasts an extensive main bar and a second smaller one by the side of the infinity-edge pool, international guest DJs playing funky R&B tunes, a lively atmosphere and a great selection of food. Don’t forget your swimming costume, though, because you’re almost guaranteed to get wet at some point. Read more

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 02:00  Tel: +66 (0)88 498 6165, +66 (0)81 892 8114

The Hard Rock franchise is well-known the world over for its quirky style and great music. From the iconic giant guitar head and “no drugs or nuclear weapons allowed inside” neon sign over the door to the collection of music and movie memorabilia inside, it certainly has the style. The music starts every evening at 18:00 on the Sun & Moon deck, which looks out over Beach Road. The house band starts up at 21:30 and plays into the early hours. The excellent rock groups are frequently rotated, with special guest bands also making regular appearances. The attached Hard Rock Hotel also hosts some of the best foam parties in the region, the Miss Hard Rock beauty contest and the annual guitar festival. Read More

Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs 12:00 – 01:00, Fri – Sun 12:00 – 02:00  Tel: +66 (0)3 842 8755 

Thai kickboxing is world-famous and Pattaya has more ways to enjoy the sport than most. You can see the professionals at work in shows or championship matches at Max Muay Thai and Pattaya Boxing World on Sukhumvit Road, see rising stars in the amateur leagues at the Fairtex Stadium on Thepprasit Road or watch a bout over a beer on Walking Street, with two rings along the famous road, both surrounded by beer bars. In the last of these options, brave punters can even get in the ring themselves and try their luck against the house fighters! It’s a fast-paced and aggressive sport, which is probably best enjoyed as a spectator Read more

While there are several venues around Pattaya which promise to recreate Ibiza’s beach parties, Planet Earth Beach Club comes the closest. The place boasts great dance music from resident and international guest DJs, huge sun loungers, designer swimwear on sale, a swimming pool, a foam machine, amazing drinks deals and authentic Italian gelato. The big weekend parties attract the local high society and a young crowd of fun-loving Thais and tourists, including muscle-bound guys and bikini-clad girls. Jomtien Beach is also only just over the road to complete the beach party experience. Only open during the tourist season, the fun starts late in the morning and usually does end until early the next morning!  Read more

Opening Hours: 11:00 – 23:00

The Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya has an impressive assortment of bars and lounges with different vibes for different parts of the night. Watch the sunset by the infinity pool on the 25th floor – which has also hosted some of the city’s best pool parties – before dropping down a floor to The Roof Sky Bar & Restaurant, which has a seaside garden feel and down-tempo beats as the night draws in. If you prefer an indie electro vibe, go down to the quirky Car Bar on the ground floor, with its street chic style, bike chains for coasters and an impressive selection of unique cocktails. Read More

Opening Hours: 07:00 – 02:00 Tel: +66 (0)3 893 0600

Pattaya’s pink-neon-lit beer bars are renowned for being a little on the seedy side, but it does depend a lot on the area you go to. While not exactly family-friendly, Soi 7 (between Pattaya Beach Road and Second Road) is more about having a good time and a few drinks. The beverages here are far cheaper than they are around Walking Street, with a local beer being as little as 65 baht and a shot of local whiskey being even less, in select bars. Because of this, the street is particularly popular with budget travellers, locals and young expatriates.

Soi Buakhao is increasingly known as the new Walking Street. Running all the way from Pattaya Klang to Pattaya South Road, the narrow road is somewhat less family-friendly than its more famous predecessor – which is saying something. It attracts an older audience, so has fewer high energy night clubs. Instead, it has more beer bars, ladyboy bars and go-go bars than anywhere else in the city. Notable off-shoots include Action Street (where every single bar is a ladyboy bar) and Soi LK Metro (where the same can nearly be said about go-go bars, but there are also a few highly-regarded sports bars). Read more

This content & images source : (Copyright) http://www.bangkok.com/pattaya/best-nightlife.htm

[mytripadvisor-blog]

The 10 Best Travel Destinations for Couples

TALIA LAKRITZ, BUSINESS INSIDER

Solo travel can be a liberating time of self-discovery, but there's nothing quite like seeing the world with your significant other. Even when things don't go according to plan, you find ways of making each other laugh, keeping each other sane, and building an even stronger bond.

Just ask Collette and Scott Stohler, who have been together for seven years and traveled to 50 countries as a couple. Through their couple's travel website, Roamaroo, they recap their own experiences and create romantic itineraries for fellow thrill-seekers.

Here are their top 10 picks of the best places for couples to travel together.

10. Buenos Aires, Argentina 

Spring is on the way in Buenos Aires (Shutterstock)

Why it's great: It's known as the "Paris of the South." Need we say more?

Roamaroo recommends: Visiting the Teatro Colon opera, sipping wine at wine cafes in Malbec, tangoing in the streets of La Boca.

9. Iceland

Aurora Borealis over distant mountains in Iceland (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Why it's great: If there's one place you should visit this year, it's this island full of breathtaking landscapes and hot springs.

Roamaroo recommends: Soaking in the Blue Lagoon, chasing waterfalls on the Ring Road, strolling the streets of Reykjavik.

8. Portugal

Why it's great: The food in Lisbon is unbeatable — and cost-efficient for Westerners.

Roamaroo recommends: Sampling port and chocolate at Kopke House, stopping by the famous Pastéis de Bélem bakery, taking a cooking class with Cooking Lisbon.

7. Cartagena, Colombia

The clock tower gate in the walled old city in Cartagena, Colombia (Shutterstock)

Why it's great: With its tropical climate and fresh Caribbean salsa, it's the perfect way to spice up a relationship.

Roamaroo recommends: Staying at a boutique hotel in the historic walled city, renting a boat and sailing to the Rosario Islands, riding a horse-drawn carriage.

6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is a charming choice for a lost weekend (Shutterstock)

Why it's great: Its fairy-lit bridges, winding canals, and welcoming culture exude romance.

Roamaroo recommends: Eating at The Pancake Factory, catching the Keukenhof Gardens while the tulips are in bloom, walking along the many canals.

5. Thailand

Krabi, Thailand (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Why it's great: It's luxury at a low cost — five-star hotels often cost under $100 a night.

Roamaroo recommends: Scuba diving in Koh Tao, visiting the white temples of Chiang Rai and the limestone islands of the Andaman Sea.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

(Getty)

Why it's great: The Big Easy's lively, colorful scene is perfect for a romantic rendezvous.

Roamaroo recommends: Riding around the French Quarter in a horse-drawn carriage, cruising down the Mississippi on the Steamboat Natchez, indulging in powdery beignets at Café du Monde.

3. Jordan

(Memoangel33/Wikimedia Commons)

Why it's great: Foodies, adventurers, and history lovers won't be bored, and the scenery is straight out of a fairy tale.

Roamaroo recommends: Roaming the ancient city of Petra, riding camels in the Wadi Rum desert, floating in the Dead Sea.

2. South Africa

Cape Town, South Africa (Getty)

Why it's great: The excitement of seeing animals in the wild complements the relaxing downtime spent at spa resorts.

Roamaroo recommends: Sightseeing at Kruger National Park, indulging in spa treatments and swanky cuisine at Londolozi.

1. South Island, New Zealand

Motorhome, RV, travelling near the snowcapped Mount Cook/Aoraki Mountain Range, South Island, New Zealand (iStockphoto)

Why it's great: Nothing compares to the splendor of New Zealand. Driving around together and basking in its natural beauty really is the adventure of a lifetime.

Roamaroo recommends: Helicoptering onto glaciers, luging the mountains of Queenstown, bungee jumping.

Read the original article on Business Insider UK. © 2016. Follow Business Insider UK on Twitter.

More about: Business Insider , Travel

This Article Contant & Images (copyright) Source: http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/the-10-best-travel-destinations-for-couples-a7573636.html 

[mytripadvisor-blog]

11 Types Of People You Should Never Travel With

 by Nikita Mandhani

We are all not always at ease with the idea of traveling alone and no matter how cool and fascinating that seems, there’s a great deal of pleasure in wandering around with people who can make our journeys and trips even more wonderful and entertaining. But, what if you get stuck with just the wrong crowd? Ah! That’s how you spoil your amazing days of vacation, handling the eccentricity of people you should never travel with. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. 

1. The Know-it-alls

They, by default, know everything about the place you’re set to travel to even if they don’t know a thing. They’ll ask you to chill because they’re so well-read and then, hell breaks loose and you regret for relying excessively on them. These kind of people are usually also pretty self-obsessed and have a strong opinion about the minutest of things. So much stress!

2. The Drunkards

Beware! They want to travel only because they’d rather drink away entire nights in a bar or at a beach than actually doing something worthwhile. Remember, no adventure, no sight-seeing, no restaurant hopping, it’s only about partying and getting drunk when you’re with this bunch. Sigh!

3. The Delicate Darlings

They’re oh! So delicate that walking on the streets for 20 minutes would give them a sore ankle or skipping a meal on a particular day would make them dizzy. They’ll eat up your time and energy as they whine about the little yet remarkable challenges that travel brings along.

4. The Lazy bums

They’d rarely get up early in the morning and would usually want a nap in the afternoon. They’re lazy, oh so lazy! Forget about trekking all the way up the hill when you’re with them, you might just have to walk to the nearby restaurant and eat delicacies as they yawn incessantly making it even worse.

5. The Drama queens (or kings)

With this lot, there’s drama everywhere. They shout, create a scene, argue persistently or act like they’re someone else. Needless to say, they crave attention and the lesser you notice them, the more dodgy they get. Be ready to bear their fake accents, undue dressing-up and agonizing habits as they’re all set to generate a fuss.

6. The Workaholics

No, they’re never on a holiday. They’d constantly be working on the phone or their ipads or laptops without realizing how that might wind you up. Just imagine, sitting at a beautiful beach restaurant, right in front of the ocean, having your pint of beer and listening to this person discuss finance analysis and accounts on the phone. What a break!

7. The Dull Loners

You know those sad, quiet people who really can never talk and have pleasure in the vibrant present days? Okay, so they’re not depressed or anything, but they’d rather be alone and dull than being bugged by you. They won’t speak too much, wouldn’t be active conversationalists and travelers and would freak you out with their silence and dryness.

8. The Scaredy-Cats

They’re scared of walking on the street at nights. They’re afraid of talking to a stranger. They’re anxious about the depth of the sea or the friendly cab driver who might con them. A loud thud at midnight might keep them awake for hours, contemplating the disaster that might just happen. Damn! Isn’t that too much of eeriness?

9. The Social Media Maniacs

Come what may, they cannot live without updating their Facebook status or checking in every time you hop on to the next place. They are forever active on Twitter and Instagram and are particularly vacationing only because they want the world to know they’re out there. Trust me, their social media friends will know all about the stuff you’re doing on this trip before even you know it.

10. The Photograph Fanatics

They’re up for a picture after every five minutes. They’ll ask you to pose as you get ready and then pose once you’re out of your hotel room and then click a picture when you are sitting in the cab. Their life is all about selfie sticks and cameras and video recorders. Say cheese! (And get out of their web before it’s too late).

11. The Love Birds

They’re practically on a honeymoon where you are stuck in between their cheesy dialogues and excessive fondness of each other. They’ll kill you with their love-you-baby-sweetheart conversations and would even forget your existence most times. You know those creepy lovers who take every single breath for each other? That’s what I am talking about. Please cut it off your list, dear friend.

Note: Some gifs have been downloaded from giphy.com

Connect with the author:

Nikita Mandhani

A writer, a traveler, a food-enthusiast, a little bit of a feminist, a good bit of a dreamer, an avid conversationalist and a sloppy yet passionate woman.

This Article Contant & Images (copyright) Source: https://www.tripoto.com/trip/11-types-of-people-you-should-never-travel-with-4275

[mytripadvisor-blog]

The Top 20 Travel Apps

I love exploring new apps, especially travel apps . I install it, experiment. If they please me and I'm useful I let them be quiet on the phone to use them whenever necessary. If you come to the conclusion that only there are occupying space are quickly racing. And that's why I remembered sharing with you a list of 20 of the best travel apps out there, divided by several categories (click on each category to quickly access its content):

Finance / Money

Accommodation

Transportation

Entertainment / Recreation

To plan

Communication

Most are apps that I currently use regularly and others are apps I've used / experimented with at times. I hope you are useful! If you want to suggest others that you use and that you think are worth referring please do so in the comments below the article, I and the other readers of the blog thank you very much!

TRAVEL APPS | FINANCE / MONEY

1. XE Currency

The XE Currency is one of the best cash conversion apps that exist. It allows you to create a list of up to 10 different currencies in the free version and up to 20 in the pro version, which will allow you to convert a certain amount quite quickly. It's available for Android and iOS.

Download :  iOS  | Android

2. Trail Wallet

If there is an app I use whenever traveling is the Trail Wallet. It's an app that lets you set and track your travel budget by logging daily and categorizing your daily travel expenses. Unfortunately it is only available for iPhone. In the free version you can only add up to 25 items per day. I ended up getting paid for the upgrade and did not regret it.

Download: iOS

TRAVEL APPS | ACCOMMODATION

3. B ooking.com

It is hard to find a better known accommodation booking site than Booking.com . And just like the web version, the app lets you search, compare and book accommodations quickly and safely. It's one of the apps I use the most and is absolutely free. It is available for iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

4. AirBnb

AirBnb is a platform for renting private properties for short-term accommodation. When I need a kitchen space or some extra personality, I use this app. You have access to reviews of other previous users being equally evaluated by the owners of the accommodation at the end. It's free for both iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

(PS: If you wanna sign you access through the link  www.airbnb.pt/c/maryj54 to you receive a credit of € 35 on your first booking!)

5. Hostelworld

Something similar to booking.com but totally dedicated to Hostels. Suitable for those looking for more accommodation and do not mind staying in dorms. It's free download for either iOS or Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

TRAVEL APPS | TRANSPORT

6. Skyscanner

One of the most popular and best flight search apps. It allows you to find the best prices for the flights you are looking for and even gives you suggestions and ideas on some of the cheapest destinations considering your current location or place of departure. Use Skyscanner to browse and find the best flight prices for your airline ticket.

Download :  iOS  | Android

7. Seatguru

A very useful site and app if you are always careful to make the best possible place on flights, especially on long-haul flights, which thanks to a bad place can become one of the worst experiences of your life! Seat Guru helps you choose the best seats in a huge variety of planes. It is free download for iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

8. Waze

A very useful app for anyone who prefers roadtrips. Waze is a kind of social network of drivers, whereby your users can create traffic alerts on the road, helping you save time, money and a lot of patience. It's free for iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

9. Uber

This controversial but extremely useful app, allows you to request transportation quickly and practically in many cities around the world. I've used it in Portugal, Vietnam and Indonesia and it has always worked very well. It's free download for either iOS or Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

10. M aps

With my "exceptional" sense of direction, if I did not have a GPS app on my cell phone, I'd still be lost somewhere on the other side of the world today. And having to recommend one in particular, it will have to be the maps.me , without any doubt. It allows you to find places of interest in the area and find the best route whether on foot, by bicycle or by car. It is available for iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

TRAVEL APPS | ENTERTAINMENT / LEISURE

11. Netflix

During the trip, especially if this is a little longer, you will have more "empty" moments in which you will not feel like leaving the hotel room for example. In those moments (which I hope are few!), I could have something to do. With the Netflix app you will have access to a huge amount of movies, series, documentaries, that can help you fill those moments. The download is free for iOS and Android, but after 1 month free, you will have to choose between one of the available plans that will imply a monthly payment.

Download :  iOS  | Android

12. Byline (iOS) / Greader (Android)

These 2 apps can be useful to keep you abreast of the main news you usually follow, without having to consult 1001 sites. They allow you to aggregate the feeds of the pages (be they blogs, news pages ...) that you usually follow allowing you quick and practical access to the information, even when you are offline. Byline only exists for iOS but GReader might be a good option for Android.

Download :  Byline iOS  | GReader Android

13. Pocket Casts

If you are sick of reading while traveling, then a good alternative to staying busy during a long trip is through podcasts. The Pocket Casts app lets me choose content from a list of over 300,000 programs. To use it offline you just have to stream the episodes you want to hear when you're online. The app is available for iOS and Android. It is not free, it has a small cost, but everything indicates it is worth it.

Download :  iOS  | Android

TRAVEL APPS | To plan

14. Citymapper

Here's an app that will help you move from A to B easily in a wide variety of major cities around the world. Citymapper tells you what transports you should catch, where and at what time, or the best routes to make you move on foot. It's available for free for iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

15. Happy Cow

Dear vegetarian travelers: here is an app that will help you find restaurants to suit you. The Happy Cow app shows you which vegetarian restaurants are nearby or where you are headed, including results in over 150 countries around the world.   As I recently made the decision to take the meat out of my food this is an app that is already on my list! It is available for iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

16. Traveler Registration

The Travelers Registration app, launched last January by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, allows Portuguese travelers to alert the Portuguese official authorities if they are victims of a natural disaster, accident or attack abroad. The app also offers useful tips on destination countries, which can help you better plan your trip and show you the closest locations to Portuguese embassies or consulates. It is available for iOS and Android for free.

Download :  iOS  | Android

17. TripAdvisor

The best way to draw your route in a new city is to find out what other travelers who have passed through have to say. And both the site and the TripAdvisor App are a good source of information (later here from the Joland Blog, of course ... ehehe)! Here you have access to reviews of localities, hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions ... everything and anything else. It is available for free for iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

TRAVEL APPS | COMMUNICATION

18. iTranslate

I think we've all been through those embarrassing moments when you can not even make gestures explain to someone on the road. So I suggest you try iTranslate App. Allows you to quickly translate about 90 different languages, just enough in your own language what you mean, choose the language you want to translate and the App does the translation immediately. The artificial voice of the App allows you to communicate in a loud voice what you want to say to your interlocutor. And you can do it offline! It's available for free for iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

19. Google Translate

Google Translate is another app that lets you quickly translate any written phrase into about   103 different languages. Just like iTranslate also allows offline access, allowing you to even translate text through photos to about 30 different languages. It's also available for free for iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

20. Skype

To stay in touch during the trip, whether by message, video or voice, with your friends and family who die of homesickness, you could not fail to recommend Skype, of course. You can talk to the family wherever you are, since it allows you to join up to 25 different people in the same call. It is available for free for iOS and Android.

Download :  iOS  | Android

About Me

Born and raised in Lisbon, Portugal, but in love with the world. I love to share my travel stories, photos and videos and to advise and inspire those who share the same passion for travel!

This Article Content & Images Source (copyright) from http://jolandblog.com/as-20-melhores-apps-de-viagem/

[mytripadvisor-blog]

5 crazy Caribbean resorts you have to stay in before you die

By Nicole Dossantos

Amanera, a gorgeous resort nestled within over 2,170 acres of Caribbean jungle, allows visitors to create a new exercise plan and customized diet with one of the resort's personal trainers, participate in a beachfront yoga session at sunrise, and enjoy a variety of spa treatments – massages, facials, scrubs, and wraps. When you’re ready for a serious adventure, hop in a boat and explore a stunning freshwater lagoon, take a private horseback ride through forests, and go rappelling down waterfalls. By Nicole Dossantos

Now that you've finally decided to take your dream trip to the Caribbean, it’s time to choose where you should stay.

Will it be Anguilla, St. Lucia, the Bahamas, or Turks and Caicos?

Regardless of where you end up staying, you'll enjoy spectacular views of see palm trees, pearly-white sand, clear, turquoise water, and incredible waves from your resort balcony.

For those of you looking for crazy Caribbean adventures, these resorts have also got you covered. Imagine staying at a resort that offers complimentary  watersport activities, or one that allows you to rent yachts and jet skis. Go paddleboarding, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, horseback riding, and even rappel down waterfalls.

If luxury and relaxation are more your style, each resort on this list offers wellness opportunities for guests, too. Enjoy getting a magical massage on the beach in St. Barts, practicing beachfront yoga in the Dominican Republic, or relax in luxurious pools and cabanas in Puerto Rico.

Here are some of the craziest and most luxurious Caribbean resorts you have to book to believe.

1. Cap Juluca, Anguilla

Stunning Moroccan architecture, gorgeous beach views, soothing spa services, and delicious dining options are just some of the many things you have to look forward to during your stay at Cap Juluca. Visitors give this high marks for offering a  peaceful and private atmosphere. Some of their complimentary amenities include non-motorized watersports, supervised children’s programs, live music, plentiful entertainment, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.

2. Eden Rock, St. Barts

Luxury, relaxation, and play make Eden Rock the ultimate paradise. Its crystal-clear waters and variety of marine life make this resort a snorkeling haven. Paddleboards and kayaks are free of charge for all guests, and yachts and jet skis are available to rent. When you’re ready to relax, head to the famous Eden Rock Spa and enjoy a massage on the beach while overlooking the turquoise water.

3. Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

This 600-acre beachfront resort is perfect for couples-- the exclusivity and privacy is just what you need for some one-on-one time. Honeymooners looking for the real deal should consider the Total Romance package. The all-inclusive offering provides you with airport transfers to and from the resort, a welcome cocktail, a bottle of French champagne, a guided boat snorkel trip, a one-hour Swedish massage for each person, a tour of nearby Sulphur Springs, all meals, most alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and plenty of extra resort activities.

4. Amanera, Playa Grande, Dominican Republic

Amanera, a gorgeous resort nestled within over 2,170 acres of Caribbean jungle, allows visitors to create a new exercise plan and customized diet with one of the resort's personal trainers, participate in a beachfront yoga session at sunrise, and enjoy a variety of spa treatments – massages, facials, scrubs, and wraps. When you’re ready for a serious adventure, hop in a boat and explore a stunning freshwater lagoon, take a private horseback ride through forests, and go rappelling down waterfalls.

5. Jumby Bay, St. John, Antigua

This private isle, covered in white-powdered beaches, can only be reached by boat. Jumby Bay offers its guests the opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds – a peaceful hideaway and thrilling experiences. Visitorss will enjoy a variety of complimentary watersports – waterskiing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing. Tennis is also very popular at the resort – the Jumby Bay Tennis Club is home to three courts.

This Article Contant & Images (copyright) Source: http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2017/03/16/5-crazy-caribbean-resorts-have-to-stay-in-before-die.html 

[mytripadvisor-blog]

The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your First International Trip

By Cesar Romero

There is no perfect moment where you will magically feel ready to travel the world but this list will help you become a more prepared, savvy traveler who knows anticipation is key to success.

It’s always the right time to do the things you've wanted to to but it may not always feel that way.

Most people are waiting for the right time to do X:  the right time to quit a soul-sucking job, the right time to end a toxic relationship, the right time to get in shape...

Or, the right time to travel the world.

The truth is, there is no "perfect" moment where you feel feel absolutely comfortable putting everything on hold. Travel is one of those things where you just have to go out and do it.

This extensive guide will help you make the leap and enable you to take that trip you've been dreaming of while extinguishing unnecessary stress.

The first 3 items on this list may seem difficult at first buy they're essential “first steps” to set your intention and put your plan in motion.

The rest of the items will help you become a more prepared, savvy traveler who knows that anticipation is key to success.

Pick a place & do the research

A lot of people talk about how they want to travel more but they never take any solid steps to work towards that goal. Maybe because they feel overwhelmed by the infinite options of beautiful locations to explore.

If this is what’s stopping you from going to awesome places I have an easy solution for you:  just pick one place and GO!

It gets easier when you narrow it down and have a goal to work towards. It’s easier to say “I’m going to Cartagena, Colombia” than “I’m going somewhere in South America”.

Determine how long you will travel & how

Do your research about destination costs based on your style of traveling. This is going to help you determine your daily expenses and come up with a daily budget for your trip.

Let’s say that you do the numbers and you come up with a budget of $3,000 for your trip that is in 6 months. That’s only $16.66 per day.

If you already have that amount of money saved up, congratulations! You can now go ahead and start booking flights and hotels.  

If you don’t, no worries. That’s why you are planning ahead.

How can you start saving $16.66 per day?

Here are some ways you can save money for your dream vacation:

Cook at home and eat out less

Sell your car

Sell stuff you don’t need

Get rid of cable

Sign up for travel newsletters

Cut coffee, alcohol, and cigarettes

Cancel any inactive memberships

Get a second job or more clients and save all the money you earn from it.

Get a passport or check passport expiration date

If you don’t have a passport, get one immediately. The whole process takes about a month. You cannot book flights without your passport number.

Check out the USA Department of State for more information about passport application.

If you do have a passport, make sure that it doesn’t expire within 6 months of your travels. You don’t want to be that person that gets stuck at the airport because of your passport expiration date.

Verify the country’s visa requirements

A visa allows you to enter another country.

No visa = No travel

Countries around the world have different requirements for visitors who want to enter — and it all depends on the country origin of your passport.

For US citizens, you can check the State Department website for details on the requirements of all countries.

Enroll in Global Entry Program

If you are U.S citizen, I highly recommend enrolling in the Global Entry program by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). You get to save time, skip the processing line, and even get access to expedited entry benefits in other countries.

Check CDC required shots/immunizations

The CDC travel website has a great list of countries and their required and recommended immunizations.

Get a travel credit card

There is only one reason to get a travel credit card:  sign-up bonuses and free miles.

The moment you decide you want to travel is the moment you should get a travel credit card. In the months leading up to your trip you can start accumulating miles that can get you free flights, hotels, etc.

Don’t get carried away. You only need one.

The travel card I use is Chase Sapphire with 50,000 sign-up bonus points and no foreign transaction fees.

Book your flight

There’s a special way to hack booking flights and my friend Matt Wilson wrote a full article on saving money and finding cheap flights.

Also, check out these sites for last-minute deals:

Kayak

Vayama

Skyscanner

Momondo

Airfarewatchdog

Google flights

Airtreks

The Flight Deal

Holiday Pirates

Book your accommodations

I suggest you avoid the all inclusive resorts & opt for something that allows you to get a better taste of the culture and lifestyle of the locals.  Plus, it's usually less expensive.

Airbnb, Couchsurfing & hostels are great options for this but they aren't always available. Here is a full list of options that provide great deals to help you feel comfortable no matter where you travel to:

Airbnb

Couchsurfing

TripAdvisor

Booking

Hostelworld

Hotwire

Hotels'

Agoda

Priceline

Make sure that you book early to get a good deal on your top pick.

Buy travel insurance

Smart travelers get travel insurance because they know shit can happen while traveling and most health plans don’t cover you overseas.

My go-to travel insurance provider is World Nomads. They provide great coverage at a good price and they have amazing customer service.

Plan your activities

lan out your bucket list activities, figure out how much they cost, and adjust your budget accordingly.

This will also help you figure out if you need any prior reservations for your chosen activities, as well as get you pumped for your trip.

Get familiar with local transportation

I have been in situations where I don’t know any better and get a taxi for $15 - $20 to take me to my hotel only to realize later on that I could have taken a much cheaper option like a train or bus (or free shuttle).

Before you get on the plane, take a look at where you are going, what neighborhood you are staying in, and the transportation options. Read up about how to use the transportation system, download digital maps for reference, and check operating times and schedules.

It is a wonderful investment of time because you will likely save money AND time in the future. Not to mention how much stress you may alleviate while learning more about the place you are visiting.

Automate your bills

You don't want to worry about bills while you are exploring your destination. Automate them to ensure you pay your bills on time and don’t incur in late fees.

Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel dates

Your debit and credit card are less likely to get blocked if you notify your bank and credit card company about your travels.

It’s not a good feeling having your card rejected overseas while you are trying to pay for dinner. It shouldn't take more than a few minutes so suck it up and make that boring call that will likely involve terrible music while you're on hold.

Notify your embassy & family about your travels

It’s always a good idea to notify your embassy about your travels so they can notify your family in case of emergency.

For US citizens, check out the SMART Traveler Program.

Also, let your family & friends know where you are going, when you are going, flights, and hotel info.

Emergencies can happen on both ends so it’s important to keep your loved ones in the loop.

Make copies of your passport, hotel reservations, travel tickets, and travel insurance (print and digital)

We live in the digital age but in many countries paper is still KING.

Copies of your passport are necessary in case you passport goes missing. You can show this to your embassy to start the process of getting another one & alleviate the stress of not having any documentation in a foreign country.

Copies of your travel insurance are also necessary in case you need medical assistance.

Some airport agents--like Costa Rica--will ask for your ongoing travel tickets.

Some hotels require that you print out the hotel voucher to present at check-in.

You can have all this information on your phone, but in case your phone isn’t working you can show physical evidence of your bookings, reservations, etc.

Overall, you should always have all of your confirmations at your fingertips.

Bring your driver's license

If during your trip you plan on renting a car to explore on your own, then you should definitely bring your driver’s license with you.

In this case, just a passport doesn't cut it.

Check airline baggage rules and restrictions

Be sure to follow your airline's baggage restrictions to avoid paying extra fees. Typically, your luggage can't weigh more than 50 pounds or else you incur an unreasonably large fee so make sure you weigh it beforehand so you're not stuck at the airport shuffling all your things around to get below the weight limit.

In some circumstances depending where you travel, you have to take an additional flight on a small plane to reach your final destination. Keep in mind that these airlines generally have much more strict luggage policies due to their smaller size so be sure you check their guidelines as well.

Adjust your cell phone plan or buy a SIM card abroad

International roaming charges can leave you with a steep bill at the end of your travels.

To avoid this, you should contact your phone company to adjust your cell phone plan so you can make and receive calls/text at a reasonable price.

Even with an adjusted cell phone plan, you should try to use WiFi as much as possible to avoid data fees.

The other option is to buy a cheap SIM card abroad but this only works if you cell phone is UNLOCKED. If your phone is locked by your carrier then you cannot just insert a new SIM.  You must ask them to unlock your phone first, which will often have a fee.

Take out some cash a couple weeks before your trip

It’s always a good idea to have some cash with you in case of emergency.

I always travel with $500 cash:  $300 in USD and $200 in local currency.

You can get local currency at your preferred bank. To stay up to date with the international exchange rates, I highly recommend downloading the XE app.

Pack and go have fun

Don’t know where to start packing? I got your back and just wrote The Essential Guide to Packing Like a Pro to make sure you are always prepared no matter where you go.

Or check out what the travel experts are saying to pack like a pro including tips from our very own Matt Wilson.

Once you are done packing, grab your passport and enjoy the journey!

By Cesar Romero

Cesar is the U30X Community Manager and is an Experience Instigator.  When he's not on awesome trips, he's hanging in Costa Rica eating casado and reading life-changing books.

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This Article Content Source (copyright) from https://www.under30experiences.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-planning-your-first-international-trip

[mytripadvisor-blog]

Last Minute Easter Breaks

Written by Kate Goldstone

There are two reliable ways to grab a brilliant holiday bargain. One is to book as far in advance as you can, the other is to leave it until the very last minute. With the Easter holidays almost upon us, what can you expect from last minute Easter breaks in 2015?

We thought it’d be useful to take a look at what’s available for Easter 2015, how to get standby tickets and how your nearest regional airport might be your best holiday bargain bet. But first, to whet your appetite, here are a handful of inspirational examples of last minute deals for the Easter holidays.

Last minute Easter holidays – Cool getaways for less

Where to begin? OnTheBeach is a great place to start. They recommend a suite of really good hotels, picking out some of their favourites for special Easter treatment. It might only just be spring over here but farther south it’s heating up nicely, and you don’t need to travel far to find plenty of early season sunshine. Make Europe your destination this Easter and you’ll be sunning yourself in a matter of hours.

Take Tenerife, gorgeous all year round and a very popular Easter break destination with more or less guaranteed sunshine. You’ll discover an  altogether quieter, chilled atmosphere than in the heart of the holiday season, when it’s packed to the gills with teeming grockles. Or why not choose the beautiful Portuguese Algarve with its stunning coastline and marvellous climate? Even Spain, even closer to home, starts heating up at this time of year, with Easter breaks on the Costa Brava and Benidorm very popular choices. And it’s glorious in scenic Majorca at this time of year.

It’s also a good idea to explore LastMinute.com site, highly experienced last minute specialists who have been dealing in cheap travel for years and years. They feature a huge collection of low cost Easter city breaks, luxury and long haul holidays, beach holidays and hotels, plus cool extras like spa packages, experiences, restaurants and theatres. Everything you could need to make Easter extra special.

How to get last minute holiday deals

You’ve decided to make your move and get away for the bank holiday. So how, exactly, do you track down the best last minute deals?

First, forget everything you used to know about finding last minute flights. Things have changed. There’s no point turning up at the airport looking hopeful. Most flights sell out from the start, leaving you with almost no chance of picking up a bargain unless you’ve missed your flight, have paid full price and want to fly earlier or have friends or family working at the airport. Other than that, forget it. You’re much better off finding last minute deals online.

You could always apply to be an air courier, although it’s a bit late for this Easter. It used to be very popular, but very few airlines do it these days. While it often took a couple of weeks for a parcel to get through UK Customs in the olden days, pre-internet, now everything is a lot faster and air couriers are not in regular demand any more.

Whatever method you plan to use, it benefits you to keep your eyes peeled, simply because everyone else wanting cheap last minute flights and holidays will be doing exactly that. Pay attention, be vigilant and you’re more likely to snag the deal of the century from under less observant punters’ noses. One good way to stay on the ball is sign up for a load of airline email newsletters, which often announce spare seats on chartered flights at crazy low prices.

You can hone your search even more closely by focusing on the many websites which are actually designed for last minute travel. Take Holiday Pirates, perfect for comprehensive lists of last minute flights along with really good, detailed descriptions of every low cost holiday offer. You can also sign up to get ‘price alerts’, for example from Skyscanner. All you do is pick  the flight or flights you want and Skyscanner emails you every day with the latest price.

Social media also come in handy. Follow your favourite airlines on Twitter and Facebook to see seriously discounted flights first. And keep your eyes peeled for cancelled holidays, which are often re-marketed on social media at rock bottom prices.

Obviously flexibility helps. The more flexible you can be, the better chance of getting the best deal on the planet. Make a list of suitable destinations, airlines and airports and see what happens. Skyscanner comes in handy here, too, with the option to pick the ‘everywhere’ destination. Now that’s what we call random! Talk about having an adventure…

Lastly, bear in mind that flag carrying airlines like British Airways regularly provide cheap flights months in advance, with cheap international tickets on offer from five and a half months in advance. It’s no good for last minute deals, of course, but handy to know if you’re determined to go long haul for less money in the future. In this case, planning ahead is almost always your best bet.

What about standby and cheap flights from regional airports?

If you’re travelling last minute, the last thing you need is a long and boring journey to the airport. You want the whole process to be neat, fast and efficient, and as such a regional airport could be the answer to your dreams. They’re especially exciting if you want to fly internally, say from the chilly north east to relatively balmy Bournemouth for the Easter bank holiday.

BMI Regional, for example, offers low cost travel to and from a multitude of British and EU regional airports, avoiding the hassle, the crowds and the sheer, bewildering size of major hubs like Manchester and Gatwick. You can fly to Barcelona from Birmingham and Leeds airports courtesy of Monarch airlines. And there are more than 25 flights to Jersey from British regional airports. How to find out who flies where, from where? Check your closest regional airport’s airline and destination lists. Or give them a call.

Staying safe – Don’t forget ATOL

Cheap as chips is one thing. Safe is another. Whoever you book your cheap Easter break with check they’re licensed by ATOL, which stands for the Air Travel Organisers Licence. Provided by the British Civil Aviation Authority, it protects your rights, making sure you’re properly looked after if you’re stranded abroad. It also means you don’t lose out financially when an ATOL member goes broke – something that isn’t common but does happen every now and again.

Treat yourself while you wait – Enjoy a private airport lounge

When you’ve spent next to nothing on your cheap flights or discounted holiday, there might be some spare cash to play with. We recommend transforming a basic experience into something special by treating yourself to an airport lounge. Rather than milling around the concourse being driven nuts by the crowds, you can relax in a smart, cosy, well-equipped lounge with snacks, reading materials, free WiFi, drinks and all sorts of other goodies rolled into the price. If you fancy starting your cheap holiday in style, you can book an airport lounge through us.

What about your last minute travel tips?

If you have any hot tips for finding the best last minute deals, we’d love to share them with our readers. Feel free to comment.

This Article Content & Images Source (copyright) from http://www.gosimply.com/blog/last-minute-easter-breaks/

[mytripadvisor-blog]

How to plan a trip independently

NOTE : This article includes  affiliate links that allow me to earn a small commission every time you use them for a reservation or purchase. If you find Joland's tips helpful and / or inspiring, then you can help me keep it online by using those same links . You do not pay anything extra for this and help me to continue to help you in the future.  It is also important to note that all products / services / websites that I recommend here at Joland  were or are already used by me regularly in my own travels. I do not recommend anything I do not trust. The next challenge is to get everything you need for your adventure into your suitcase or backpack . Always remember that you do not need much and that the ideal is to travel as lightly as possible. No unnecessary weight, you can always buy things that you need in the destination, it is not worth going loaded as a mule load! See this article with more info:  How and where to book accommodation - Airlines websites (on company websites you can find specific promotions for various destinations) The budget available (the budget you have available may be a key factor in choosing between a trip to Southeast Asia or New Zealand, for example, or even the duration of the trip itself).One of the first doubts and concerns for anyone planning to travel solo to the other side of the world is related to the planning of the trip itself. Without a good preparation we can see a trip spoiled or not to enjoy as well as we could. With this article I hope to be able to give you some help by referring to the various steps required to plan a trip independently, wherever it is! 

1 | Search and choose destination

The first step of all to plan a trip could not fail to be the choice of the destination itself. Here are several factors you need to take into account:

Your personal preferences (are you more from the countryside , from the city, or do you like to be sprawled on the sand in the middle of a dive to refresh? Do you like to know about cultures that are completely different from yours or do you prefer to play it safe?);

The time you have available for the trip (1/2 weeks or 1 month or more is something completely different that completely changes the range of available destinations in order to make the most of the trip);

The budget available (the budget you have available may be a key factor in choosing between a trip to Southeast Asia or New Zealand, for example, or even the duration of the trip itself).

After all these factors have been considered, you have to research, research and research a little more, in travel blogs, Facebook groups for example, travel forums and talk to other travelers who always have precious tips to share.

2 | Search and buy flights

Destination chosen? Great! So let's make it official. The next step is searching for flights, which I suggest you do well in advance. This research can be done through the following platforms:

- Flight search engines (these websites or apps allow you to view the dates with the cheapest flights, always offering several options for the same flight through airlines or online agencies)

Skyscanner

Momondo

Flights

- Websites or Apps of last minute flights  (these websites or apps show you flight rates, sometimes surreal! They can be real deals or just fare errors that you can take advantage of.)

Holiday Pirates

Last Minute.com

- Airlines websites (on company websites you can find specific promotions for various destinations)

- Airline newsletters  (subscribe to newsletters through the websites of various companies to keep you abreast of special promotions)

See  Useful Tips for buying cheap flights  for more detailed information.

3 | Treat visas

The next step in the process of planning a trip is to deal with visas in order to enter the destination country. To do this, you must do a previous research and preferably consult the Embassy of the respective country to certify whether or not you have a visa exemption and what documents and procedures are necessary to do so. There are visas that can be processed online before departure, others that can be obtained on arrival and others that can only be purchased from the embassies or consulates of the respective countries.

See article Tourism Visas by country | Southeast Asia , if you are going to this area of ​​the world.

4 | Traveler Advice

Ruining the journey of your life simply because you think that misfortune only happens to others is silly. So make sure you do not skip this point and book a Traveler Consultation with at least 4 weeks before your departure. In this consultation, a specialist doctor will give you precious advice about the vaccines and precautions to have depending on your destination.

For more information on this subject visit one of these websites:

Traveler Advice (Portugal)

Traveler's Inquiry (Brazil)

5 | Travel insurance

This is another point that many people skip, for the same reason referred to in the point above. Imagine that for some reason you lose your flight, your luggage is lost, you steal everything you have, you have an accident and you have to be hospitalized ... (not all at the same time, credo ...). What you do? With travel insurance you have all expenses covered and what could become a serious problem, becomes something easily overcome.

One of the best International Travel Insurance out there is World Nomads . Click the link for a simulation of your trip, or use the box below.

For more information see the article: Travel Insurance  | Advantages, Coverage and Simulation .

6 | Search destination info

Bureaucracies and precautions at the health level? Okay, then, time to plan your trip so that later you do not return home with the feeling that you could have seen and done much more. Spend your days searching online , reading travel guides , talking to other travelers , participating in Forums . Make sure you get the most informed information possible so that you can plan your adventures around the world.

In Facebook groups such as Women Travelers ,  Independent Travelers  or others specifically related to your chosen destination, you can ask specific questions or follow other questions already posed by members of the Group in question.

Oh yeah, it keeps you abreast of Joland , because what will not be missing are tips and fresh news to help you plan a trip. Any other questions, if you can help, I help!

7 | Mark accommodation

In my specific case and especially when I have a reduced travel time of 2 to 3 weeks, I prefer to book at least the first few nights in the various places where I know I will pass. However, if you are planning a longer trip, booking your stay soon may limit your freedom during the trip, since in some cases, if you decide to cancel a reservation you may lose some or all of the money already paid.

Links for accommodation reservation:

Booking.com

One of the best known websites worldwide for the ease it offers in searching for accommodation by allowing price comparisons between hotels, detailed information about each property and reviews by other guests.

Airbnb

A site that allows the rental of private homes. It is a good way to find accommodation that allows us greater comfort and contact with the local culture. Sign up on the website through the link above to receive  € 31 to use for your first stay through Airbnb (the "Mary" mentioned on the page is me, no strangers!)

See this article with more info:  How and where to book accommodation

8 | Pack the suitcase

The next challenge is to get everything you need for your adventure into your suitcase or backpack . Always remember that you do not need much and that the ideal is to travel as lightly as possible. No unnecessary weight, you can always buy things that you need in the destination, it is not worth going loaded as a mule load!

This article on  "What to bring in your backpack for long trips"  may prove to be very useful to you.

9 | Go

Everything treated as it should be? Do you have any idea how to plan a trip? Good! So go, get going! Make sure you have your passport with you, pick up your backpack / bag, say "bye-bye" to friends and family, and set off on your way to one of the most enriching experiences of your life.

By the way, this my other article with a   "Essentials List for long plane travel"  can also come in handy.

NOTE : This article includes  affiliate links that allow me to earn a small commission every time you use them for a reservation or purchase. If you find Joland's tips helpful and / or inspiring, then you can help me keep it online by using those same links . You do not pay anything extra for this and help me to continue to help you in the future.  It is also important to note that all products / services / websites that I recommend here at Joland  were or are already used by me regularly in my own travels. I do not recommend anything I do not trust.

About Me

Born and raised in Lisbon, Portugal, but in love with the world. I love to share my travel stories, photos and videos and to advise and inspire those who share the same passion for travel!

This Article Content & Images Source (copyright) from http://jolandblog.com/como-planear-uma-viagem/

[mytripadvisor-blog]

The Best Websites to Find Cheap Flights

The best way to find cheap flights is to be flexible! Whether that's with your travel dates or your destination, your flexibility can often determine what deal you can get.

Flight comparison websites can help you to search for and compare flights across hundreds of airlines, including a wide range of dates and destinations. Use these money saving websites while planning your trip to help you book cheap flights.

Skyscanner

Skyscanner’s flexible search options mean you can browse prices across a whole month, or even a year, allowing you to get the best deals.

What we like

Search ‘everywhere’!

Price alerts

KAYAK

Similar to Skyscanner, KAYAK searches other travel sites for you and shows offers in a clear, intuitive display. However, there is less flexibility with only a +/- 3 days option.

What we like

Multi-city search

Price alerts

Include nearby airports

Holiday Pirates

Holiday Pirates offer more than just flight comparison. They publish daily, bargain suggestions on hotels, flights and package trips. So if you are looking for a little travel inspiration, this is the place to go!

What we like

Fantastic bargain suggestions

Package trips

Google Flights

A unique way to choose your flight from a simple list of results, explore destinations on a map and find travel dates with the lowest fare.

What we like

Multi-city search

Explore map (fantastic for inspiration and stop-over savings!)

Discover destinations with useful suggestions

momondo

momondo builds on not merely a functionality like most travel search engines, but a bold and colourful travel universe to unite users, inspiring to meet the world eye to eye.

What we like

Multiple destinations

Mobile app with city guides

Article Content & Image Source : http://www.thattravelblog.com/blog/the-best-websites-to-find-cheap-flights