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Vacation

Beaches, Gateway, Lifestyle, Travel, Travel Adventures, Vacation,

27 Best Vacation Destinations For 2021

Many people are looking forward to this pandemic to be over, so they can resume their daily life. One of the things people are looking for is to travel. 

Things are looking good for 2021, the vaccine came out, and more countries are beginning to open or lifting their lockdown while still practicing safety protocols to keep everybody safe.

Airlines and hotels are also following safety protocols, and top of that providing discounts, no fee cancellation or rescheduling for some bookings. You can check airlines or hotels cancellations policies before you do your reservations.

So when it comes to travel, every year we are looking at where we want to travel, what we want to or experience, or where are the best places to travel for the coming vacation or just to scratch our bucket list.

As of now, we are looking at where are the best places to travel in 2021. Here are some places we think you should consider for your 2021 vacation.

Bali, Indonesia

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, Indonesia

Bali is a paradise, it’s a bucket list for many of us. Here you’ll find beaches, volcanoes, and jungles sheltering elephants, and many more. Bali is where you can have your dream luxury vacation for less.

It’s a popular destination if you haven’t seen it on social media you probably heard about it somewhere. 

Buenos Aires, Argentina

cars on road near city buildings during daytime

Buenos Aires, the capital of  Argentina, is also known as the Paris of South America. The city of Buenos Aires it’s also considered one of the most romantic destinations because there’s a lot of romantic things to do.

It’s impossible to be bored in Buenos Aires. There are a lot of amazing restaurants, dance clubs,  nightclubs,  and bars.

If you like tango dancing, ooh well Buenos Aires will be your paradise, you will see some, tango dancing in the streets that you can somehow learn.

Budapest, Hungary.

Budapest, the capital and the most populous city of Hungary, is one of the novelish, fairytale cities in  Europe. Sitting in the River Danube, the city is well known for its famous thermal baths.

There are a lot of things to do in Budapest such as take a tour of the spectacular Neo-Gothic Parliament building, visit The Budapest Pinball Museum, ruin bars, the underground cave system.

Cairo, Egypt 

person standing in front of The Great Spinx, Egypt

Cairo is one of the most ancient cities in the world located on the continent of Africa. This capital of Egypt is sitting on the Nile river,  it has the 3rd largest population in Africa and  1st in the Middle East.

The city has a vibrant culture, wonderful museums, and friendly people, it’s also the home of the Pyramids of Giza, the last of the ancient Seven Wonders of the World.

Cape Town, South Africa

white and brown concrete building near body of water during daytime

Cape Town is the second-most populous city in South Africa.  The city is known for its stunning views, adventure, and history. Cape Town is also known for its wineries, you can take wine tram tours, private wine tours with experts.

If you like adventures you can take Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to get the best views of Cape Town from the top of Table Mountain. You can take a hike up to Lion’s head.

Don’t forget to enjoy the amazing restaurants and many things that Cape Town has to offer.

Cusco, Peru

mountains covered with green leafed trees under blue sky

This ancient  Inca capital is one of the top travel destinations not only in Peru but also in South America. The city of Cusco is 46 to 50 miles away from Machu Picchu. The city has archaeological sites, museums, marketplaces, and many more.  Cusco is those kinds of places you will like to add to your bucket list if you haven’t done it yet.

Dubai, U.A.E

gray high-rise building during nighttime

For years  UAE has proved to be one of the best vacation destinations. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the most famous cities in the UAE where people like to go to visit. 

Dubai is well known for its modern architecture and its beauty in general, surely it is a must-go vacation destination to cool off from 2020 stress. There is a lot to do in Dubai that will create a lifetime memory such as sightseeing, activities, dining experience, etc. 

You can take a sightseeing tour where you can get a chance to see the tallest building in the world Burj Khalifa in Dubai, visit  Gold and Spice souks, Dubai  Aquarium, underwater zoo, Green planet, Arabian Dune Safari,  stroll at the Dubai  Mall,   and many more.

If you have time you can take 2hrs to see Sheikh Zayad Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

Qatar Airways

Dubrovnik, Croatia

aerial view of town near body of water

Dubrovnik is a city in Croatia, one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the Mediterranean Sea.

The city is popular for its spectacular seafront location on the Dalmatian Coast and offers numerous cultural activities and festivals.

You can enjoy  Dubrovnik by walking around its picturesque winding streets,  visiting the   Cathedral of Assumptions, cliffside beach bars, without forgetting the  Dubrovnik Old Town.

Hanoi, Vietnam.

woman carrying woven tray and white pail while walking on wet market

Hanoi is the capital and second-largest city of Vietnam.  Hanoi is known for silks and handicrafts,  delectable cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Hanoi is a multicultural city that’s made up of Chinese, French and Russian influences.

The city has a busy street life, there are a lot of things to do like visiting historical sites like Hoa Lo Prison, Museum of Ethnology, enjoying the best view of Hanoi at Lotte Tower Observation Deck and visiting some temples.

Don’t forget to take a stroll and enjoy all the street foods the city of Hanoi has to offer.

Ibiza, Spain

white yacht

Ibiza is one of the beautiful Spanish islands, is not only known for its scenic beaches, but it’s also known for its nightlife. If you like electronic /techno dance music, and club scenes, in general, this is the must-go place. There are plenty of things to do in Ibiza and you will never get bored of this place.

Kruger National Park, South Africa. 

herd of elephant standing near body of water

Another place to go if you like a safari vacation is  Kruger National Park in  South Africa.

The park is one of the largest game reserves with a high density of wild animals including the Big 5,  which are lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos.

Kruger National Park has safari experiences of all kinds, it’s a great escape from busy city life and gets back to nature.

Lisbon, Portugal

low angle photo of concrete castle

Lisbon is the capital and the largest city of Portugal. It is best known for its tradition of Fado music, ornate architecture, and full of colonial history.

It is the Mediterranean’s hidden gem, there is a lot of sightseeing and activities, and the restaurants offer delicious menus for all tastes and diets. The city is close to beautiful sand beaches that give you relaxation. 

Marrakesh, Morocco

brown and white house with green trees and green grass

Marrakesh is the fourth largest city in Morocco. Marrakech has famous palaces and is also known as the city of luxury, with  5-star restaurants, luxury spas. You will always be amazed at the city’s vibrant colors, aromatic dishes, surely the city of Marrakesh to offer.

While you are there make sure you visit the botanic garden Jardin Majorelle, Maison de la Photographie, Musée Yves Saint Laurent a museum dedicated to Yves Saint Laurent’s couture legacy and has a permanent display of hundreds of garments spanning his 40-year career.

Designer Yves Saint Laurent spent some of his lifetimes in Marrakech and he even bought the Jardin Majorelle in the 80s if you are into fashion somehow you knew about this.

Don’t forget to visit the Soukous and collect some souvenirs.

Napa Valley, Calfornia 

people sitting on picnic tables during daytime

Napa Valley in California Wine Country is one of the world’s famous wine regions located in the United States. Napa Valley has more than 375 wineries that are open for tastings and more than 80  urban tasting rooms. 

This wine country region is known for its world-class wine, as well as beautiful scenery without forgetting the perfect weather year-round. 

Napa Valley is also the home of several  Michelin-star restaurants, and luxurious accommodations and spas. Napa Valley is good for a weekend getaway or whatever you prefer.

New Orleans, U.S.A

brown and gray 3-story building

New Orleans is also known as  NOLA, or Big Easy is a city located in the state of Louisiana on the Mississippi River.  

New Orleans is one of the lively cities because of its round-the-clock nightlife, street music, festivals, and many more. 

This is a city full of festivals and adventures, if you are looking to explore historical sites, eating and drinking while enjoying famous festivals like Essence festival, or Jazz festival, NoLa will be your place to go.

New York City, U.S.A

New York City is one of the world’s most exciting cities. Its true definition of a melting pot, with beautiful architecture, different cultures and cuisines, festivals, and many more things to explore and do.

There are a lot of places you can visit besides restaurants, you can visit one of the largest art museums in the word The Metropolitan Museum of Art, enjoy a show at Broadway, take a stroll at Central Park who knows you might bump into the filming of your favorite show or favorite actor/actress filming a movie.

New Zealand

aerial view of beach with mountains

This small island nation located in the Pacific Ocean is famous for its picturesque landscape,  and its indigenous Maori culture. New Zealand is a dream place for nature lovers.

There are a lot of outdoor adventures, wellness retreats, and natural wonders. The country is known for its best farm-to-table dining.

There are a lot of places to visit and enjoy while vacationing in New Zealand such as exploring Middle Earth, visit Auckland also known as City of Sails, visit the country’s capital Wellington.

While you visit  Wellington don’t leave without going to, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa also known as Te Papa.

Paris, France

aerial view photography of city

Paris, the capital of France, is one of the most iconic cities in the world. Paris is also known as the City of Light or the City of Love, is home to famous landmarks such as Arc de Triomphe,  the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Louvre Museum, and many more. The streets of Paris overflow with culture, art, beauty, and history.  

Phuket, Thailand

boats on sea near mountain during daytime

Phuket located in Thailand is the country’s largest island as we know Thailand has more than a thousand islands. Phuket, Thailand has something for everyone,  it is known for its tranquility and amazing beaches.

If you are a beach lover, Phuket is the place to be but there some other things you can enjoy and make your vacation memorable such a taking a trip to Wat Chalong,  a tour to The Chalong Bay Rum Distillery, visit  Tiger kingdom, Phuket Town Weekend Night Market and many many more.

Rome, Italy

brown concrete house

Rome is the capital of Italy. The city of Rome is known for its stunning architecture. There are a lot of attractions in this amazing city such as the Trevi Fountain,   the Colosseum, and the Pantheon.

While in Rome you will also have an opportunity to visit the smallest country in the world  Vatican City. Tons of things to do in this beautiful city don’t forget the amazing restaurants, designer stores and many more. 

Salzburg, Austria

white concrete building near green trees during daytime

Salzburg is the fourth-largest city in Austria. Salzburg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The city is known for its  Baroque architecture, the city also hosts a series of opera, concerts, theatre performances, and the Salzburg Festival. 

Salzburg is where the movie “The Sound of Music” was shot. . There is a lot to explore when it comes to history, art, music, and culinary.

You will never be bored when you are in Salzburg, no matter what time of the year. The city’s also known for its famous Christmas festivals and Christmas markets.

Don’t forget to visit  Mirabell Palace  for the best Christmas markets

Santiago, Chile

aerial photography of city during night

Santiago is the capital and largest city of  Chile. The city of Santiago is known as one of the cosmopolitan cities in the world.

The city is surrounded by handicraft markets, art galleries, design shops and is also famous for its lively Latino nightlife.

There are a lot of places to visit while in Santiago such as the La Chascona museum, Bellavista neighborhood, Cerro Santa Lucia, Cerro Stan Cristobal, and many more.

Santorini, Greece

white buildings near body of wter

Santorini is a volcanic island in Greece, It is famous for dramatic views, stunning sunsets in Oia, nice beaches with clear blue waters.

It is one of the most popular destinations, you can enjoy your vacation by visiting the Santo winery where you can enjoy Greek Wines, delicious Greek cuisines, hiking on the top of the Santorini volcano, and many more. Surely a trip to Santorini will be a memorable vacation.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

zebra on brown grass field during daytime

The Serengeti National Park is a Tanzanian national park in the Serengeti ecosystem.  

Serengeti is well known for its annual migration of millions of wildebeests plus hundreds of thousands of gazelles and zebras, followed by their predators, providing one of the most impressive nature spectacles in the world.

The best primary reason to visit Serengeti National Park is to witness The Great Migration, which usually is around  July. There are other activities such as camping, safari balloon, safari tour groups.

The Maldives

green palm trees near body of water

This nation of islands in the Indian Ocean has been a tourist attraction and one of the amazing vacation destinations. Five percent of the planet’s reef can be found in the Maldives.

The reefs are home to a thousand species of fish and come with an explosion of color and corals.  If you like the beach vacation the Maldives will be the perfect fit for you. 

A lot of activities to do such as scuba diving, snorkeling, visit the Male fish market or get some spa treatment, etc.

Tokyo, Japan

photo of people crossing road

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is the largest metropolitan in the world and one of the world’s most modern cities in terms of its infrastructure and design.

There’s a lot to explore in the city such as temples, the Aqua Zoo, Tsukiji Fish Market, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo National Museum, and many more. 

Vancouver, Canada. 

body of water near building during daytime

Vancouver is one of the major cities in Canada. surrounded by water and close to the mountains. Vancouver is where you can enjoy fresh, local seafood, especially salmon.

You can enjoy this beautiful city by taking a boat tour or sightseeing cruise, which are available throughout the city. Vancouver it’s also known for its outdoor recreation and adventures.

If you love outdoor life then Vancouver is your place. The city is offering a lot of outdoor sports and adventure, from kayaking, hiking, camping, skiing, and mountain ziplining.

The adventures depend on the season; there are winter and summer adventures.  Don’t forget to dine in their amazing restaurants, visit the parks around the city such as the famous Stanley Park. 

 

Beaches, Culture, Gateway, Lifestyle, Travel, Travel Adventures, Vacation,

15 Secluded Beaches In The U.S

Have you been searching for secluded beaches near me lately?

For more than two months people have been on stay home orders. During this time most businesses were close except essential businesses and some people are working from home. Recently many states and countries have lifted the stay hame order and some businesses starting to operate as usual.

 As we all know summer is almost here and one of the things people like to do is to go to the beach. Most beaches are open too, we saw a crowded beach in Daytona during the memorial weekend, for some people it was scary because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

So what can you do if you want to take a little beach vacation but you still want to practice social distancing? Luckily, there are many secret beaches to be found in the  U.S, places that you might never hear about it or you don’t even know exists. These beaches are affordable and do not require staying at an exclusive private resort etc.

Some of these destinations may not be easy to reach, but gives you a peaceful and pristine beach experience, far from the crowds. Here are some best-secluded and quiet  beaches in the U.S

Carova Beach, North Carolina

Close-up Photo of Shore

Carova Beach is the northernmost Outer Banks community and is only accessible by the unpaved beach. You will not find paved roads, you will drive mostly in sand dunes which will give you a wonderful experience. 

A four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended when visiting Carova beach. Carova beach requires a  parking permit from the Friday before Memorial Day until  Labor Day. 

Covert Park Beach, Michigan

foot prints on the beach during daytime

 

Covert Park Beach located farther north of lake Michigan shorelines. The beach has placid waters and an undisturbed sandy strip. There is a campground at the park which adds value to the area.  A parking permit is required for visitors.

Cumberland Island Beach, Georgia

photography of seashore during sunset

 

You will need to catch a ferry to get to this  Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island.  You can enjoy your day rest on the sand dunes watching wild horses roaming or explore old Spanish mission ruins and 19th-century homes. Or, just relax by the surf. It’s a paradise for a beachgoer who just wants to connect with nature.

Duck Beach, North Carolina

brown rock formation beside body of water during daytime

This North Carolina gem can be found in the Outer Banks between Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. An unspoiled beach destination, Duck offers adventure and relaxation. Visitors will find clean waters and beaches, maritime forests, wetlands, and dunescapes.

Dry Tortugas, Florida

gray lighthouse near trees and sea

Dry Tortugas National Park is actually one of the country’s least-visited national parks. One can argue maybe because its difficult to get there.

The Dry Tortugas beach is only accessible by boat or plane. Its magnificent pristine, blue waters, and white sands it’s all worth the hustle of getting there.

There is a lot to enjoy when you get there such as its picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs, and marine life, the vast assortment of birdlife that frequents the area. It’s also the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson.

Dyer Prince Beach, Massachusetts

photo of sea waves

This beach with hidden pathways in Eastham shores small with calm waters,  but tidal flats stretch out quite far during low tide.

Dyer Prince is perfect for quality time with family and friends or when you need a break from a busy life and you just want to strategize yourself.

When you are looking for secluded, uncrowded beaches   Dyer Prince Beach is your best-hidden beach. Parking is limited but I’m sure there are some alternatives.

Fort Morgan Beach, Alabama

guard house near body of water

 

Fort Morgan is a relaxing getaway to a beautiful beach on the Gulf Coast. It’s a very secluded and charming best beach vacations surrounded by the Fort Morgan stone fortress on Alabama’s Gulf Coast.

It has a peaceful environment, which is void of commercial property and beach rentals, serves up a view of the Sand Island Lighthouse and ships cruising over to Mobile.

Lovers Key State Park, Florida

Couple Kissing on Beach during Golden Hour

If you are in search of secluded beaches in Florida this secluded barrier islands were once reachable only by boat. According to local stories this beach was so isolated that only lovers made the effort to seek out the hideaway.

Today the island strip is more easily accessible, but it still retains a secret feel and has become a  popular romantic destination for spectacular, beachside weddings and frequently hosts picturesque gulf-side weddings.

There are a lot of things to do in Lovers Key State Park, such as kayaking, explore the canals and lagoons.

You may also see the calm, turquoise waters broken by a dolphin’s dorsal fin or by the strike of an osprey’s talons.

Montaña de Oro State Park, California

yellow petaled flowers near body of water at daytime

The park features secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. Good for nature lovers, they will enjoy the solitude and freedom found along the park’s trails.

There are also mountain biking and equestrian trails. The best-known beach is Spooner’s Cove, across from the campground. 

There’s wildlife in the park that includes black-tailed deer and the black oystercatcher. The park also includes primitive and equestrian campsites.

It’s a nice place when you want to leave crowds and noise behind, and enjoy the quiet coastal trails that lead down to the water.

Point Sal State Beach, California

palm tree leaf near at body of water

Located in the northwestern part of Santa Barbara County, near the city of Guadalupe it’s one of the state’s most beautiful beaches, and one of the most scenic and least-visited. 

The  Point Sal includes about 80 acres and just over 1½ miles of ocean frontage. The Point Sal views will take your breath away. Lion Rock, located offshore, is an important bird-roosting site and is also used by sea lions and other marine mammals.

There are some activities that can be done while you are there such as fishing, beachcombing, hiking, nature study, photography, picnicking, and sunbathing. 

Swimming is not recommended due to extremely dangerous rip currents, occasional shark sightings, and the absence of Lifeguard service.

Roque Bluffs Beach, Maine

dock with railing near boats during day

This is one of the most secluded beaches in the U.S. It Is not well known by many people that’s why it offers you a private utopia to watch the sunrise. It’s a perfect gateway from a busy life. 

You can enjoy chilly water laps on the shores of Roque Bluffs, a half-mile stretch that shoulders Englishman Bay. There is a lot to do while you are there such as bird watching, enjoy interesting sightings at all seasons.

Bald eagles frequent the area year-round and many migrant species stopovers during spring and fall.  Also, you can be kayaking to explore both Englishman Bay and Simpson Pond.

The  Simpson pond is stocked so anglers you can fish for brook trout in the spring and brown trout through much of the summer. 

Rockport Beach, Texas

brown wooden bridge near beach

This small-town of  Rockport, Texas might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of beaches but you might change your mind when you get tome to explore Rockport beach

Rockport beach is the first Blue Wave Beach in Texas, it offers a healthy, safe, and clean environment and a lot to do activities. 

It offers clean play areas for the kids and a saltwater lagoon for swimming. There are several neighboring piers that offer fishing opportunities. 

Salt Creek Beach, California

five birds flying on the sea

The popular beach park located in Dana Point, California, it features amenities such as a half-court basketball court, beach volleyball,  and offers opportunities for surfing, swimming, and fishing.

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the beach serves up brag-worthy views, and the sandy strip is large enough space not to worry about sharing elbow space.

Sandbridge Beach, Virginia

brown wooden dock on body of water during daytime

Sandbridge Beach is a short drive south of the Oceanfront District, It is a secluded beach hideaway of pristine sand dunes and dancing sea oats.

It is a relaxing and peaceful community where you can truly slow down and unwind on your vacation. You can enjoy the view of the Atlantic which never fails to entertain. 

Also, it is a good place for outdoor lovers, they can enjoy kayaking, hiking, fishing and many more. 

Sunset Beach,  North Carolina

birds in flight from pier over cean

Located in the southern-most Brunswick Islands beach, its the best place when you want to gateway from the crowd. Sunset Beach was recently included on National Geographic’s list of 21 Best Beaches In The World, It has beautiful nature and offers amazing breathtaking views.

While there you can also enjoy the stunning  Bird Island Reserve, which features pristine sandy white beaches, high natural dunes, and tidal creeks. 

You can take uninterrupted evening walks by boardwalks or biking and surfing in the waters. If you are not into those kinds of activities you can collect shells while reconnecting with the natural world and enjoying nature.

 

 

 

 

 

Business, Lifestyle,

What to Consider Before You Book Your Next Flight or Hotel

As things are trying to get back to normal, many people are considering to resume the plans they have for  2020.  Before the COVI-19 Pandemic, people had vacation plans, wedding plans, honeymoons, etc all have been postponed. Not only that we have seen the been seen the cancellation of big events such as the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, UEFA finals in Istanbul, Essence Festival in New Orleans, and many more. Everybody is looking forward to returning to their normal life. 

travel is good for the soul

Businesses have been eager to get back to business, finally, some businesses have are starting to operate with some restrictions hopefully everything will go back to normal and we will not have to worry about the pandemic any more.

Since businesses are starting to reopen, the questions travelers ask themselves is this the right time to make vacation plans, or is it the right time to book flights, hotels, or cruises. As we can see right now, flight fares are at an all-time low. There have been several good deals on flights which are very tempting.

But one can still ask themselves will I be able to travel this is due to safety reasons and people are expecting the second wave of COVID-19. Another question is if I buy my ticket and I can’t go will I get a full refund, partial or I will lose my money.  Here are some precautions you need to take before you make any travel arrangements.

Read Cancellation Policy.

Before you start booking that flight or hotel you need to look at airline and hotel websites to check out their current change and cancellation policies.

The good thing is many airlines have created temporary policies that allow you to book new flights now through certain dates, with the ability to change and cancel them for a full refund for the next year or even more.

Also, some of them introduced new cancellation and rebooking policies to accommodate customers at this time. Keep in mind these policies are different depends on the airline.

For instance, Delta airlines are now waiving change fees and providing greater flexibility to travel using eCredits through September 30, 2022, and If you’re uncertain of future travel plans, they are recommending canceling and then rebooking once your new travel plans are confirmed.

The value of your ticket will become an eCredit for future use. This means the refund will be in terms of eCredits that you can use on Delta airlines.  

Emirates airlines will give cancellation refunds or waive rebooking fees only in these circumstances such as flight cancellation, this is when  Emirates flight is canceled for a specific date or route is suspended for a continuous period.

There is a travel ban, where there is an explicit government notification that prohibits travel from either point of journey origin or destination. The travel advisory, this is a general government advisory against non-essential travel but no travel ban.

Visa process which required visiting an embassy/consulate or mandatory quarantine at origin or destination. A situation where a  passenger is unable to reach the airport, for those countries which have a government lockdown and passengers are unable to reach the airport.

With that being said, it very important to read the policy before you jump into that deal.  As you can see each airline has a different policy one might be good to you and one may not. 

Another thing you need to consider is where are you going to buy your ticket. Are you buying straight from the airline or through a travel agency?  This makes a difference when it comes to changes and cancellation because they both have different policies when it comes to cancellation and refunds.

Airlines will not issue refunds if you bought your ticket through a travel agency, this means the airline policies will not apply to you.

young woman with traveling documents

These also apply when you want to do hotel reservations, it’s important to check their refund and cancellation policies. There have been many cases where people are not to get their full refund when they cancel the hotels or pay fees for changing dates.

For instance, Marriott will allow full changes and cancellations without charges for existing reservations for any future arrival date as long as the change or cancellation is made by June 30, 2020.

For new reservations and any future arrival date,  between now and June 30, 2020, they will allow the reservation to be changed or canceled at no charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled arrival date.

Make sure you check airlines and hotel websites before you jump into their deals so you can make the right decision and also be in control.

Be sure  about the dates

After seeing the deals floating all over the internet it’s still uncertain when can we travel again. Some people think it is not a good idea to jump on those deals or planning a trip.

But many experts are suggesting it will be good your trip dates to around June and up not below that.  According to Scott Keys of  Scott’s Cheap Flights, he advised that you should choose the deals that are at least three months in advance. 

You can still get good deals on later dates, for instance, right now there are good deals which are available until November for both domestic and international flights. 

You can choose later dates that will make you comfortable that things will be back to normal and you will be able to go on your trip, instead of early dates which your trip may not happen and then you will be forced to deal with cancellation and rebooking issues.

 

Africa, Culture, Lifestyle, Travel, Travel Adventures,

9 Best Beaches in Africa To Visit

Whether you’re taking a trip from Africa for some business,  safari tour,  a romantic honeymoon, or just a vacation the other best thing you can do is to have a  chilled beach relaxation on those of the magnificent beaches in the world.  

With clear turquoise water, so many stretches of white sand and different activities to choose from, it’s hard to choose the best beach in Africa.

Here is some guide to nine best beaches in Africa for swimming, kite diving, snorkeling, wakeboarding, sunbathing, and enjoying beautiful beach resorts. (in no particular order).

1. Nungwi Beach- Zanzibar, Tanzania

island

Nungwi Beach is located in the northernmost tip of Zanzibar and is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Zanzibar.

Nungwi has amazing white coral sand that seems to glow after nightfall. In 2014, Nungwi Beach was on  CNN’s list of 100 best beaches. Also in 2018, it made it to the list of Top 25 Beaches in the World in TripAdvisor’s Travellers Choice Awards. 

There are numerous beach resorts, hotels, restaurants, and bars that offer a variety of night-time entertainment. Nungwi’s extensive coastline is wide open for diving, swimming, and snorkeling in some of Africa’s most pristine, reef-rich waters.

It’s one of the rare beaches untroubled by severe undulations of high and low tides, making it perfect for all-day water activities. You can also see green turtles, dolphins, and whale sharks, and enjoy a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow sailing boat.

 

Best Place to Stay in Zanzibar  

Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar,  located on Nungwi Beach beautiful white sand and crystalline turquoise water that makes it a paradise. 

This place offers inclusive holidays/vacations with exclusive services of RIU Hotels and Resorts.   The rooms are very sophisticated and are notable for their designs and spaciousness. 

All rooms have air conditioning, satellite TV,  Minibar, and balcony/terrace. For those who prefer more privacy, there are villas with private pools.

Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel, main and theme restaurants. The hotel is  66km (41 miles ) from the airport. Also, there is a spa with a variety of treatments, beauty salons, and massages.

 

2. Anse Source D’Argent  -La Digue, Seychelles 

brown rocks near body of water

Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most photographed beaches in the world. Anse Source D’Argent is an Adventureland and is suitable for adults and children and is one of the most popular beaches of the 115-island archipelago in the western Indian Ocean.  

The beach is located on La Digue Island and is one of Seychelle’s most famous attractions. Famous for its reef-sheltered, crystal clear water and otherworldly granite boulders.

It’s also famous for having been used in several prominent commercial shoots and films, including movies such as  Castaway by Tom Hanks and the famous Bacardi Ad of the 1990s.  

The beach can only be accessed through privately-owned plantation L’Union Estate with an entrance fee of 100 rupees, ( US$7.40) that is valid all day. 

The beach is very popular so that it can get crowded with visitors.  It will be better to visit early in the morning and return in the late afternoon to avoid many of the island’s day visitors if you don’t like the crowd.

Best Place to Stay in Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles 

La Digue Island Lodge, this is one of the most unique and vintage establishments of Seychelles – surrounded by a lush green environment and a private stretch of beach.

The hotel is a time-honored establishment with its iconic Yellow House that transcends the island’s traditions and way of life. The unique beachside setting boasts magnificent vistas of the neighboring islands and beautiful crystalline waters where colorful sunsets paint the skies daily.

The hotel offers a lot of activities and leisure such as Spa, excursions & sightseeing, walk & trails, and fishing. Also, there are five different restaurants to choose from.

3. Grand Baie, Mauritius

people by the beach during daytime

Grand Baie is a  large tourist beach located in the district of Rivière du Rempart at the north of Mauritius. This resort town is the most popular holiday/vacation destination in Mauritius.

Grand Baie offers facilities for safe swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and water skiing.  It is also the departure point for deep-sea fishing trips and boat excursions to the islands to the north of Mauritius. There is good accommodation, bars, and restaurants, 

Best Place to Stay Grand Baie, Mauritius

The Club Med La Pointe aux Canonniers Resort Its two idyllic beaches are protected from the wind and lined by former colonial houses with thatched roofs.

Glide across the turquoise lagoon on your waterskis, then enjoy some time for yourself in the Zen infinity pool. Embark in a family diving adventure among coral reefs and swordfishes.

Savor the delights of a tasting workshop led by one of France’s top wine sommeliers.

 

4. Nosy Be, Madagascar

two brown wooden armchairs on beach during daytime

 

Nosy Be Island is Madagascar’s number one beach destination.  It has turquoise water, soft white, and don’t forget the wonderful seafood.

Nosy Be is the best place for water activities such as diving which is a famous activity there.  Plenty of swimming, snorkeling, sailing, and fishing. There are also excursions to the surrounding islands. 

Best place to stay in Nosy Be Island

Anjiamarango Beach Resort Hotel, located near a small village of Befotaka 20 minutes from Fascene International Airport.

The hotel has 35 individual bungalows that are facing the sea which gives you a breathtaking view. 

There are a French & Malagasy cuisine restaurant and a lot of activities to do such as outing in the sea in kayaks, traditional fishing, scuba diving, and many more.

 

5. Saly Beach, Senegal

brown wooden shed surrounded body of water

Saly beach is located in the seaside town of Saly- Portudal,  50 miles from Dakar the capital of Senegal, and its 15 minutes away from Blaise Diagne International Airport.

The area has high-class luxurious hotels, casinos, and golf courses. This place attracts many tourists with its long arching beach, and palm-fronded hotel -restaurants. Saly beach has a lot of activities such as windsurfing, jet ski,  and sport fishing.

Best Place to Stay in Saly-Portudal

Lamantin Beach Resort & Spa, this is the largest seaside resort in West Africa. Built-in local style with a flowery garden and coconut trees around the area that is one of the things makes the resort popular.  The resort offers both land and water activities.

 

6. Camps Bay Beach, South Africa

brown mountain near body of water during daytime

 

Camp Bay beach is located in Cape Town, South Africa. It’s the campground for beachgoers. The beautiful Camp Bay beach is surrounded with its white-sand beaches,  hiking trails, and beachfront restaurants serving seafood and local wines, best enjoyed while watching a  colorful sunset. 

Don’t forget a lot of activities such as volleyball, beach bats, frisbees, etc.

Best Place to Stay in Cape Town

The Twelve Apostles dramatically located above the Atlantic Ocean, flanked by majestic Twelve  Apostles and   Table Mountain, our award-winning hotel offers luxurious rooms and exquisite dining experiences.

Savor seafood and fine dining at Azure Restaurant, enjoy delicious cocktails and breath-taking sunsets at The Leopard Bar, and luxuriate in our holistic spa with stunning outdoor gazebos

7. Bazaruto-Mozambique

green-leafed plant

Bazaruto Islands are located in Mozambique and are known for their unspoiled beauty and diverse ecologies. Its magnificent coral reefs are home to more than 2000 fish species as well as whales and dolphins.

There are a lot of activities to do in the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Such as the diving and snorkeling in the Bazaruto Marine National Park,  kayaking and parasailing.

For those visitors who would just like to get away from it, all will find Bazaruto just the place to relax, sip cocktails, and indulge in a delicious seafood beach dinner or perhaps sail away on a dhow for a castaway picnic.

Best Place to Stay in Anantara Bazaruto Island

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, seats on the Indian Ocean coastline is an aqua playground immersed in brilliant watercolor. Breathtaking views, rolling dunes melt into the ocean.

Here you can swim with dolphins and experience the annual migration of humpback whales from July to September. The resort offers several activities like world-class diving, sailing, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, sunset dune boarding, sunset sail, and award-winning Anantara Spa.

 

8. Santa Maria, Sal – Cape Verde

people on beach during daytime

The fishing town of  Santa Maria is located in Cape Verde,  has beautiful beaches and lively evenings. It is a hot vacation destination. Santa Maria beach is a perfect place to admire the natural beauty.

You can soak up some sun in the afternoon in those golden sand and hit the bars and restaurants in the area. If you happen to visit in mid-September you will be able to enjoy their music festival.

 

Best Place to stay in Santa Maria, Cape Verde

Meliá Dunas Beach Resort & Spa is a luxury all-inclusive pool and beach resort. Located overlooking a coral reef with rich sea life. The tropical gardens make this place a paradise

The best place to watch the sunset, a good place to have fun with kids at the water park, relaxing at the Yhi Spa and enjoying exquisite cuisine in their fine restaurant.  The resort is a great destination for windsurfing, kitesurfing and scuba diving. 

 

9. Essaouira- Morocco

white concrete building near sea during daytime

The whitewashed and windswept coastal town of Essaouira is located in Morocco. This place has been a tourist attraction for so long.

There are long expanses of white sand backed by the dunes and a stretch of argan trees which gives a unique feeling. Its endless expanse of pristine Atlantic beach makes it a paradise for surfers, windsurfers and kite surfers.  

Best Place to Stay in Essaouira

Villa Quieta Essaouira, this former family place will take your breath away with its traditional architecture mixed with modern comfort.

While there you can enjoy its outdoor swimming pool located in a large garden. There are a lot of activities such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, etc.

 

Culture, Lifestyle, Travel, Travel Adventures,

Traveling On a Budget – How To See and Enjoy Barcelona Without Breaking The Bank

What to do in Barcelona on a budget?

Sometimes we want to go to places we really love but we always think if we can afford, how expensive it is, and then we end up changing our mind and not going. The truth is you can make your dreams come true by visiting the place you love if you plan to do it on a budget.

Barcelona is one of my favorite cities located on the coast of northeastern Spain. Barcelona is one of the world’s leading tourists and culture centers. There are a lot of things to do in  Barcelona from sightseeing to entertainment. Barcelona has a lot of unique architecture, city parks, museums, and churches.  You can do all this and more on a budget and here are some tips to do it.

 

The  best time to  visit Barcelona

If you are on a budget the best time to visit Barcelona is between September-December. This time is good because the tourist season slows down and hotel rates are getting cheaper compared to   June-August. You don’t have to worry about the temperature they will still be in the high to low 70s. You can still go to the beach in early fall, but mid-October temperatures can be in the low 50s. If you don’t mind wearing coats/jackets and not being at the beach  January-April will be good for you. It’s a very low season due to weather of low 40s to 30s, everything is cheap from flight fare, etc. The temperature is rising up around March-April.

Aerial Photo of People Gathering in City

Accommodation

There is a lot of accommodation in Barcelona if you want to score some hotel deals you can search on the website like Hotwire, Priceline, etc. The good thing about hotwire if you know specific dates or estimates you can put an alert the will alert you if there is a price drop so you can book your hotel when you are ready for that price. Priceline also has good deals. They give you the option of express deals and bid your price you might be like and find amazing deals. Another option is Airbnb, this is a good option, on my trip to Barcelona I found out it was cheaper than hotels. I think it depends on the city, some cities are more expensive than hotels. For instance, when searching for accommodation in Rome, Airbnb was more expensive than hotels. In my opinion, Airbnb is good if you are not alone because you might book a house/room in an excluded neighborhood in a foreign country that can be scary.

 

Things to do in Barcelona

There’s a lot of things to do in this magnificent city of  Barcelona. You can enjoy a lot of things such as sightseeing, museums, city parks, restaurants, wine tasting, cooking classes and many more. Since you are on a budget you can take advantage of free stuff. Yes in Barcelona there are some places where you can visit for free.  But the best places you can do while you are in Barcelona are; first my favorite place La Sagrada Familia (Church of Sacred Family) this is the major attraction in Barcelona. A large unfinished Roman Catholic Basilica, construction started in 1882. If you like architecture you will enjoy the experience. The entrance fee for the basic tour is  20 euros or US$ 21.67. The basic tour does not include a tour guide. But there are different prices which are higher, for instance, you want a guided tour, going to the towers, going to the Gaudi Museum, etc.   Another option you can take a quick peek from outside for free. The church usually enforces the dress code and some ground rules entering Sagrada Familia. You can check them here so you can get well prepared.   

People on Market

If you are a foodie or you just wondering where to eat in  Barcelona you can go to Mercat de la Boqueria(Boqueria Market). The famous market in Barcelona you can get a variety of foods, drinks, desserts, fruits, etc at very good prices and you don’t have to break your wallet. You can check more about this famous market here and get some inside scoop and decide for yourself. The amazing part about the Boqueria market is connected to another tourist attraction Las Ramblas.  La Ramblas is a  famous street in central  Barcelona. This is a tree-lined pedestrian street, it stretches for 1.2 km (0.75 mi). It’s also close to another tourist attraction  Barri Gòtic ( Gothic Quarter). There is a lot of tourists attraction such as live performances, artists that will draw your portrait or caricature, whatever you want it. 

There is also human statue art (street performance)if you don’t pay attention you will think you are posing with the statue of Galileo or  Christopher Columbus, but there is Christopher Columbus monument nearby. There are a lot of museums, a restaurant, etc. One thing to notice about this place, since there’s a lot of tourists sometimes prices tend to be higher than in other places. You can go there for the experience and taking pictures but you can dine in some local places or non-tourists places where food is the same or better at cheaper prices. I found out when traveling in different places non-tourist places are the best when you are on a budget.   You can get food, souvenir, etc for three times cheaper compared to tourist places. One thing I make for sure is to visit all these places and also hit the locals.

People on Park Passing Concrete Gate

 

Getting around  Barcelona.

Now you are in Barcelona, you’ll have to get around the city. There are several ways to get around the city of Barcelona by car, taxi, metro, and bus. The best I will recommend and it’s cheaper is Metro. You can buy a metro ticket for a single trip or depends on your duration of stay. There are several tickets, first is the T-Casual ticket, this will give you 10  trips on the metro, FGC. The T-Casual ticket costs  11.35 euros (US$12.29). It’s good for all the main city center routes and the airport. With a T-Casual ticket, you will save  12.35 euros (US$13.37) because if you buy a single metro ticket it costs 2.40 euros (US$2.60) per trip.

 

The second ticket option which I think has more benefit is the Barcelona Card. This is the official tourist pass of Barcelona. It can help you to save money because not only you can use it unlimited on the metro and other public transportation but also can be used to enter into  Barcelona´s best museums.   You can also get many deals and discounts on visits, tours, entertainment, shopping, dining, and nightlife. The Barcelona Card is available in different packages; there is a 72hrs package that costs   46 euros(US$49.81). A 96 hours package that costs 56 euros(US$60.64) and a 120 hours package that costs 61 euros (US$ 66.05). You can buy this package online. You can get more about the Barcelona card and its benefits here.

 

Now you know what to do when you want to visit  Barcelona, first the right time to visit, the time when accommodation and flights will be cheaper.  Second is things to do when you are in the city, there are a lot of things to do even if you are on a tight budget. Third, the best way to get around in Barcelona is through public transportation. There are several ways you can save in Barcelona by using public transportation.

 

 

Culture, Lifestyle, Travel, Travel Adventures,

When To Decide Between Beach Holidays and City Holidays

When do we decide between city or beach vacations?

At some point, everyone feels like they need to go on vacation. The fact is not everyone can plan or go on vacation due to time, money, responsibilities, and life in general.

When people plan on taking a vacation,  the main factors that they consider are where they want to go, and what they want to do.

Do they want to relieve some stress, or do they want to experience different environments and do different activities in their daily life? From there one can decide the best place to go according to what they want to do.

The two types of vacation places people most consider to go are city vacation and beach vacation. 

 

These two major vacation places have some differences between them.  Most people would choose one over another, we will take a close look at what kinds of activities one can do while vacationing in these two different places. One thing I can say they are both good places for vacation but it all depends on your interest and what you want to do.

 

People Walking on Street Near Buildings

City vacationing

City vacation has numerous things to do and places to see. If you want to enjoy the city vacationing, being open-minded will be a good idea and it will really help.

Because One of the main opportunities of city vacationing is that you will have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the culture of the city or place of which you are visiting.

In cities, you will able to experience local culture, historic and non-historic architecture, art galleries,  local restaurants, etc.

In some cities, you can also have an opportunity to get amazing city tours and learn more about the city’s history, culture, interesting facts and some myths or urban legends.

For instance, if you take your vacation in New Orleans there are different tours available such as Ghost tour, Cemetary tours, Food walking tour, Katrina recovery tour and many more. With a little bit of research before you go on your vacation, you can explore a lot of ideas on what to do in your chosen city.

 

People Standing Near Flock of Birds

Beach vacationing

While beach vacations can be a great way to relax, and chill they can not be done any time of the year like city vacation.

This means taking beach vacation can depend on season, most of the time can be done in summer, late spring and some late fall. designed.

Usually, beach vacations specifically cater to tourists, The beach has a relaxing, laid back atmosphere. There are many activities to do while you are on a beach vacation, activities such as water skiing, deep-sea fishing, sailing, diving, and much more.

Another great thing about a beach vacation is seafood. If you like seafood you have tons of selection of the freshest seafood money can buy.  Most of the time you will be spending around the beaches, most of the activities will be around water, visiting restaurants and if you like nightlife maybe you can hoop in the bar/pub, live band, and some night club.

Some beaches have actives or events that you can attend. For instance, if you go to Myrtle Beach they are tons of events and activities such as Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam, NASCAR race experience, Horry County Fair, Atlantic Beach  Bikefest and many more.

 

Green Trees Near Seashore Under Blue Sky

 

I prefer a city vacation because you are more likely to do a lot of activities all you need is time and be well prepared. The city vacation is ideal for anyone who likes to learn and explore different cultures, for people who like to see life from a different perspective.

There is a lot of interaction with the locals. Unlike the beach vacation most people you going to meet will be the tourists and also most beaches are kind of excluded a little bit far from other areas.

Man and Woman Walks on Dock

 

There are advantages of city vacations they are affordable because there’s a lot of options on where to stay, where to eat and there is always public transportation which makes it easier to explore the city. In another hand, the beach vacation can be somehow expensive because most of the hotels and other accommodations around the area are expensive.

You can always decide where you want your destination to be. Whether it is a city vacation or beach vacation there are several things you have to consider.

Those things are time, budget and what you want to do or what you want to get out of it. Of course, most of the time vacation’s purpose is to take a break from work and our busy exhausting routines, if that’s what you think, then you would think of a place where you can relax and just enjoy the view and whatever else there is to do.