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[ad_1] Finding Love & Art in Mexico City Get my best stuff sent straight to you! [id^=”_form”] [id^=”_form”] [id$=”_submit”] [id$=”_submit”] [+_a-z0-9-‘&=] [+_a-z0-9-‘&=] [id^=”_form”] [id^=”_form”] [id$=”_submit”] [id$=”_submit”] [+_a-z0-9-‘&=] [+_a-z0-9-‘&=] [ad_2] Source link

[ad_1] Behold the rise of the revenge traveler! After being cooped up inside our houses for two years because of the pandemic and not being able to travel anywhere aside from trips to the supermarket, travel restrictions have finally become more lenient over the past few months. Traveling in and out of the country are now possible as other destinations open up to tourists, too, paving the way for the so-called “revenge travelers”. Revenge travelers are those who travel now and travel hard to make up for those lost times when they were itching to explore but couldn’t. However, traveling is not the same as it was before. Well, not exactly. There are more things to consider such as travel requirements and protocols, many of which vary from country to country and from city to city. Planning takes more time because you would have to research a lot more information to ensure that your travel experience will be as smooth as possible. Data from Google shows how much the needs of the travelers have changed and has become more complex. People now spend more time researching, planning, and looking for more options. The increase in insurance-related searches in the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia also shows how travelers now make sure that they will be covered if anything happens, which also helps give them peace of mind while on vacation. Since planning vacations is now more complicated, we’ll share with you some things that will help you in planning your trip. We already know about how essential Google Maps, Google Street View, and Google Translate have been for travelers! But in this post, we’ll discuss new Google features that you can use when you’re planning a vacation. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE? This Google feature can help you find your best option for flights, give you a lot of hotel options, and show you the things you can do at a destination. It also includes travel guidelines and restrictions in each place you look up. On Google Flights, you can search for a flight to a certain destination and you’ll be shown various options from different airlines. Here, you can filter your search according to stops, airlines, prices, times, and more. If you want to look for the cheapest flight available, you can also view a date grid or a price graph where you can see the prices for the weeks or months around your desired date of travel. If you’re decided on a date for your travel but you don’t want to book just yet, you can track prices for a specific date and receive email updates when the prices change. If your travel dates are flexible but you’re on a budget, it also allows you to track any dates and get email updates when the prices for the flights you’re looking for are low. Google Hotel will show you available hotels in a destination and show you the prices from different booking websites. Once you’ve picked a hotel and a booking website, you will be redirected there and you can start the booking process. These are not new features. But what’s fresh is that both the Flight and Hotel sections now provide information related to COVID-19, allowing travelers the option to look for more flexible booking options. The Google Travel Help page will help you find the travel policies, restrictions, and requirements related to COVID-19. It has a section where you can find travel advisory information from different countries. Google Travel’s Explore tab will help travelers look up more destinations and see more details about each destination easily. When you look up a place you want to visit, it will show you the things to do, flights, and hotels in one page. For some destinations, it will also show when the peak season and off season is, which could help you decide when you should visit. The Things to Do section would allow you to look up places you can visit in a destination. Here, you can read information from the place’s wikipedia page as well as reviews that people posted on Google. If you don’t have a specific destination in mind yet, you can also choose to explore destinations nearby. It will show you places near your location that you can go to. Aside from tools for travelers, Google also has a feature that aims to help tourism industry partners know travel insights so they could plan for the future. In Travel Insights with Google, businesses in the travel industry can access information including destination insights and hotel insights with data from Google’s Analytics. Another feature that would be useful for businesses in the travel industry, even the smaller ones is the Hotel Center. This could help hotels and travel companies include free booking links in their profiles. These links will show up along with hotel ads when travelers look up hotels on Google. Business owners can also view the performance of their free booking links. [ad_2] Source link

[ad_1] Dia de Camões, also known as Portugal independence day, is one of the most important holidays in Portugal. There is much more to understand about this special occasion in Portuguese history. We’ll discuss everything you need to know about Portuguese independence day, also known as Portugal day. Portugal day 10 June Dia de Camões famously commemorates the death of Luís de Camões, a Portuguese poet and literary icon, on 10 June 1580.  Luís de Camões is famous for writing Os Lusíadas (The Lusiads). This epic Portuguese national epic poem celebrates the history of Portugal and its achievements. The poem focuses on 15th-century explorations, which brought a lot of fame and riches to the country. Today, it is considered one of the most important works of Portuguese literature. It remains a symbol of the Portuguese Empire. Think of Camões as the Portuguese equivalent to William Shakespeare or Homer to make it more straightforward.  According to popular legend, Luís de Camões was an adventurer who lost an eye while fighting. Around this time, he wrote the epic poem while travelling and later surviving a shipwreck in modern-day Vietnam. The legend also states that Camões was able to save his poem by swimming with one arm and keeping his other arm above water.  It’s noteworthy to mention that in 1850 when Camões died, Portugal also lost its independence to Spain. A new period of Spanish rule lasted for three generations after this. It took another 60 years before Portugal regained independence again in 1640.  Additionally, Camões’ date of birth is unknown, and his date of death is now celebrated as the main Portuguese independence day.  The Portuguese flag to celebrate Portugal day Who celebrates Portugal Day?  In Portugal, the official celebrations for Portugal’s independence day occur throughout the country. Every year, a particular city is chosen as the central celebration city. Elvas has been selected as a celebration city numerous times, has since become a World Heritage Site and is one of the most important military cities in Portugal.  On Portugal day 10 June, you can expect official celebrations in Portugal that involve the President, Prime Minister and other high ranking officials. Typically, it is a day where awards and honours are given out, followed by a military exhibition. It is celebrated by Portuguese communities in Portugal and all over the world.  Where do communities celebrate Dia de Camões outside of Portugal?  Did you know that Portuguese is the 6th most spoken language globally? It has over 230 million speakers and nine countries’ official languages. Due to its popularity, Portugal has made it a custom to split Portugal Day celebrations between a city within Portugal and a foreign city with a sizable Portuguese presence. Some previously paired cities include Rio de Janeiro and Paris, as examples.   There are also large Portuguese American communities in the USA, particularly in Massachusetts, Hawaii, Florida, Louisiana, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Louisiana, Nevada, and California.  Countries with large Portuguese populations include Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Switzerland, India, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Australia, Angola, Mozambique, Brazil, South Africa, Argentina, and Venezuela.  Celebrating Portugal independence day The best way to celebrate Portuguese Independence Day is to indulge in traditional Portuguese food and drink. It’s an excellent chance for those of Portuguese descent to remember their heritage and enjoy a celebration together.  It is mainly celebrated by eating Portuguese dishes and drinking Medronho, a speciality drink similar to brandy with an alcohol content of 48%. Related read: Ordering Coffee in Portugal Some local dishes you might find on Dia de Camões are: Pastéis de nata, the famous Portuguese egg custard tarts. Bacalhau is dried and salted codfish that soaks in water or milk before cooking. It is also the national dish of Portugal.  Chargrilled sardines are very popular, especially in summer. They are typically cooked over a hot charcoal grill and served with bread.  Soup dishes are popular, such as Caldo Verde (a green soup) and cataplana (a seafood stew).  Port wine was also invented in Portugal and is a famous dessert wine worldwide.  Arroz Doce, also known as rice pudding, is another traditional Portuguese dessert. Chicken Piri Piri has become synonymous with Portuguese dishes around the world. Famous drinks to enjoy on Dia de Camões are Vinho Verde (Portuguese wine), Madeira wine and Ginja (sour cherry liqueur). Related read: The Art of the Galão Pasteis de nata – a traditional Portuguese dessert – depositphotos.com Summary: Dia de Camões Whether you are Portuguese or enjoy learning about different cultures while traveling, we hope you learned something new about Portuguese independence day! Wherever you are in the world, you can likely find a Portuguese community to celebrate with on 10 June when it’s time for Dia de Camões on 10 June every year. You can also look out for a new global city pairing to be announced annually.  What once started as a celebration of a literary icon has transformed into a celebration of Portuguese cuisine, culture, heritage and tradition. It’s no surprise that Portugal independence day is a big deal!  Travel Dudes I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes. [ad_2] Source link

[ad_1] Traveling to Egypt during Ramadan can be an exciting time to experience a unique aspect and flavour of the culture. Nowhere in the world is it celebrated with such vitality and exuberance as in Egypt. This holy month promises to bring you immense joy and generosity as locals enthral you in one of the true highlights of the Islamic year. Traveling to Egypt During Ramadan Did you know that one of the most common greetings during the month of Ramadan is ‘Ramadan Karim’ which translates to “have a generous Ramadan”? This is without a doubt one of the best ways to explain travel tips to Egypt during Ramadan – be prepared to experience exceptional warmth, hospitality and generosity. Okay, so let’s dive deeper into the visiting Egypt during the Islamic calendar. The Islamic (lunar) month of Ramadan moves backwards against the Gregorian calendar by around 10 days each year. This year (2022), Ramadan falls from Saturday, April 2nd (+/- a day) and will continue for 30 days until Monday, May 2nd. All Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan — no eating, drinking or smoking. Working days are made shorter to ensure everyone can get home in time to break their fast with family and friends. Traveling to Egypt During Ramadan What to expect during Ramadan in Egypt If you have ever had the privilege of going to Egypt, you will know that the locals are particularly hospitable. Given that this period is about genera constraint and immense generosity, you will immediately encounter these restraints when traveling to Egypt during Ramadan. They are also more than happy to welcome you into all of the celebrations and festivities, which only happen once a year, so it is a definite bucket-list contender. Everyday life during Ramadan If you are lucky enough to travel to Egypt during this month-long festival, you will notice that the dynamics of everyday life change during Ramadan. Shops close their doors about two hours before sunset and for another two hours after sunset so that the locals can vacate and go and pray. During these hours you will notice how busy cities transform into a peaceful and quieter space. However, don’t worry as these spaces will then re-open and remain open until way past midnight. It is a time of evening living for Egyptians, with shops and coffee houses open late at night as people eat and drink into the early morning hours. Local gatherings during Ramadan Ramadan is a unique and rewarding experience that is deeply rooted in family and ideas around togetherness. Beautiful, right? Well, these sentiments make for the perfect opportunity for many gatherings of friends and families, locals and visitors. You can bet that almost every day there will be some kind of gathering happening. Hotels and restaurants throughout the city hold special promotions and shows for “Iftar” (the fast-breaking meal at sunset) and “Sohour” (the pre-dawn meal taken before fasting must begin again at dawn). This means breaking bread, sharing precious moments and having the best time. What more could you want?! Drinking alcohol during Ramadan Unlike some other Muslim countries, foreigners in Egypt are still allowed to drink alcohol during Ramadan and can also enjoy restaurants, bars and nightlife as normal. And since about 10 percent of Egypt’s population is Christian, many places still serve food and drink during daylight hours, as well. This makes traveling to Egypt during Ramadan even easier! Ramadan festivities in Egypt Festival of lights At night, you will discover streets decked with festive decorations and coloured lights, particularly around traditional areas such as El-Hussein Mosque, next to the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar. Lanterns, or “Fawanis,” hang from every doorway, a tradition that began during the time of the Fatimids around a thousand years ago. At that time, lanterns were used to light the way for processions to observe the crescent moon, which marks the beginning of Ramadan, and to announce the start of each day’s fast when the candles in the lanterns burned out at dawn. Nowadays, lanterns have become part of the everyday iconography of Ramadan in Egypt, in much the same way that the Christmas tree symbolizes Christmas in the West. Streetside entertainment The Egyptian tradition of elaborate Ramadan feasting and street entertainment at night is thought to have begun sometime in the Eighth Century, when a “Mesaharati” would walk around each neighbourhood. Their job was to wake up the residents in time for Sohour by banging a drum. Later, the role of the Mesaharati would expand to include reciting prayers, singing and storytelling. Ramadan tents Today, the special tents set up around the cities for Ramadan have colourful shows and entertainment for much of the night. Some of these tents are very high-class, elaborate affairs, with plush cushioned furniture and large stages for the performers. They are an excellent way to experience traditional Arabic food and music. Also for the adventurous, it is a good opportunity to sample a bubbling water-pipe or “sheesha” filled with aromatic sweet tobacco. What delicacies should you try when traveling to Egypt during Ramadan? Food is definitely an integral part of Ramadan as well as Egyptian culture, so naturally, there are going to be a number of decadent delicacies and specialities for you to enjoy. Whether you are at an iftar table or even at a big Ramadan feast, here are a few things you should defiantly taste. Kunafa Kunafa is a delicious Middle Eastern dessert that is not only a very traditional option but a popular choice during the month of Ramadan. It is essentially pieces of shredded pastry that are soaked in syrup. Then layers are formed and filled with either nuts or ricotta cream. However, there are several recipes, even some with Nutella, seasonal fruits etc. Khoshaf Taken from the Turkish, this light and healthy snack is something that you will witness in many places during your visit to Egypt. This recipe calls for a large variety of dried fruits that are then soaked in warm water

[ad_1] Bora Bora is one of the most popular island destinations in the world.  This fantastic place in French Polynesia (also known as Tahiti) is a popular honeymoon and holiday destination – and we can understand why! This small island features Bora Bora huts on the water unique to the island. You can wake up to the ocean right beside you, complete with cerulean seas, island huts and clear skies. Want to find the best Bora Bora overwater bungalow to visit for your next vacation? We don’t blame you! See also: Tahiti vs Bora Bora: Which Island is Ideal for a Honeymoon? The best overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, French Polynesia Best Bora Bora overwater bungalows Here’s our list of the best overwater bungalows in Bora Bora in no specific order. The Black Pearl  Are you looking for a private Bora Bora overwater bungalow that you can enjoy any time? The Black Pearl is an excellent choice if you’re looking for Bora Bora huts that offer a luxurious stay and include full amenities on the water.  This lodging is a privately owned overwater bungalow that overlooks the lagoon and offers air conditioning and simple swimming access.  You can expect a modern kitchen, spacious bedroom, clean bathroom, large outside deck and even a barbecue for the perfect summer cooking. You’ll also enjoy a private dock where you can swim and enjoy an outdoor shower.  Book your stay at The Black Pearl The Black Pearl overwater bungalow in Bora Bora InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort Perhaps you are looking for a Bora Bora overwater bungalow that offers a hotel-like atmosphere? The InterContinental Le Moana Resort in Bora Bora offers the best Bora Bora huts on the water, with various bungalow rooms on offer.  It features a private beach, shared swimming pool, restaurants, room service, and more. There’s a good reason that this four-star hotel is popular!  Previous guests enjoyed the tasty breakfasts, unique Bora Bora bungalows and views, central location on the island and friendly staff. Book your stay at InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel The St Regis Bora Bora Resort You may be looking for the best overwater bungalows in Bora Bora for a honeymoon or similar romantic getaway. Then, you’ll enjoy the luxury of the St Regis Bora Bora Resort, a five-star experience with some of the best views on the island. You can book from many deluxe Bora Bora overwater bungalow villas at this magnificent resort. Each villa looks toward the main island and has a private bedroom, lounge and bathroom, complete with glass viewing panels throughout the structure.  You will find tasteful, modern finishes designed for comfort and an on-site spa, sun terrace, live music, restaurant, hot tubs, and a fitness centre.  This place is truly one of the most luxurious Bora Bora bungalows you could imagine – and it is also one of the priciest lodgings on the island.  Book your stay at St Regis Bora Bora Resort The St Regis Bora Bora Resort Conrad Bora Bora Nui Sticking to the theme of the best overwater bungalows in Bora Bora is the Conrad Bora Bora Nui. This Hilton-owned hotel boasts a five-star rating and different sizes of Bora Bora huts on the water. It features a clean lobby, outdoor swimming pool, hotel restaurant and bar, relaxing spa, fitness centre and dedicated kids area. Guests enjoy the Conrad Bora Bora Nui for its modern finishes, exceptional service and stunning views.  You’ll want to book here in advance, as it is extremely popular with families, couples and solo travellers. Book your stay at Conrad Bora Bora Nui Conrad Bora Bora Nui OVERWATER BUNGALOW N ° 3 This fantastic private Bora Bora overwater bungalow is a 1-bed, 1-bath home that sits on stilts to offer a truly spectacular panoramic view of the island.  It’s also stated that famous Hollywood actor Jack Nicholson once owned this bungalow. It’s located in the north of the island and is a quiet residential block with a small beach. There are only 5 Bora Bora huts in this little area, so it is pretty secluded and private compared to some of the hotel offerings. Other guests gave this bungalow a perfect score, describing it as ‘literal paradise’, complete with kayaking facilities, a well-supplied house and masseuse available for proper relaxation.  Book your stay at Overwater Bungalow No 3 Private overwater bungalow in Bora Bora Gorgeous Over Water Bungalow in Bora Bora If you are looking for an exclusive Bora Bora overwater bungalow, look no further than this.  Previous owners of similar Bora Bora huts on the water include Jack Nicholson (as previously mentioned) and renowned actor Marlon Brando.  This home is a large bungalow with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and lagoon and mountain views. This fantastic bungalow offers privacy, making it perfect for couples or families. It also provides air conditioning, a full modern kitchen, a large living room and beach access.  This location is one of the Bora Bora huts perfect for snorkelling, swimming and kayaking in the waters.  Book this exclusive bungalow exclusive Bora Bora overwater bungalow Budget stays – Royal Bora Bora Are you on a budget but are still dying to visit Bora Bora? We’ve found one of the best Bora Bora huts for those looking to save money on accommodation.  Royal Bora Bora is a three-star hotel that offers a private beach, restaurant, swimming pool and fitness centre. There are also standard hotel rooms available.  Please note that this is not one of the exclusive Bora Bora huts on the water. However, it will let you experience tropical paradise at a fraction of the cost of typical Bora Bora overwater bungalows.  Book your stay at Royal Bora Bora Royal Bora Bora Other pocket-friendly options you might consider are Lokai House or Sunset Hill Lodge. You probably will not have the best overwater bungalows in Bora Bora at these places. But you may likely be able to spend less money

[ad_1] On your next trip to Spain, there are lots of things you might want to do. Something that you don’t want to miss is a visit to Sagrada Familia basilica.  Whether you’re religious or not, it’s an architectural masterpiece and famous landmark in the heart of Barcelona that is visited by around 5 million tourists every year.  But don’t let the prospect of large queues keep you from visiting! If you weren’t convinced before, here’s how why you need to visit Sagrada Familia on your next holiday to Spain. See also: The Best Tourist Attractions in Barcelona Sagrada Família The History of Sagrada Familia While Gaudi is the most famous name behind the Sagrada Familia towers, nine architects have taken on the project since his death, and it’s still incomplete today.  In case you didn’t know, Gaudi was a dedicated Catholic, and he was notably obsessed with both nature and religion. His plans for the Sagrada Familia towers involved representing the entirety of Catholic history. This project was to become his grandest legacy.  Despite changing hands, every architect involved has remained true to Gaudi’s original plans from 1883. The original completion date was set for 2026. However, this has been delayed due to the Coronavirus pandemic of 2020 – with no new end date in sight. Currently, all ticket sales are funding the completion of the project – churches or the government do not back it. So, when you visit Sagrada Familia, you’ll be financing the completion of Gaudi’s famous landmark.  Private donations are also accepted to build the Sagrada Familia towers further. Whenever it is eventually completed, it will become the tallest church globally.   Another of the fantastic Sagrada Familia tips is that Gaudi was buried there in 1926, located within the El Carmen Virgin chapel. Despite being incomplete, it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site – another amazing fact to tick off your bucket list! Is visiting the Sagrada Familia towers worth it? If you’re asking if visiting the Sagrada Familia towers is worth it during your next trip, the answer is a resounding yes! That’s because the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia was built in 1882. It is a monumental church with ties to the Holy Family and was consecrated by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010. What’s even more amazing about the Sagrada Familia is that it features breathtaking architecture by Antoni Gaudi, one of the world’s most famous architects. He pioneered a new era of architecture called Catalan modernism, which features free-flowing curves and organic forms.  You can find nine completed spires, of 18 in the original design, with plans for further completion in the coming years. See also: Things to Do in Barcelona: Our Barcelona Activity Guide Visiting Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain Tips for visiting the Sagrada Familia As this monument is one of the most popular in Spain, and because it’s in the middle of the city of Barcelona, you can expect queues to be extremely long. The best time to visit Sagrada Familia is as early as possible in the morning.  The Sagrada Familia opens at 9 am when queues are at their shortest. The period between 9 to 11 am is generally less crowded. However, you may want to get inside the monument for the best photographic opportunities later in the day. For amazing pictures, the best time to visit Sagrada Familia is between 5-6 pm, when the sun sets.  The sunlight shines through the colourful stained glass at this hour, producing dream-like sights and images. It’s also possible to attend evening Mass at 6 pm, which comes at no charge. Here, visitors must dress and act appropriately. Some other things to consider include: Length of visit. Most tourists want to know how long to visit Sagrada Familia towers to make the most of their trip. The recommended time is around 2 hours, but you can stay as long as intended.  The price. Sagrada Familia ticket cost is between €33 and up to €99 for an 8-hour guided tour that includes Montserrat. The best time to visit Sagrada Familia. The Sagrada Familia hours of operation are from 9 am till 6 pm every day. Sagrada Familia’s hours of operation for Mass is 6 pm.  Different kinds of tickets. You will need a special ticket to visit the Sagrada Familia towers that include tower access; this is not granted with a basic ticket.  Ticket availability. Make sure to get your tickets in advance, as tickets can sometimes sell out by 5 pm. It’s also an option to buy online tickets to streamline the process. Look for availability and book your tickets below: Extra packages. You may find a higher Sagrada Familia ticket cost for inclusive packages, such as a Sagrada Familia and Park Güell combination tour.  Guided tours for foreign visitors. There are several guided group tours available in different languages. When you visit Sagrada Familia, the currently available options include English, German, Italian, French, and, of course, Spanish.  Can I get a Sagrada Familia audio guide free? You can find free audio guides online, but these cannot compete with guided tours.  Planning your arrival. You can find public transport links that will take you to visit Sagrada Familia – the L2 or L5 via the metro or one of many dedicated buses, including the 19, 33 and 34.  What to wear. Remember that when you visit Sagrada Familia, it is a holy place of worship. Visitors need to dress appropriately, meaning that tops should cover their shoulders, and shorts/skirts should come mid-thigh. Hats are not allowed at the Sagrada Familia. Navigating the Sagrada Familia. You should download the official app to manage tickets, find audiobooks and more. The app costs €26 from the official website. However, it is possible to visit without downloading the app, too. Interior of Sagrada Familia cathedral in Barcelona, Spain – depositphotos.com Summary We hope we’ve answered the question ‘is visiting the Sagrada Familia towers worth it?’ The answer is yes – it’s great to

[ad_1] Taking a sailing holiday as a family is something that has grown in popularity in recent years. Possibly the biggest reason for that is that every stage of such a holiday can now be booked online with very little stress or sweat involved. That includes everything from selecting the place to visit to chartering a boat for duration of your trip. It can all be done very simply using the internet these days and the prices are a whole lot more reasonable than might be expected. That just leaves you to decide where to go and what boat to take. Here we will look at why you should consider sailing around Croatia on a Catamaran. Family holidays in Croatia Set on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is one of the smaller European countries and is comparatively undiscovered by the tourist trade compared with many others. It is referred to by the people who live there as “our beautiful homeland” though and once you have visited you will not find that motto hard to understand. The country presents a particularly fine holiday prospect for families because there is something to please everyone there. Croatia has nightlife and historic sights to delight any adult visitors as well as numerous national parks and outdoor activities that will allow the kids to burn off their energy. Exploring Croatia by boat The single biggest reason to opt for a sailing holiday in Croatia is that you will not be restricted to one place. Chartering a boat means that you can explore much more of what the country has to offer, moving on at your own pace whenever you are ready. You can now quickly and easily charter a catamaran from Borrowaboat, a site that have a wide range of Catamaran boats to choose from while on your travels around Croatia. The water surrounding Croatia is clean and clear as crystal and there are plenty of little islands that can only really be experienced properly on a boating holiday. These include Brac, with its white stone buildings, the scenic Maslinica and Hvar, which offers glorious food and wine that can be enjoyed while you bathe in its summer sunshine. Of course, the mainland of Croatia also has plenty to offer families and taking a boat means that you can sample as much of it as you want. If you are looking for some after dark fun once the children are in bed, Hvar town is known as the Ibiza of Croatia for its nightlife revels. Entertainment that is more child-friendly can be found on Paradise Beach. While some Croatian beaches are rather rocky, this one is very sandy and will allow the children to swim in the warm sea or build sandcastles. The country is also home to several national parks that the whole family will relish exploring for the day. Mljet National Park is the only coastal one and can be found if you sail to the island of the same name. Alternatively, if you want to dock the boat and go inland for a while, there are seven to be found scattered throughout mainland Croatia. All of these boast lakes, rivers and waterfalls that the family can dive into, alongside canyons and mountains that can be climbed by those who are adventurous – and fit – enough! Croatia is generally blessed with beautiful weather during the summer, so it is likely that you will want to get outside as much as possible during your family holiday there. It is a country of fascinating sights like the Museum of the Krapina Neanderthal that is full of fascinating technology-based exhibitions detailing the birth of humanity. Its interactive, cutting-edge displays will delight children of all ages. The sort of boat to take to Croatia As you can see, there are plenty of good reasons to take your family on that sailing holiday to Croatia, but that still leaves the question of what sort of boat to charter. There is no shortage of boat types available, but a Catamaran offers many advantages. One of the biggest of these when sailing with small children is that a Catamaran does not heel, unlike other boat types such as Monohulls. Heeling means when the boat tips to one side or the other, either due to wind in its sails or weight, and it will greatly increase the likelihood of seasickness in children or anyone who is not that familiar with the water. The luxury that a Catamaran provides compared with other boats is another major argument in its favour. The size means that the cabins are apart from each other, affording a lot more privacy than other types of boats – which is essential if you have teenagers in tow. Many Catamarans also offer clear separation between sailing and relaxing sections, so the family can sunbathe or lounge on board away from any crew that are helping to sail the boat. Croatia is beautiful and there is no finer way to find that out than by taking a relaxing sailing holiday there with your family. It will let you explore the peaceful islands off the coast, swim in the blue Adriatic Sea and stop off at points of interest. Travel Dudes I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes. [ad_2] Source link

[ad_1] So, you’ve decided to visit Rome on your next holiday to Italy. We don’t blame you! The Colosseum is a symbol of the Eternal City, with around 8 million visitors every year. You’re probably also considering going on a Colosseum tour, which is no shock, as it’s one of the largest and most famous landmarks in Italy. But even though millions of people visit the Colosseum every year, getting tickets for Colosseum can be pretty challenging if you don’t know where to start. Don’t worry – we’ll tell you everything you need to know about visiting the Colosseum in Rome, including recent changes that ticket holders need to know. See also: Visiting Rome: Sights to Book in Advance A guide to visiting the Colosseum in Rome, Italy Why should I visit the Colosseum? The Colosseum is the most significant ancient amphitheatre globally – and in human history in general. Construction for this massive monument began in 72 AD under the Roman emperor Vespasian. The builders only completed it in 80 AD under the reign of Titus, Vespasian’s heir and successor.  It’s made chiefly of travertine limestone, volcanic rock and brick-faced concrete. In the early days, the Romans most famously used it to host gladiators and their contests and other public spectacles such as animal hunting, executions, battle reenactments, and Roman dramas. As the years went by, its function transformed into housing, quarters, a fortress, a quarry and eventually, a Christian religious shrine. Currently, grand restoration plans are in place to bring the Colosseum back to its former glory. The first restoration began in 2013 and became the first complete cleaning and repair in the history of the Colosseum.  Since 2017, enough progress has been made that the top two levels have reopened for guided visits. However, you’ll need special tickets for Colosseum if you want to visit the top levels.  See also: Things to Do in Rome: Our Rome Activity Guide Visiting inside the Colosseum, Rome – depositphotos.com What will I find when I visit the Colosseum? Before you arrive, you’ll find impressive construction at the monument outside. One of the best places to see the enormous exterior of the Colosseum is through Via Dei Fori Imperiali. This street provides one of the best views of the most well-preserved facade of the entire Colosseum.  The Colosseum had 80 entrances and, at its peak, could fit 50,000 visitors in just 15 minutes. Today, visitors can visit from the Southside, and it now takes a bit longer to enter due to the long queues. The architects designed each of the five different levels in a unique style.  Today, its designs for corridors and stairs are still being used as references for modern sports stadiums. At present, the essential ticket Colosseum visit begins on the 2nd floor.  See also: First Time in Rome Itinerary Different types of tickets for Colosseum Before you enter, you should know that there are a few different kinds of tickets for Colosseum that you can choose.  The basic tickets for Colosseum include access to the main floor and second-tier only, which will take around an hour to visit. You will also gain entry to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill on the same day. However, suppose you’re after a Colosseum underground tour, including the arena, underground section, and third tier. In that case, you will need to purchase a Full Experience Arena ticket. This type of ticket is also valid for two days instead of one and often offers better insights into some of the best-preserved sections of the site.  You can also find tickets for a group Colosseum tour or even a special night tour of the Colosseum. Please note that you will need to print your ticket, or you can show your ticket receipt on your mobile device.  The official website does not mention changing reservations or offering refunds, so be sure that you’re buying for the correct date when you’re ready to visit. Buying Colosseum tickets online One of the simplest and cheapest ways to get to the Colosseum is to buy Colosseum tickets online. We recommend buying tickets from either GetYourGuide or Tiqets. One thing to note is that there are different Colosseum ticket price ranges for various visitors. When looking at the Colosseum ticket price, Adults aged 25+ can expect to pay €18, youth between ages 18-25 pay €4 and children under age 18 can enter for free.  If you want to purchase an Audio guide for your colosseum tour, it will set you back €5.50. Additionally, if you don’t enjoy waiting in queues and are booking last-minute, get the last-minute priority pass. The unique tickets for Colosseum You can also find a few different kinds of tickets for Colosseum that offer far more than a typical touring experience. Some excellent tickets for Colosseum you can find are: The different types of Colosseum tours in Rome Summary When buying tickets for the Colosseum tour, remember that you need to be specific and cannot rely on a basic ticket to grant you access to every section. If you want to spend less time waiting, get a skip the line Colosseum ticket to gain priority entrance to this marvellous landmark. There are also unique Colosseum underground tour options available if you’d like to delve deep into the historical significance of the world’s largest amphitheatre. Another great tip to remember is the colosseum ticket price can vary. Whether you want a basic package or a combination tour that lets you access every level, you can expect prices to adjust accordingly.  Perhaps you are looking for a more extensive Colosseum tour coupled with visiting another famous Roman landmark on the same day. You can find Colosseum tickets online for all of the above and many other unique tours of the Colosseum that are updated every year. We hope we’ve made it easier for you to buy tickets for Colosseum when it is time for you to visit! Travel Dudes I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had

[ad_1] Lunas Collective, volunteer-powered chat helpline, recently held an event called #DearSurvivor, an online discussion on gender-based violence experienced in public and online spaces. This online service has been helping people who experienced gender-based violence. Gender-based violence refers to harmful acts experienced by anyone because of their gender identity or sexuality. During #DearSurvivor, speakers tackled this extensively — what it is, what actions we can take, and how we can care for the survivors. In this post, I’ll share with you some of the things I learned from the event that may be good to know to help make safe spaces for ourselves and for people around us when we travel — whether it’s during your daily commute or a vacation. But first, let’s talk about the Safe Spaces Act! Safe Spaces Act also known as Republic Act 11313 is a law in the Philippines that provides protective measures and prescribe penalties for gender-based violence or harassment. Violation of the Safe Spaces Act is a criminal offense and is punishable with fines or imprisonment. This applies in public spaces such as streets, restaurants, hotels, malls, public parks, public utility vehicles, governments offices, workplaces, schools, etc. This is also applicable to online platforms. According to Lunas panelist and Ateneo Law faculty member Atty. Patty Sta. Maria, the acts that are punishable under this law include both verbal and physical acts such as, but are not limited to the following: Catcalling Misogynistic, transphobic, homophobic, and sexist slurs Relentless requests for personal details Uninvited comments about appearance Sexual or lewd suggestions Obscene gestures Groping Unwanted Advances Any conduct of sexual nature and other conduct based on sex that affects the dignity of a person, which is unwelcome, unreasonable, and offensive to the recipient. Creates an intimidating, hostile, or humiliating environment for the recipient. This includes communication through electronic means. If you witness someone being victimized of a gender-based violence, there are things you can do as a bystander. Often, people don’t take action due to multiple reasons including what is called the bystander effect. Bystander effect is when you don’t do anything because nobody else is doing anything either or you’re assuming that someone else is already doing something about it. Other reasons could be a cultural thing, thinking that’s just the way it is or thinking why make it your problem when you’re not being bothered. Or it could also be thinking that helping won’t really help anyway. During the #DearSurvivor session, panelist and physical therapist Barb Nava discussed the 5Ds of Bystander Intervention, as put together by ihollaback.org, a worldwide people-powered movement to end all forms of harassment. Make yourself familiar with this and remember it in case you witness gender-based violence in public spaces. Distract. You can do this by striking up a conversation with the target or find another way to draw the attention away from them. Some things you can do is ask for directions or time. Direct. Before you do this, make sure to asses your safety first. You can call out or speak up about the harassment and be firm about it. Then, talk to the person being harassed. Delegate. You can find help from someone else, especially someone of authority. For example, if you’re on a bus, you may call the attention of the conductor or the driver. After you do this, you can check on the person being harassed and ask them if they want to call the police. Delay. After the incident is over, check on the person being harassed. Ask if they are okay, if they want company, or if they want to be accompanied somewhere. Document. Again, ensure your safety first before doing this and try to do the first 4Ds to help the victim first. If you’ve done that and the harassment hasn’t stopped, record a video or an audio of what’s going on. This would be very helpful if the victim decides to report the incident to the police. If you do this, here are a few things to remember:– Keep a safe distance.– Film street signs and/or other landmarks to help identify the location.– Say the date and time audibly on the recording.When the incident is over, ask the person targeted what they want to do with the footage. Never post it online without their permission. Make sure that whatever you do is focused in supporting them. And when the survivor is ready, encourage then to reach out and report the incident. Here are a few ways you can report gender-based violence: Aleng Pulis (PNP)PNP Women Child Protection Center Hotline: 177 / 8532-6690Aleng Pulis Hotline: 09197777377 Tisya Hustisya (Free Legal Advice Support)fb.com/tisyahustisyaGlobe/TM: 09533826936Smart/TNT/Sun: 09510774412 During the panel discussion, road safety advocate Arlet Villanueva also shared safety tips when traveling, especially if you’re solo. Know your location. Familiarize yourself with the place you’re visiting. Know your routes and plan your stops. It is also important to know your way around the area you will be staying in. Use an app to share your location to family and friends. There are many apps you can use that will allow your family and friends to know your location even if you are away from them. Use this so someone would always know where you are. Bring a whistle. When you travel alone, bring a whistle and keep it with you at all times. You may use this to get attention or call for help in case something bad happens. Don’t be afraid to speak up when you feel uncomfortable. Your safety is the most important so don’t be afraid to say when something is making you uncomfortable. For more information about LUNAS COLLECTIVE, check out their Facebook page! 2022 • 01 • 13 [ad_2] Source link

[ad_1] It’s no secret that we adore Japan! To this day, it remains our most visited country. In fact, when the pandemic first reared its ugly head in 2020, we were scheduled to complete setting foot in ALL its prefectures. It was one of our big trips that got cancelled. But you know what, it’s the new year! Our hopes were down when 2021 started, but this time around, we’re choosing to be optimistic. So as early as now, we’re claiming it! This year, we’ll be returning to Japan as soon as the country reopens to tourists. But where to go when it happens? We’ve been to almost all the regions but there’s one that lives in our heads rent-free. It’s always the setting in our daydreams and the first to pop up when the Land of the Rising Sun is mentioned – Chubu Region. Also known as Central Japan, it is often considered the heart of the country, thanks to its location and a strong clinging to tradition. We’ve been here five times and we don’t mind returning again and again because (1) it’s a huge area covering stunning highlands, throwback towns, and heritage sites; (2) there’s just so much to see and do; and (3) you can find many amazing hidden spots in Central Japan. Hopefully, when Japan opens its doors again, it’ll be in time for spring because it’s the most delightful season! The temperature is comfortable, food aplenty, flowers abloom, and oh, cherry blossoms! We’re using this downtime to plan our trip so we messaged our contacts at Central Japan Tourism for the best attractions to enjoy in spring, assuming Japan is open by then. Based on their recommendations, here’s our list so far! WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE? Nagoya is the largest city in Central Japan, so let’s start from there. And within the city center, a good spot to check out is Nagoya Castle, especially the Hommaru Palace. The original palace and castle were totally destroyed in 1945 but in 2018, its full restoration was finally completed. But in spring, you’ll be even more energized to stroll around because around the castle grounds are 1,000+ cherry blossom trees painting the site pink! Another awesome site is along the Yamazaki River, 2.5 kilometers of which are flanked by over 600 Yoshino cherry trees. Also check out the many parks that shade Nagoya’s map including Tsuruma Park, Meijo Park, Arakogawa Park, and Togokusan Fruits Park. Kawaramachi is one of Gifu City’s most idyllic neighborhoods. Lodged on the banks of Nagara River, its residents relied on fishing for most of history. But tourists can also get to experience it, too! Kawaramachi is best known for cormorant fishing. Cormorants are aquatic birds that can skillfully catch fish and keep them whole in its mouth and throat. For centuries, locals have been utilizing them to catch ayu (sweetfish), which is a staple protein in the city. It is usually served at restaurants including Kawaramachi Izumiya. While ayu is generally regarded a summer delicacy, it starts to appear in late spring. So if you’re arriving after late May, you may be in for a treat! Kawaramachi also harbors several bygone-era warehouses that have been transformed into shops and townhouses. Speaking of bygone-era houses, another place where you could be transported to the olden times is the Udatsu Wall Historical District in Mino City, also in Gifu Prefecture. “Udatsu” refers to the firewall applied on the ends of the roofs of the buildings to prevent fires. It’s the common denominator of the structures in the area, hence the name. Mino City is also known for producing washi, traditional Japanese paper. As a craft, washi is embedded in Japanese culture, which is why it’s considered an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. Mino City is said to embrace washi wholeheartedly that it showcases washi art throughout the city! That makes us really excited! From Mino Ota, we plan on taking the Limited Express Hida to Takayama! The old town is very accessible from Takayama Train Station, about 10 minutes on foot. We’ve visited Takayama a few times, mostly as a stop on the way to or from Shirakawa-go. But Takayama has its own charms. From its well-preserved wooden merchant houses that took us to the Edo Period to its morning market where we sampled local delicacies. At its shops, we were also able to have a taste of hida beef and Takayama ramen, which were both delish! We can’t wait to be back! Cradled in the highlands of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go in Ono District charms tourists year-round but it’s extra-special in spring. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa-go is one of Japan’s cultural treasures. It is best known for its iconic centuries-old Gassho-style thatched roof farmhouses, many of which have been converted into museums, inns, or guesthouses. Yes, we’ve been here multiple times before but I definitely am always looking forward to run back to its arms! Back in the day, the coastal town of Iwase flourished, powered largely by its Kitamaebune-ship sea trading industry. Many of its early-development buildings have been preserved, creating historic streets that visitors can still enjoy today. Iwase-hama Beach, known as Etchu Maiko, offers a magnificent view of the Tateyama Mountain Range and attracts many tourists in the summer. But there are plenty of places to see and visit in other seasons as well, especially spring. The best way to go around Toyama is by taking the tram that runs through the city, connecting many key attractions. “Don’t leave Toyama without sampling its seafood,” they say. And among the rich ocean bounty that it offers, the white shrimp is perhaps on top of the list. Locally called shiroi ebi, it is said to have gentle sweetness and strong sea taste. Where to try this delicacy? One of the most recommended is the easily accessible Shiroebitei, which is located at Toyama Station. It usually serves shiroi ebi together with Toyama koshihikari rice. Can’t get enough of Japanese food?