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[ad_1] Posted: 11/28/2022 | November 28th, 2022 Mexico City used to be off the radar for many travelers because it was perceived as being dangerous. But things have changed in CDMX (short for Ciudad de México) and today it’s one of the most popular places to visit in the country. I loved my time in Mexico City. It’s an incredible foodie destination, has a fun nightlife, lots of history, green space, and boasts lots of galleries and museums to explore. (The art and literature scene here is one of the best in the world.) It’s also a huge, sprawling metropolis, so choosing the right neighborhood to stay in — one that aligns with your interests and travel style — is important. Traffic can be slow, so you don’t want to waste your visit stuck in transit — or risk your safety by staying in the wrong neighborhood. To help you decide where to stay in Mexico City, here is my breakdown of the best neighborhoods for visitors (as well as suggested accommodations in each). But, before I get to that, here are some frequent questions I get asked about staying in Mexico City: What’s the best neighborhood for foodies? Though the entire city is a foodie paradise, Condesa and Roma Norte are two adjacent districts that have excellent food markets, street food, and restaurants. What’s the best neighborhood for families? Coyoacán is pretty far from the center, but that’s what makes it perfect for families: there’s a subway connection and the area is tranquil and safe. What’s the best neighborhood for partying?You can find a party anywhere you go but Condesa and Roma Norte are still two of the best for tourists. Zona Rosa and Jaurez also have a lot of bars and a bustling nightlife. What’s the best neighborhood for history lovers? Mexico City’s Centro Histórico is crammed with interesting historical sites and is pretty much unavoidable anyway, since it’s the most centrally located neighborhood. What’s the best neighborhood for shopping?Upscale and sophisticated, Polanco is bursting with high-end boutiques and outposts of famous fashion designers. If you want to shop ’til you drop (and perhaps max out your credit card), this is the place to do it. What’s the best neighborhood overall? For me, Roma Norte is the best neighborhood to stay in. It’s beautiful, has lots of green space, safe, centrally located, and has a lot of the top restaurants in the city. It’s the hip place to be. With those questions answered, here is my detailed breakdown of each neighborhood!    Where to Stay in Mexico City for Overal: Roma Norte or Condesa Roma Norte and Condesa sit next to each other and are referred to as “sister neighborhoods.” They’re both super leafy and safe, the streets are lined with world-class restaurants, awesome taco stalls, hip coffee shops, craft cocktail bars, and big food markets. This is the hip, artisty area of the city and it’s one of my absolute favorites. (It’s also the most “foreign” as most visitors and expats stay here so you’ll see more Gringos here than anywhere else in the city.) Best Places to Stay in Condesa and Roma BUDGET: Hostel Home — Located in Roma, Mexico City’s first hostel offers fast and free Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, and complimentary bottled water. The homey interior is filled with potted plants and comfy furniture. If you like an “old-school” hostel vibe, this is the place for you. MIDRANGE: Hotel Villa Condesa — Fifteen spacious and comfortable suites make up this boutique property in Condesa. Housed in an erstwhile 19th-century mansion, the hotel is stylish, and the staff go out of their way to be welcoming and friendly. Some rooms have balconies, and there’s also a lovely terrace to chill out on. LUXURY: Condesa DF — This boutique hotel is one of the coolest and most stylish in Condesa. The interior is retro-chic, and rooms are equipped with LCD Bluetooth speakers, rain showers, and Malin+Goetz bath products. The property also has a fleet of bicycles that guests can use to further explore the neighborhood.   Where to Stay in Mexico City for Families: Coyoacán Coyoacán, located about 35 minutes by the metro from the Zócalo (main square), in the southern part of the city, is one of the prettiest neighborhoods in Mexico City. The cobblestone streets and colonial-era houses give the district a charming vibe. It’s quiet and safe here as well. And the central park in the neighborhood, Jardín Centenario, is a great place to hang out and people-watch. Coyoacán is also home to the Frida Kahlo Museum and a bunch of incredible food and clothing markets. It’s a really good place to stay if you want to be away from big crowds. Best Places to Stay in Coyoácan BUDGET: Hostel Cuija Coyoacán — Located within walking distance of all the attractions of the neighborhood, Hostel Cuija offers free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. While the bunks are basic, the bathrooms are clean and the staff goes out of their way to help you make the most of your visit. MIDRANGE: Ágata Hotel — This super stylish Coyoácan boutique property includes plush robes, in-room coffeemakers, and plus-sized TVs. Mexican breakfast is complimentary (and delicious). LUXURY: H21 — A true boutique hotel, H21 has just five rooms. Each is decorated with unique design and color schemes and they all have private patios, art by local artists and craftmakers, in-room coffee machines, and high-end bath products.   Where to Stay in Mexico City for History Buffs: Centro Histórico The Centro Histórico is home to all the must see historical sites like the Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace (and the Diego Rivera murals inside it), Palacio de Bellas Artes cultural center, and the Torre Latinoamericana skyscraper. If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing, staying here for at least part of your visit is worth considering. Best Places to Stay in Centro Histórico BUDGET: Selina — Hands-down the best hostel in Mexico City, this

[ad_1] If you happen to find yourself on a skiing holiday in the gorgeous Ischgl, a stunning ski resort in the Alps, there are a number of top restaurants in Ischgl for you to try after a vigorous day on the slopes. Most of the produce served in any Ischgl restaurant is sourced from local farmers from the area, and the locals are very proud of this fact. Even the meats served in the grill kiosk at the top of the mountain is all locally sourced from farms in the region, as they take pride in the quality of their local produce and want to show visitors the wonderful products they have on offer. Indulge in speedy snacks off the slopes, and then in the evenings go all the way through to refined menus, with tasty culinary treats from the region and international delights from all over the world. Ischgl has also gained a fantastic reputation in terms of gourmet and a la carte cuisine thanks to the resorts buzzing restaurant scene. The high concentration of top-class restaurants in Ischgl comes in useful when you’ve had a long day on the slopes and fancy a treat. Alongside Martin Sieberer‘s Paznauner Stube and Benjamin Parth’s YSCLA Stüva, there are five other restaurants that enjoy an international reputation – Schlossherrenstube in Schlosshotel Romantica, Martin Sieberer’s Heimatbühne, Fliana Gourmet and the Lucy Wang Restaurant. The menus, decor and service in these places are definitely what you would call ‘star’ worthy, with every element combining to give you a luxury experience. Very recently Ischgl was described in the ‘A la Carte’ guide as a ‘culinary Mecca in the Alps’, and Austria’s most influential restaurant guide Gault Millau is in full support of that rave review. Here are my top 5 restaurants in Ischgl, which are dining experiences that you must try on your next visit: 1. Alpenhaus – Mountain VIP Club Alpenhaus is the place to be for a high class experience in Ischgl. From their gorgeous VIP lounge on the first floor (with all the privacy, sophisticated service and a refined atmosphere that you might expect from such a place) to their relaxing sun terrace, this establishment offers world class cuisine all in a stunning alpine atmosphere. Head to the restaurant lounge for a menu that is sure to impress anyone coming fresh off the slopes – Carpaccio of beef, veal fillet duet and prime boiled beef, fillet of turbot, sweet trio: nougat, chocolate and apricot can all be sampled during this fine dining experience. Be sure to order from the incredible cheese station if you can – I can guarantee you won’t have seen such a selection before. If you’re looking for a mountain dining experience to remember, you’ll want to get your Alpenhaus reservation booked well in advance. I would recommend this place for a glamorous lunch to mark your last day. This is one of the best restaurants in Ischgl. Alpenhaus Mountain VIP Club Lamb dish at the Alpenhaus Mountain VIP Club Salad at the Alpenhaus Mountain VIP Club Soup at the Alpenhaus Mountain VIP Club 2. Restaurant Pardorama – Sky tree Situated on the Pardatschgrat, Restaurant Pardorama has some of the most breathtaking views in the entire region, and a menu that is likely to dazzle as well. You can watch the gentle progress of the cable cars up the mountain whilst enjoying a luxury hot chocolate and divine piece of apple strudel, soaking up the sunshine and the beautiful atmosphere of this contemporary ski lodge. This place is ideal for a mid morning break and something delicious to warm you up before getting back on the slopes. Restaurant Pardorama – Sky tree Sky tree – Restaurant Pardorama Panorama view at the Sky tree restaurant Pardorama in Ischgl. 3. Gourmetrestaurant Stiar Stiar has attained a fantastic reputation within Ischgl, and is known as one of the top fine dining experiences in the region. Located within Ischgl town, Stiar is known for extraordinary cuisine that draws influences from far outside of Ischgl’s borders, and even Austria itself. The standard of gourmet cuisine here is high, and the crossover menu style offers rustic Austrian tidbits as well as more modern, international dishes. Stiar also has a legendary classic wine pairing menu, making this place your only choice if you’re looking to book a jolly, glamorous evening dinner during your time in the mountains. Stiar restaurant in Ischgl – starter Stiar restaurant in Ischgl Stiar restaurant in Ischgl – meal Stiar restaurant in Ischgl – meal 4. Wirtshaus Walserstube Paznauner Bauernmuseum Wirtshaus Walserstube is a more local and traditional experience, which is all the more reason for trying it out one day during your holiday. Tucked away inside an old classically Tirolian house (which is over 400 years old), this establishment has been kept within the charming family who runs it for generations. Serving up traditional Austrian dishes in a cosy and warm setting, this place is kind of like going back in time. I would have to recommend that you try the local game meat for a delicious bonus experience. Also I would say its essential that you have a schnapps with the owner and check out his Paznauner Bauernmuseum upstairs in the same building, there’s some interesting oddities and artefact†s in there. Wirtshaus Walserstube Paznauner Bauernmuseum Restaurant of the Wirtshaus Walserstube Paznauner Bauernmuseum Meal at the Wirtshaus Walserstube Paznauner Bauernmuseum Bedroom of the Bauernmuseum of the Wirtshaus Walserstube Paznauner Working area of the Bauernmuseum of the Wirtshaus Walserstube Paznauner 5. Lucy Wang Lucy Wang‘s fantastic sushi restaurants have crafted an international reputation, and you can’t beat gourmet Japanese cuisine with an Alpine twist during your time in Ischgl. Located in a prime (and extremely beautiful) location right next to the cable car station, a dinner at Lucy Wang is a guaranteed glamorous meal with all the culinary delight of a high end Japanese dining experience. I loved the luxury of eating sushi in the Alps with stunning views all around me, and so I would recommend a dinner at Lucy Wang to any sushi lover ready

[ad_1] Are you looking for a beach-based holiday where there’s plenty more to explore nearby too? Then consider a break to the island of Malta. With incredible scenery and lovely coastlines you can sit back and enjoy soaking up the sun, or explore the history, shops and holiday activities that the region has to offer. A holiday to Malta is only 3 hours away from the UK (and not far from most European destinations), so it makes a great destination for those who are looking to take a medium haul break. Here’s a list of the top places to visit and things to do in Malta. Top places to visit in Malta If you are planning a trip to beautiful Malta in Southern Europe, know that you will be visiting a place that is full of rich, historic beauty and quaint, old world charm. It is a densely populated country comprised of many little towns that blend together into one big country full of breathtaking scenery that is certain to provide you with a trip to remember. As you plan your vacation to this beautiful country and are exploring the wide variety of Malta travel tips, hopefully the following list will help you with your travel itinerary. Valletta The capital city is a must visit for anyone wanting to get a sense of history and a feel for the true Malta.  The capital is located in the central east part of the island and the entire town has been awarded UNESCO status as every street, square and church has a story to tell in the history of this country, do not miss the Hypogeum a fascinating underground insight in the history and long lost past of the Maltese people. You must make a point to visit Grand Harbour, Valletta. This beautiful harbour will take you back to ancient times with its naturally made splendor and charm. Grand Harbour, Valletta is one of the most visited places in Europe and it contains many unique hotels for lodging and breathtaking sights to absorb. Valletta, Malta Mdina The old capital of the country and in my opinion, the most picturesque and photogenic town on the whole island. Known as the walled city, take an hour or so to wander round the small narrow streets, stopping to take in the amazing views of the whole island from one of its many vantage points. Maybe grab an extended lunch in one of the small number of restaurants, but leave room for some cake to be devoured in the Fontanella tea gardens, which is located high up on the city walls. So high up is this small fortified city, that on a clear day you may be lucky to see Mount Etna across the sea on the island of Sicily.   Golden Bay Escape the crowds searching for little pockets of sand in the tourist areas of Bugibba and hop on a bus across to the north west of the island to Golden Bay, where sand, cliffs and grottoes can be found with minimal fuss. Although becoming more touristy, you can still get away from it all by visiting the national park close by, catch a ferry to Comino, explore the coastal areas on a speedboat tour or even go horse riding. Comino is the perfect Malta travel destination if you desire to experience crystal blue waters. This beautiful island is home to the Blue Lagoon which is a watery paradise that is the best place in the Mediterranean to experience marine time fun. Mosta If the hot summer sun is unrelenting, but you reckon you could manage a short trip out, head to Mosta on the bus, where its main sights will only take an hour or so to do, before you find a cool air conditioned café to relax in.   The main reason to visit is to see the Mosta Dome (one of the largest unsupported domes in Europe) for its amazing interior of blue, gold and white and the replica bomb that is located by the alter after the original one pierced the dome roof and landed there unexploded during WW2. Goza Maltas sister island to the North is easily accessible by regular ferries from the northern tip of Malta in Cirkewwa. Aim to spend at least one full day here, to make sure you visit the capital of Victoria for shopping, visiting the old prison, the cathedral and a whole range of museums.   Jump on the buses that travel extensively round the island to visit the beaches of Ramula Bay and definitely make time to sample some mouthwatering Gozitan cheeses and wines maybe in one of the many small towns and villages such as Xaghra or Nadur. Before heading back to the main island of Malta, pack your snorkel and enjoy the blue lagoon of Comino a small island in-between the two, uninhabited save for staff of the one and only hotel located there. Blue Lagoon, Comino Island, Malta The Tarxien Temples No trip to this European country would be complete without a visit to The Tarxien Temples. Although The Tarxien Temples were built between 2500 – 3000 BC, 3 of the 4 temples in all of their architectural glory have held up quite well through the years. The Tarxien Temples are a must see for any visitor of Malta. Things to do in Malta There are many incredible things to do in Malta, including enjoying all of the below. The Beaches Malta has a selection of golden sands, in particular the North West Golden Bay is a must visit, and rocky cliffs and caves. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim or clamber across impressive rock formations the island offers it all. Another popular Malta beach attraction is the Blue Grotto area with its striking bright blue water and caverns, perfect for a romantic swim or dive. If you’re hoping to explore further out, beaches in Mellieha bay and Qawra are also great and within walking distance of some good resorts and restaurants. Golden Bay, Malta The Heritage If you’re interested in

[ad_1] Australia is a land of immense natural beauty with plenty of interesting places to visit. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the top destinations to visit in Australia for vacations. If Australia is known for anything, it is its beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery. On this “island”, no matter what you do or where you go, there is always somewhere fun to visit, play, and relax. Australia is the largest country by area in Oceania and the world’s sixth-largest country and it is also known for its culture, friendly locals, its outback and its wildlife. Here is a compiled a list of the best things to do in Australia to help you make the most of your visit. 1. Sights and activities in Wollongong If you’re looking for a vacation spot that has it all, then look no further than Wollongong. This coastal city in Australia is home to some of the best activities and sights in the country. From surfing to whale watching, hiking to exploring history, there’s something for everyone in Wollongong. Wollongong is a beautiful city in Australia that offers a lot for tourists and residents alike. The city has a rich history dating back to the early days of European settlement, and there are plenty of historical sites and buildings to explore. The city also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues to enjoy. And of course, the city’s beaches are world-famous, making it a great spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just a beautiful place to relax, Wollongong is definitely worth a visit. Here are some of our favorite places to visit and things to do in Wollongong. Skydiving in Wollongong Experience skydiving Wollongong, the ultimate destination of extreme level sports with an adrenaline-filled skydive that takes you upwards of 15,000 feet above Wollongong beach. Experienced instructors join you; therefore, all you have to do is to have the courage to leap and enjoy the most thrilling of the fastest and most thrilling experiences of your life. After being adequately prepared and going to a safe and instructed training, you’ll board a plane and fly to 15,000 feet in altitude. Experience the anticipation building and watch the countdown with your tandem instructor before taking the ultimate leap. Then, feel the unbeatable excitement of falling free for as long as 60 seconds at speeds around 200 km/h. Your instructor in tandem will be in charge of the parachute’s deployment, and you’ll be able to enjoy a relaxing canopy ride through the wind as you are still buzzing from the thrill of free-falling. Stanwell Park: Stanwell Park is a great place to start your day in Wollongong. This beautiful coastal park has plenty of trails to explore and stunning views of the ocean. You can also check out the nearby lighthouse while you’re here. Blowhole: Located just north of Stanwell Park, the Blowhole is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. This strange geological formation shoots water up from the ocean floor at regular intervals throughout the day. It’s definitely one of the more unique sights in Wollongong! Mt. Kembla: If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, then Mt. Kembla is perfect for you. This mountain offers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding area and is perfect for taking in the scenery after a long day of activities. Lake Illawarra: Another great place to take in some stunning scenery is Lake Illawarra. This large lake is a popular spot for boating and fishing, as well as just taking a relaxing walk along the shoreline. The lake also borders on several parks, so you can make a day out of it by exploring both sides of the lake! 2. Daintree National Park The Daintree National Park is located in the north-east of Queensland and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia. It’s a two hours drive away from Cairns along the shores of Queensland’s coast and it is the most ancient rainforest in the world. More than 180 million years old, the rainforest is older than the Amazon in Brazil. For additional reasons to visit, Daintree is also the only place on Earth where two nature World Heritage Sites meet, the Reef and the Rainforest. From walking through the rainforest to beaches and swimming holes, Daintree is a nature lover’s paradise. The top attractions of Daintree include the crocodile river cruise Mossman Gorge, the Marjatta Boardwalk, and Emmagen Creek. One of the most popular activities is hiking. There are many different trails that you can take, ranging from easy walks to more strenuous hikes. You can also go birdwatching, as there are many different species of birds that live in the park. Another popular activity is swimming, as the park has many beautiful beaches and clear waters. If you are looking for a more relaxed vacation, you can also just spend time exploring the different rainforests and beaches. There are many different lookout points where you can see the stunning views of the coast and rainforest. You can also take a boat tour to see the coral reefs and go for a swim with turtles, dolphins or whales. Things to do at the Daintree National Park Crocodile river cruise Mossman Gorge One of the best ways to experience the park is on a crocodile river cruise. These cruises take you through Mossman Gorge, where you can see huge crocodiles up close and personal. It’s an unforgettable experience and one that I highly recommend if you’re ever in Australia. Marjatta Boardwalk If you’re looking for an easy and picturesque hike in Daintree National Park, look no further than the Marjatta Boardwalk. This short, wheelchair-accessible trail is perfect for those who want to experience the rainforest without having to venture too far off the beaten path. The boardwalk begins at the Mossman Gorge Centre, where you can learn more about the rainforest before

[ad_1] Posted: 11/22/2022 | November 22nd, 2022 It’s that time of the year again! As we do every year, we’re having our annual Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale…starting today! From right now until Tuesday, November 29th at 11:59 pm EST, our blogging/writing courses, new journal, TNN+ program, and group tours are on sale! This is the only time of the year we ever do any discounts so if you’ve been eying any of our products, now is the time to get them! Here are the details of the sale: Blogging Courses My Superstar Blogging course pulls back the curtain on everything we do to keep this website growing. In this course, I’ll show you how to create products, grow your email list and traffic, write sales pages, network the right way, get media coverage, and, of course, make money! Whether you’re a newbie or existing creator, this course will help you take your business to the next level. You’ll get a behind the scene look at all my strategies and tactics as well as screenshots and step-by-step tutorials. We give you the in-depth information you need to succeed. Here’s what Jeremy from Travel Freak said about our program: “Though I’ve been blogging for 5+ years, I still found Matt’s program extremely beneficial. It helped me to rethink my strategy and come up with a more long-term and sustainable business model. Even as an established travel blogger, this program was useful because it helped to change my mindset and taught me advanced tactics I didn’t know. The information he shares is required to run a successful blog and business in today’s climate.” Superstar Blogging is your how-to manual for success. Everything in the course is exactly what we do here to grow our SEO traffic, newsletter subscribers, readers, and income. We hold nothing back! Regularly $99, we’re offing the course for just $49! Click here to join today and get 50% off! Travel WritingAdditionally, we have a writing class taught by OG travel writer David Farley, who has written a best-selling book, taught at NYU and Columbia, and hosted a National Geographic series. This program gets into the nitty-gritty of becoming a better writer. You’ll learn how to improve your writing, self-edit, become more descriptive, draw your reader in more, come up with story ideas, pitch editors, and even make a living as a writer. Additionally, David will give you feedback and edits on your writing throughout the course. No one improves their writing alone — and no other writing course offers this kind of hands-on help! Plus, you’ll get over 12 hours of interviews with other travel writers and editors, access to a Facebook group where we post job opportunities, and regular monthly calls with David! Here’s what Whitney thought of the program: “This program surpassed any writing course I have ever taken in college, as a homeschool teacher, or as a travel professional. I really enjoyed the content and how it was presented, along with the fact that I could send in my writing for David to review and get feedback on. This program is really the best of the best! Thank you, David and Matt!” The course is regularly $79 per month but we’re offering it for the super discounted one-time payment of just $99! Both programs come with a two-week refund policy so you can buy them risk-free knowing that if they aren’t for you, we’ll refund your money. Group Tours Over the past few months, we’ve been running tours again as part of The Nomadic Network, our community events platform. Next year, we have 30 departures to 11 amazing destinations! Our TNN tours are for people who want to travel — not just vacation — with other members of this community. They are for those who want to meet locals who can show you what it’s like to live in each destination, and for travelers who want to learn from experts about the cuisine, culture, and history of the places you’re visiting. These itineraries are made using our connections to give you a deeper sense of the place and an understanding of the local culture. TNN tours are about connection! For that reason, all our tours have a maximum of 15 people too as we believe small groups foster better friendships and engender better experiences. TNN is taking tours to: Turkey Morocco Romania Tuscany, Italy Paris & the Loire Valley, France Central Europe Jordan Costa Rica Oaxaca, Mexico Mexico City, Mexico Yucatán, Mexico This Black Friday, if you buy two spots on any tour, you’ll get $600 USD off! It doesn’t matter if it’s one spot on two tours or two spots on one tour! So, come with us twice or bring a friend along. Either way, you save! Click here to learn more about the tours and secure your spot today! Travel Journal When I first started traveling around the world, I kept a journal. When I sat down a few years ago to write my memoir, that journal was indispensable. There, among its pages, were 18 months of memories, feelings, and activities long forgotten. It was a trip down memory lane that allowed me to relive my original journey in a way I never thought possible. And that’s precisely the reason we created My Travel Journal. Our first version, which is a special “jumbo” edition (click here for the story) that is perfect for long-term travelers, people studying or living abroad, or those who just want a full year of journaling in one place! It has everything you need: You can use the prompts for travel, or in your day-to-day life at home. You can get inspired by the quotes. You can use it as a reminder that sometimes things don’t work out as planned, but all you can do is make the best of the situation. We’ve designed the journal to be as straightforward and streamlined as possible so that you can remember all those incredible moments. It will help you get into

[ad_1] Posted: 11/17/22 | November 17th, 2022 Rome is a city of layers stretching back centuries. You’re never far from ruins or stunning ancient or classical architecture. One moment you’re passing a modern building, the next you’re staring at some Doric columns from the Roman Republic, a Renaissance-era palace designed by Michelangelo, or a piazza centered around a Bernini-designed Baroque fountain. There are some cities — New York, London — that offer so many attractions, you can’t help but to create a list to check off. And then there are others where you just want to wander and absorb the vibe and the aesthetics of it all. Rome is both. In some ways, it feels like a village, with its venerable, wise ambiance, and in others like a cosmopolitan city, since there are so many museums, historical landmarks, and great restaurants. Obviously, it’s impossible to see everything in one visit. It’s what happens when you have a city of millions dating back three thousand years. Which begs the question: What should you do when you may never come back? How do you decide what to do? To help you make the most of your limited time in this iconic capital, here is the list of my top things to do in Rome:  1. Walking Tour I love taking walking tours. They’re a wonderful way to learn about a destination. I recommend Rome’s Ultimate Free Walking Tour or New Rome Free Tours. They cover all the highlights and can introduce you to the city on a budget. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end. If you’re looking for a paid guided tour that goes above and beyond, check out Take Walks, which offers one of the best walking tours in Rome, with expert guides who can get you behind the scenes at the best attractions. They can get you behind the scenes like no other tour company, including early access to the Sistine Chapel and skip-the-line Colosseum tours. If a food tour is more your speed, Get Your Guide runs a tasty 2.5-hour tour with 5 stops for just 42 EUR while Devour offers an in-depth street food tour and pizza-making class for 89 EUR.  2. The Colosseum Easily one of the most recognizable and jaw-dropping sights in the world, this first-century amphitheater is one of the top attractions in Rome. There were 80 entrances/exits in this super stadium: 76 for attendees/spectators, 2 for participants (i.e., gladiators), and 2 for the emperor. While that might seem like an excessive number, the Colosseum could hold a whopping 50,000 people in its day, and getting them in and out needed to be done quickly. Buy your entry tickets at the nearby Palatine Hill entrance at Via San Gregorio 30, where the line is much shorter, or buy them online (your ticket grants access to Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum). You can also book a tour with Walks of Italy if you want a more in-depth experience. Piazza del Colosseo, +39 06-699-0110, parcocolosseo.it. Open daily 9am–sunset. Admission is 16 EUR.  3. The Roman Forum Once the center of the known world, the Roman Forum today might just be stumps of marble and half-standing temples, but it’s one of the most haunting sites in town. You have to use your imagination a bit, but this swath of dirt and marble was once bustling, lined with shops, open-air markets, and temples. The Via Sacra is the main street that cuts through the Forum, the place where all roads in the empire either began or ended. Once the empire fell, the Forum became a pasture for farm animals; it was known in the Middle Ages as Campo Vaccino, or Cow Field. Over the centuries, much of the marble was plundered, and the area was eventually buried as the center point of Rome shifted. It wasn’t until the 19th century that archeologists began excavating and rediscovering the Forum. Via della Salara Vecchia, +39 06-3996-7700, parcocolosseo.it. Open daily 9am–sunset. Admission is 16 EUR. The ticket gets visitors into the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.   4. Explore the Vatican Museums Home to the famous Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Museums house four miles of rooms and hallways bedecked with one of the world’s great art collections. In addition to the Michelangelo masterpiece on the chapel’s ceiling, there are rooms frescoed by Raphael and paintings by Da Vinci, Titian, Caravaggio, and Fra Angelico, among others, plus halls and halls of ancient Greek and Roman statuary, Egyptian mummies, and Etruscan relics. TIP: Don’t join the mile-long line in the morning like everyone else. Instead, go after lunch, when you can practically walk right in without waiting at all. Skip the line tickets cost 26 EUR. If you’d prefer a guided tour, skip-the-line tours cost 69 EUR and last 3 hours. Viale del Vaticano, +39 06 6988-4676, museivaticani.va. Open Monday–Saturday 9am–6pm. Admission is 18 EUR.  5. St. Peter’s Square and St. Peter’s Basilica The grandest of church in the Catholic world, St. Peter’s was designed by a veritable Renaissance and Baroque dream team: Bernini took care of the two column-filled arms that surround the square, Bramante created an early design for the basilica, and Michelangelo put the dome on top. One hundred and twenty years after construction began, the church was finally consecrated in 1626. It sits on the spot where a fourth-century church once sat and on top of the spot where St. Peter himself was crucified. His bones are still below, where there is an ancient necropolis. Inside the basilica you’ll find soaring domes featuring angels and cherubs blissfully floating around a partly cloudy sky, as well as plus-sized marble sculptures of saints, popes, and Biblical figures. For 8 EUR, you can climb the 551 steps to the top of Michelangelo’s dome. For 2 EUR more, you can take an elevator. Piazza San Pietro, +39 06 6982 3731, vatican.va. Open daily 7am–7pm. Admission is free.   6. Campo de’ Fiori One of the most organic-feeling squares in

[ad_1] The Hagia Sophia is one of the most popular sights in Istanbul, and for good reason – it’s an incredible place! If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, make sure to put the Hagia Sophia on your list of must-sees. Guided Hagia Sophia tickets are relatively inexpensive, and there are a few different ways to buy them. You can purchase tickets at the door, or in advance online. We recommend buying your tickets online ahead of time to avoid any lines or crowds at the attraction. Trust us, visiting the Hagia Sophia is an experience you won’t want to miss! Buying tickets for to the Hagia Sophia However, buying Hagia Sophia tickets can be a bit confusing, especially if you’re not familiar with the city or how Turkish ticketing works. To save you some trouble (and help you make the most of your trip!), here’s a quick guide on how to buy tickets to see the Hagia Sophia. The first thing you need to know is that there are two types of tickets: a regular and free entrance ticket and a guided tour ticket. The regular free entrance ticket will gain you access to the Hagia Sophia, but doesn’t include any information or guidance about the building itself. On the other hand, the guided tour ticket includes an audio guide as well as access to certain parts of the Hagia Sophia that are usually closed off to visitors. If you’re looking to learn more about the history and story behind this incredible piece of architecture, we recommend going with the guided tour option! However, if you’re short on time or just want to explore at your own pace, then getting a regular entrance ticket would suffice. You can buy a guided tour ticket here or a guided tour ticket with a historian here. Good to know about visiting Hagia Sophia Purchasing Hagia Sophia tickets is a simple process, but there are a few things you should keep in mind before you buy. First and foremost, it’s important to know that the Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays. Secondly, admission to the Hagia Sophia is free, unless you would like to have a guide, telling you more about this beautiful building and its history. Then we recommend buying a tour in advance online. Not only will this save you time, but it’ll also allow you to take advantage of discounted rates for groups of 10 or more people. So how do you purchase tickets online? Decide how many tickets you need. Then simply fill out your contact information and hit “submit.” It’s that easy! If you want to visit other nearby attractions like the Topkapi Palace or the Sunken Palace, then you’ll need to purchase a multi-site ticket. Once you have your ticket, simply show it to the security guard at the entrance and enjoy your visit! For guided tours you’ll have a free admission for children under 2 years old. Discounted ticket prices for children 3 to 7 years old (with valid photo ID). Audio guides available depending on the ticket option booked. Hagia Sophia Highlight Tour with Guide and Audio Guide App This is a ticket for an exclusive, guided VIP tour of the Hagia Sophia. Book your Hagia Sophia Tour online now and enjoy the Highlights Tour with included Audio Guide App! Price: €14.25 Discount: 5% Bestseller Tour Instant Confirmation Free Cancelation Directly Available Book here! How the Hagia Sophia visit works After you place your order, you will receive a confirmation with the meeting point and details for downloading the Hagia Sophia Audio App. Your Istanbul Welcome Card guide will meet you at the Hagia Sophia and escort you inside for a 30 minute tour, providing essential historical information along the way. After the tour, feel free to ask your guide anything about the Hagia Sophia, Byzantine Empire or Istanbul. You’ll also receive a Hagia Sophia map so that you can explore on your own and learn more through audio commentary on your smartphone app. Important information You won’t be able to cut the security line. During high season, the security check can take up to 30 minutes. Your advantages Be flexible – You determine the start time and pace Individual Travel – You don’t dependent on a group! User friendly Combi ticket: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Sunken Palace Basilica Cistern and Audio Guide App Price: €51.30 Discount: 5% Bestseller Tour Instant Confirmation Free Cancelation Directly Available You may cancel these Hagia Sophia tickets up to 24 hours prior to the start of the experience to receive a full refund. This VIP combo ticket will save you time and money as it allows you to easily visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and Sunken Palace. After your reservation, you will receive a confirmation with meeting places and times, as well as download details for the Audio Apps. Your guide will meet you in front of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern. You will skip the ticket lines (except Hagia Sophia) and enjoy a 30 min highlights tour with a licensed local tour guide inside each museum. Afterwards, you can stay at each sight as long as you want and listen to exciting stories in your included audio guide apps on your smartphone. Book this tour here! Combo ticket Istanbul is valid for 3 days You can visit all 3 museums in 1 day or at different days. Your name will be on our list for 3 days. You can come at the available times, to our meeting points and visit with your Istanbul Welcome Card guide these top museums. Important information You can skip ticket lines with guides, but can not skip the security line. Your advantages Be flexible – You determine the start time and pace Individual Travel – You don’t dependent on a group! User friendly Sunken Palace: Quick entry with highlights tour + audio guide Price: €19.95 Duration: flexibleIncluded: – Quick admission to the Sunken Palace – English speaking tour

[ad_1] Basically, the best time to visit Mexico is during the North American and European winter months from November to April. You can look forward to fantastic weather conditions during these months as it is the dry season in Mexico with minimal rainfall. With an average of six to seven hours of sunshine per day, you can enjoy your beaches and other activities outdoors. The air temperature usually hovers around 22-31 degrees Celsius; warm enough for comfortable exploring but not too hot. At night, temperatures rarely drop below 20 degrees Celsius so you won’t need heavy layers even after sunset. All in all, the weather during November through April makes for perfect conditions to get acquainted with this beautiful country and its people. See also: Reasons to Plan a Vacation to Mexico Climate in Mexico The climate in Mexico varies depending on the region, from subtropical to alpine. The lower regions are generally warmer and more tropical, while the higher regions are milder. Throughout the year, temperatures stay relatively temperate due to the proximity to the equator. The exception is in the highlands, where it can get quite cold. Snowfall is also not uncommon in these areas. Due to Mexico’s large size and location, there are regional differences in climate. For example, the northwest has a desert-like climate due to the Californian current. The tropical climate on the east coast is caused by currents coming from the Caribbean. The north of Mexico is under the climatic influence of the USA and experiences cooler winters and warm summers. See also: Tips for Planning the Ultimate Trip to Mexico Best travel months for Mexico (Acapulco) The best months to travel to Mexico and Acapulco are typically during the dry season, which runs from November through April. However, you can also visit during the summer months, as temperatures remain consistent throughout the year. November: 31°C, 8h sun, 26°C water temp., 1 rainy day, 76% humidity December: 31°C, 8h sun, 25°C water temp., 0 rainy days, 76% humidity January: 30°C, 9h sun, 24°C water temp., 0 rainy days, 75% humidity February: 31°C, 9h sun, 24°C water temp., 0 rainy days, 74% humidity March: 31°C, 9h sun, 24°C water temp., 0 rainy days, 74% humidity April: 31°C, 9h sun, 25°C water temp., 0 rainy days, 75% humidity When is the rainy season in Mexico? The best time to visit Mexico, if you’re looking for cheap prices and fewer crowds, is during the rainy season, which runs from May to October. These months see the most rainfall, with August and September being the rainiest. However, showers usually only last for a short period of time in the afternoon, evening, or at night. And although thunderstorms are not uncommon, they typically don’t last long. Afterwards, you can enjoy beautiful weather for the rest of your vacation. Another benefit of traveling during the rainy season is that everything is in full bloom and looks gorgeous. So if you don’t mind a little rain, consider planning your trip to Mexico for this time of year. Just be aware that the rainy season is also hurricane season! When is hurricane season in Mexico? The rainy season in Mexico usually signals the start of hurricane season, which lasts from June to October. Hurricanes typically occur most often between August and October. However, the chances of a hurricane hitting Cancun during this time are very low. See also: Is it Safe to Travel to Mexico? Best time to visit Cancun Cancun is a beautiful place located on the Yucatan Peninsula in southern Mexico. It is well known for being a tourist stronghold and offers many different activities to do. The best time to travel here are the months of November to April when temperatures are just below 30 degrees Celsius. In the Mexican dry season, it is summery hot and dry with perfect swimming conditions in the sea with 24 to 26 degree water temperature. However, I would not recommend traveling during the rainy season due to extremely hot temperatures, high humidity and many rainy days. If you can cope with these conditions, then there’s nothing stopping you from having an amazing trip! Climate chart Cancun, Mexico. Hotels at the beach in Cancun, Mexico When is the best time to visit Tulum in Mexico? The best time to visit Tulum in Mexico is from mid-January to mid-February. This is when the weather is the most pleasant, with average temperatures around 72 degrees Fahrenheit. January and February are also some of the driest months of the year, so you’ll have great beach weather. See also: Where to Stay in Tulum: Budget Beachfront Accommodation When is the best time to visit Mexico City? The best time to visit Mexico City is during the cooler months, from November to February. The weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds than in the summer. You can explore the city’s many historical and cultural attractions, and enjoy its vibrant nightlife. But actually Mexico City is a great place to visit any time of year. The weather is mild and there are plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy. Spring and fall are especially nice, when the city is in full bloom and the days are warm but not too hot. When is the best time to visit the Riviera Maya in Mexico? The best time to visit the Riviera Maya in Mexico is from December to April. This time period has the best weather, with average temperatures ranging from 21-27 degrees Celsius. It also coincides with the holiday season, so there are often more events and activities happening during this time. When is the best time to visit the Pacific Coast in Mexico? The best time to visit the Pacific Coast in Mexico is during the dry season, from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is very little rainfall. The Pacific Coast is a popular tourist destination during this time of year, so you can expect

[ad_1] Last Updated: 11/15/22 | November 15th, 2022 Travelers can be a fickle group of people to buy gifts for. We’re constantly coming and going, we usually don’t carry a lot of stuff with us, and no two travelers are alike so finding the perfect gift for the traveler in your life can be tricky. While a plane ticket is never a bad idea (I’m a window seat in case anyone is thinking of getting me one), I’ve put together this ultimate holiday gift guide for travelers as there’s a lot of great travel gear out there these days that helps people travel cheaper and better. Even me, the gear-adverse traveler, likes a lot of this stuff! This is stuff I actually think is super useful. No nonsense. No fluff. Just the best gifts for intrepid travelers and globetrotting nomads!   Gifts Under $25 1. A Travel Lock This simple item is one of the most important for the budget traveler. Since many hostels have lockers, backpackers need to have their own travel lock when they’re on the road. While you can usually rent them at hostels, those prices add up after a while. I never leave home without a lock because I know it will come in handy. Buy now on Amazon!   2. Loop Earplugs Anyone who has ever stayed in a hostel knows that a quality pair of earplugs is a necessity. From chronic snorers to late-night drinkers to copulating couples in creaking bunks, hostels are known for their less-than-quiet accommodation. I suggest investing in good earplugs and not just the cheap foam ones. Not only will they help you sleep, but they’re great for bus trips and flights as well as wearing as you explore louder, more hectic cities. Buy now on Amazon!   3. DryFox Quick Dry Travel Towel Unless you’re only staying at hotels or using Airbnb, you’re going to need to bring a towel when you travel. Having a lightweight, quick-drying towel makes a huge difference when you’re on the road since regular towels are too bulky and heavy (and they take a long time to dry). Get a travel towel for your next trip so you can travel light. They’re a compact, quick-drying solution that every backpacker needs. (Use code “nomadicmatt” for 15% off your purchase!) Buy now at DryFoxCo!   4. Travel Adapter Nothing is more tedious than arriving to a new destination only to realize you can’t charge your devices because the electrical outlets are different. That’s why you’ll need a travel adapter. They’re a simple accessory. There’s a million out there but this is one I use as it covers every region of the world and comes with USB ports too. It’s cheap, easy to use, and lightweight. Everything you need in an adapter. Buy now on Amazon!   5. Scratch Travel Maps from Landmass Scratch maps are a fun way to keep track of your past travels while helping you stay inspired as you plan your future trips. You simply scratch off the parts of the world you’ve been. Simple. Easy. Landmass is my favorite company that makes these, though there are plenty of other companies that make them now so you can find them in all sorts of sizes and colors. Buy now on Amazon!   6. Passport Holder A passport holder is a must-have for any avid traveler. Not only does it protect your passport from wear and tear, it makes your travels much more convenient. Most passport holders have slots for your travel credit cards as well as any cash you have, making it a safe and convenient way to keep your valuables secure while you travel. While there are tons of expensive and fancy passport holders out there, a simple one will get the job done and save you money in the process (money you can spend on more travels!). Buy now on Amazon!   7. Hand-drawn Food Maps These are unique, hand-drawn typographic maps of food from Legal Nomads and artist Ella Frances Sanders. They make a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves to eat and travel (and who doesn’t!). They come in a variety of sizes too! Jodi’s maps are the best! (Use code NOMADICMATT to save 10%) Buy now at Legal Nomads!   8. Ten Years a Nomad (and Other Travel Books!) This book is my memoir about my ten years traveling and backpacking the world, my philosophy on travel, and the lessons I learned that can help you travel better. It takes you on a trip around the world from start to finish: getting the bug, the planning, setting off, the highs, the lows, the friends, what happens when you come back — and the lessons and advice that come with all that. People have been really enjoying and connecting with it and I think you or any other traveler would love it!! (Plus, getting it helps support everything we do here!) Buy now on Amazon!Buy now on Bookshop!   For more travel book suggestions, you can check out my list of recommend reading on Amazon and Bookshop (I have hundreds of book suggestions there!).   9. Celiac Travel Cards My friend Jodi from Legal Nomads created these helpful travel cards for anyone traveling with Celiac disease. They are in-depth resources that communicate your concerns to restaurant staff in a way that allows anyone traveling with the disease to have a worry-free meal. If you or someone you love has Celiac disease, these travel cards are a useful resource! (Use code NOMADICMATT for 10% off!) Buy now at Legal Nomads!   10. Dry Shampoo Dry shampoo is a convenient liquid-free alternative to regular shampoo. It’s a useful minimalist solution for budget travelers who travel carry-on only and an eco-friendly choice as well. Natural dry shampoos absorb the grease and oil in your hair, keeping it clean while you’re on the road — and with minimal effort too. It works for all types of hair and hair lengths as well

[ad_1] Posted: 11/14/22 | November 14th, 2022 I’ve never been to India. I know. Crazy, right? It’s not that I don’t want to go but life has just always gotten in the way. However, India is a place a lot of people visit and, since I can’t write about it, I want to bring in someone who can: my friend Mariellen Ward. She’d a travel writer who has been going to India since 2005 and runs the website Breathedreamgo. We’ve known each other since 2010. Today, she’s going to share some tips on how to visit India for first-time visitors. I will never forget my first time visiting India. My first car trip in Delhi felt like a roller-coaster ride. Cars and trucks of every size, overloaded bicycles and motorcycles, and even the occasional bullock cart, seemed to be coming at me from every direction. No one was paying any attention to lanes or the rules of the road. Vehicles were driving the wrong way. I couldn’t make sense of what was happening. I had heard about the “sensory overload” travelers feel in India, and now I was experiencing it. It was exciting and nerve-wracking in equal measure. And just a taste of things to come. I spent six months crisscrossing the subcontinent on my first trip, back in 2005 and was often overwhelmed by the huge crowds, the foreign traditions, the perplexing bureaucracy, the mind-boggling complexity, and the bewildering culture shock. These things combined make India a challenging — though very exciting and rewarding —destination. However, if you read and follow these travel tips for first-time visitors, they could help smooth out some of the more disorienting bumps. 1. Slow down It takes time and some know-how to successfully navigate in India. This is not a place for hurried travel. Don’t try and see as much as you can; that is not the right approach. It’s tiring to travel in India, and the object should be to experience it, not to check things off a list. As a general rule, for every two weeks you are in India, pick one region. For a one-month trip, just pick two regions — say, two weeks in Rajasthan and two weeks in Kerala. You can even sit in one place and still not miss anything. No matter what, if you are in India, you will experience India. 2. Adjust your attitude Let yourself fully experience India. There’s a quote from the movie The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel that sums it up: “India hits you like a wave. If you resist, you will be knocked down. But if you dive into it, you will be alright.” Likewise, accept that things will not go as planned. Cultivate the philosophy that things happen the way they are supposed to, not the way they are planned. This attitude can lead to the most marvelous adventures. 3. Be careful who you trust Having said that it’s a good idea to be open, a healthy level of skepticism also comes in really handy in India. There are many con men there, especially in the travel and hospitality sector. They have a sixth sense for first-time visitors and will try and take advantage. So, learn the prices by asking locals and other travelers before negotiating with auto-rickshaw drivers and market vendors. Don’t believe drivers — or random people you come across at airports, train stations, and tourist attractions — who tell you things such as your hotel burned down, or the train you want was canceled. Often, an opportunity to make money off of you will spur creative tactics, and some of these scams can easily catch you off guard. Once, I was looking for a new iPhone case and the vendor showed me one and told me it was made by Apple. But a close look revealed four spelling mistakes in one short sentence engraved inside the case. 4. Practice safe travel India has a reputation as a daunting travel destination, especially for women. However, I have spent many years in India as a female solo traveler, and though I have been uncomfortable, I have never felt really unsafe or threatened. Reported crimes against tourists are relatively rare, but harassment, staring, pickpocketing, and getting ripped off are common. There are also anecdotal reports of women being molested, especially in busy, crowded places. Follow basic precautions and safe travel strategies, and use common sense in India. Here are several safety travel tips (please read my top tips for women traveling in India for more details): Buy a local SIM card so that you can make local calls and stay in touch. Research carefully where you want to go, ensuring it is an area frequented by other travelers, with good infrastructure and hotels. Plan your travel so you don’t arrive late at night; travel during daylight hours only. Be careful when posting to social media, so that you are not revealing your current location. Stay alert to your surroundings, and keep a close eye on your handbag and luggage. Keep the Tourist Helpline number handy and call if you need any assistance: 1-800-111363. 5. Try a small group tour For your first time in India, try taking a small group or custom tour to help you get your feet wet. My company, India for Beginners, was founded to help women travel safely and well in India. We offer a few small group tours, but we specialize in creating custom tours and providing a high level of personal service, such as meeting travelers at the airport and assigning a tour manager who is available 24/7. We hold your hand in India! 6. Take the train Taking a train in India is a great experience and should not be missed. However, you need some basic knowledge about the classes and the trains. You may not want to dive into sleeper class or general class immediately; I would recommend 2AC (second class with air conditioning) or CC (chair car). Or even 1AC