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Underwater Paradise: Snorkeling in Croatia By: AuthorCacinda Maloney Posted onMarch 1, 2023 0 Comments CategoriesActivities, Adventure, Beautiful Beaches, Best Beach Towns, Best Beaches, Best Places, Best Tourist Attractions, Blog, Brac Island, Budgeting Tips, Cancun Airport Transportation Services, Cancun Transportation Service, Coastal Towns, Croatia, Culture, Destinations, Fishing, Food & Drink, Health and Wellness, Luxury, Mexican Beach Towns, Mexico’s
Middle Eight, a 180-room luxury hotel and member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts' L.V.X Collection has launched an exciting new limited-time package in celebration of National Saxophone Day. Perfect for budding musicians or jazz fans, the Saxophone Sessions: A Suite Stay for National Saxophone Day package offers guests a one-off opportunity to take a private saxophone lesson from legendary musician Leo Green, VIP tickets to an in-house jazz show at the hotel’s very own speakeasy, and a three-course dinner at Sycamore Vino Cucina combined with a sumptuous suite stay.
Available the weekend following National Saxophone Day (Monday, 6th November) for stays from Friday, 10th to Sunday 12th November, this two-night suite package plays tribute to Antoine-Joseph ‘Adolphe’ Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, as well as jazz
Caribbean Cuisine: A Foodie’s Guide to the Tastiest Dishes in the Islands
Leave a Comment / By admin / September 18, 2023 The Caribbean Islands are renowned for their delectable cuisine as well as their gorgeous beaches, clear oceans, and active culture. Caribbean cuisine offers a mouthwatering variety of meals that will make
Fun Things to Do at Lake AtitlánExperiencing Guatemala’s natural gem of Lake Atitlán is an absolute must when visiting the country. Home to Central America’s deepest lake, massive volcanos rise from the lake’s edges making for some stunning natural views. This juxtaposition and the rich Mayan culture of its surrounding communities make Lake Atitlán a popular spot for both domestic and international tourists alike. However, there is no one destination to visit when it comes to Lake Atitlán. There are numerous small villages that dot the lake’s shores, each more stunning than the last. Everytown in fact has more or less a typical demographic of traveler that attracts them to their town. In this article, we will cover the main towns, their draws, and some fun things to do in each of them. sBefore getting into all the great places to visit at Lake Atitlán, let me tell you a little history and some useful logistical information. Lake Atitlán is deep in the heart of Mayan country with more than 95 percent of the lake’s population belonging to one of the more than 20 Mayan ethnic groups recognized in Guatemala. Residents mainly come from the Tz’utujil and Kaqchikelpeople groups and as such several cultural aspects are still quite prevalent. This includes traditional dress, art, language, and religion. Also prevalent is the love of cacao and chocolate products in general with several artisanal shops located around the lake. Traditional dress is still worn by a large majority of residents and you will often hear Mayan languages being spoken amongst the locals. Some useful things to know in Tz’utujil for example are saqari which means shello and tio’x (pronounced tee-o-sh) which means thank you. To see Lake Atitlán is to experience and appreciate the ancient culture that has been ingrained in the region since long before the Spanish arrived. As for transportation, here is a helpful guide on how you will get around while in the area. Much like the rest of Guatemala, tuk-tuks (or auto rickshaws) can be found everywhere. These are very convenient services if you wish to travel to the next town over and do not want to walk along the main highway. Each tuk-tuk can typically hold 2 to 3 people and will cost you around 10 Quetzals (~1 USD) per ride. However, in most cases, it is actually faster to head downtown to your local dock and travel by lanchas or boat taxis if you are trying to reach other towns. These boats serve as the main form of transportation for both locals and visitors and are one of the most unique transport systems on the planet. Short distances will once again cost you about 10 Quetzals though a ride from one end of the lake to the other may come with a higher price. Consult a local prior to paying your driver as they will almost certainly try to charge you more than what the ride is worth so just be aware.PanajachelPanajachel, known affectionately as Pana by the locals, is the main town and the hub of trade around the lake with its many markets and artisanal workshops. The town hosts the greatest number of hostels and boutique hotels (even hosting Che Guevara at one point) and is famous for its massive market days. On its main street, Calle Santander, tourists can be seen perusing through the many colorful shops or taking a break at the numerous bars and restaurants that
line the street. Panajachel is also home to one of the oldest art galleries in Central America,known as La Galeria which covers themes such as the search for love and the complexity of life.Most intercity
Fun Things to Do at Lake Atitlán Experiencing Guatemala’s natural gem of Lake Atitlán is an absolute must when visiting the country. Home to Central America’s deepest lake, massive volcanos rise from the lake’s edges making for some stunning natural views. This juxtaposition and the rich Mayan culture of its surrounding communities make Lake Atitlán a popular spot for both domestic and international tourists alike. However, there is no one destination to visit when it comes to Lake Atitlán. There are numerous small villages that dot the lake’s shores, each more stunning than the last. Everytown in fact has more or less a typical demographic of traveler that attracts them to their town. In this article, we will cover the main towns, their draws, and some fun things to do in each of them. Before getting into all the great places to visit at Lake Atitlán, let me tell you a little history and some useful logistical information. Lake Atitlán is deep in the heart of Mayan country with more than 95 percent of the lake’s population belonging to one of the more than 20 Mayan ethnic groups recognized in Guatemala. Residents mainly come from the Tz’utujil and Kaqchikelpeople groups and as such several cultural aspects are still quite prevalent. This includes traditional dress, art, language, and religion. Also prevalent is the love of cacao and chocolate products in general with several artisanal shops located around the lake. Traditional dress is still worn by a large majority of residents and you will often hear Mayan languages being spoken amongst the locals. Some useful things to know in Tz’utujil for example are saqari which means hello and tio’x (pronounced tee-o-sh) which means thank you. To see Lake Atitlán is too experience and appreciate the ancient culture that has been ingrained in the region since long before the Spanish arrived. As for transportation, here is a helpful guide on how you will get around while in the area. Much like the rest of Guatemala, tuk-tuks (or auto rickshaws) can be found everywhere. The seare a very convenient service if you wish to travel to the next town over and do not want to walk along the main highway. Each tuk-tuk can typically hold 2 to 3 people and will cost you around 10 Quetzals (~1 USD) per ride. However, in most cases, it is actually faster to head down to your local dock and travel by boat taxis if you are trying to reach other towns. These boats serve as the main form of transportation for both locals and visitors and are one of the most unique transport systems on the planet. Short distances will once again cost you about 10 Quetzals though a ride from one end of the lake to the other may come with a higher price. Consult a local prior to paying your driver as they will almost certainly try to charge you more than what the ride is worth so just be aware.PanajachelPanajachel, known affectionately as Pana by the locals, is the main town and the hub of trade around the lake with its many markets and artisanal workshops. The town hosts the greatest number of hostels and boutique hotels (even hosting Che Guevara at one point) and is famous for its massive market days. On its main street, Calle Santander, tourists can be seen perusing through the many colorful shops or taking a break at the numerous bars and restaurants that
line the street. Panajachel is also home to one of the oldest art galleries in Central America,known as La Galeria which covers themes such as the search for love and the complexity of life.Most intercity
Montevideo - Things to do!
Montevideo is a vibrant and charming destination that is well worth a visit. Located on the eastern coast of South America, Montevideo offers visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day sophistication. The city boasts a stunning coastline, complete with beautiful beaches and a bustling port, as well as a historic old town filled with colonial-era buildings, museums and landmarks. Visitors to Montevideo can spend hours wandering through the narrow streets of the old town, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant and colorful neighborhood. The Plaza Independencia, with its impressive statue of Jose Artigas, is a popular gathering place and a great spot for people-watching. The city's many museums, such as the Museum of Decorative Arts and the Juan Manuel Blanes Museum, offer a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture.Visit a "mercado"Food halls known locally as "mercados" have become increasingly popular in Montevideo in recent years, with several modern and stylish venues popping up across the city. These mercados offer visitors a unique way to experience the local cuisine and culture, with a wide range of food and drink offerings in a communal atmosphere.One of the most popular food halls in Montevideo is Mercado Ferrando, located in the trendy Cordón neighborhood. This beautifully restored historic building features a wide range of food and drink stalls, as well as several boutique shops selling locally-made goods. Visitors can sample traditional Uruguayan dishes like chivito and empanadas, as well as international cuisine. The market also features several bars serving up local craft beers and wines, as well as coffee shops and bakeries. One of the unique features of Mercado Ferrando is the "Cocina al Paso" concept, which allows visitors to watch as their food is prepared fresh in front of them. The market also offers cooking classes and workshops, where visitors can learn how to make traditional Uruguayan dishes like dulce de leche.Another notable food hall in Montevideo is the Mercado del Progreso, located in the working-class neighborhood of La Teja. This market has been a fixture in the local community for over a century and features a wide range of food stalls selling fresh produce, meats, and other goods. Visitors can sample traditional Uruguayan dishes like asado and milanesa, as well as seafood and other international cuisines. Mercado de la Abundancia is another popular food hall in Montevideo, located in the Parque Rodó neighborhood. This market specializes in fresh seafood, with a wide range of stalls selling everything from fish and shellfish to sushi and ceviche.These markets offer a unique way to experience the local cuisine and culture of Montevideo, with a wide range of food and drink offerings in a lively, communal atmosphere. Whether you're a foodie looking to sample some of the best cuisine Uruguay has to offer or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the mercados of Montevideo are not to be missed.Take a free walking tourFree walking tours have become a popular way to explore the city of Montevideo, with several companies offering tours that provide visitors with an insight into the city's rich history, culture, and architecture. These tours are typically led by knowledgeable and passionate local guides who are eager to share their love of the city with visitors.One of the most popular free walking tours in Montevideo is the Ciudad Vieja Tour, which takes visitors on a journey through the city's historic Old Town. The tour covers landmarks such as the Teatro Solís, El Cathedral and Mercado del Puerto and provides visitors with an overview of the city's colonial and post-colonial history. The tour also offers insights into the city's vibrant street art scene, with stops at several notable murals and graffiti installations.Another popular free walking tour in Montevideo is the Parque Rodó and Pocitos Tour, which takes visitors through some of the city's most upscale neighborhoods. The tour covers landmarks such as the iconic La Rambla promenade, the picturesque Parque Rodó and the upscale Pocitos Beach. Along the way, visitors will learn about the city's rich cultural heritage, as well as its modern-day cultural offerings. Other free walking tours in Montevideo include the Barrio Sur and Palermo Tour, which takes visitors through the city's vibrant African-Uruguayan community and the Montevideo Street Art Tour, which focuses on the city's vibrant and ever-changing street art scene.Free walking tours offer visitors a unique way to explore the city of Montevideo, with knowledgeable and passionate guides leading visitors on a journey through the city's rich history, culture and architecture. Whether you're a first-time visitor to the city or a seasoned traveler, a free walking tour is a great way to experience the sights and sounds of this vibrant and cosmopolitan city.Enjoy the city's many beachesOne of the most popular beaches in Montevideo is Playa de los Pocitos. This beach features a wide stretch of soft sand and clear blue waters. The beach is also surrounded by a lively promenade, with plenty of restaurants, bars and shops to explore. visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as sunbathing, swimming and beach volleyball. The beach is also a great spot for jogging or walking along the long promenade that runs parallel to the shore. Apart from its natural beauty, Playa de los Pocitos is also known for its lively atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by a variety of restaurants, bars and cafes, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat or a drink.Playa Buceo and Playa Malvin are two other popular beaches in Montevideo. Both beaches are located in the Buceo neighborhood, just a few kilometers from the city center, and offer visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fun in the sun.Playa Buceo is a wide and open beach that stretches for more than a kilometer along the coast. It is a popular spot for water sports, especially surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to its strong winds and waves. Visitors can also rent paddle boats, kayaks and jet skis to explore the surrounding waters. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, making it easy to grab a bite to eat or a cold drink after a long day on the beach.Playa Malvin is a smaller and more secluded beach located just a few minutes' walk from Playa Buceo. The beach features a long stretch of golden sand, crystal-clear waters and plenty of shaded areas for those who want to relax and read a book. There are several small restaurants and cafes nearby, as well as a playground for children.All the above locations offer visitors a chance to enjoy the beauty of Montevideo's coastline while still being close to the city. Whether you're looking for a fun day of water sports or a quiet place to relax, these beaches are a great option for anyone visiting.Have a night out in CordónCordón is a vibrant neighborhood in Montevideo that is known for its nightlife. The area is popular among locals and tourists alike for its trendy bars, clubs and live music venues. One of the best things about going out in Cordón is the wide variety of options available. Whether you're looking for a low-key spot to have a few drinks with friends or a high-energy dance club, there is something for everyone.One popular spot in Cordón is El Mingus, a jazz club that is known for its relaxed atmosphere and live music performances. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of jazz styles, from traditional to modern, while sipping on delicious cocktails and enjoying the cozy ambiance. For those who prefer a more lively scene, Bluzz Live is a popular club that features live music and DJs playing a mix of Latin, rock and electronic music. The club has a large dance floor and a lively atmosphere, making it a great spot to let loose and dance the night away.If you're looking for a more relaxed spot to grab a drink, Bar Mala Vida is a cozy bar with a laid-back atmosphere. The bar serves a wide range of drinks, from craft beer to classic cocktails and features a rotating selection of local art on its walls.Overall, Cordón is a great neighborhood to explore for anyone looking for a fun night out in Montevideo. With its diverse range of bars, clubs and live music venues, there is something for everyone to enjoy.Day trip to nature or the beachColonia del Sacramento and Ciudad del Este are two popular day trip destinations from Montevideo.Colonia del Sacramento is a charming colonial town located on the banks of the Rio de la Plata. The town has a rich history and is known for its cobbled streets, colorful colonial buildings and historic sites such as the Lighthouse, the Gate of the Citadel and the Museum of Spanish and Portuguese Art. Visitors can also take a stroll along the waterfront promenade, where they can enjoy stunning views of the river and the nearby city of Buenos Aires.Punta del Este on the other hand is a glamorous seaside resort town located on the eastern coast of Uruguay. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels and lively nightlife. Visitors can spend the day lounging on the beach, exploring the town's many shops and restaurants, or visiting landmarks such as the famous Hand Sculpture.Both Colonia del Sacramento and Punta del Este can be reached by bus from Montevideo and there are also organized tours available. While they offer very different experiences, both destinations are worth visiting for a day trip. Whether you're interested in history and culture or sun, sand and sea, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Colonia del Sacramento and Punta del Este.ConclusionMontevideo is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and a lively atmosphere. From the historic Old Town to the trendy neighborhoods of Pocitos and Cordón, there is always something new and exciting to discover in this unique destination. Whether you're interested in exploring museums and art galleries, sampling delicious local cuisine, or simply relaxing on the beach, Montevideo has something to offer visitors of all ages and interests. With its warm and welcoming locals, stunning natural beauty and endless opportunities for adventure, Montevideo is a must-visit destination.
The Best Destinations for Luxury Outdoor Adventures The Best Destinations for Luxury Outdoor Adventures
The Best Destinations for Luxury Outdoor Adventures While every destination offers an adventure of some kind, few countries seem to cater to those searching for thrilling adventures. So, if you prefer an itinerary full of fun outdoor activities while indulging in some luxury, you’ve come to the right place! Each of these spots will delight those with an adventurous spirit.Switzerland Switzerland offers adventures for a range of travellers. The country is surrounded by some of the world’s most impressive vistas, making it a must-visit destination. From bungee jumping off Contra Dam to paragliding in Zurich, luxury skiing on the slopes of Zermatt and much more, the country provides the perfect backdrop for plenty of thrilling ventures.For something guaranteed to make your heart leap, try bungee jumping. Switzerland is home to Europe's highest bungee jumping site. The Contra Dam in Ticino is 220 metres high, a gigantic dam featured in the James Bond movie The Goldeneye.Paragliding in Zurich is your best bet if you're not scared of heights. It's an exhilarating way to enjoy a bird's eye view of Switzerland's breathtaking scenery. Depending on the weather, it can last between 10 to 30 minutes. Aside from Zurich, Interlaken is another popular spot for paragliding in Switzerland.Switzerland is one of the world's best destinations for skiing, especially for those seeking luxury skiing holidays. With over 300 ski resorts, you will have endless options regardless of your skill level. There are some great holiday companies operating in the area, with SNO being a top pick for luxury ski hungry Zermatt travellers. Zermatt is the ultimate destination for skiing in Switzerland, with the iconic Matterhorn in its backdrop. For the more experienced skiers, Verbier is a more suitable option. It has slopes to challenge even the most advanced off-piste skier.Nepal Home to some of the world's tallest mountains, Nepal is a country of incredible beauty. While trekking to Mount Everest often pops up in people's minds whenever you hear about outdoor adventures in Nepal, you do not have to be an expert mountain climber to enjoy trekking in this South Asian country. It has many picturesque trails suitable for beginners, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayan Mountain range.Trekking is the ultimate adventure in Nepal, with thousands of people descending annually to have a closer look at the mighty Himalayas. The most popular trek is towards the Everest Base Camp. But those that prefer easy hikes can trek to the Poon Hill trail or the Australian Base Camp.Those who want a closer look at Mount Everest without going on a trek can book a luxury helicopter tour, where you can admire a bird's eye view of the Himalayas' stunning landscapes. Aside from helicopter tours, you can book VIP guided sightseeing tours to remote villages and nature parks. It can include fine dining experiences at restaurants in mountain lodges, where you dine surrounded by snow-capped mountains.Spain Spain consists of mighty mountains, breathtaking landscapes and pristine coastlines. This makes the country a perfect setting for a plethora of outdoor adventures. Although Spain is known for its bustling cities and intriguing historical sites, there are also lots of voyages to enjoy in the wilderness here. Avid cyclists flock to Spain in winter for exciting cycling breaks, making the most of quiet roads and the blissful winter sun rays. If you want to cycle on quieter roads, visit Costa Almeria, Granada and Murcia. Hardcore cyclists seeking intense and more challenging climbs can conquer Granada's Sierra Nevada Mountain range or look for holidays on the Mallorca 312 route, famous for pulling road cyclists from around the world.The stunning Pyrenees region is a haven for outdoor adventurers. Dividing Spain and France, the mountain range offers incredible activities to satisfy your craving for thrills. When winter comes, the Pyrenees becomes a hub of winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. During the spring, the river turns into raging waters, offering the perfect spot for exhilarating rafting adventures.Spain has some of the world's most picturesque hiking trails, such as the Picos de Europa. The iconic path will take you to breathtaking sceneries of lush green pastures and jagged peaks. Aside from Picos de Europa, you'll also find fantastic nature trails across Sierra Nevada. Canada Canada is an incredible destination for luxury outdoor adventures. The country comprises a spectacular coastline, lush forests, crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped mountains. It is a destination brimming with natural beauty, providing the best backdrop for outdoor activities. Thrill-seekers should not miss the opportunity to try heliskiing in Canada, where you ride a helicopter to ski from a mountain in British Columbia. BC is the world's heliskiing capital, particularly in the province's interior to the west of the Rocky Mountains.If you're into cycling, head to Prince Edward Island, where you pedal through stunning trails with the province's spectacular sceneries in the backdrop, ranging from towering cliffs to bright green pastures and the tranquil blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.Ice climbing might sound like a dangerous activity, but it's worth a try if you're seeking thrilling winter sports. The Rocky Mountains are the best place to start your ice-climbing adventure. If you're not up for the challenge, hike to Johnston Canyon, where you can marvel at the stunning views of the frozen waterfalls.France For those seeking luxury outdoor adventures, numerous things await you in France. The Gorges du Verdon is an incredible spot for thrilling outdoor activities, while the South of France abounds with fun water sports. Paragliding in Annecy is a spectacular activity in France. Home to a beautiful lake surrounded by magnificent landscape scenery, Annecy is one of the world's most picturesque paragliding sites. The other places in France to enjoy this thrilling activity are Normandy and Chamonix. Some of France's most popular water activities are kayaking or canoeing in the picturesque rivers of the South of France. The Gardon River is a spectacular spot for enjoying these activities, where you pass along the ancient Point du Gard bridge as you paddle down the scenic river. Those who want to test their rock-climbing skills should head to Gorges du Verdun, a stunning area renowned for its dramatic natural beauty. At 700 metres deep, climbing the gorges is something you'll remember for the rest of your life!