Travel – Page 3 – Roaming free – tales of wanderlustbykelley

Your Next Holiday Will Be Your Best

We’re predicting it for you right now. Your next holiday is more than likely going to be your best, and it definitely won’t be your last. We’ve sai more than likely, because a lot of you might just disregard the information we’re about to list below for you. But what you don’t realise is that the information listed below for you is the key to a better holiday. Everyone deserves to have one of those holidays that is just a cut above the rest every once in a while as well. The ones where you sit and think, ‘omg, as if we just had a holiday like that!’. If you haven’t thought that before, and the most you think is that you’ve got an excellent tan from sitting on the beach all day, then times are seriously about to change for you. We love holidays, we love everything about them. Which is why we don’t want you to to miss out on making sure that your next holiday is definitely your best! Have a read on, and totally transform the way that you think about going on holiday.

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Think Outside The Box

If you don’t think outside the box with your holiday, you’re always going to go for the same type of holiday. Let us demonstrate. We bet that the first thing you do when thinking about taking a trip abroad, is open up your laptop, and go straight to the tour operator that you trust the most. Or, you’ll walk into your local travel agents, and you’ll sit down with the same traveller advisor that you always do, and book the same kind of holiday. Well, now we think it’s time for you to think outside of the box just a little bit. To come up with something that will change the way you view holidays. One way we think you should do that is by booking everything separate. You wouldn’t believe the amount of luxury hotels that are out there, but just don’t connect themselves with the tour operators you use. Not only could you save a hell of a lot of money by doing this, you’re also just experiencing something a little more unique in a way. You could even search for your own apartment to rent out for the duration of your trip, and then go self catered. To some of you, going self catered is like the antichrist of a holidays. You want to be waited on, right? Well, who is to say that you can’t go out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and experience some of the finest foods that you definitely wouldn’t get to experience if you were to go self catered.

Treat Yourself To Something Fancy

Again, something you probably don’t do. It’s not often that the all inclusive options you go for will usually offer something fancy, so it’s time to go out there and find it for yourself. There are so many different excursions that will allow you to experience something a little upmarket. Yes, we are implying that you should get off your bum, and go out and do something! If you have a look at this blog, you will find a review of some of the best wineries in Napa Valley. Now, even if wine tasting just isn’t your thing, it’s definitely something that you should be considering. The views you get are absolutely amazing, and a lot of these excursions actually come as a package. You get to try some nice food, you get a tour round all of the winery, and you obviously get to try some amazing wine. They’re usually not that expensive either, and most of the time they’re an all day thing in the blazing hot sun. If you want a bit of fine dining and elegance, we would definitely recommend giving a trip to a winery a go.

As well as this, you could think about treating yourself to a little shopping trip. If you don’t go on holiday and buy something for yourself from the shops, are you really holidaying right? The shops abroad seem to have so many choices, and you’ll find brands that you’re not usually used to wearing. There’s just something so exciting about going on holiday and going on a little shopping trip, more so than if you were to go shopping when you’re back at home. Top tip, the jewelry always seems to be more flashy, yet cheaper, in countries such as the Caribbean and Spain.

Go With Someone Different

If you’re always going on a holiday with your partner, or your family, you’re only allowing yourself to experience the same sort of vibe. If you’re a family holiday type of person, all you’ll most likely do is sit around the pool, take the kids to the beach or waterpark, and repeat. Don’t get us wrong, it is so lovely to see them having so much fun, and you’ll just be able to make so many memories along the way, both for you and for them. If you go with your partner, then holidays usually are more special. It’s always so nice to get away and have some quality time together, we often don’t seem to have enough of it. But, one holiday we definitely all need from time to time is a best friend holiday. They’re just made for fun, laughs, and having too much to drink. If you haven’t planned a holiday with your best friend before, we definitely think you should start talking about it today.

Go Somewhere A Bit Off The GridFinally, if you want an experience like no other, you have to go to a place like no other. We’re always so focused on going to some of the mainstream holiday destinations out there, when in fact, the world has so much more to offer than that. This link gives you just a few examples of some off the grid places you could visit. You never know, it could be the best holiday you’ve ever been on!

Top Destinations To See In The New Year

What does your typical New Year’s look like? If you’re tired of the same old thing, why not experience New Year somewhere incredible instead? Many countries around the world are known for their New Year’s Eve celebrations, giving you the perfect excuse to jet off and do some traveling. Get the inspiration you need with this list of top destinations to see in the New Year.

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Sydney

Sydney is one of the first major cities to see in the New Year, which is why it gets so much attention on the news. If you want to be a part of that excitement and magic, then a visit to Sydney is a must. Watch the fireworks from Sydney Harbor and you’ll be a part of an experience you’ll remember forever. After the party’s over, you’ll be able to experience all of the other wonderful elements that draw travelers to Sydney each year.

Bangkok

With its amazing nightlife and bustling crowds, a New Year’s spent in Bangkok is one you won’t forget. CentralWorld Plaza is the place to be on New Year’s Eve to join the crowds and enjoy the countdown. Grab cheap flights to Bangkok and enjoy seeing in the New Year in the world’s most popular place to visit. An excellent way to begin a Thai adventure, your New Year’s Eve will be one night in Bangkok you won’t forget.

Edinburgh

In Scotland, Hogmanay (the last day of the year) is celebrated, and what celebrations they are in lovely Edinburgh! The city is a hive of excitement on New Year’s Eve and there’s plenty of dancing and song to help you feel at home and ready to end the year on a high. Pack your warm clothes and visit Edinburgh – it won’t disappoint!

Dubai

The opulent and stylish Dubai makes a great destination for some New Year’s celebrations. You can guarantee excellent New Year’s Eve parties in Dubai that will make for a fun and entertaining evening. Head to the Burj Khalifa and watch those fireworks dazzle the night sky.

Rio de Janeiro

Where can you go for New Year’s that will be warm, buzzing and ready for a big party? Rio of course! Rio sees millions of people join together for one big party to enjoy the wonderful atmosphere, celebrate on the beach and the streets and welcome the New Year in style. Copacabana Beach is the place to be, so be sure to get there early to grab a good spot.

New York

Last but not least is, of course, the city that never sleeps. A New Year’s Eve spent in Times Square is something that everyone should do in their lifetime and be part of some wonderful celebrations. All eyes look to Times Square on December 31st, you can be there to watch the ball drop and enjoy plenty of amazing entertainment too.

With so many wonderful destinations to choose from, you’ll want to spend New Year somewhere new every year. Where will you spend your New Year’s Eve? Pick a travel destination and try something different this year.

Terrific Transportation: Getting Around in Style on Your Next Trip!

Looking to add a bit of style, luxury or just something a bit different to your next trip? Why not think about different ways to get around? There are all kinds of vehicles and modes of transportation that you can take advantage of that are not only practical but fun too. Here are just a few variations for your to consider.

Use a limo service

Do you have a special night out planned for while you’re away? Maybe you’re away with a big group of friends on a party holiday, and there’s a particular club you’re all looking forward to. Perhaps you’re on a trip with your partner, and you want to plan something special for your anniversary, Valentines Day, their birthday or the night you’re going to propose! You might have booked a show, night at the theatre or other occasion for the family and arriving in a limo would be the icing on the cake. If you just want a super luxurious getaway, you could have one pick you up from the airport- companies like Sabra Limo Service. A nice way to get to your hotel after a long flight, it certainly beats a crowded bus! There will be limousine companies dotted around in most destinations, so have a look ahead of time and get it booked up if it’s something you want to add to your trip.

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Hire a cool car

Planning on going on a road trip, or doing some driving while you’re away? Maybe you want to drive over the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco or defeat Route 66. You might want to take a drive through the stunning French countryside, or drive the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland. Whatever you have in mind, if you’re going to be on the roads why not do so in style? You can hire a car of your choice, it could be a luxury model that you’ve always wanted to own or a rugged 4×4. It could be a muscle car, a supercar or whatever you fancy. Have a think about the kind of route and what would best suit the journey you’ll be doing. Either way, finding a stylish way to get around can add comfort and luxury to your getaway.

Take a ride in a helicopter

A ride in a helicopter can enable you to see breathtaking views and is an all-round thrilling experience. You could see the New York skyline from above, or see the Las Vegas strip all lit up from the air. You could fly over London taking in iconic sights, or see the stunning scenery of beautiful England. Once you’ve decided where you’ll be visiting, do some research and find out if there are helicopter trips nearby. Be sure to book ahead as these kinds of things are popular and in high demand, and it’s no wonder as they can allow you to make memories that last a lifetime. If you want to add some glamour, excitement and something a little different to your trip then this is a really good way to go about it. There are often limitations, for example children under four years old usually can’t fly and anyone under sixteen must be accompanied by an adult. There are often weight restrictions too, so be sure to read the fine print before you book.

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Charter a yacht

Is there anything nicer than the wind in your hair and clear blue seas all around on a gorgeous sunny day? Getting out onto a yacht can be relaxing if you want it to be, or it could be an opportunity to throw a party! You could sit on the deck and sip a drink, or you could watch wildlife. You could charter a yacht yourself, or hire one with a driver and complete with staff if you just want to lie back and enjoy the luxury. Many come with cleaners, a chef and more. If you’re visiting a scenic, coastal location then you shouldn’t find it difficult to locate a company that offers everything you want. If you’re staying in a city by the sea, a yacht can give you incredible views from the water at night when everything is all lit up.

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Book a cruise

Cruises fell out of fashion for a while. They were seen as something more for an older generation, however these days they’re well and truly back. The release of modern, beautiful cruise ships such as Quantum of the Seas means cruising is appealing to a younger market again. They’re great for couples and families, but really suit just about any kind of holidaymaker. You have everything you need all in one place right on the boat, and also the benefit of being able to visit lots of places on one trip. Cruise ships have shops, restaurants, things to do, areas to sit and sight see and so much more- making it a far nicer way to travel than on a cramped plane! When you stop at each location you can explore the place and see a new part of the world. It’s a wonderful way to see the world, and possibly the best form of transport!

Add something a extra special to your next break by considering one of the above, they make a great way to get around as well as allowing you to experience some true luxury! They’re not budget options, but if you’re planning something spectacular they’ll certainly make an impression.

Have you ever utilised one of these transport methods, or would you like to?

5 Alternative Ways to Spend an Afternoon at the Beach

If you live in the city or struggle to find the time to make a trip to the beach, you are probably happy to spend the time that you do get relaxing in the sun, reading books, paddling in the sea or playing with your family. You probably look forward to ice creams and strolls in the warm shallow waters. The idea of doing almost nothing can be most appealing.

If, however, you rent an oceanfront vacation home, or you live by the beach full time, you might have had enough of lying about in the sand. You might long for something a little more interesting. Here are five alternative ways to spend an afternoon at the beach.

Get in the Water

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Unless you are a keen surfer, your trips to the beach probably include very little time in the water. Most of us stick to the sand and rarely go in above our knees. If you are getting a bit bored of the sand, why not throw yourself into the water. Go for a swim in the sea, which can feel very different to swimming in a swimming pool. Or, have a go at some water sports like water skiing or paddle boarding.

Try Some Seafood

Seafood is best by the sea. It’s fresh, it’s expertly cooked or prepared, and there’s more variety than anywhere else. If you usually stick to foods that you know at your days on the beach, why not try something different?

If you a house at the beach, why not try cooking some seafood or preparing some sushi for yourself? Take a look at the best seafood recipes online, buy the freshest ingredients and spend time experimenting with flavors and techniques.

Paint

There’s something about being out in the fresh air that makes us all feel a little more creative, and the scenery around the sea gives you plenty to draw inspiration from. Take a good look around you, set up an easel or take a sketchbook and have a go at painting or drawing what you can see.

If painting isn’t your thing, grab a camera and go for a walk around the sand dunes and rock pools. Take some photos of nature and enjoy getting back in touch with the world around you while exploring your creativity.

Go Fishing

Some people love fishing. Others, just don’t get it. The idea of sitting for hours waiting for a bite just doesn’t appeal. But, fishing at sea is a little different. It’s bigger. It’s more adventurous and more exciting. If you’ve never tried it, sea fishing might not be what you expect and is certainly worth trying.

Build a Sandcastle

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Building sandcastles is something that kids love, but adults rarely do. Let your inner child out and get building. It can be relaxing and interesting. It’s a free way to get creative, and you’ll probably find that it gets you talking to a lot of passers-by. Many beaches host sandcastle building contests that you could enter. Just remember, you’re not tied to castles. You can build a vast range of structures with sand. You just need your imagination.

Mamma Mia! Fall In Love With Italy

Have you been thinking about taking a European mini break sometime soon? Or maybe you want to spend longer in this part of the world so that you have enough time to explore its wonders?

There are lots of impressive regions and countries to visit in Europe, but there is a reason why Italy is the most-visited one there is – it’s a simply stunning country with a fascinating history and culture. Not only that, though, but it has some truly delicious cuisine and local specialities. Whether you want to enjoy a short city break or spend a couple of weeks lounging by a pool or on the beach, Italy is most certainly the place for you!

Once you’ve made up your mind about an Italian vacation, you need to then whittle down its many areas and cities to decide where you want to go. Unfortunately, there are so many amazing options, you might be a little spoiled for choice! Here are some of Italy’s best destinations; hopefully, this quick roundup can help you decide.

Rome

Rome

There’s no wonder many tourists head straight for Rome, the country’s gorgeous capital city. There are hundreds of historical sights and attractions dotted around the city, including the Roman Forum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Trevi Fountain. To make sure you see as many as possible, you might want to book a couple of the various Rome tours that take tourists to the main points of interest. When you aren’t doing the sights, you should spend some time wandering around the historic streets of Rome and take in some of the stunning Renaissance architecture.

Milan

Milan

If you love fashion and shopping, then you should spend a few nights in Milan. It’s Italy’s home of fashion, and you will find a lot of trendy independent boutiques as well as big designer brands, such as Gucci and Prada. For the ultimate shopping experience, be sure to visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is one of the most famous shopping malls in the world. Of course, you don’t have to stick to shopping during your Milan trip. You can also visit the Sforza Castle and the grand Teatro alla Scala theater

Venice

One of the most visited cities in the world, Venice is a favorite of travelers and tourists alike. You will be able to enjoy a lazy day relaxing on a gondola as you sail along one of the city’s many canals. In fact, those canals have been created from the lagoon that the city was originally built upon. Over a hundred islands make up Venice, and it is well worth doing a spot of island hopping to explore as much as possible. Be sure to check out the St. Mark Basilica as it makes a great location for some vacation photos. Doge’s Palace is a gothic-style museum that overlooks the water and is a great way to spend a few hours.

Naples

Naples

If “eating a lot of pizza” is near the top of your Italian to-do list, then you absolutely have to go to the city of Naples. This is the home of the traditional Neapolitan pizza, which is arguably the best kind of pizza you can get in the whole of Italy. Once you’ve had your fill, you could visit the impressive Royal Palace of Naples. It’s also worth taking a day trip out of the city to Mount Vesuvius. Lots of organized tours take tourists to the dormant volcano to hike up to the top. Naples is also quite close to the ancient city of Pompeii. The city was devastated after Mount Vesuvius erupted but it, and most of its inhabitants, have been preserved for hundreds of years under layers of ash.

Lake Como

The Italian Lake District

If you take a trip up to the north of the country, you will come across the Italian Lake District. This is where you will find the famous Lake Como, which is known for its gorgeous crystal-clear waters and mountain views. There will be plenty of hiking opportunities around the lake, and many tourists also choose to take a boat ride out onto the water. While you are in this region, be sure to visit the well-maintained public gardens that line most of the lake. Lake Garda is another popular stop-off for tourists, as this is where you will find fantastic mountain biking opportunities and plenty of water sport activities as well.

Sicily

Sicily is easy to spot on a map as it is the large island that looks like it is being “kicked” by Italy. It’s the biggest Mediterranean island, so you can imagine just how much to see and do there is! You’ll be able to walk to the Valle dei Templi, which is one of the island’s most notable archeological sites. The island is also home to Mount Etna, another volcano that you will be able to hike up to. If you would rather spend your time in Italy relaxing, you will be happy to know that Sicily has some beautiful beaches. To team history and relaxation, you should visit Licata so that you can wander around the historic port when you are bored of sunbathing.

Tuscany

Tuscany

Tuscany is known for its rural areas, but don’t worry if you would rather sample some city living. The capital of this region is Florence, and there’s plenty of culture and fun to be had there! When you are ready to see the gorgeous Tuscan countryside, you should take a trip to Cortona. This small town is situated right on the side of a hill and benefits from some truly inspiring views. You might also want to visit La Verne, which was the quiet retreat of St. Francis. You can pay homage to the saint or simply visit the busy Franciscan monastery that is still present on the site.

As you can see, there are some really fantastic places to visit while you are in Italy. In fact, there are so many, you might want to organize a road trip around the country to fit in as much as possible!

Tips for Anyone Travelling Down the East Coast

With so much unique stuff to see and do, it’s hardly surprising that so many people enjoy travelling down the East Coast of America each year. You can move between different cities and states, and experience the kinds of things you’ve never ever experienced before. If you’re new to this part of America, it really will be an experience that you never forget.

There are some things you should make sure you do on this trip though, as well as things you should know that will make the experience much better and much smoother for you. We’re going to talk about all those things now, so read on for some essential tops for anyone planning on travelling down the East Coast of America.

Plan Your Route and Know the Busiest Roads

It’s worth planning out your route carefully before you head anywhere on the East Coast. Look at a local traffic report for the location you’re in and make sure that you’re avoiding the busiest roads at the busiest times. The traffic can be pretty terrible at times, and you’ll want to avoid the worst of it. So plan your route out as best you can and take steps to avoid sitting in huge jams for too long at a time.

Get Off the Beaten Track

Getting off the beaten track is a must when you’re taking any kind of road trips. Sure, the major towns and cities along the way are all great, and you’ll have a wonderful time seeing and exploring them. But there’s so much more tro travelling the East Coast than simply spending time in the major cities. Head to places like New Haven and Charleston along the way. These places might be a little off your beaten track but they’re worth it.

Spend Plenty of Time in New York City

Yes, we just said that you should get off the beaten track, but that’s not to say the beaten travel is all that. And in the case of New York City, it’s actually pretty amazing and frankly unmissable. If you haven’t been to NYC before or you feel like you haven’t spent enough time there, you should definitely make the most of this opportunity to enjoy it and spend as much time as you can there.

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Don’t Rush Things

It’s important not to rush this trip if you can help it because when you give yourself the chance to spend more time in each place and visit more of those small towns along the way, you will have so many more unique experiences. There’s so much to see on the East Coast, so rushing down it is only going to mean you miss out on things that you really won’t want to miss out on, so take your time.

Explore American History in Washington

Washington is another place that you’re definitely going to want to stop off at during this whole trip. When you spend time in Washington, you get the chance to really explore and delve into American history and what made this country the way it is. There’s actually a lot to do, see and discover in Washington, so if you’ve never really spent time there before, that’s something that should definitely change.

Take Friends

Having some great friends come along for the right and enjoy the whole journey with you has got to be a good thing. So if you’re planning this big trip, don’t do it alone. See if you can find a close friend of two that want to come along and enjoy it alongside you. When you have the right company, it makes the whole journey and the whole experience so much more enjoyable.

Finish Things Off in Miami

Miami is the natural end point of any long trip down the East Coast, and it’s an amazing city that’s capable of capping off any trip of this kind. It’s a stunning city, and it’s the perfect place to spend time during the summer. You can take to the waters on a boat or simply enjoy the sun and the beautiful beaches before bringing this whole trip to its final conclusion.

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There’s so much to see and do along the East Coasts and so many fantastic states to explore. You should make the most of the chance to experience everything that’s on offer in this varied and interesting part of the country. If you haven’t made a trip like this before, you’ll have a great time.

Top US Hiking Destinations For an Outdoor Adventure

If the varied and undulating terrain of the US is calling your name, then you must be a fan of the great outdoors. And from east coast to west of the United States of America, there are a variety of great places to visit for a walking or outdoor adventure vacation. It isn’t all about Route 66 and the ‘typical’ tourist spots. So where will it be to next? Here are some of the best places to take a walking vacation in the good ol’ USA.

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Glacier National Park, Montana

If you are looking for a place that is pretty far away from the bright lights and busyness of a city, then Glacier National Park is one of the top spots. It has over 700 miles of walking trails, mixed with lakes, glaciers, and everything in between. As such, you’ll need to make sure that you’ve got all of the right equipment for your walk. So it can be worth looking online to find out more about the kind of clothing you’d need to pack for a hiking or climbing trip. The park is full of wildlife as well, and you may spot elk, wild goats, and even grizzly bear.

Yosemite, California

There are plenty of popular trails in the Yosemite Park, but with it being so huge, you are likely to not bump into too many people. So make sure that you have a route planned out or that you bring a map and a compass. It is one of the most stunning places in the us, though, with the famous (and huge) redwood trees. It is breathtaking!

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Can a list about walking trails in the US be complete without the mention of the Grand Canyon? I think not. But it does deserve its place here as it is a fantastic destination for an outdoor adventure or walking vacation. There are miles and miles to hike with varying levels of challenge too. The south rim is simpler and more popular, but the north rim has the more challenging Kaibab Trail.

Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California Border

Lake Tahoe, as the name suggests, is a large lake full of panoramic views and plenty of walks. It is a fairly flat area so is popular with families, beginners to hiking, cyclists, and even runners. There are some treks like Eagle Rock and the Mount Tallac Trail, but they are both pretty steady, with Eagle Rock only being half a mile to the summit. And be sure to visit in the sun for the walks, as it is all about skiing or snowshoeing in the winter months.

Canyonlands National Park, UtahThe red rocks of the Utah based National Park is a must for hikers as it is such a stunning place to walk. There are plenty of National Parks in Utah to choose from, but Canyonlands is one of the top ones. It was made famous by the ‘127 Hours’ book and movie, where a man was trapped in the Blue John Canyon in the Canyonlands National Park.

A Getaway To The Gateway City! Exploring St. Louis

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Sometimes, with all of the advice out there to live like a local when you head into a specific destination, you actually want to appreciate the amazing aspects of a chosen place only, not the warts and all parts! Sometimes the option to be a tourist can throw up so many wonderful experiences that you’re better off putting your tourist cap on. St. Louis is one of those places that seems purpose-built for tourism, especially when you really delve deep. So, let’s have a look at what we can really do.

Head Up The Gateway Arch

You can’t talk about St. Louis without mentioning this world famous monument. If you’re feeling particularly brave, you can take a ride up this 630-foot structure and look at St. Louis like a bird in the sky. Naturally, if you’re not so keen on heights, this may not be a big draw, but you can head to the nearby Jefferson National Expansion Memorial and see where Lewis and Clark set off on their cruise down the Mississippi river!

Feeling Sociable?

If you’re looking for a night, as with anywhere, you are spoilt for choice. But what do you really want from the tourist side of things? There are plenty of escape rooms in St. Louis, such as Mastermind Room Escape or Escape The Room, but if you’re looking for a more relaxing evening with music and bars, you can head to the ballpark village St. Louis for some sports-themed entertainment. If food and drink is more your style, there are plenty of restaurants that serve fresh Asian cuisine, like Lonas Lil Eats, or if you’re wanting more traditional Italian fare, you can head to the Hill neighborhood which is famous for Italian cuisine. If you’ve got the delectable sweet tooth, frozen custard at Ted Drewes will provide you with the most exquisite brain freeze!

For The People Craving Some Education…

Being a tourist is about learning a little something about the place. Luckily in St. Louis you’ve got plenty of options. You can head to the Museum Of Contemporary Religious Art which, as the name suggests, provides plenty of religious iconography. If you are keen to ingratiate yourself with the religious side of things, you could head to the National Shrine Of Our Lady Of The Snow and attend mass (as well as get something tasty in your stomach). And if religion isn’t your thing, you can head to the Saint Louis Science Center and experience the planetarium and go through time at the Omnimax theater, as well as seeing up close and personal a life-size tyrannosaurus rex. Be careful, this is animatronic and will move, so if you’ve got children of a sensitive disposition, be careful.

For a luxurious experience of Middle America, St. Louis has more than we can list here. But when you are looking to get a feel for the place, you don’t always have to treat it as if you’re a local. Get some knowledge of the big tourist attractions and you will be surprised as to how much you and your family will enjoy the place, and feel none of those famous “Saint Louis Blues”!

3 Ways To Lose Yourself In Southern California

Many people who love travel say that they do it to “find themselves.” But most of us actually spend too much time with ourselves, concerned with our own needs, and not enough time focusing on the external world. When people say that they go travelling to find themselves, do they mean “lose themselves” instead?

Losing oneself while travelling provides the best opportunities for personal growth: a new environment where we no longer feel compelled to focus on ourselves, and we can finally point our attention outwards at the big wide world in front of us.

Southern California is the ideal location for this kind of personal journey, thanks to its thriving cities and majestic landscapes. If there’s anywhere in the world where you could lose yourself, it’s here.

Southern California, running from San Jose all the way down to San Diego, is peppered with incredible attractions and sights. It provides a diverse landscape, running from the temperate forests in the north to the desert in the south. Home to Death Valley, Palm Springs and the Joshua Tree national park, the southern part of the state certainly provides the backdrop for losing oneself in spectacular nature.

An Epic Road Trip Through The Desert

When most people think of a road trip through southern California, they imagine snaking along coastal roads with the sea as a constant backdrop in the distance. But the state is also home to some of the most inhospitable and beautiful deserts in the country according to https://www.dmv.org/. Starting at Twentynine Palms near the border with Nevada, you can drive right across the state, through the infamous Mojave Desert, all the way to the coast. Along the way, you’ll see forests full of Joshua trees, and might even catch a glimpse of active lava flows near the San Andreas fault line.

Image:Flickr with credit to Rennett Stowe

A Trip To A Secret Beach

With Venice and Manhattan beaches full to bursting in the summer, most tourists want to go somewhere a little quieter, away from all the hustle and bustle. The good news is that there are plenty of places to go near Carlsbad, as http://www.sdrvresort.com/ points out. For instance, the Torrey Pine reserve’s beaches snake along the coast between Solana and Carlsbad and remain relatively free from tourists year round.

Further north, between LA and San Francisco, you’ll find a 5.5 mile stretch of beach near the Ocean Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. Busy throughout the year, the area retains its charm thanks to the vast open spaces and numerous coves to explore.

Enjoy Something “Alternative”

California was never mainstream. It’s always played host to alternative cultures, big and small.

Tourists who are into alternative culture love Big Sur’s Esalen Institute. A slightly hippy spiritual venue, it’s a great place to explore the convergence of the “three waters,” bathe naked and go to eco-focused workshops.

Not your thing? Then how about yoga instead? Head north to Malibu beach to find yoga classes enjoyed by the stars, including Demi Moore and practice the art of yogic sleep.

Things You Can Only Learn When Traveling to Asia

If you are a keen traveler and would like to experience a culture or nature trip in a new way, you need to choose your next destination in Asia. There are scenes you will not see anywhere else, and people with big smiles and hearts you will remember for the rest of your life. No matter if you are interested in the cultural, human, or natural aspect of this continent, you are sure to find new experiences that will stay with you and shape your future life.

Connection with Nature

Image via National Park Service

One of the things you will notice is that people living in rural areas of Asia are connected with nature on a different level. They can tell when it is going to be raining, when the river will rise, and even when the sun will set, even without a computer. Their traditional lifestyle and knowledge will help you develop your own connection with nature and your own environment. Just listen to the old stories and myths, and you will see that there are loads to learn from Asia.

The Importance of Water

You might also notice that people’s lives and schedules are determined by the monsoon and the flow of water. In many Asian countries, gods control the rivers and the rain, and this signifies the importance of water in people’s lives. If you happen to visit Thailand, don’t forget to check out Phi Phi Island, where you can embrace the real tropical lifestyle. Take the ferry and check out how locals respect the water and the environment.

Respect for Humans and Gods

In Asia, people are human-centered, and another person is the representation of gods in many religions. This is why family ties are so close, and parents don’t only look after their children and plan their future carefully, but also care for the sick and the elderly. If you are a visitor in Asia, in particular in India, you are likely to be treated as a god. As the ancient Sanskrit saying goes: Atiti Devo Bhava, or the guest is god.

Looking After the Natural Environment

Image via National Park Service

Another thing you can learn from people living in traditional villages and towns in Asia is that they look after the living and natural environment. If you would like to learn more about how humans, animals, and ecosystems can exist in harmony, you might want to book a borneo travel package with ecosystem tours and visits to traditional villages where you can find out more about the values and beliefs of natives. Spending a few days with villagers living in harmony with nature can be a life-changing experience.

There are plenty of reasons why you might want to visit Asia. You can find out more about the religion of the country, the belief systems, the values, and the approach to education and work. On the other hand, you can witness how hard some of the conservationists work to protect the living environment of endangered species and restore their original ecosystem.