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Louise Rose Travel Counsellor Daydreaming about where to holiday next? Together we can turn it into Reality.. I'm here to make it easy for you to create your own happy memories.

Unbiased advice to personally tailor your holiday from a weekend away to a holiday of a lifetime.

🎄 Wishing everyone a very happy holiday season! 🎅✹May this festive time bring you happiness, and well-deserved moments o...
23/12/2024

🎄 Wishing everyone a very happy holiday season! 🎅✹

May this festive time bring you happiness, and well-deserved moments of rest.

Looking forward to new opportunities and continued growth together in the coming year.

Stay safe, stay inspired, and here's to a great 2025! 😎

This time last week, before dawn I was headed for the world famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia. We saw the sun rise behind it...
09/12/2024

This time last week, before dawn I was headed for the world famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia. We saw the sun rise behind it, bringing colour into the scene. Mist rose up over the lake as the heat of the day began to arrive. It was incredible! We walked around the temple with a guide, learning about the history and how it had been reassigned from Hindu to Buddhist, and we saw the scars in the form of bullet holes from last century's fighting.
The layout of Angkor Wat is carefully aligned with the stars. The central tower is aligned with the constellation of Orion’s Belt, and the temple’s axis is thought to correspond with the sun’s path during the equinoxes.
The temple’s bas-reliefs and carvings are incredibly detailed and well-preserved. One of the most famous carvings depicts the "Churning of the Ocean of Milk," a Hindu mythological story. The intricate carvings provide a vivid glimpse into ancient Khmer culture, showcasing gods, demons, and daily life.
Angkor Wat is surrounded by a large moat, which serves not only as a defence mechanism, but also creates a stunning reflection of the temple. This "mirror" effect is most striking at sunrise, making it a popular time for photographers.
Many parts of Angkor Wat remain unexplored. The surrounding jungle has hidden parts of the temple complex, and archaeologists continue to discover new sections and hidden artifacts beneath the dense vegetation.
Have you been to Angkor Wat or anywhere in Cambodia? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
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It is a totally different start to the week as I am explore the delights of Singapore, which is a little warmer that the...
25/11/2024

It is a totally different start to the week as I am explore the delights of Singapore, which is a little warmer that the very chilly Manchester that I left on Saturday morning!

I have seen that the skyline of Singapore is dominated by iconic structures like the Marina Bay Sands, a stunning hotel with a rooftop infinity pool offering panoramic views of the city. The futuristic Gardens by the Bay, with its towering Supertree Grove and biodomes, creates a dreamlike landscape where nature and technology coexist seamlessly, which has wonderful light shows twice nightly.

I went to Telok Ayer food market last night, which is set in the old fish market, it is a historic building with every kind of food and drink you could want the choice is endless, they are especially known for their chicken satay. Singapore’s also has a famous Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam neighbourhoods are rich in heritage, featuring colourful streets, temples, markets, and local eateries.

No trip to Singapore would be complete without a trip to the iconic Raffles for a Singapore Sling, one of the world’s most famous cocktails. The drink was invented in 1915 by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon at the hotel's Long Bar. He created the refreshing gin-based cocktail specifically to cater to female patrons at a time when it was considered improper for women to be seen drinking alcohol in public. The Singapore Sling was designed to look like a fruit juice, masking the alcohol content, and became an instant hit.

It is also a shoppers paradise. Orchard Road is the main shopping area, you would have to be hard core to get from one end to the other.

Nature lovers can explore the city’s many green spaces, including the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it has a great zoo, and the tranquil East Coast Park, perfect for a day by the sea.

Have you been to Singapore? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
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Toledo is truly one of Spain's most magnificent cities. It is dramatically sited at the top of a gorge, overlooking the ...
22/11/2024

Toledo is truly one of Spain's most magnificent cities. It is dramatically sited at the top of a gorge, overlooking the Río Tajo. It has seen numerous cultures and dynasties pass through its walls, as well as wars, royalty, and artists. It was known as the ‘city of three cultures’ in the Middle Ages, where legend has it Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities peacefully coexisted.

The legacy of these cultures makes Toledo unique. Horseshoe-arched mosques, Sephardic synagogues and one of Spain’s finest Gothic cathedrals crams into its dense historical core. If you explore further you’ll find Visigoth and Roman roots.

Toledo’s other forte is art, in particular the haunting canvases of El Greco, the influential, impossible-to-classify painter. His masterpieces are displayed throughout the city's churches and convents as well as at the El Greco Museum.

Toledo’s cuisine is also a delectable mix of different cultures. Apart from some excellent international restaurants, Toledo also offers typical Spanish fare, such as succulent suckling pig, which is the city’s speciality.

Toledo is known for its traditional crafts, including damascene metalwork, antique-inspired swords, and handmade marzipan.
Have you been to Toledo? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
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Chamonix has been a favourite vacation destination since the 19th century, and you'll know why at first glance. The town...
20/11/2024

Chamonix has been a favourite vacation destination since the 19th century, and you'll know why at first glance. The town, with its elegant period architecture, is nestled at the foot of the tallest peak in the Alps. Snowy Mont Blanc towers over 15,750 feet above, creating a valley with steep, rocky sides, and dramatic views near the Swiss border.
Mountains loom large almost everywhere you look in Chamonix, France, where skiers and sightseers are launched by cable car to heights of 3842m, on the Mont Blanc. Skiers and boarders have a choice of pistes along the valley, while in summer the hillsides are green and the area has become a haven for outdoor adventure sports, making it a true year-round resort town.
Chamonix is often considered the birthplace of modern mountaineering. It was here that the first-ever ascent of Mont Blanc took place in 1786, led by Jacques Balmat and Dr. Michel-Gabriel Paccard. This event is regarded as the beginning of alpinism as a sport.
Chamonix hums with life. Despite its small size it is surprisingly cosmopolitan. The town's continued success and stunning location has attracted a wave of artists. The streets are lined with Michelin-starred restaurants, and a variety of shops that give the city a vibrant entertainment scene to add to its natural charms.
Chamonix hosted the first-ever Winter Olympic Games in 1924. The games were held in the town’s snowy landscapes, showcasing skiing, ice skating, and other winter sports, which helped establish the region as a global winter sports hub.

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On this cold November morning let’s escape to paradise and the Maldives is close to that. An archipelago of almost 1,200...
18/11/2024

On this cold November morning let’s escape to paradise and the Maldives is close to that. An archipelago of almost 1,200 islands in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives are home to more than a thousand coral reefs, vibrant ecosystems that provide a home for marine life. They were formed by 26 natural atolls sometimes known as a coral atoll. The typical atoll was originally formed as an oceanic volcano.
The Maldives is a haven for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. The calm lagoons invite visitors to unwind in overwater bungalows or beachside villas, where the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore lulls you into a state of pure serenity. For the more adventurous, the waters offer some of the world’s best snorkelling and diving, where you can encounter colourful coral gardens, manta rays, and even majestic whale sharks.
The Maldives is a place of breathtaking sunsets, where the sky transforms into a canvas of fiery reds and soft purples as the sun dips below the horizon. The islands have a sense of peacefulness and seclusion that makes it easy to forget the rest of the world, offering an escape into nature’s most luxurious embrace. Whether you’re enjoying a candlelit dinner on the beach, indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or simply basking in the natural beauty that surrounds you, the Maldives is a destination that promises to restore, refresh, and enchant.
Have you been to the Maldives? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
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I wonder whether you can guess where I got the inspiration to cover today’s travel post destination?! The Shetland Islan...
15/11/2024

I wonder whether you can guess where I got the inspiration to cover today’s travel post destination?! The Shetland Islands are a little more than 100 miles off the coast of mainland Scotland. That leaves this wind-beaten archipelago cut adrift in the North Sea to the hardiest of adventurers. It rewards with awesome coastal trails, wicked wildlife watching and fabled fish and chip shops, plus a stiff dram of whisky or two. You can explore Shetland’s pretty capital, Lerwick, and wander around the quirky lanes made famous by Jimmy Perez in the BBC Shetland TV series.
The Shetland Islands were once part of the Kingdom of Norway. The islands only became Scottish in 1468 when the King of Norway pledged them as part of a dowry for the marriage of his daughter to the King of Scotland. This Viking legacy is still deeply felt in the culture, with many Shetland place names and customs derived from Old Norse.
Shetland’s most famous cultural event, the Up Helly Aa fire festival, celebrates Viking heritage with a massive torch-lit procession and the burning of a Viking longship. It takes place every January in Lerwick, Shetland's capital, and attracts thousands of visitors. The festival, with its intricate costumes and elaborate preparations, is a unique glimpse into Shetland's Viking past.
The Shetland Pony is one of the smallest pony breeds in the world, and it is famed for its strength, intelligence, and adaptability. Originally bred to work in the harsh conditions of the Shetland Isles, they are often used in driving and as companion animals today.
The Shetland Isles are referred to as Ultima Thule, meaning ‘beyond the borders of the known world’, The subarctic archipelago consists of some 100 islands (only 15 are inhabited), each thronged with secret beaches, rare wildlife, a unique culture, and menacingly handsome cliffs. From the wild to the ancient, explore Shetland’s most beautiful hidden gems.
Have you been to the Shetland Islands? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
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Polonnaruwa, located in the heart of Sri Lanka, is a remarkable blend of well-preserved ruins, including temples, palace...
13/11/2024

Polonnaruwa, located in the heart of Sri Lanka, is a remarkable blend of well-preserved ruins, including temples, palaces, statues, and vast irrigation systems that reflect the ingenuity and advanced engineering of its time. The Royal Palace complex, Gal Vihara (a stunning rock temple with intricately carved Buddha statues), and the vast Parakrama Samudra, an ancient reservoir, are among the key highlights. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of a once-thriving kingdom.

As the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa flourished between the 11th and 13th centuries. One of the most famous rulers of Polonnaruwa, King Parakramabahu I, is remembered for his ambitious projects, including the construction of the enormous reservoir which is still functional today. The ancient city is not just a place of historical importance but also a stunning reminder of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage and architectural brilliance.

Polonnaruwa also boasts an exceptional blend of natural beauty, with the ruins surrounded by dense forests and wildlife. It is common to spot monkeys, peacocks, and even wild elephants roaming near the ancient structures.

The Royal Palace complex in Polonnaruwa, believed to have been a nine-story building, is mostly in ruins today, but its layout and remnants still hint at the grandeur of the royal court that once lived there. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply someone who enjoys exploring the timeless beauty of ancient civilizations, Polonnaruwa is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.

Have you been to Polonnaruwa, or anywhere in Sri Lanka? Would you like to? Please post a comment.

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Several years ago I spent a wonderful four days discovering the joys of Cinque Terre, five enchanting fishing villages d...
11/11/2024

Several years ago I spent a wonderful four days discovering the joys of Cinque Terre, five enchanting fishing villages dotted along a stretch of the Italian Riviera in Liguria, called Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Riomaggiore, and Manarola. They have been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1997. A 19th-century railway line cut through a series of coastal tunnels takes the footsore from village to village. Cars in the villages were banned over a decade ago, although parking is available outside of them, usually at the top of a steep hill!
We stayed in Riomaggiore which is the largest of the five. It’s peeling pastel buildings march down a steep ravine to a tiny harbour, the region's favourite postcard view and it glows romantically at sunset.
Manarola is famous for its sweet SciacchetrĂ  wine. It's also awash with priceless medieval relics, supporting claims that it is the oldest of the five. The spirited locals here speak an esoteric local dialect known as Manarolese.
Corniglia is the 'quiet' middle village that sits atop a 100m-high rocky promontory surrounded by vineyards. It is the only Cinque Terre settlement with no direct sea access, although steep steps lead down to a rocky cove.
The westernmost village of Monterosso is the only settlement to sport a proper stretch of beach. The village, known for its lemon trees and anchovies, is delightful. Split in two, its new and old halves are linked by an underground tunnel burrowed beneath the blustery San Cristoforo promontory.
Vernazza's small harbour is the only secure landing point on the Cinque Terre coast, guards what is perhaps the quaintest, and steepest, of the five villages. Lined with little cafes, a main cobbled street links the seaside square Piazza Marconi with the train station. Side streets lead to the village's trademark Genoa-style caruggi (narrow streets), where sea views pop at every turn.
Don’t forget to try fish and chips while you are there. The fish will be ‘catch of the day’ and the constant is ultra-fresh deep-fried anchovies.
Have you been to Cinque Terre? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
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Tbilisi is the vibrant capital of Georgia which looks like it has been taken from a fairy tale. It is a city with specta...
08/11/2024

Tbilisi is the vibrant capital of Georgia which looks like it has been taken from a fairy tale. It is a city with spectacular architecture, both old and new, cobbled streets, underground thermal baths and the wonderful natural surroundings of the majestic Caucasus region. Tbilisi is a city where tradition and modernity coexist, lively nightlife and renowned food and wine.
Tbilisi is home to several distinctive and visually striking bridges, each with its own story. The Bridge of Peace, a futuristic glass and steel structure, was completed in 2010 and connects the Old Town with Rike Park. Another unusual bridge is the Dry Bridge, a market that’s not only a bridge but also a bustling open-air flea market where you can find antiques, Soviet memorabilia, and handmade crafts.
Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world, and Tbilisi is the heart of this tradition. The city has over 500 local wine varieties, many of which are not found anywhere else. Tbilisi even has a wine cellar in the subway—a section of the Tbilisi Metro where a historic wine cellar was preserved in the 1980s, allowing locals to keep their wine at optimal temperatures.
The Narikala Fortress dates back to the 4th century and offers spectacular views of the city. Handily, it has a modern cable car system that takes visitors from the city centre directly up to the fortress. This juxtaposition of ancient and modern offers a dramatic visual contrast.
Tbilisi is full of hidden, off-the-beaten-path churches and catacombs that are not widely known to tourists. For example, the Sioni Cathedral, tucked away in the heart of Old Tbilisi, is home to a relic believed to be the head of St. John the Baptist. Many visitors miss the underground catacombs beneath some of Tbilisi’s churches, which have been used for centuries as burial sites and places of refuge.

Have you been to Tbilisi or anywhere in Georgia? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
Contact me for all your holiday / travel requirements. 😎

Karpathos is a beautiful Greek island located between Rhodes and Crete. Karpathos is a remote paradise, ideal for those ...
06/11/2024

Karpathos is a beautiful Greek island located between Rhodes and Crete. Karpathos is a remote paradise, ideal for those who want to unwind away from the hustle and the bustle as unlike many of its more famous counterparts in Greece, Karpathos has managed to maintain its authenticity, while its neighbouring islands like Rhodes are bustling with visitors, Karpathos offers a much quieter and more laid-back atmosphere, giving it a feeling of timelessness. It’s a true escape for those looking for a quieter, more serene Greek island experience.

Step back in time to find village festivals and celebrations, where musicians play locally crafted lyre and lauto, and sing just as their ancestors would have done centuries before. Karpathos is dotted with quaint little villages, which ooze a traditional charm! The most beautiful village of Karpathos is arguably Olympos, a picturesque mountainous village. This village is the perfect place to peek into the island’s traditions as every house has its windmill and church, while women wear traditional costumes in their everyday life!

Karpathos island stands out for one thing in particular: its stunning beaches! Kyra Panagia and Apella are the most beautiful and popular beaches in Karpathos. If you’re into water sports, then go to the southern coasts of Karpathos, which are ideal for windsurfing!

Legend has it that Prometheus and his Titans were born on Karpathos. You can explore the wild and rugged landscape to find early churches, the castle and the acropolis at Aperi, the Roman cistern at Lefko, the beehive tombs at Karpathos town and Arkasa.
Have you been to Karpathos Island? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
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One of India’s smallest states, Goa is a top holiday spot thanks to its sun, sand, food, and vibes. Despite its small si...
04/11/2024

One of India’s smallest states, Goa is a top holiday spot thanks to its sun, sand, food, and vibes. Despite its small size, the state is culturally rich, with unique music, food, dance, and architecture, Goa was a Portuguese colony for over 450 years, which has left a lasting impact on its architecture, cuisine, and culture. It’s the only Indian state where Portuguese is still spoken by some communities.

Get a glimpse of the Potugese heritage at the ruined basilicas of Old Goa, at centuries-old Goan homes such as Figueiredo House and PalĂĄcio do DeĂŁo, and at concerts of mando and fado music.

Goa is blessed with a long, sandy coastline, and many activities here are centred on the beaches, from water sports to yoga. Step away from the sand and the hinterland reveals quiet villages with interesting local customs and festivals. Goa is also growing as a culinary destination, offering a taste of many different Indian and world cuisines and exciting new interpretations of local food.

Goa is also famous for its historic architecture, including the impressive churches of Old Goa, such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and SĂ© Cathedral, The vibrant markets, like the Anjuna Flea Market, are perfect for shopping for handicrafts, jewellery, and local spices.

Despite its small size, Goa is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It boasts numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to the famous Dudhsagar Falls, while the state's vibrant nightlife, featuring beach parties, clubs, and live music, attracts tourists from around the world. The Goa Carnival, held every February, is a vibrant festival featuring parades, music, dancing, and feasting. It's one of the largest and most colourful carnivals in India.

Have you been to Goa? Would you like to? Do you have tips about other places you have been in India? Please post a comment.

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I spent a wonderful city break exploring Munich. Soon Christmas markets will be additional attractions. Munich is German...
01/11/2024

I spent a wonderful city break exploring Munich. Soon Christmas markets will be additional attractions. Munich is Germany’s third largest city and the capital of Bavaria. There’s much more than just Lederhosen and steins on offer! Against the romantic backdrop of the neo-Gothic town hall on Marienplatz, the Christmas market stalls enchant with living customs and old crafts, but also has probably Germany's largest Nativity scene market.
Separately, the Viktualienmarkt (food market) stands for a fresh variety and a close-up experience of the Munich way of life. During the Christmas season, the popular market exudes a special charm with many tasty treats to nibble. Guests are welcomed with Christmas lights, Advent magic and mulled wine. A must-see is the Nativity scene in the beer garden, which beautifully mirrors the market activities.
This year, Bavaria's largest mobile ice arena will once again be on Karlsplatz-Stachus. Visitors can skate in the middle of Munich's city centre between 10.30 a.m. and 10 p.m. at the “Eiszauber“. The programme changes daily: on Mondays, for example, all Dirndl and Lederhosen wearers have free admission to "Tracht on Ice".
The historic heart of Munich is full of beautiful architecture, from the Medieval city gates and the Gothic Town Hall to the ornate churches, fountains, and market squares. And while you’re at Marienplatz, don’t miss the glockenspiel, this mechanical clock has forty-three bells and thirty-two life-sized figures which puts on a fifteen-minute show with scenes from Munich’s history at 11am and 12pm every day.
Surfing seems an unlikely sight in a landlocked city, but watching surfers master the waves of Munich’s Eisbach (Ice Stream) River that flows through the English garden park has become a pastime for locals and visitors alike.

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For Halloween season, 🎃 my travel post today is about a town whose name conjures up images of diabolical witchcraft and ...
30/10/2024

For Halloween season, 🎃 my travel post today is about a town whose name conjures up images of diabolical witchcraft and people being burned at the stake, thanks to the Salem witch trials of 1692. Salem in Massachusetts, USA, goes all out at Halloween, when the town dresses up for parades and parties.

The Witch’s House is the last remaining structure from the time of the Salem Witch Trials. The home belonged to the judge who sentenced the accused witches, rather than to any “witch”. The trials themselves only lasted a short time. In the end, those who began the accusations came forward to admit they had made up their claims. The whole thing may have begun by some storytelling that got very out of hand.

It gets forgotten that in the glory days Salem was a centre for clipper-ship trade with the Far East. Elias Hasket Derby, America's first millionaire, built Derby Wharf, which is now the centre of the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. The marvellous Peabody Essex Museum displays some of the treasures that were brought home from these merchant expeditions.

Being synonymous with witches, film ‘Hocus Pocus’ was filmed in Salem, and you can visit Max and Dani’s house together with many more landmarks.

Happy Halloween! đŸ‘»Have you been to Salem or anywhere in Massachusetts? Would you like to? Please post a comment.

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I don’t like using the "Big Five" to describe lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. The term was coined in th...
28/10/2024

I don’t like using the "Big Five" to describe lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. The term was coined in the 19th century by colonists in Africa to indicate the animals they considered the hardest and most dangerous to hunt on foot. I have loved my safari experience, seeing these animals thrive in their natural habitat. Hippos and giraffes aren’t included in the ‘’Big Five’’, but they are just as lovely to see in the wild. The Masai Mara, in southwestern Kenya, is one of Africa's most iconic wildlife reserves.
Spanning over 580 square miles, this stunning landscape is renowned for its rolling savannahs, acacia trees, and the iconic Mara River. Every year, around two million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in search of food and water, creating one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet. There are dramatic crossings of the Mara river during the Great Migration, where the wildebeest and zebras face perilous challenges from crocodiles and strong currents.
Home to far more than that dreaded "Big Five", visitors can witness thrilling game drives and guided walking safaris, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat. The Masai Giraffes, also known as the Kilimanjaro Giraffes, are the tallest living terrestrial animals and have jagged spots on their bodies instead of polygonal liver-coloured spots.
Cultural experiences abound as well, with opportunities to engage with the Maasai people. Whether you’re relaxing in luxury lodges or tented camps, the Masai Mara promises an unforgettable adventure. Ideal for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking the thrill of the wild, this remarkable destination captures the heart and spirit of Africa.
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Karlovy Vary, also known as Carlsbad, is a stunning spa town located in the western part of the Czech Republic. Several ...
25/10/2024

Karlovy Vary, also known as Carlsbad, is a stunning spa town located in the western part of the Czech Republic. Several films have been made there, including James Bond (Daniel Craig) in Casino Royale, featuring Karlovy Vary’s Mill Colonnade, Emperor Spa, and Grand hotel Pupp used as the Casino Royale hotel.
The centrepiece of the town is the grand colonnade, where visitors can stroll and taste the therapeutic waters from the various hot springs. The vibrant promenade is lined with shops, cafes, and luxurious hotels, creating a lively atmosphere. The annual International Film Festival adds a cultural flair, attracting filmmakers and enthusiasts from around the world.
Famous historical figures like Peter the Great and Beethoven have visited Karlovy Vary, contributing to its legacy as a sought-after retreat for the elite.
Renowned for its healing mineral springs, the town has been a popular wellness destination since the 14th century. Nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by lush forests, Karlovy Vary features beautiful architecture, from ornate baroque and neoclassical buildings to charming wooden structures. There are 15 restorative hot spas dotted around the city, including up in the hills.
With its serene parks, scenic viewpoints, and rich history, Karlovy Vary offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both wellness and beauty.
Have you been to Karlovy Vary or anywhere in the Czech Republic? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
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Koh Samet is one of the easiest islands in Thailand to get to, but it has somehow managed to stay under the radar. It’s ...
21/10/2024

Koh Samet is one of the easiest islands in Thailand to get to, but it has somehow managed to stay under the radar. It’s one of the closest islands to Bangkok, so you can combine the two for a city and beach holiday without the extra flight, which is why city folk make a beeline to its powder-soft beaches on the weekend, making it accessible for day trips or longer stays. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach, explore nature, or enjoy vibrant nightlife.
Koh Samet is a small island within the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet Marine National Park in the Gulf of Thailand. Despite its diminutive size, Koh Samet boasts some of the most beautiful coastlines in Thailand. If you love fishing and water sports on unspoilt beaches, then this is your ideal escape.
Compared to many other islands in Thailand, Koh Samet experiences less rainfall during the monsoon season, making it a popular year-round destination.
According to local legend, the island is named after a type of bamboo that grows there. "Samet" translates to "bamboo" in Thai.
The atmosphere on Koh Samet is laid-back, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway. Beachfront bars and restaurants serve fresh seafood and local dishes, while the evenings come alive with fire shows and beach parties. Despite its popularity, Koh Samet retains a certain charm with lush tropical forests and serene spots for those looking to escape the crowds. When you have had your fill of enjoying the warm Koh Samet weather on the beach, visit the southern part of the island - Ao Karang - to observe traditional life with local residents.
Have you been to Koh Samet or any islands off Thailand? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
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Madeira Island, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Atlantic," is a stunning Portuguese archipelago located in the No...
16/10/2024

Madeira Island, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Atlantic," is a stunning Portuguese archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 600 miles southwest of Portugal. It is renowned for its lush landscapes, rugged coastlines, and year-round mild climate, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to relax.
The island's dramatic topography includes soaring mountains, deep valleys, and cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. One of the island’s most striking features is the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with ancient, subtropical vegetation that thrives in the island’s humid microclimate. Madeira is also famous for its levadas—an extensive network of irrigation channels that wind through the mountains, offering scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views.
Madeira’s capital, Funchal, is a vibrant city known for its historical charm, colourful markets, and botanical gardens. Visitors can explore its cobblestone streets, discover centuries-old architecture, and enjoy the local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood and the famous Madeira wine, a fortified wine that has been produced on the island for centuries.
The island is also home to cultural festivals, like the spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks and the Flower Festival, which showcases the island's natural beauty. Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty of activities, from hiking and canyoning to paragliding and whale watching, while the island’s beaches, both sandy and pebbled, offer peaceful spots to unwind by the ocean.
With its blend of dramatic scenery, rich culture, and outdoor activities, Madeira Island is a unique travel destination that offers something for every type of traveller.
Have you been to Madeira? Would you like to? Please post a comment.
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