Goa, India

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Category: Travel Plans

Exploring the Fontainhas, Goa

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

Fontainhas is an old Latin quarter at the Altinho foothills in Panjim. It’s one place in Goa where the Portuguese influence is still very evident, so much so that this is the only place in Goa which has Portuguese as the main spoken language.

The name ‘Fontainhas’ was derived from a natural spring, Fountain of Phoenix that sprouted in 1770 and is present to date. Fontainhas was founded in the late 18th century by a wealthy Portuguese named Antonio Joao de Sequeira. He used this land for coconut plantations. But, in the early 1800s, due to the spread of epidemic in the Old Goa, the Portuguese government headquarters was shifted to Panjim. As a result, this area was transformed into the residential area for Portuguese administrative officers and rulers. In 1984, UNESCO recognized Fontainhas as a Heritage Zone.

Narrow lanes, bright and vibrant houses, small cafes, old bakeries, art galleries and every nook and corner that tells an interesting Goan story are some of the characteristics of this amazing place. Even within the hustle bustle of Panjim city, Fontainhas has maintained its serenity and quaintness. All thanks to The Local Beat Goa, I recently enjoyed a heritage walk of mixed with lots of fun and facts about the place. After grabbing a refreshing glass of watermelon juice from the Mamaramma Cafe, just next to the St. Sebastian Chapel, we started off by driving through the uphill lanes of Altinho and the Maruti Temple became our first halt.

 

Coloured in bright hues of orange, a colour that represents the monkey god ‘Hanuman’, the structure of the temple is a perfect mix of modernity and ancient heritage. As I moved in, I came to know that the temple has two idols of lord Hanuman, and even without climbing up to the main temple, one can see the bigger idol through an opening in the lower floor wall. Well I bowed down my head in front of both, the main idol which is housed in a big hall looks majestic.

The prayer hall is huge and a big chandelier in the centre makes it look magnificent. There is a lot of open space around the main temple and the view from the top is breathtakingly beautiful. You can practically see the entire Fontainhas area from there and especially the spring.

We climbed  down the stairs that lead to the Fontainhas spring. It is believed that there was a tunnel from the temple till that spring, which now stands closed, and the door was sealed with a cross. The two structures that line around the spring used to provide light in that tunnel, are mosque like structures and hence this place becomes a wonderful amalgamation of 3 religions.

From there on we strolled through the lanes of Fontainhas, visiting a few art galleries, which house some of the best art that leave you awestruck. Its so interesting to see these old world charm buildings, you know the windows in some of the old houses use shells in place of glasses, as glass wasn’t available back then. And trust me they look so amazing that given a chance I would want my windows to be made of sea shells.

We also visited one of the oldest bakery, named Confeitaria 31 De Janeiro, it still uses the old stone clay oven and bakes some amazing stuff. I tried the french rolls and it really took me back in time, normally don’t get that kind of taste anymore. They were so fresh and delicious. The name 31 De Janeiro holds a significance in history, Rua 31 de Janeira (31st January Road) is named after the day when Portugal got independence from Spain on January 31, 1640

From a light drizzle to thunder shower, monsoons made the walk even more interesting and beautiful. I also learnt that the houses in Fontainhas still need to get painted after every monsoon, it was a rule laid out in the Portuguese time but is followed till date. This keeps the beauty and vibrancy of this place in tact year after year. One of the historic houses that I came across had big well in front of it, though the well is not in function now, but the serenity and peace of the place is inexplainable. You can really spend some quiet time there breathing the natural and man made beauties together.

Another place where you can sit back, relax and enjoy some great coffee and snacks is the Bombay Coffee Roasters. The front wall of this cafe is quite a popular one with photographers. The mosaic is really worth a look and the place offers calm and comfortable interiors, has wi-fi and is ideal to spend some quality time alone and get some creative work done, or simply chill out with friends.

Talking about mosaic, its not just about the wall of Bombay Coffee Roasters, but this tile art is one of the most significant characteristics of Goa and especially the Fontainhas. Azulejo is the Portuguese name for these beautifully hand painted ceramic tiles. This art originated in the 15th century and travelled to India when the Portuguese settled in Goa. Though back then these Azulejos were imported from Portugal, and there were no Goan artists to do it, the art from literally died. It was brought back by a man named Orlando De Norohna, who had a 5 year degree in commercial art from Goa college of arts. He went to Lisbon to get himself skilled with guitar and came back with Azulejos. Since then the art has been fully revived and many students took interest in learning the same. Today Goa is the only state in India where these tiles are made. Take a walk around Goa and you will see these Azulejos as a part of its landscape. From name tiles to murals, each Azulejo tells a Goan story. Azulejos De Goa in Panjim, is one of the best shops to hunt for these stunning hand crafted tiles.

Moving on, we came to one of the major landmarks of this old quarter of Goa, the St Sebastian Chapel. It was also the point from where we started and the point where we concluded our lovely heritage walk. The Chapel of St Sebastian is a popular tourist attraction in Goa, built in 1818. This chapel is dedicated to St. Sebastian.In earlier days, when people were troubled with the disease of pests and plagues, they turned for help to St Sebastian who treated them through his mediation and miraculous interventions.

This whitewashed church has a striking crucifix which originally stood in the Palace of Inquisition in Old Goa. In the crucifix Christ’s eyes are opened. It’s a rather unusual sight to witness a crucifix with Christ’s head up and eyes open, it’s believed to be so in order to instil fear of god. The god is watching those who are troublemakers and they shall be punished for their sins. The Chapel also houses a statue of the Virgin Mary, two marquetry chests and three elaborately carved screens from a church in Diu, which once formed part of the colony of Goa.

This heritage walk of Fontainhas filled me with so much information and beauty, that the memories will last a lifetime. All I could do is capture it in my camera in order to cherish and relive these moments again and again. This is one thing that you should definitely not miss when in Goa

 

7 Tips and Tricks on How to Pack for a Warm Weather Vacation

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

Most travelers relish the thought of a vacation with sunny, warm weather, even if it’s to a destination without beaches or swimming. However, warm-weather travel can come with its own inconveniences. If you’re traveling outside of the summer months, the weather can change, and a sunny day can quickly become uncomfortable.

Fortunately, experienced travelers know how to mitigate problems and keep everyone in their group happy. It can be tempting to under-pack on warm-weather vacations, but don’t forget the essentials for staying safe in the sun. Check out these travel tips and hacks for ways to minimize problems and maximize fun adventures on your next getaway!

1. Pack a proper hat and sunglasses

Even springtime sun can be intense enough to cause sunburns, and squinting in the sun is sure to interfere with your enjoyment of world-famous sights. A lightweight hat or bandanna is a good choice for shielding your head. Bringing comfortable hats for your kids can also prevent whining and misery later on. If you aren’t fond of hats, a sun parasol can be a stylish and fun option for staying out of the sun.

The best sunglasses for your trip will depend on what you’re doing and where you’re going, but don’t overspend! Sunglasses are far too easy to lose or break while on vacation. Buy a neck cord and be careful to double-check for your sunglasses before leaving restrooms, hotels and restaurants.

2. Make smart fabric choices

Denim can be stylish, but is it really the best option for traveling to Key West in the middle of July? Try linen, white cotton t shirtsor performance fabrics for breathable, comfortable outfits. Lighter fabrics roll up easily, too, saving valuable luggage space.

Tank tops can be very comfortable, but remember that the more skin you expose, the more time you have to spend putting on sunscreen. Consider covering up with lighter fabrics to help manage your sun exposure.

Also, remember to pack for layers, like lightweight jackets or cardigans. Even tropical destinations can cool off in the evening, so keeping an extra layer around can make the difference between a fun adventure and an uncomfortable evening. Air conditioning can also vary widely between restaurants, hotels and public transit, so a lightweight jacket might even be useful during the day. Leggings are also a good option for fashion-conscious travelers heading out on nighttime adventures.

3. Plan your sunscreen, bug repellent and allergy medication usage

While some may find sunscreen a pain to keep safe in your suitcase, packing it may be better than buying it at your destination. Your sunscreen brand and selection options may be limited if you wait to buy it, and you may find yourself stuck with a product that’s inconvenient or insufficient for your needs. It may also be cheaper to pack sunscreen. For most U.S. destinations, you can probably access the same general types of sunscreen across the country, but do your research for overseas destinations.

The same rule applies to bug repellant and allergy medication. Some destinations have mosquitoes almost year-round, and you may need bug repellant even if you’re not going into the woods. Unfamiliar flowers and trees can trigger allergy symptoms that keep you from fully enjoying your trip. Research your destination carefully to determine your best options.

Remember that some airlines or countries may have restrictions on bug repellent ingredients, aerosol cans or medication ingredients.

4. Pick a bag that suits your needs

Lugging around multiple bags after a day of fun can put a damper on the rest of your evening. It can also be troublesome to forget a bag of souvenirs, food or a water bottle someplace because you had too many bags to keep track of.

If you’re traveling alone, a small carry-on suitcaseor cheap backpack may suffice, but running around with children makes a large backpack mandatory. Look for something with padded straps made of a material that is breathable. An ideal warm-weather backpack will also have easily accessible space for water bottles, as well as room for souvenirs and snacks. If you’re planning a day at the beach, pack plastic bags for storing wet swimsuits.

5. Print out your transit options and safety plans

Nothing is less fun than lugging around a giant suitcase in 90° F weather because you misunderstood how the bus system works and there are no taxis in sight. Triple-check your plan for getting from the airport to your hotel and have a written backup plan in case something goes wrong. Also, keep a phone number for a local taxi company saved to your phone in case you truly need it after a day in the sun, and make sure you know how to quickly get to the hospital in case of accidents.

In many warmer regions, sudden storms can mess up a dream vacation. Popular warm-weather tourist destinations can be prone to storms in certain seasons, so make sure to familiarize yourself with the area’s flood, tsunami or other natural disaster evacuation plans, and even pack a printed copy, if possible.

6. Bring a backup option for shoes

Tennis shoes can be great for hiking but can quickly become uncomfortable when they’re sweaty or muddy. Pack a pair of padded sandals for hot days when you’ve planned a lot of walking.

If you’re planning a beach vacation, a pair of flip-flops may be worthwhile, but keep in mind that most flip-flops can hurt your feet after walking significant distances. Flip-flops also do little to protect your feet from the sun, and sunburnt feet can quickly put a damper on your dream vacation.

Children, in particular, can be quick to complain about sore, hot or blistered feet, so make sure to have backup options for them. It’s well worth the extra luggage space!

7. Carry a reusable water bottle

Reusable water bottles can save you money and help protect the environment. A well-designed reusable water bottle is lightweight, easy to clean and can be quickly opened and closed to protect the mouthpiece from the elements. It also reduces your need to find a trash can or recycling bin.

In some locales, though, clean drinking water is only readily accessible in bottled form. Do your research ahead of time and see if it’s wiser to pack vending machine change than a reusable plastic bottle. However, many international destinations have clean drinking water access at major tourist sites, so don’t waste your money on disposable water bottles unless you have to.

You Should Know These Things Before Traveling

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

Are you prepared for a holiday?

 

There comes a time where everyone wants to get away from their current life, even if just for a short time, so it’s best to get the most out of it while you can. When planning a holiday, there’s a lot to consider, and when you likely only have limited time and money, you want to make sure it was worth paying for! Not everyone follows the same lifestyle, so planning holidays can come out in a variety of prices and destinations, and finding the right one for you can take time; it should!

 

Going with family?

 

When you travel with family, you can naturally expect it to turn out more difficult than advertised. In a lot of cases, the idea of a family holiday can look like a nightmare, especially for the parents. So how can you make sure your holiday is an escape, rather than it ending up stressful? First of all, as the holiday planner, you need to make sure you consider everyone who’s going. You don’t want to spend extra on people coming on holiday, for them to not want to be there; so make sure you’re covering everyone’s interests. Family holidays can be a generally great way to get closer as a family, as it’s the prime time for bonding; so make sure it doesn’t turn into the nightmare that many families fear!

 

Traveling alone

 

Many people might find the idea of traveling alone frightening. It is! But there are ways to dodge a lot of the fears you might face. Firstly, you have no one to rely on, and no one to do activities. This is when keeping yourself booked up becomes much more important, as relaxing alone can become easily boring. Are you going somewhere that speak another language? If so, it could be worth learning a few phrases in case of emergency, or maybe for just simple conveniences. Knowing how to ask for directions can save you a lot of trouble if you end up getting lost.

Moving Abroad

 

Moving is a scary enough experience as it is, except with this step you’re not only saying goodbye to your home but your country too. Exciting! It’s important that you consider almost everything when you want to move away, as there’s so much preparation to be done and costs to be covered. With that in mind, moving abroad can actually work out cheaper in the long run, depending on the economy of the country you’re going to. It could be that you’re looking for the luxury life in the sun, most people do this after they’ve retired; there’s no need to look for work this way, and you have plenty of time to pick on and adapt to the language. Take a look at some Malaysia property for some idea of what you could be missing out on. A lot of the time when people move abroad, it’s to get away from the weather and surroundings that they’re so bored of, so make sure you don’t head into more of the same is a must!

 

Expect to spend!

 

There’s a lot more to consider than just the fixed costs of going on a trip, so just preparing for your travel, food and a place to stay isn’t going to cut it. You’re going away to enjoy it, so make sure that money won’t be your downfall when you get there! A lot of the time when traveling, there can be unexpected costs, and if you’re not prepared to pay with them, it may well ruin your plans, so make sure you plan right and avoid any kind of surprises that you’ll be out of pocket for. You never know how you’ll feel or what you’ll see when you’re abroad, maybe you’ll learn of new activities that you want to take part in or find something that you’d like to buy as a souvenir.

 

Don’t plan too much!

 

It’s easy to turn your holiday into a stressful nightmare, you need to make sure you have time to relax in between activities. When looking online at all the things you can be a part of, it’s easy to be tempted into all of them, along with the pressure of getting the most out of your holiday. Just remember the holiday will be a lot less enjoyable if you change your mind at some point, and just need some time to chill out and take in the environment. It’s best to make sure there are things you can do without booking them, should you change your mind once you get over there.

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Keeping holiday security

 

It’s quite scary to consider that when you’re on holiday, you can’t rely on the protection of police too much. Depending on where you go, you may end up having to deal with stolen or lost possessions, and the less aware of these crimes, the easier the target you are. That’s not to say that all locations are thriving with pick-pockets and criminals, but it’s best to take the extra measures to ensure that your belongings remain with you. Maybe you’ll only lose a small amount of money, maybe your phone! So it’s important to make sure you can protect yourself without expecting the help of others, due to the communication barriers, and the lack of evidence and witnesses there would be within a crowd.

 

Bring your own supplies

 

A lot of people find it hard to trust strangers, which isn’t a bad thing! Anywhere you are in the world, it’s best to rely on yourself than others, especially when buying drinks. Bringing your own alcohol and food can help you prevent yourself from getting sick while you’re away, as you know what you’re eating and drinking, and can ensure you don’t regret receiving from strangers. Again, I’m not saying everyone is out to get you, but when you’re on holiday it can become even more difficult to trust strangers, because you likely don’t speak their language, or know anything about them.

 

 

Palm Springs, California- Perfect hideout to unwind!

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

California is a place that turns your dreamland into a reality, so much so that in front of the natural beauty of redwood Californian forests and classy beaches, this enchanted city puts even Disneyland to shame.

Whether places of amusement or food & drinks, California gives you a perfect mix of everything. Just for start, do you know California produces over 90% of the country’s wine- making grapes and has twice as many breweries as any other state in the US. This golden state also produces most of the country’s fresh produce and sets the trends for the entire nation to follow.

And within this enchanted state if you looking for a laid back kind of vacation, head straight to Palm Springs. The place has a historical evidence of being a favorite, even with the biggest of Hollywood Celebrities. The entire city has a very retro kind of charm to it even to this date and it doesn’t seem to fade away. Though it’s a small place, but it still has so much to offer.

Palm Springs has a hot desert climate, with over 300 days of sunshine and around 4.83 inches (122.7 mm) of rain annually.The winter months are warm, with a majority of days reaching 70 °F (21 °C) and in January and February days often see temperatures of 80 °F (27 °C) and on occasion reach over 90 °F (32 °C), while, on average, there are 17 nights annually dipping to or below 40 °F (4 °C); freezing temperatures occur in less than half of years.

The most traffic comes in to Palm Springs from LA and there are a lot of ways that one can travel from LA to Palm Springs.

By Air- Palm Springs does have an airport but its necessarily not the most convenient way to travel as the flights are less and often expensive. The lay over at San Francisco makes the flight durations longer than usual. Depending on where the person is flying from, the Ontario airport, which is 70 miles from Palm Springs serves as a better options, as it has more number of flight options and better connectivity to Palm Springs.

By Train- You can take Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train directly from LA’s Union Station to Palm Springs, but do remember to check as it doesn’t run on all days, and has a selected few days operation. The Texas Eagle also makes the trip a few days a week. Both of those trains run late at night, arriving in Palm Springs after midnight. Using any of those trains will take about 2.5 hours.

By Bus- There are no regular buses making the trip from LA to Palm Springs, but you will have a couple of options for commercial bus services. The bus trip from LA to Palm Springs takes about 3.5 hours. They Greyhound buses travel to Thousand Palms which is 12 miles from Palm Springs and from where one can get some local buses to get to Palm Springs.

By Car- Traveling to Palm Springs is not just the most common but also the most convenient and inexpensive way to travel. Even by road, there are two options, one is through various freeways and other is the road, which is more scenic and beautiful and often called as Palms to Pines highway.

Once you reach Palm Springs, the first thing you think of is a place to stay, now given the fact that we all make our bookings in advance, you can pre-book your stay, so that all you need to do after reaching the city is checking in and retiring to the comfort of your room.

In terms of stay options, from luxe hotels to budget options and villas, the place has plenty to offer for all kind of travelers. Tourism is a major factor in the city’s economy with 1.6 million visitors on an average. The city has over 130 hotels and resorts, numerous bed and breakfasts and over 100 restaurants and dining spots. Palm Spring Homes for Rent can really come in handy for you to explore all possible options.

Things to do in Palm Springs

Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum– The Palm Springs Art Museum, which was founded in the year 1938, is an epitome of art and culture. Regular exhibitions keep taking place in the museum and also the permanent collection of the museum is worth taking a look at.

Image Source- Google

Joshua Tree National Park– This place is the perfect example of being an oasis in the dessert. Whether you wanna hike, walk on the foot or drive through, its one experience you should not miss.

Image Source-Pixabay

Springs Aerial Tramway– The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway operates every day between 8 or 10 a.m. and 9:45 p.m., though exact hours may vary by season. Facilities found at the top of Mount San Jacinto include two restaurants, multiple observation decks, a natural history museum and a gift shop. The view of the mountains from the tramway is spectacular and breathtakingly beautiful.

Image Source- Google

The Living Dessert– From October 1 to May 31, The Living Desert is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In the summer (from June 1 to September 30) the place is open every day between 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. It’s a part zoo and part botanical garden where the flora and fauna co-exist. The gardens in the living dessert boast of more than 1400 species of plants and animals like mountain lions, bighorn sheep and meerkats are easily seen.

Image Source- Google

Indian Canyons– Travelers often describe these canyons as breathtakingly beautiful and peaceful, in fact no words are appropriate to describe these beauties. Some places are better seen and experiences rather than to be spoken off and these canyons belong to that category. The Indian Canyons are open every day from October 1 through July 4, but visitors are only permitted on Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday from July 5 to September 30. On all opening days, visiting hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m

Image Source-Google

 

 

How to Travel the World’s Best Places on a Low Budget and Make Money While Traveling – It Is Possible!

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

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Most of us want to travel the world, meet new people, see sights, experience new things and see different cultures. But we are not able to make this dream happen mainly because of money! So here are some trips to travel places without having to spend an entire fortune on them!

  • The initial step is to have a plan and do a wide research about the places you are going to visit like their main attractions, basic expenses, currency rates, food options, housing, local travel means, Some places are cheaper while others have a very high cost of living. So think, research and then finally, decide where you wanna go.
  • Keep your eyes open for deals. Many travel agencies and online websites offer special deals and discounts for tickets and accommodations. These offers might be offered only at specific times of the year, so be on the lookout or subscribe to their websites so that you are kept
  • Stay in economic homestays and small hostels or opt for night swapping, couch surfing, to reduce the housing costs extensively. Or if you have plans to stay for a longer time, you can rent a cheap apartment and cook your meals.
  • Every place has some attractions that you can see without paying any money. The places you visit might have some quirks about it. So make inquiries on the net or from people who have traveled to these places before. You don’t want to miss the free and best things about a place.
  • Look for a low priced location and shop from there. Many tourist places have shops selling things for a much higher rate than usual, targeting travelers from outside. Don’t fall into their traps. For gifts and souvenirs, look out for local markets and departmental stores rather than falling prey to the overpriced bazaars and showrooms.
  • Try to travel during off seasons. At this time, everything will be at affordable rates, and there won’t be much rush. Whether it’s the ticket rates, room rent, the local transport, or the expenses after reaching your destination, you will need to spend a lot less during the slack time.
  • Most of the times, a significant amount of money is spent on food. Go to nice and clean local restaurants rather than fancy, expensive hotels. The local joints often offer the best foods at low Try out the local street food and do some cooking when possible.
  • Another critical point is the use of local transport available at the places you visit. Cabs and cars can be comfy but expensive. Compromise a little and do a bit of walking for short

You can travel and make money more easily than most people think. You might be a qualified individual, with some degrees and a permanent job, etc. But why not take up a job while you are on a trip and meet the expenses? Here are some of the jobs you can take up while you are on a trip!

  • Tourist guide: You can either be a local tour guide or try to be a tour assistant for an international company. It is the best way to travel places and earn money at the same time.
  • Freelance translator: Of course, you will need to know more than one language for this job. The opportunities are extensive – charge restaurant to translate their menu, work for a travel agency or offer freelance services online.
  • English teaching: There are many job opportunities in countries like Thailand, South Korea, and you don’t need to be certified. Being a native speaker is enough!
  • Bartender/Server: Restaurants, bars, and nightclubs are located in almost every places, and the job description is same at all the places. You can find work easily at tourist places, and there won’t be any minimum or maximum job requirement. It is also an opportunity to become familiar with the people and place, which can help you find a job with higher income.
  • Backpacker Hostels: Backpacker hostels usually hire travelers for short terms to fill their gaps offering free room and board. The jobs offered to you might be working at the front desk, bartending or even housekeeping. If you wish to stay for longer durations, some hostels offer extra payment too.

 

Author’s Bio

Lysha works at Lalco Residency – Hotel Mumbai and she loves her job. Helping clients and monitoring the progress of business strategies along with her leadership skills makes her perfect suit for Hospitality services. You can catch her up at Service Apartments in Mumbai for Rent

Dragons, Volcanoes, and More: 7 Reasons Indonesia Should Be Your Next Holiday Destination

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

Indonesia is home to over 18,000 islands, 6,000 of them inhabited, making it the largest archipelago (group of islands) in the entire world. Indonesia also inhabits around 240 million people, making it the fourth most populated country, and the largest country in Southeast Asia by a mile. While Bali is usually what comes to mind when people think of travelling to Indonesia (and why wouldn’t it? Bali is amazing), there is so much more to see and do. Indonesia has so much to offer, as well as it’s amazing beaches, so here are seven reasons why you should consider Indonesia for your next trip.

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Beautiful Bali

It’s already been mentioned, so why not start with Bali? With its beautiful beaches and stunning mountain scenery, it’s absolutely no surprise that Bali is so popular with tourists and travellers. However, like with the rest of Indonesia, there is so much more to Bali than a stretch of beach. There are also some amazing temples to explore, practically one on every corner to be exact, all of which are great photo opportunities. There is also a range of waterfalls for you to explore. While some may require a hike or even swim to reach them, some are fairly close to footpaths and car parks, but most are visited by only a few people each day, so the further you go out, the high the chance you have of getting a waterfall all to yourself.

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Active Volcanoes

If you consider yourself somewhat of an explorer, then Indonesia, being home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world, maybe the perfect place for you. While Kelud and Mount Sinabung were the most recent volcanoes to erupt in Indonesia, Mount Merapi is usually the volcano that comes to mind when you think of Indonesia. However, consider how naturally beautiful the volcano is, it’s no surprise at all. Luckily, as long as you’re with a qualified guide, it is possible to scale the 5,600 ft mountain, which might just be the perfect adventure for your trip. Visit http://atravellersjourney.com/mount-merapi-volcano/ if you’re considering the climb.

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Wild Wildlife

You will be surprised at just how diverse the wildlife in Indonesia really is. You can find anything there from elephants, to orangutans, to tigers. However, one of the most famous creatures to inhabit the islands is the family of Komodo dragons. If you’ve ever seen one, you’ll know that Komodo dragons are no typical species of lizard. They can easily grow to around three metres in length and weigh more than one hundred kilograms each, so it’s no surprise that Komodo dragons are pretty dangerous creatures, even to humans. However, despite their ferocious and dinosaur-like appearance, attacks on humans are rare, and the won’t try to eat you like your typical T-Rex, so there’s no reason not to visit Komodo National Park, and see the magnificent creatures with your own eyes.

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Jakarta Capital

When visiting the archipelago of Indonesia, most people choose to give Jakarta, the capital city, a miss. It does make some sense, as, being one of the greatest megalopolises in the world, Jakarta does appear to be a confusing and incredibly crowded city. However, Jakarta has just as much to offer as the rest of the country, so if you’re visiting Indonesia, it would be a mistake not to at least consider visiting the capital. Shopping centres in Jakarta aren’t the same as the rest of the world, in fact, Jakarta offers some of the best options for shopping in all of Southeast Asia. The malls are large and extravagant, with a range of different stores for you to peruse. There is also plenty of restaurants and cafes for you to enjoy, all of which are sure to serve delicious foods (more on that later). There are plenty of hotels for you to stay at, but if you wanted to save a little money, then you can find apartments, like the ones here https://rumahdijual.com/jakarta-selatan/apartemen-bintaro-parkview, on websites like Airbnb.

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Fantastic Foods

One of the best ways to experience local culture (and treat yourself) on holiday, is to enjoy the local foods on offer. Luckily, in Indonesia, there is so much variety and diversity that you shouldn’t have to eat the same dish twice during your entire stay. If you’re visiting more than one region, you’ll be even more surprised at just how much the cuisine can differ, so be sure to enjoy as much local food as you can during your trip. One of the most famous dishes reining in Indonesia is a meatball noodle soup named Bakso. The dish is popular among students, but also presidents, as Barack Obama once mentioned how delicious the soup is after a visit to Indonesia.

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Lovely Locals

If you’ve visited France or Russia, then it’s likely that you’ve come across at least one rude local. After all, these countries have been named by Forbes as being the rudest nations for travellers. Indonesia on the other hand is home to some of the most friendly and welcoming locals on the entire planet. They are always there to offer a smile or a helping hand if you need one. They are also incredibly proud of their culture, history, cuisine, wildlife, and everything else, and are happy to share it with others, unlike many others.

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Sensational Spas

Holidays are all about getting away from the stresses of everyday life and relaxing, so Indonesia is the perfect place for this. Any spa treatment that you could possibly imagine can be found in the spas of Indonesia, from seaweed wraps to glorious massages. If you choose to stay at a hotel, then you are likely to find most of these treatments are offered there, but if not, then you are sure to find plenty of spas while exploring the islands, and will usually be offered treatments on the beach too.

Indonesia is a beautiful country, filled with delicious foods, amazing beaches, and lovely people. For all of these reasons and so many more, Indonesia would be a perfect place to visit on your next holiday.

 

 

 

The Ultimate Checklist To Get More From Your First Hiking Holiday

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

Modern vacations are evolving, and most people now find that sitting on the beach for a fortnight simply doesn’t tick all the boxes. Exploration is now an integral aspect of any great trip, which is why hiking holidays are an increasingly popular solution. Before taking your first, though, it’s imperative that the right preparations are in place.

Here are six key points of focus that will ensure you choose the right pathway.

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Destination | First and foremost, your hike should reward you with a spectacular scene at the finish. Machu Picchu has become one of the hottest attractions as it merges natural beauty with ancient and unique architecture. You can learn more about tours at http://gadventures.com/destinations/south-america/machu-picchu/. Once you’ve seen it for yourself, you’ll be ecstatic that you chose this instead of a beach deal.

Company | Booking with the right operator ensures that you get to experience the best that a place has to offer. However, you also need to consider the party that you travel with. While the rewards make it all worthwhile, there’s no doubt that hiking can be emotionally testing. Travel with friends that are likely to drain the enthusiasm, and it will take its toll on your fun.

Attire | When you dedicate a few days to hiking, it’s imperative that you are made to feel comfortable. The right footwear should be top of the agenda as it will make a telling difference to your trip. Likewise, the best backpack and suitable campaign essentials can remove a lot of stress. In turn, that’ll allow you to enjoy the great outdoors to its full potential.

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Camera | Depending on where you travel, you might not be able to get online during your stay. This is why laptops are redundant. Still, a camera and rechargeable battery allows you to document your adventures to ensure those memories last a lifetime. You can find the best ones at http:/\switchbacktravel.com/best-cameras-hiking-backpacking. Once you return home, those snaps can be turned into artwork for the home. Perfect.

Journey | The last thing you need is to feel uncomfortable before you’ve even reached the destination. You might have to choose coach, but flying directly to the nearest airport is essential. Meanwhile, you should avoid public transportation for the onward trip. Aside from the direct benefits, it removes the stress of knowing you have a nightmare return leg to come.

Injections | Hiking is an incredibly enjoyable task, but you are likely to choose places where dangers could be lurking. Given that nothing is more important than your health, it’s vital that you take action by getting the right jabs and medications. A little online research should tell you what’s needed. It doesn’t hurt to have medical insurance in place too. Still, prevention is always better.

With the right precautions, there’s no doubt that hiking trips can be the most rewarding. Aside from all the traditional joys, you gain that sense of self-satisfaction too. Frankly, there’s never been a better time to book your adventure.

 

 

 

Exploring Goa in a different way with Goa Unlimited..!!

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

Goa has always been my most favourite place on this planet and it always will be. I have been to Goa so many times and yet I am always ready for my next visit. There is so much to Goa that however times you may visit, there is always something new to discover about it, and thats the best part. You cannot get tired of exploring Goa, and when you have experts who can guide you through the most unexplored parts of Goa, you simply can’t ask for more.

I am talking about Goa Unlimited, who can be your idle travel partners in Goa. Read the full story here

Ultimate Guide to The Best Travel Backpack of 2017 by Travel Meets Happy

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

I recently stumbled upon this interesting blog post Ultimate Guide to The Best Travel Backpack of 2017 and thought of sharing it with you all lovely readers of mine

How to Buy Your First Travel Backpack:

To make it easier for you, whether you’re buying your first backpack, or you are an experienced traveler, we’ve made a list of our top recommendations for backpacks that are available on the world wide web! We’ve also made our own pros and cons list so that you can decide for yourself what is important to you, based on comfort, cost, color, extra features, and everything else that you can think of!

We’d hate to see you end up buying your plane ticket for your first, second, or even tenth adventure and find yourself both looking and feeling like an inexperienced traveler. Travelers, for either pleasure and business, who are obviously inexperienced with international and other long-distance travel can become targets for pick-pocketers and other petty theft. We hope that we can help you to avoid that situation, and save you some trouble when it comes to locating your luggage on the conveyer belt at the baggage claim! Skip the baggage claim altogether with a backpack that meets carry-on requirements, and makes traveling easier and more fun!

Read the full post here

As I surfed more on the blog, I just fell in love with the content and this surely is one blog one shouldn’t miss. Really commendable work by Colleen. Do subscribe and follow her blog and I am sure you will enjoy the read

Travel Meets Happy

A blog on location independence, backpack, and travel reviews. Because the experience is worth the adventure.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Walking Holiday

Posted on by Aditi Malhotra

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Getting out into nature using only your own two legs as transportation is a romantic idea for many people. And there is no doubt that a walking holiday provides a sense of adventure that you simply don’t get from other trips. But you also need to make sure that you have done the proper planning and preparation. If not, what seemed like a dream to start off with could quickly turn into a nightmare! So, here are a few top tips when it comes to planning your walking adventure holiday.

Choose a Location and Type of Walk

The location you go for is really based on your personal desires and also your walking experience. You may be looking to get out into the wilderness without many people being around or you may want some clearly marked footpaths with plenty of other people for company. You should also think about how challenging you want the walks to be. Are you looking for something flat or would you prefer mountainous terrain?

Map a Route

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Once you have zeroed in on an area, you then need to start mapping a route. Think about a start point and a destination based on how much walking you want to do each day and plan your stopping points along the way. Use maps and guides to give you a helping hand. To make things easier, there are plenty of walks that have been already completed by other people and the information will already be clearly listed. If you are more adventurous and experienced, you may want to plan your own route entirely.

Arrange Accommodation

B&Bs, hostels, guesthouses, hotels and camping are all viable options when you are walking, so you just need to think about your budget and the level of comfort you are looking for. The internet has made information so much more readily accessible, so check out reviews online so you get a fuller picture of where you will be staying. Arrange your accommodation methodically so you book places as you go along.

Prepare Your Resources

There are a few things that you will need to make your walking holiday a success. First of all, a map and compass are important, and you should also look at downloading a maps app on your phone. Next up, you need clothing including waterproof walking shoes, jacket, thick socks, fleece, and anything else you can think of. And then you need your gear including a backpack, walking poles, water bottle, electronic devices and chargers.

Training

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It is a good idea to get some walking done before your trip so you don’t find yourself completely exhausted before you have even really gotten going. If you can do a walk covering the longest distance you will be covering in a day, you will feel much more like you are fully prepared for what is in store.

A walking holiday is one of the most wonderful experiences you can have, and hopefully these suggestions have provided you with a helping hand to get started!

 

 

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