Tag: Globe Trotter

The Idiots’ Guide To Travel Comfort

Sick of getting to your destination, whether it’s for work or business, with a cramp in your back, tired out, and in need of a good rest? Well, you are not alone! In fact, millions of people travel in uncomfortable conditions every day, but there are some improvements you can make to your journey to avoid this. Read on to find out what they are.

 

Seating

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Depending on your mode of transport seating can be an issue. You may not be able to get a seat, the space may be too small and cramped, or it may not be as comfortable as you’d like.

To deal with the first issue, it can help to arrive for your journey early. Something that will allow you to be at the front of the line and giving you a better chance of getting a seat.

 

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To deal with uncomfortable seating, you have the option of upgrading the section you are sitting in. Although this will often cost extra. You can also take your own travel pillow and blanket to make things comfier. You earn even now get scarves with a structure in that will support your head while keeping you warm. They don’t even take up too much room in your luggage either, making them a great way to stay comfy no matter how long your journey.

 

Privacy

Privacy is a major comfort issue on public transport. Passengers tend to be packed in as close as possible because it allows providers to transport more people and make a better profit. Many folks like to plug in their earphones to deal with this as this can help them feel less overwhelmed by the number and close proximity of people.

Of course, some folks avoid this problem altogether by using private transport. This could take the form of driving your own vehicle or even go so far as to charter a private boat or plane when the situation requires. Something you may think of as prohibitively expensive but before you write it off, learn more about the massive discounts available by clicking the link. After all, why be uncomfortable if options like this are within your price range?

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Temperature

 

Controlling your temperature and temperature of the environment around you is something that is hugely difficult on public transport and can lead to you feeling uncomfortable. You really are limited to changing the clothes you are wearing and taking along a cold or warm drink. Although fans and gel hand heaters can also be used.

 

With private transport, you have a lot more freedom over this. This is because as can use the client control to increase or decrease the temperature as you see fit. Something that can make your journey a lot more comfortable.

Entertainment

Lastly, making a journey can be boring, especially if it’s one that you repeatedly do. That is why many people ensure they have some form of entertainment while they are travelling to keep them comfortable and alert.

When on public transport you are limited to entertainments that you can access via your earphones, so you don’t impinge on anyone else. Although, now with smartphones, this can be anything from popular TV box sets to mobile games.

When travelling on private transport, you have more of an option as you can play things out loud to everyone in the space. Many cars also come with infotainment centres now, that integrate your travel information needs with music, and audiobooks to keep you entertained on-route. Something that can definitely help a long journey go quicker and be a lot more comfortable for the traveller.

 

 

 

 

 

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

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 Heartland: Seeing The Real America!

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If you really want to know what America is about, it can’t be done by going to Disney World and spending two weeks with Mickey Mouse and his friends! You need to see the heartland, and get the sights, sounds and smells of a vast and plentiful land. If you have the time to explore what America has to offer them it’s time to saddle up and take a journey through some wholesome all-American activities. Here we go!

Go to a ball game

This is probably the first thing you need to tick off on your list of activities. The best time to catch a game would be during a warm summer’s night, where the rustic snacks of hot dogs and beer scent the stadium with its intoxicating aromas. You can either choose to go to a Major League Baseball game or opt for one of the minor league teams where the local ambience is far more infectious.

View the mountains… from the sky!

There are many ways to get some fantastic views of the mountains and rolling rocks of America’s heartland. But one of the most relaxing ways to do it is by hot air balloon, and if you time it right, you can pick a journey where you get to see the sun coming up over the horizon, which is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. If you check out the hot air balloon price and options available you could do it in style and have a champagne breakfast, or just relax and take in that amazing view!

Cruise down the open road

It’s more than essential that you need to see small town America by hitting the open road via the Pacific Coast Highway or Route 66 while the wind is blowing in your hair and you’ve got some traditional country music on the stereo. If you have the time, or if you are just on a short journey, there are plenty of road trips to take via the heartland of this country. One simple, time-saving option is to go from Las Vegas to Los Angeles via the Mojave Desert, which is home to one of the greatest landmarks in American history, as well as one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon.

Pay a visit to The King’s home!

Even if you aren’t a fan of Elvis Presley, you need to see the home of the man who personified rock and roll and brought it to millions. Graceland, the museum/home of The King, boasts a collection of his most iconic jumpsuits, as well as his classic cars and even his two private planes, called Lisa Marie and, of course, Hounddog II.

Witness a rodeo

You couldn’t escape America’s heartlands without catching a glimpse of real cowboys at the traditional all-American rodeo. Get a cowboy hat on and get in the stands to look at, quite possibly, one of the most dangerous sports the world has ever seen, and have a great time while you’re at it!

Essential Guide To Camping For Camping-Haters

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Camping is a lot like Marmite. A lot like Marmite. It’s not that you either love it or absolutely loathe it, for those that absolutely loathe it, it’s also the fact you can’t comprehend what there is to like about it. Sleeping is uncomfortable, eating is a challenge, it’s either too hot or too cold and then there is the bathroom situation which, in a nutshell, is not ideal.

Despite all this, we are firmly in the love camp. However, we do sympathise with those that aren’t. We get it. However, it is one of the best ways to get some me time. That is why we have come up with a list of tips and tricks and bits of advice to help you get an enjoyable experience out of it the next time your friends or family convince you to attend such a thing.

Think of this as the essential guide to camping for camp-haters:

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Entertainment Is Essential

One of the reasons why camp-haters detest camping so much is because they miss their creature comforts, which is where entertainment can really help. Bring with you a tablet or a laptop that has a long battery life, such as those new Asus computers, and a bunch of your favourite films too. There is nothing to say you can’t do this. Yes, if you are true camper then you’re going to find this suggest abhorrent, but who cares. You don’t see the chef at a restaurant come out and tell you off putting salt on the meal they’ve just cooked to perfection, and that is because it is a matter of preference. Sam goes here.

Food You Love

It is a big turn off for most camping-haters, which is fair enough. One-pot meals just aren’t to everyone’s fancy. Luckily, it doesn’t say you have to eat stewed roadkill just because you are camping. That’s why we recommend you pack a cooler full of your favourite foods, bring a portable grill with some pans and utensils and cook the foods you like. Want bacon and eggs in the morning instead of cereal bar, then indulge that, especially if it will make your experience more enjoyable.

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Doesn’t Have To Be In-Tents

Just because you are camping, it doesn’t have to mean sleeping in a tent that leaks wind and water and creepy crawlies. You can go with something that is a little more aligned with glamping. Teepees, hammocksbell tents, campervans with an awning, even a cabin; all of these are totally acceptable, and all of these offer way more space and protection. We’ve seen people with bell tents that have got double beds and sofas in them. Now that’s the life, right there.

Best Bathroom Ever

If you can find a way to enjoy the bathroom experience a bit more then you’ll probably start enjoying the whole camping thing a bit more too. That’s just hard when you have to dig a whole fifteen metres away from your base. However, there are ways to overcome this. First off, take a portable camping toilet with you, and do exactly the same as you do at home, just with a far better view. As for the shower, just grab yourself a solar powered shower with a privacy cubicle and all, which will allow you to enjoy a long warm shower in any secluded spot you fancy.

 

Pages from a traveler’s diary- Rishikesh

Nestled scenically in the laps of Sivalik Range in Himalayas; is a spiritual town of Rishikesh. Located in Dehradun district in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand, the holy city is a revered pilgrimage center among the Hindus. Burgeoned in natural splendor the city is a Gateway to Himalayas and an origination point for the “Char Dham” pilgrimage; one of the most sacred pilgrimage tours — Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Flourished at the foothills of Himalayas this sanctified city gets its name “Rishikesh” after Lord “Vishnu” which means ‘lord of the senses’.

The city comprises of the main town of Rishikesh along with few distinct sections encompassing hamlets and settlements on both the banks of the river Ganges. Primarily the main town Rishikesh comprises of an expansive commune known as “Muni-ki-Reti” meaning “sands of the sages” and the home of Sivananda Ashram; The Divine Life Society founded by Swami Sivananda popularly known as Sivananda Nagar. The north of Rishikesh comprises of the temple section of Lakshman Jhula, and a little further north are the assorted Ashrams around Swarg Ashram on the east bank.

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The sacred river representing country’s piousness, the Ganges flows through Rishikesh. Shredding her teen image of playful rivulet flowing from the Shivalik Ranges of the Himalayas, here she grows into a blooming young river commencing her journey further into the plains of northern India. Her turquoise hued clear water gushing swiftly with expeditious currents paints a devastatingly exquisite scene. Thousands of devotees, pilgrims and tourist throng the city each year from India and overseas. The feeling of divinity captivates one’s senses even whilst staring the banks of Ganges adorned with delicate flowers, and a converting of solitary Saints, Monks, priest and spiritually awakened individuals passing by.

Rishikesh, ever so often tagged as “the world capital of Yoga”, houses numerous yoga centers those are much older than any other yoga organizations in the world. One of the oldest yoga establishments is Kailas Ashram Brahmavidyapeetham; an institution dedicated to preserve and promote the traditional Vedantic Studies has been a part of this institution for more than 120 years. Legendary personas such as Swami Vivekananda, Swami Ramanand Tirtha and Swami Shivananda were alumni of this institution prior commencing their noteworthy journeys. The tinsel town has been a silent observer of lives of several yogis and Sages having lived and practiced penance here. It is said and well – believed that meditation in Rishikesh brings one closer to self – realization and “Moksha” and so does a dip in the divine river that flows throughout.

The town awakens at the early hours to the bellowing of conches and the “Vedic” chants. Blossoming with fragrant lilacs, roses, gerberas and holy basil which is considered of prime significance in offerings among the Hindu Gods the spirituality then emanates in the air. Most of the congregations of worshippers take a dip in the river as a part of a ritual and then proceeding ahead to perform “Pujas” in the temple.  Later the Gods are bejeweled in the colorful garlands, vermilion, turmeric and are ornamented in silk attire. Array of colognes emanate off the incense sticks followed by rhythmic chanting of prayers or “Vedas” in the temples mesmerizing one’s curiosity.

The bridge that bridges the banks of River Ganges is popularly termed as “Laxman Jhula” and is a well-known landmark in the city. The existence of this bridge dates back to the mythological era of “Ramayana” and is believed that “Laxmana” the brother of Hindu deity Lord Rama, crossed river Ganga on jute rope where the present bridge stands today. The 450 feet long jute-rope Bridge was replaced by iron-rope suspension bridge in 1889 by a British Officer but unfortunately it was washed away in the 1924 floods and afterwards was then replaced by a stronger present bridge. To the west of the bridge stands a temple devoted to “Laxmana”; the brother of Lord “Rama”.  “Laxman Jhula” offers an astonishing view of ravishing beauty of River Ganges. Watching the mountains roofed in green belt with turquoise hued Ganges flowing by and chilly breeze swirling around, crafts the bridge as a great place to be at. The river here abounds of fishes and often pilgrims are seen feeding a stream of fishes from the bridge or at a place where the fishes gather while the pilgrims drop food for them. A boat ride down the river is recommended as it offers a panoramic view of the bridge. The background colored with lush green mountain ranges and an unblemished steely grey Lakshman Jhula in the foreground seems like a portrait in itself autographed by Mother Nature.

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Blending its modern appearance with inner enlightenment the 13 storey Kailash Niketan Temple is the next stop post crossing Laxman Jhula. The Temple houses several sculptures of Gods and Goddesses and is a pure example of contemporary manifestation enlightened with the rays of serenity and spirituality.  The experience of spiritually is not only limited to the plains of Rishikesh but is also felt at an altitudes. Commanding an extravagant view of the region, situated on the altitudes of 5500 feet, abiding in equanimity is the legendary temple of Nilkanth Mahdeo. Encircled by serenity of the forests the temple is situated on a hilltop above “Swarg Ashram”. Legend goes that in the mythological era when the ocean was being churned for ‘Amrit’ (Potion for immortality), first venom oozed out and this was the place where lord Shiva had drunk the venom to save the mankind. After consuming it, his neck had turned blue with the poison and hence he was called ‘Neelkanth’, the one with blue neck. Every year in the months of monsoon – mid July to August – fairs are held where thousands of devotees visit temple, taking a holy dip in the fresh water spring within temple complex pilgrims proceed to pay visit to the lord. Scorched eyes long to have a view of the Lord Shiva who has been marking his presence since ages and eras, in a serene pose yet so very powerful and commanding by nature, the deity welcomes and blesses one and all.

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To the east of the Ganges is a place bustling with activities all the times, better known as “Swarg Asharm”.  Ashrams, temples, restaurants, shops, eating joints are well developed in this area. Founded by Swami Vishuddhananda fondly known as “Kaali Kamli Wale”, the ashram is one of oldest in Rishikesh and is adorned by many statues. The spiritual air of the spiritual soul pacifies one and all. Crossing over the “Ram Jhula” towards the western bank of Ganges is Shivanand Ashram: The Divine Life Society: One of the oldest and most active ashrams in the area. A doctor by profession, Swami Shivanand renounced his life in Delhi and came to Rishikesh in the year of 1924 and set up Divine Life Society in 1936. He authored approximately 200 books on yoga, health and spiritual life prior his death in 1963. The ashram organizes regular yoga classes, meditation courses and performs and promotes studies in texts like Upanishads and Gita very often. Spiritual and activities related with Hinduism are the practiced every day. The ashram runs a biggest charitable hospital from which hundreds of localities avail the facilities of free of charge medical services.

Located in the heart of the ancient town of Rishikesh near Triveni Ghat on the banks of River Ganges, abiding in silence since centuries is an aesthetic “Bharat Mandir”. “Adiguru Shankara Charya” built the temple; a renowned saint who lived in the 12th century. The internal chamber of the temple houses an idol of Lord Vishnu, which is carved out of a single rock of “Saligram”; a rock that possess divine powers. An awning of “Shree Yantra” shelters from above the idol. The temple also houses several other old statues, coins, pots and other things of historical significance.

Nothing seems phenomenal as the “Ganga Aarti” of “Triveni Ghat”.  The ghat is a foremost place where pilgrims crowd to take a holy dip and a spectacular “Ganga Arati” is performed regularly in the dusk. Being a principle place for taking a holy dip in, the Ghat derives its name due to confluence of three rivers namely, Ganga, Yamuna & Sarawati.  The most enthralling and eye – catching event at the dusk being “Ganga Arati” scores of devotees throng the steps of ghat at the dusk for performing Arati. The priest and saints carry out the ritual, while the fiery orange fuelled with multiple hued golden flames transpire out of massive pure ghee lamp being rotated in the circular motions brightly lighting up the whole place. The Triveni Ghat then witnesses the illuminated statue of Lord Shiva amidst the river and Vedic chants fill the atmosphere in the praise of the river Ganges.  The bellowing conches and religious songs spiritually awaken the atmosphere with divinity blending in air mesmerizing one to the tunes of the songs sung in devotion. It is here at dusk, that scenario quenches one’s thirst for peace and the soul entwines into the feeling of oneness connecting itself with the universe. It is then when the whole cosmos conspires together to gift mankind the tranquility and inner joy beyond expression or one’s imagination. Later devotees float their respective leaf bowls filled with flowers and an oil lamp into the river. The reflection of lamps enamels the water with golden ripples. The radiance emitting out of the statue of Lord Shiva amidst the river soothes the tired souls and eyes follow the lamps till they disappear. The ceremony symbolizes a revival of hope, remembrance of the kind deeds of the river since ages and praying for the betterment of the mankind.

Rishikesh is one of the holiest communes in India and every corner of the city is considered as sanctified one. The city possesses the magic of a casting spell to transform and balance the inward journey with an outward adventure. Dwelling on the laps of lower Himalayas, surrounded by untouched countryside with panoramic views, numerous village treks, jungle walks in rhododendron forests, with the banks of Ganges that is dotted with numerous ancient temples transforms the holy town into a heaven making one say “Come home to Rishikesh”

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