Solo travel is scary & fulfilling. Fear of traveling solo or thrill of seeking adventure are two parts of the same coin. If one enjoys traveling solo then there is no better feeling.
Who would have thought that countries will give financial support to the travelers who are willing to travel to those countries after COVID 19 pandemic? But, you will be surprised to know that there are few gems who are willing to do this. Many countries are opening not only their borders but will also their wallets. They will pay you or help you on your trip to boost tourism. Due to this widespread virus, the economy of the almost whole world is in devastating condition & with no immediate relief on the sight. This step could boost its financials. Traveling has always been one of the luxurious expenses in a person’s life. So, without wasting any more time, here is the list of countries that will offer some financial assistance to travel.
1. Japan
Japan is the land of rising Sun & is known for its fabulous hospitality. Japan has some of the best natural attractions in the world & who has not fantasized about clicking a photo in front of snow-capped Mt Fiji? If visiting Japan was your long time dream, your dream is about to get fulfilled. Japan Govt is proposing to pay half of the flight tickets. Not only this they are also planning to subsidize attractions substantially. However, there is no clarity as now. The guidelines are expected to come into effect from Jul 2020. So, if everything is formulated then Japan will see a surge in the tourist numbers.
2. Sicily
Sicily is the largest island on the Mediterranean sea. It is known to lure luxury travelers with their unmatched beauty. As per the reports, Sicily Govt will cover 1 night for every 3 night at the hotel along with the free entry to museums & archeological sites. This is not all, they will also cover half of your flight ticket cost.
3. Mexico
Mexico is more than its tequila, Cancun is a famous destination in Mexico who is looking to ramp up its tourism by offering great deals on stay. Cancun hotel association has decided to give 2+2 on hotel deals & many more lucrative offers on car rentals, spa services & flights as well.
4. Cyprus
Cyprus is not exactly allowing any freebies. However, they have mentioned that if you or your family gets infected with Corona Virus. They will fund your trip. However, getting infected for getting freebies is not a wise option to take. Cyprus is a famous tourist spot for Britishers.
5. Bulgaria
Bulgaria is in European union, it is also one of the most affordable places in Europe & yet under the radar. Some beaches along with their amenities are set to become free to the tourists.
So, until this coronavirus vanishes from the face of the earth. Be safe & sound & take all the necessary precautions. I am sure this post will help you decide on your first destination after the coronavirus.
Doing a solo activity is always a tough task, Andrew Agassi said in his biography, Open; that tennis is one of the loneliest sports in the world. From the moment you step into the court you are disconnected from the world & from there on, it is you & your decisions throughout the match. Apparently, which is true. Making decisions in real-time can be tough & hard & probably that is the reason which makes great players. A great player can control his or her emotions & can stay on the top of their game compared to their peers.
Yet, unlike tennis where there are hundreds of spectators watching your every move, cheering you & motivating you. Hiking is a solo & lonely affair. For the starters, there are no spectators & one step can terribly dampen your spirits. While every other solo sport takes this thrill of death from the moment due to the availability of medics, crowd & other help (that does make it a little less risky than hiking). Hiking check all these points that make it thrilling & dangerous at the same time. So, here are my experiences while hiking solo at some of the places lesser-known to me, a place where I went for the first time.
I am not an active hiker, but I have hiked a bit. From hiking solo in Mount Huashan to Lion’s head I have completed a few of the hikes that too solo. Every time I start with a hike, there is a sense of excitement, thrill & fear of mishappening. Hiking is very uncertain, many external factors complemented with the thoughts dictate your experience of a hike. With each passing minute, many thoughts will cross your mind from past to future, to holidays, to love, to the sport, to random events & whatnot. It is hard to control the mind amidst when there is silence on the outside. Hiking requires an alert, doing anything for the first time releases the dopamine in mind that is the reason for your happiness & one of the main reasons to hike. Although it seems to be simple, however uncertain external conditions make it challenging, something you were not aware of, sudden rain, a fear of the wrong step, slipping at the wrong place, walking the wrong path, etc. There are so many things that can ruin the moment which can’t be determined beforehand. Some things have to be kept for the chance & as some wise man has said,” while driving on the highway at night, you only have to see 3 mts ahead of you & rest will follow”. On the same line, you have to take few steps at a time & then think forward.
While hiking, you have to take care of yourself which goes without saying. Hiking a random place with no prior experience will only make it tough & it becomes the priority to take care of your self. While hiking, a lot depends on your intuition, the intuition plays an important role while hiking solo. I trust my intuition more than often than not. After preparing for the hike, the only thing left is to make that hike & stories of your hike.
The starting point is always exciting, the views & there is something rememberable that supersedes all other expressions. With each passing step, the view becomes more memorable, unique & slowly the happiness of hiking a new place starts to sinks into the mind. But, before reaching the top, many other landmarks need to be crossed, some in the path & some in the mind. The funny thing about hiking solo is infinite thoughts, that come in the mind with each passing view. Each view will trigger some story in your mind. The story can be relevant or irrelevant it doesn’t matter because it is nonessential in the context of the things.
Most of the hikes have easy parts & tough parts. Let’s begin with easy parts, the easy parts are simple & can be completed easily by anyone. The normal walk is hardly a concern for anyone, just put on the headphone & walk while enjoying the pleasant surroundings. Each view will take you to some memory lane. The beautiful sceneries, fresh air, sound of leaves rattling, etc all will amaze you to the core. You will be astonished by nature & would often criticize yourself for not enjoying these precious little moments. The deeper you are in nature the more clear your thoughts get & sometimes all the glitters of the world seem to be vague & irrelevant when in such an environment. The happiness of enjoying life as pure & raw which is hard to fathom. The reason for enjoying nature is you don’t calculate the time you passed in nature or how much is left, you are in that present moment which is the only thing that matters. There comes a point when your thoughts leave you for the good & then there is nothing left other than your surroundings. This stage is what we are craving for but with so many noises in our mind, we are always miles behind that point. People have tried many ways to reach this point some use meditation, some use sports, some use adventure & some use passion. If one reached that position where they can enjoy the present moment, respect them. They are part of a rare breed.
The tough part is pretty amazing, adventurous & full of surprises. Every step you take determines the rest of your journey. The tough part usually comprises of slippery slopes, dreadful stairs, or something not experienced before all those thrills that give a sense of achievement after completing it. It is not always about the external factors like the path you walk, but sometimes its small battles in your mind. The tough path does test you alot, whether stepping up or stepping down you have to be sure about your next step if you are not then things can take an ugly turn. This is the beauty of the tough phase, there is always uncertainty about the next step, but everyone is certain that they have to make one. So if some unfortunate incident happens with you, suddenly every nerve in your body will worry about that problem & will forget surroundings in a fraction of seconds. The same surroundings which looked beautiful as heaven becomes bleak & the focus shifts from surroundings to that incident. We keep on thinking about it till we are comfortable with the fact that something has happened with us & completely ignore nature. In other words, we think more about the internal factors than the outer once & internal factors can change about how we look outer things.
So, a hike is like a summary of life unpredictable, unreliable & seems to be in control but not really is. A hike perfectly depicts, how things are during the various stages of life & how it affects your perspective. Read more about my travel stories here https://www.markmyadventure.com/
If you’ve decided to go on your first travel trip to escape the daily hustle-bustle of the complicated thing called life, you are on the right path. Whether you plan on visiting the Swiss Alps, the Statue of Liberty, or the Taj Mahal, you will most certainly have a lot of fun and recharge your internal battery.
One of the lesser-known factors of an enjoyable and memorable trip is meticulous planning. While an impromptu trip may also work out for some of us, it’s very rare as the odds against this are generally higher.
Then, of course, the nerves of traveling for the first time settle in, leaving you in a state of constant paranoia. But, don’t you worry! We have compiled a list of ways you can use to condition yourself for your first travel trip ensuring it turns out to be successful.
Decide The Budget
It’s important that you create a budget before you start planning your trip to help you understand the constraints within which you should operate. This way, you can plan your trip and enjoy it without any fear of disappointment. Also, contrary to popular belief, you can have one of the best vacations on a low budget, as well, due to the presence of the internet and the research that you perform to help you get amazing deals.
There are definitely some locations that are cheaper than others with regard to their hotels, food, and transportation. Our tip would be to travel during the off-season or just pick budget accommodations. And yes, always keep your estimation on the higher side when you’re making the budget.
Choose The Destination Carefully
Once you figure your budget out, you can easily narrow down your destination options. Try to pick up location that includes all the experiences that you would want to have and, accordingly, plan the vacation around it. This will also help you get a specific goal and you can work within the guidelines.
Also, the experience that you are trying to get out of your vacation plays an important role when looking for holiday destinations. If you want to do something adventurous, look for options where you can try scuba diving, rock climbing, or bungee jumping. In the same way, if you want to relax on a beach, look for places such as Maldives, Barcelona, or Bali.
Get The Documents & Insurance In Order
It’s important to have the necessary documents handy before you leave for your trip. If you plan on going overseas, you need to ensure your passport is ready. In addition to this, you will also need a valid visa.
All in all, make sure that you find out all the important documents that you may need and if you don’t have them ready, start filing applications for the same. Keep them in an easily accessible place as you need to show documentation before you enter the airport. You can also have a file where you keep your documents along with your flight tickets.
Ask for insurance, though note that there are several types of travel insurance. You have to make sure that you have medical insurance at all times. You can also get one in case your flight gets canceled or something gets stolen. After all, it’s always better to be prepared for the worst. While this may look like extra expenditure, it will help you save money in the case of an emergency.
Prepare A Rough Itinerary That You Can Follow
Having a planned schedule can help you tremendously to remain organized and calm. Firstly, book your flight tickets as they are usually an expensive part of your trip. Try to be flexible with your dates. You can also look for different travel sites that offer complete holiday packages that include flight tickets, accommodation, transportation, and even attractions!
Once you have the dates finalized and flights booked, make a list of the things and sites you would want to try once you reach your destination. Again, be careful with your budget. The internet is full of possibilities to help you save extra bucks, so be very thorough with your research.
Book Your Accommodation Beforehand
Getting a comfortable hotel room can be an additional task that is both time-consuming and exhausting if you don’t book one before – not something you would want to do after you land from a long and tiring flight. There might also be situations where you may not find a room that will put you in a huge predicament. Having no place to sleep doesn’t necessarily spell out a relaxing vacation now, does it?
To avoid these situations, we would recommend you book a hotel room before you start your journey. Look for the best possible hotel that is both safe and has essential amenities for your comfort. In fact, by booking hotel rooms in advance, you will also be able to save a lot of cash.
Pack Lightly But Efficiently
Having a huge suitcase will not only make your journey tedious, but it can also be a task when you are changing hotels. This is precisely why you should take the initiative to pack light whenever you plan on traveling.
Keep only the essential things that you need and try to include outfits that can be mixed and matched. In addition to your wardrobe, don’t forget to take into account other traveling essentials that include a neck pillow, eye mask, earplugs for sleeping, medication, and some snacks.
Lastly, Enjoy Your Trip!
Always keep an open mind whenever you are traveling. Keep your mind away from work or any other issues that may restrict you from feeling free. Remember, your vacation is the time to unwind and relax. You can always pick up with these issues once you return. So until then, keep your daily life at hold and sip that Pina Colada under the golden rays of the Sun.
Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.
Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.
Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.
Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.
Couchsurfing: Best place to find free accommodation. It is as easy as filtering people & messaging. If you will get lucky you will find free accommodation in local resident house.
Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.
Budget is one of the most important things while planning a trip & it is probably one of the main reasons why people avoid traveling to their dream locations. However, is it hard or impossible to travel on a budget? Especially, at this time when most of the information is available with just one click. The answer is a simple “NO” period. There are ample ways which can help you to plan a budget trip. So, how to plan a budget trip?. This post will help you plan a budget trip in an affordable & doable way.
When the world is at your disposal, choosing the right place is always a tedious part & with so many options to work from it corrupts our minds for expectations of better places. The best way to choose on the destination is based on your interests. If you like places with natural touch search for similar options. As the mind will always play games & you will miss an opportunity to travel to a place you always wanted to travel to. Shortlist the place & do not deviate from it. Research about a destination like what all you can do. Choosing a perfect destination is 1st step in planning a budget trip.
2. Visa requirement:
After shortlisting the destination read about the visa requirement, fee & process involved. As some destinations requirements are high compared to the others. Of all the destinations I traveled so far the most difficult was of Europe. So, it is better to research visa process & then go ahead with your plans.
3. Duration of travel:
Not every destination requires a month-long duration to explore. Some can be completed in a few days as well. I believe that one must spend at least 3 days at the same place to enjoy it fully. However, the duration of the travel must be in sync with your things to do & budget (which will be covered later). It is not required to do all the activities, you can only do those activities which you really want to. So, prioritize your activities & calculate the duration. In the case of multiple stops, it is recommended to consider extra days for each stop.
4. Travel budget:
Planning for a budget is the tricky part. But, if you want to travel sustainably it is recommended to stick to the budget. I know it gets lucrative to spend on all the activities once on the road. But, this is what will decide your fate of budget traveling. Search for basic prices of items & liquor this will help you to decide the upper limit of the budget. Suppose, if the meal prices are high then it is better to cook your own food. You can buy stuff from supermarkets which will significantly lower your expenses. Decide on the maximum amount you are willing to spend & work per day expenditure backward. This will help you massively in planning a budget trip.
5. Saving for the trip:
Once your budget is fixed it is time to save for that extra amount. Keep a check on your expenses. This is an entirely personal way of money management. Not spending is also one kind of savings. I personally don’t like to spend on things I don’t require. I don’t watch movies in the theaters, don’t eat outside, don’t shop much until & unless it is an absolute requirement & invest whenever possible. Along with this keep certain money aside each month & spend the rest. This will help you to plan your priorities. You can check the following books if money really matters to you.
Read these books if money really matters to you.
6. Seasons for traveling:
This is probably the most underrated & most missed point while planning a budget trip. As most of the people are aware that during the season prices of everything rises 2 or 3 times from the normal season. Traveling during the season has many benefits but those benefits don’t sync with the finances. I traveled to Cape Town during winters & it helped me to save on my accommodation by at least 50%. This is the impact of in season& off-season traveling. If budget is constraint then traveling off-season is highly recommended. It will help you to save at least 20 to 25% of the amount & with that amount you can travel to some new destinations. Deciding season is important step in how to plan a budget trip.
7. Book cheap flight tickets:
When all the above steps are done, it is time to book cheap flight tickets. You can check the following article which helps you to find cheap international flight tickets. Also, during off-season, there are massive discounts on flight tickets.
If you run out of the breath while reading the article, you can check the following link which will directly help you to book cheap international flight tickets.
Skyscanner Kayak Kiwi Jetradar
8. Booking hotel:
Stay is one fixed cost that will be surely there. Hostels are the perfect place to stay for solo backpackers. It not only saves money but will also help you to interact with the other solo backpackers. A great way of community building. Here is a post to sites which you should refer to before booking a hostel.
If hostels are not your cup of tea, then you can book hotels or Airbnb. These will be slightly costlier if compared to hostels but it comes with luxury. Use the below links to book a hotel with a discount. Agoda AirBnB
9. Travel Insurance:
Traveling solo is unpredictable. So, one must be prepared for any mishappening. The best way to protect yourself is by taking travel insurance. There are many sites which help to book travel insurance at discounted rates. This is an important aspect as this can really protect you from anymishappening & will allow you to plan a budget trip.
10. Memories:
After planning rigorously for a budget trip. It is time for some fun, each new destination brings new memories & new experiences. Visit the places you want to & paint the white canvas of your life with the memories created by traveling. As traveling might rob you with some money but it will enrich you with experience, thrill, amazement, excitement & energy. So, don’t waste life counting days, go out do things that excite you & make it memorable.
These steps are essential & will teach you how to plan a budget trip. I hope this really helps you to plan your budget trip with minimum efforts.
After reading this post, if you are not ready to take that next step I don’t know what will motivate you :P. Don’t wait, book your next destination right now & travel world.
Handy Resources:
Below are the few resources you should check before making an itinerary.
Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.
Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.
Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.
Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.
Couchsurfing: Best place to find free accommodation. It is as easy as filtering people & messaging. If you will get lucky you will find free accommodation in local resident house.
Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.
New year is one special occasion where people can start fresh or something new. Many people wait for the new year to make some resolution. Maybe starting all over again is the biggest reason why people crave for the new year. The new year has different meanings in the life of different people, however, for travelers, the meaning is traveling to new locations to celebrate. Most of the people look for affordable locations where they can celebrate as well as enjoy. Destinations outside India are the new rage among the young generation & many people plan a trip during the new year to exotic locations to get dual benefits of celebrating & visiting new places. The year 2020 is around the corner & this is the perfect time to plan for it. If you are confused about Where To Celebrate New Year 2020. This guide is for you.
Udaipur:
Udaipur is one of the royal places in India. It is also among the most beautiful cities in India. Although, the new year parties are not a thing here. But, the beautiful lake of Pichola in the backdrop & lovely evenings awaits you. There is hardly any place which will be as beautiful as Udaipur & offers such beauty. Food without a doubt will get you high.
Udaipur will supersede your expectations in terms of beauty & food. A great quiet & beautiful place to spend your new year.
Rann of Kutch:
Rann of Kutch is also known as the white desert due to the layer of salt covering the surface & once the moonlight is in full glow the places will amaze your every nerve. Like Udaipur, this place is also not known much for the parties. In fact, Rann of Kutch is located in India’s dry state, Gujrat, so finding alcohol will be tough. Rann of Kutch season only starts from Oct to Feb. So, the New year can be a perfect time to visit this place. Stay in desert camps & enjoy the time with your closed ones.
Goa:
Finally a place for party lovers. One of the best party destinations in India awaits you with open arms. The place is LIT during the new year when the prices soar to record high & so is the crowd. All the best clubs are functioning at this time. If you like partying, this place will satisfy you in every sense. But, high prices can be one of the disappointing factors when traveling to Goa during high season.
Gokarna:
Hailed as Goa’s of ’80s. This place is still not much celebrated. Beautiful landscapes, great ocean & secluded beaches are some of the highlights of Gokarna. An ideal evening would be to camp on the beach & dance to your rhythms. Gokarna is a great place to enjoy an evening with your friends.
Camping Near Mumbai:
If Mumbai is too crowded & overpriced which is usually the case in Mumbai. Then, head towards Pavana Lake, a place near Mumbai & Pune will host camping for you. A beautiful backdrop of Pavana lake & view open to the clear sky will be just perfect for you. Enjoy beautiful evening here away from the hush of the city.
Dubai has been on the list of people alot lately. This may be due to the new year celebration at Burj Khalifa. From India, Dubai is not far & also the Dubai shopping festival is one more lucrative option to visit this place. Dubai can be a great alternative to celebrate New Year 2020
These are some of the best ideas you can indulge in too. I believe perfect getaways are made by best people along with great conversations. Do share your getaways meaning with me. Let make this New Year 2020 memorable.
Handy Resources:
Below are the few resources you should check before making an itinerary.
Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.
Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.
Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.
Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.
Couchsurfing: Best place to find free accommodation. It is as easy as filtering people & messaging. If you will get lucky you will find free accommodation in local resident house.
Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.
What to do in Dubai on a budget? It seems expensive, right? The name of Dubai gives an image of tall structures, extravagance shopping and cultures wrapped in a blanket of deserts and colorful man-made islands. The Dubai city tour is characterized as over-the-top luxury, thus it seems difficult for a budget traveler to explore it completely. But honestly, Dubai offers a lot of budget friendly or almost free things to do around the city. Want to know what are best ways to plan Dubai budget trip? Read on!
1. Explore Culture and Heritage in Heritage Village Dubai
Art of potters, weavers, and professionals of other forms of art, and the history of pearl diving in the Middle East make the experience of Dubai’s heritage village extraordinary. You will also get a lot of information on Dubai’s ancient people – the bedus in this region of the city and develop a better understanding about the lifestyle of the people residing in Dubai.
2. Visit Camel Museum for Free
Camel Museum in the Al Shindagha Heritage Village is a free spot to visit in Dubai. Various areas in the gallery are devoted to the historical backdrop of camels in UAE, the connection among camels and Arabs, the camel racing, and the camel as a source of transportation. There is also a huge auditorium where time after time presentations and other programs are arranged for visitors.
3. Spot Free Yoga Classes
There are a great deal of alternatives for budget activities in Dubai for the wellness. However, the best among those is the free yoga class by the – Friends Of Yoga which is arranged in five different areas in Dubai. It is a 1-hour class ideal to keep you healthy on your visit to Dubai. You can attend these classes daily from 5:30 am to 6:30 am or 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. They are arranged in Internet City, Deira Creek, Bur Dubai Creek, Zabeel Park, and JLT Park.
4. Enjoy Watching a Movie Under The Stars
It is one of the best free and amazing things to do in Dubai. You can watch a free movie with your loved one under the stars at Pyramids Rooftop Complex in Wafi Complex. Before you head for this place on Sundays, find out which movie is playing there. Also, the movie starts at 8:30 pm so you need to reach out there early to reserve a perfect spot.
5. Visit Dubai Aquarium
A visit to Dubai Aquarium costs 70 AED/Person. However, you don’t need to spend this amount when you can see the giant tank from the outside for free. Located inside Dubai Mall, Dubai Aquarium houses more than 30,000 species of aquatic animals, sharks and ray fish. You can visit Dubai anyday anytime to watch this spectacular water tank containing thousands of beautiful fishes and sharks.
6. View Dancing Fountain Show
One of the most well-known activities in Dubai is to watch the wonderful presentation of the fountains outside Dubai Mall, moving in a state of harmony with a melodic soundtrack. The choreography is done in such a manner that you will be fascinated by the water moving rhythmically on different songs. The show starts in the evening and lasts only 3 to 4 minutes. Reach out early to reserve the perfect spot to watch this magical presentation.
7. Visit The Jumeirah Beach Corniche
The Jumeirah Beach Corniche offers 800 meters of waterfront, running track, showers, shaded areas for family picnics and a separate children’s play area. The 14 km long corniche starts from Dubai Marine Beach Resort and ends at Burj Al Arab Hotel. It is a perfect peaceful place to spend a romantic evening with your loved one.
8. Visit Gold And Spice Souks
The old souks in Deira are one of the prominent spots to visit in Dubai. The old market is acclaimed for the budget friendly shopping – (if you know how to bargain). There are a number of jewelry shops, spice vendors, perfume shops, and carpet vendors. You can buy scarves and pashmina shawls from there at cheap prices as a souvenir of your trip.
10. Watch Pehlwani Wrestling
It cost nothing to watch this wrestling. You just need to reach out to the Sandlot behind the fish market in Deira on friday at 5:00 pm. Each Friday, several Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi workers gather around to watch this free native form of wrestling.
11. Take A Selfie with Burj Khalifa
Being the tallest structure on the planet, Burj Khalifa displays splendid design as well as great creative imagination of humans. Standing 160 stories tall, this landmark enable the guests to observe the entrancing 360 view of the city. However, it costs around 135 AED to visit Burj Khalifa in the non-peak hours, you can view this gigantic structure for free from the outside and take a selfie to keep it as a souvenir of your trip.
12. Watch Burj Al Arab
Burj Al Arab – the only 7-star hotel in the world is the 3rd tallest structure on the planet. It offers lavish dining options, VIP accommodation and a luxurious experience to the visitors. However, budget travelers can watch this beautiful structure from the outside in Jumeirah and take some memorable pictures. This Burj Al Arab is built on a man-made island and it is in the list of the most expensive hotels in the world.
13. Visit Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque has been labeled as one of the most excellent mosques in the city. Constructed altogether with white marbles, this spot is ideal to have your inquiries concerning the Islamic religion replied. Following the strategy of ‘Open Doors, Open Minds, the doors of the mosque are open for people of all religions and beliefs. Although, there is a guided tour available in the mosque which costs 12 AED, you can visit and explore the different parts of the mosque all by yourself and appreciate the islamic architecture.
Now you know the best and budget friendly things to do in Dubai, it won’t be a burden on your pocket to explore this beautiful city. Further, you can look for cheaper flights and lowest hotel accommodation in Dubai in off season like Ramadan and summer where hotels and airlines offer special prices for the travelers.
Handy Resources:
Below are the few resources you should check before making an itinerary.
Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.
Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.
Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.
Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.
Couchsurfing: Best place to find free accommodation. It is as easy as filtering people & messaging. If you will get lucky you will find free accommodation in local resident house.
Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.
Traveling is one activity which is memorable with the experiences on the trip & everyone who is not a frequent traveler is always afraid of the unknown & wondering if cape town is worth visiting?. In my previous posts, I have covered the topics like Cape Town travel guide, how expensive is Cape Town, things to do in Cape Town. However, the most important topic is yet to be uncovered. So, not wasting any more time here is the post on the Is Cape Town worth visiting to?
The worthiness of the place is determined by many factors & some of them are listed below. So, based on the below list I will decide if the Cape Town is worth traveling to.
Reaching Cape Town
Accessibility is not an issue here. Cape Town has an international airport & connected to all the major airports of the world. Summer is probably the best time to visit this place. However, the prices are skyrocket during peak season. If you want to enjoy a peaceful time, visit the place during the winters.
Things To Do In Cape Town:
Cape Town has a plethora of activities for you. From sitting in nature’s lap to hiking the most beautiful mountains. From surfing to sun basking, there are many outdoor activities that one can do. If you are looking for some activities you will never be disappointed with Cape Town. One can easily spend 4 to 5 days doing different activities during the stay. Read this to know more about the best things to do in Cape Town.
How Expensive is Cape Town:
Cape Town is expensive for people belonging to the eastern countries (apart from China). For western people, most of the countries are easy to access & even easier to afford. Assume an expense of approx INR 2500 – 3000 per day onwards. This is possible if you stay in hostels & cook your food. I did my trip in approx 50K INR. Check out the link How expensive is Cape Town?
Is Cape Town Safe For Solo Traveler:
The biggest factor which might sour your taste is safety. Although, Cape Town is most of the beautiful cities in the world. Safety is a concern here. It is not advisable to roam alone in the dark & shady places. It is recommended to keep an open eye & know about the surroundings. This is the only negative point while traveling to Cape Town. Read details about Is Cape Town safe for solo travelers.
After considering all the factors mentioned above, I feel that Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world & if you are in the safe surrounding you will enjoy this city. I loved my time here & would love to visit this place once more because of nature. Hiking & trekking is a weekend activity here & what better it can get from here.
Handy Resources:
Below are the few resources you should check before making an itinerary.
Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.
Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.
Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.
Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.
Couchsurfing: Best place to find free accommodation. It is as easy as filtering people & messaging. If you will get lucky you will find free accommodation in local resident house.
Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.
Safety is of great concern when one is traveling to African countries & South Africa is also not left behind such impression. Before planning a trip to Cape Town, I learned that it is also not that suitable for solo traveling. After reading this, I was a bit skeptical about touring this place. But, everyone kneels before the thrill of a place & with all the courage I booked a ticket to Cape Town. As you can assume I am still alive. But, how did my travel went? So, here is a post on Is Cape Town Safe For Solo Tourists?
Touchdown:
My plane landed at Johannesburg airport & the moment I landed, I was a bit nervous. Even though the people were ready to help me. I reminded myself of using one. Wherever I sat down, I keep a close watch on my luggage; I was having so much of negative thoughts.
Cape Town:
From the airport, I took a myciti bus to my hostel in the long street. But, there was a catch. I need to change bus in between. After reaching the Civic Centre, it was time to take my bus. I checked on the map which showed approx 2 km & rather than waiting for the bus I planned to walk. But, before taking this decision I asked a police officer if it is safe to walk to long street & with a plane face she said, “No, it is not safe to walk at this point of time.” (time was approx 8 pm). Taking her advice I stayed at the bus station & took a bus to my place.
Nights:
Day time is usually safe at almost most of the places. But, what about the night? I would like to share one instance which happened while I walking through one of the busiest lanes in Cape Town; Long street. I planned to walk to the neighborhood to get the feel about the place. I was walking & suddenly 6 footer colored people stopped me.
This is how it all went.
They: Hey man! from where are you from? Me: India They: Great man, so what are you doing here? Me: I said just roaming around. They: Wait, Lemme show you something. Action: They snipped my mobile from the pocket in seconds. Me: (I am nervous & little scared. What if they don’t give me my mobile) I tried to get my mobile back with my hand. They: (Laughing like anything) Don’t be nervous man, here take your mobile. Take this (mobile handed to me).
Although, for them it was fun. But, for me, it ringed a few bells about the safety. So, after that night, I tried to stay near public places & run whenever I feel there is some danger.
Talking To The Stranger:
I was staying in the hostel & there was a group of 3 girls traveling. They were from Brazil, which is also in the list of most notorious countries in the world. I asked them about their experience in Cape Town. They said, that they are not comfortable roaming around the city during the night. It is not safe, they have been to many places but they feel this is not among the best of the places to travel to.
It is strange to see how people feel even though 2 policemen are guarding the lanes every 100 meters. People are still unsure of the night. I hope soon things will get good for the tourists.
Once you are traveling to such places, take note of the following points
Make sure you are not carrying any valuables with you.
Don’t flash luxurious items in rural areas.
Don’t walk in empty lanes until you are sure of it.
Take uber during the night.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Being said that, apart from the one instance, there were no such problems in Cape Town. So, if anyone asks me is Cape Town safe for solo tourists? My answer would be of course. But, keep the safety points in mind. Mishaps can happen to anyone at any place; you need to be aware of your surroundings & act wisely.
Handy Resources:
Below are the few resources you should check before making an itinerary.
Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.
Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.
Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.
Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.
Couchsurfing: Best place to find free accommodation. It is as easy as filtering people & messaging. If you will get lucky you will find free accommodation in local resident house.
Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.
When we think of South Africa, most of us tend to conjure up images of sunsets and safaris in our mind’s eye. While the country is certainly famous for its wildlife, plains and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to see the warm heart of the continent, South Africa also has something else to offer; incredible cuisine.
Many visitors to the country are surprised to learn of South Africa’s rich and varied traditional food offerings. While not everything is vegan or vegetarian-friendly, there’s an abundance of dishes to tingle most tastebuds in this increasingly popular destination.
A gastronome’s delight
South Africa is an unlikely but rewarding destination for food lovers – and word is beginning to get out. According to Expedia, more than £6 trillion is spent in the travel sector every year, with some of that making its way into the African economy.
If you’re considering a trip to South Africa in the future, keep an eye out for these signature dishes on your travels:
1. Bunny Chow
Don’t be put off just yet! No bunnies are harmed during the concoction of this dish. It’s a curry which originates from Durban, and it’s usually made with chicken, lamb or minced beef. Did we mention it often comes in an edible bowl, too?
It’s traditionally served in a crusty half-loaf of bread which is hollowed out and then filled to the brim with piping-hot curry. It’s cheap, filling and perfect for backpackers who need some sustenance after a hard days’ hiking. Cape Town will provide you one of the best bunny chow’s you will ever have.
2. Chakalaka & Pap
Vegetarians travelling throughout South Africa are likely to make this a staple during their stay. Chakalaka is a mixture of peppers, onions, carrots, beans and tomatoes with added herbs and spices. Pap is an almost tortilla-like mixture of maize and salt, which is used to scoop up the chakalaka before it is devoured. Put simply, it’s a South African take on Doritos and dip, and makes for a great mid-night out snack at a bar.
3. Gatsby
While the name might conjure up images of high society in the 1920s, think again – a Gatsby in South Africa is far from glamorous. It’s essentially a foot-long sub roll stuffed with… practically everything! Fries are a common filling, along with cooked meats and fresh vegetables. It’s a sandwich designed for sharing and makes for a great choice among groups of weary travellers.
4. Melktart
Those with a sweet tooth are in for a real treat with a melktart. It’s a traditional dessert made with pastry, sugar, eggs and flour, and makes for a great ending to any South African meal. It’s so revered in the country that the locals actually dedicate an entire day to it. Melktart day takes place on February 27th every year, and each region puts its own subtle twist on the recipe. This means you can expect to enjoy plenty of varieties of this sweet, almost cheesecake-like delicacy during your visit.
5. Koeksisters
This is another incredible dessert which is essentially South Africa’s alternative to the doughnut. It’s essentially friend dough which is then dipped in honey. Sometimes it’s braided into a long strip. It’s the perfect treat for reviving those energy levels after a long day on Safari.
6. Boerewors
If you’ve ever enjoyed a Cumberland sausage, you’ll know what to expect from boerewors. These traditional South African sausages aren’t too dissimilar from the Cumberland variety, and even come in the same “ring” shape. There are fewer simpler pleasures than boerewors made from local beef cooking gently on a smoking hot grill – a real must-try for meat lovers travelling through the country.
7. Smiley
Smiley might not exactly be for the faint of heart. After all, it’s essentially a full sheep’s head that has been boiled until its burned hair reveals the teeth of the animal in a smiling fashion. It’s a delicacy in many of the country’s smaller towns, and should come complete with tongues, brains and eyes. While it might sound horrific, in practice it’s actually quite a tasty casserole for those who aren’t easily put off by the appearance of their food.
8. Amarula Don Pedro
Part milkshake, part cocktail, all taste – that’s the Amarula Don Pedro. It’s made with ice cream, fresh cream and Amarula liqueur. While it might be too sickly-sweet for some, it’s definitely worth checking out – particularly as a pick-me-up for those who like to enjoy nightlife.
Handy Resources:
Below are the few resources you should check before making an itinerary.
Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.
Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.
Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.
Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.
Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.
One way to make your tour of Vietnam a memorable one is to plan it around the country’s
festivals. Through these festivals, you get to experience and be part of the Vietnamese
culture first-hand. Most of them are held at the beginning of the year. Below are some of the
most celebrated Vietnamese festivals that are sure to turn your holiday into an extraordinary
one.
1. Tet Nguyen Dan
Tet Nguyen Dan is an important traditional festival in Vietnam and celebrated to thank their gods for the onset of spring. The festival is marked by locals paying respect to their ancestors and getting together as families to usher in the New Year. During this festival, bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi are less crowded as most people usually head to their rural hometowns to celebrate the festival with their families.
2. Perfume Pagoda Festival
Perfume Pagoda is an important pilgrimage site that welcomes pilgrims to its sacred caves to pray for a happy and prosperous year ahead. To get to the caves, you will have to pass through a scenic landscape that consists of limestone mountains and rice paddies. You will also walk past hundreds of stone steps and historical shrines before you arrive at your ultimate destination.
3. Hue Festival
Hue Festival is a music event held any time between April and June every two years in Hue city. At this festival, you will enjoy a fantastic array of performances, cultural events, and games that last a week. You will never experience a dull moment during the Hue Festival as there will be kite flying, boat racing, human chess, fashion shows, poetry, percussions, and drums. Also, you get to enjoy street performances, puppetry, acrobatics, film screenings, and art exhibitions.
4. Buddha’s birthday
Buddha’s birthday is an important festival celebrated by many devotees across Vietnam. During this festival, temples across the country are lavishly decorated, and locals bring fruit, flower garlands and Vietnamese dishes as an offering. You can choose to visit Hoi An, which is considered as the best place to celebrate this festival, and participate in street parades and prayer sessions.
5. Hoi An Lantern Festival
This festival is held on the 14th of every month. During this festival, paper lanterns of various shapes, colours, and sizes are displayed. All restaurants, businesses, shops, and bars in the Ancient City stop using electricity and light up using lanterns and candles instead. Although the festival itself is held in Hoi An, it is most colourful in the Ancient Town.
6. Mid-Autumn Festival
This colourful festival is held in mid-September, and adults and children come together to enjoy many festivities. During the night, locals light lanterns. Here, you will get to enjoy biscuits, jellies, moon cakes and other foods. To top it all off, you will witness the famous Lion dance.
7. Wandering Souls Day
This festival is held on the 7th of September during the full moon. In Vietnamese culture, it is believed that ancestors pay their families a visit. The families go to Buddhist temples to offer respect to their loved ones and eat cakes and other food.
8. Lim Festival
Lim Festival is held on the 12th and 13th of February to celebrate ‘Quan Ho’ singing. During this festival, people play local games such as wrestling, bamboo fighting, and tug of war. The main highlight of the festival is when the choir performs. Also, locals wear colourful traditional costumes as they sing their local folk songs. Through this festival, you get to learn about the rich culture and traditions of Vietnam.
9. Phu Giay Festival
This festival is held in Phu Giay Temple in honour of Mother Saint Lie Hanh . It is regarded as the most significant and original of all festivals in the Vietnam calendar. People dress in traditional costumes and carry bamboo relics decorated with beautiful ornaments. You get to participate in various local games and cultural activities during this festival.
10. Tet Han Thuc
This is a unique Vietnamese festival held in honour of Jie Zhitui, a loyal underman to the 7th Century Duke of Quin. Jie suffered neglect by the Duke, forcing him to retreat to the woods together with his mother. Later, when the Duke requested Jie to return to the city, he declined, prompting the Duke to light his house to force them back to the city. Jie refused and instead died in the fire.
The many festivals in Vietnam are a clear manifestation of the rich culture of its people. Taking part in these festivals will leave you with unforgettable memories of Vietnam’s beautiful landscape and admirable culture, before you go, remember that Visa’s are essential when visiting Vietnam.
Handy Resources:
Below are the few resources you should check before making an itinerary.
Agoda: Best place to book hotels of your liking. Agoda provides the best solution & great offer while booking a hotel.
Skyscanner: Skyscanner compares various sites & sort the flights based on the rates. A great way to check flight cost. Although the only drawback is that rates are flexible. Hence, the cost might change while you are making the payment.
Jetradar: Jetradar is a comparing site which is just like Skyscanner. But, is much more accurate & much more handy in use.
Booking: Best place to book hostel rooms. There are plenty of options available & with so many properties booking becomes much easier.
Travel Insurance: There are numerous options available to get one. So, you can choose anything which suits your requirement. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying one.
