It was time to pick a vacation destination for our family. This year we decided that we wanted to go somewhere warm. As much as we loved skiing, the thought of easing our cold feet out of ski boots and waiting for them to warm up lost its appeal.
After some looking, we settled on St. John. But where to stay? We ultimately decided to do a search for “St. John Villas” and found an almost bewildering list of places that we could rent. There were so many of them and they all had their own unique features and great views.
High or Low Season?
The first thing that we had to figure out was whether we were going to go during the high or low season. We live in New York, which gets cold at times, so we figured that we’d really appreciate the warm weather in February, which is when we went. It was worth the roughly $300 extra a night, in our opinion.
The Accommodations
This is where the villa that we chose really stood out. The name of it was Paraiso Azul and it was gorgeous. There were five bedrooms, which really pleased everyone, since it was us, our two teenage kids, and another family which had another teen. There were two rooms near the pool deck.
We were in love with the architecture, starting off with some really nice Moroccan iron gates. The rooms were spacious, the beds luxurious, and the kitchen was really nicely put together. Everything made us feel like we were in a home away from home – though at home we don’t have 24-hour service for things that we need.
Of course, there were modern amenities – like WiFi. Even on vacation, we love spending time on our electronics. There was something peaceful about resting on the reclining lounge chairs looking at our tablets and feeling the cool tropical breeze as we also had a view of the sea.
The Experience
The people there were so friendly. They made every effort to make sure that we had a great time. Also, we loved being able to see breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from our villa — along with some really gorgeous nighttime skies, since we didn’t have any light pollution.
As far as the temperatures went, it felt like summer every day. We felt sad packing on the last night of our stay, knowing that we’d be going back to the cold days of New York, counting down the days until summer.
It really was a great time and we highly recommend a visit to St. John.
Author Bio-
James Sullivan from St. John Ultimate Villas has been helping with travel tourism for the past 12 years. He now wants to share his knowledge and expertise with others.
Disclaimer: *Contents of this story is Authors personal views and presentation.
**Photos from the guest Author / Google
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The year 2020 played a spoilsport. It was indeed an unusual year where travel ceased to a halt. But now that the world is slowly coming back to normal, globetrotters are longing to travel beyond their countries to exciting destinations. Dubai is one of the global cities that has opened its borders during the pandemic and welcomed discerning travelers. The Emirate’s optimism is strong-willed, ready to face challenges, and looks forward to 2021 with buoyance. For those looking for a 2021 getaway to Dubai, here are the top attractions and activities to include in your Dubai holiday
At Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina Walk
Dubai Marina is that one place in Dubai that aptly captures the urbane flair and extravagance of Dubai. Flaunted blatantly, the opulence is enticing to witness. Saunter through Dubai Marina’s serene promenades to experience the luxe life of yacht-lined harbourfront, soaring skyscrapers that dazzle at night, and a range of cafes, fine-dining restaurants and shopping arcades.
Dubai Marina
Sunset Dinner Cruise on Dubai Marina
The scenic vistas of a brook meandering through high-raised skyscrapers can only be imagined in Dubai. Visit this man-made creek at night which looks absolutely magnificent with shimmering waters reflecting a kaleidoscope of hues from surrounding illuminated structures. Take a gentle cruise down the Dubai Marina in the evening to enjoy a gorgeous sundowner experience along with scrumptious dinner on board.
Zero Gravity Beach Club
You can spend an entire day at Zero Gravity Beach Club. A leisure retreat that comprises a beachfront, pools, club and restaurant, and a concert venue, Zero Gravity Beach Club is one of the most happening hotspots in Dubai Marina. It is famous for its nightlife and parties where you can dance all night and groove to the beats of famous DJs from around the world.
At Palm Jumeirah Dubai
Aquaventure waterpark and Lost Chambers Aquarium
Step away from the city life and venture out to experience the ultimate adventure and leisure moments at Aquaventure Waterpark. Located at Atlantis the Palm, get ready for a day where you slide, tumble and plunge exhilarating water slides and rides. Your day at Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark will only get bolder and adventurous. Boasted as the best waterpark in the Middle East, Aquaventure deserves the praise for keeping its guests excited and invigorated throughout their time spent here. Located next to Aquaventure Waterpark is an aquatic experience you have never experienced ever. The Lost Chambers Aquarium takes you up, close and personal to the enigmatic realm of the underwater world filled with awesome varieties of marine creatures of the ocean.
The Palm Fountain
The brand-new attraction that took everyone’s breath away with its spectacular performance, The Palm Fountain is now the world’s biggest dancing fountain. Breaking its own record held by Dubai Fountains, Dubai unveiled the next big thing of the emirate – the flamboyant Palm Fountain in October 2020. Located at the boulevard of The Pointe at Palm Dubai, enjoy an enchanting evening viewing the spectacle of Palm Fountain sashaying to music and colorful jets of water shooting up into the starry sky. This is one magnificent show that lingers on in the mind long after you have experienced it.
There are many ways to view Dubai’s awe-inspiring skyline but Dubai Frame is an extraordinary spot to witness the city’s splendor. Dubai Frame in actuality frames the beauty of New Dubai and old-world charms of Old Dubai. It beautifully captures the past, present and also gives an insight into the future of Dubai. Standing at 150 meters, Dubai Frame is the world’s largest Frame that appeals to visitors with its architectural wonder. It is one of the unmissable spots to visit in Dubai.
At Old Dubai
Al Seef
The old meets new at Al Seef Dubai. This fascinating stretch located on the shores of Dubai Creek offers a blend of Arabic heritage and culture with western contemporary comforts. Lined along the shoreline, you can enjoy fabulous vistas of Old Dubai architecture and vibes while enjoying international dining, café culture and retail therapy. The Arabian heritage stands out in Al Seef and lets its visitors explore souks, Emirati traditions and old-world charms of Dubai’s bygone era.
Al Bastakiya Quarters
Step back into the past when Dubai was mellower and a simple village in the desert. Amid the towering skyscrapers, Al Bastakiya stands out as a starkly contrasting change of scenery. Preserving the ancient traditional roots of Emirati culture, Al Bastakiya Quarters gives you an insight into the life before modernity took over in Dubai. The monotone structures with wind towers and quaint narrow alleys exude memoirs of Dubai’s precious olden days and heritage.
Dubai Souks
Steer away from the glamourous malls of Dubai and wander through colorful alleys of Dubai Souks. Shop for glittering gold jewelry, aromatic spices and perfumes and hand-crafted textiles at reasonable prices. If you are good at haggling, then you are in for a treat for some bargain retail therapy.
At Downtown Dubai
Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain
The tallest tower in the world – Burj Khalifa is one of the most popular landmarks to visit in Dubai. Right next to it Dubai Fountains adds an extra grandeur to the whole scenario. Together, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain dominate the scene at Dubai Downtown and at night the whole arena lights up into an illuminated spectacle. Don’t forget to take a trip to the top of Burj Khalifa to witness a scintillating view of the Dubai city skyline and the dancing fountains below.
Dubai Mall
One of the most popular activities to do in Dubai is shopping! However, no other mall comes close to comparison against the extravagance of Dubai Mall. Sprawling over 500000 square meters and brimming with over 1000 retail outlets, Dubai Mall is a shopper’s paradise. Once you enter this magnificent mall, apart from shopping you can enjoy a host of recreational activities such as VR Park, KidZania, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo to name a few.
About the author:
Monica Singh is a freelance travel writer by profession. She is particularly fond of traveling and loves to jot down her experiences and cultural diversities of different countries.
To choose the right destination for an exotic vacation, you first need to know what its features are, what is seasonality, what a destination can offer travelers. Most tourists do not associate Tanzania with a separate destination, they mainly combine it with Kenya.
Recall that we wrote in detail about Kenya here. Nevertheless, Tanzania is not inferior in some respects to its “neighbor” in the geographical map, but somewhere surpasses it. A travel agent can safely offer its tourists Tanzania as a separate destination. Keep on reading
WHY GO TO TANZANIA
Tanzania is not only the largest country in East Africa but also one of the most attractive in terms of its versatility. Your tourists will have the opportunity to combine the incongruous. These are fantastic beaches with white sand of the island of Zanzibar, and lakes (among them the largest lake on the continent of Victoria), and volcanoes located in the mainland, and national parks with beautiful views of Africa’s highest mountain Kilimanjaro and thousands of exotic animals and birds.
Among the undoubted advantages of Tanzania for Russian tourists are the facilitated visa regime (a visa is issued at the border), the lack of time difference with Moscow, the absence of a pronounced seasonality, and security.
This direction is universal: holidays here can be offered practically for any category of tourists. Experts advise against taking very young children (under 5-6 years old) with them but not because of safety issues. The fact is that Africa is a very bright and emotional direction, and young children simply will not be able to remember these truly unique impressions.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A TRIP TO AFRICA: VACCINATIONS, MEDICINES, REPELLENTS
No special preparation for a trip to Tanzania, contrary to rumors circulated on the Internet, is required. Tourists here do not expect any dangers if you follow all the instructions of the guides.
There are no special medical requirements. Pay attention to your tourists that vaccinations, including yellow fever, according to the Rospotrebnadzor, are not mandatory, but advisory in nature.
Those who will be calmer with the vaccine can, of course, do it. Since last year, such a vaccine has been given for life, before that it has been in effect for 10 years. Moscow residents can get this vaccine for free. You can get vaccinated in the infectious clinical hospital №1, city polyclinic №5, etc. Also, advise tourists to undergo antimalarial prophylaxis, it is advisable to use tablets from European manufacturers, or a new Russian drug – coartem .
do not need to be taken from Russia: they are more convenient and cheaper to purchase locally. But the medicines that are necessary for the tourist (painkillers, stomach pains, etc.) must be taken care of in advance and be sure to take a safari tour from Russia with you since there are no doctors in the savannah.
HOW TO APPLY A VISA TO TANZANIA AND WHAT TO FLY FOR
A visa to Tanzania can be issued before departure, in Moscow, or, which is very convenient, get a sticker on arrival at the Zanzibar International Airport or other Tanzania air harbors.
The cost of a visa at the border is about 50 euros, it is issued for 90 days, in Moscow – 60 euros, is issued per day. A transit visa costs 30 euros, its validity is 14 days.
If desired, the direction is easily combined not only with Kenya but also with Mozambique, Uganda, and other countries bordering Tanzania.
Coral Travel tours to Tanzania are formed based on regular transportation (using GDS dynamic packaging technology). Connecting flights are operated daily by British Airways, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Air France, KLM, Flydubai, Turkish Airlines.
Experts advise, if possible, to give preference to carriers that fly through the Middle East. The average travel time, in this case, is 10-15 hours, including connecting.
All Coral Travel safari programs start from the city of Arusha in northern Tanzania, which is sometimes called the “tourist capital” of the country.
SEASONS IN TANZANIA
As for seasonality in the ordinary sense of the Russian tourist, it is practically absent. Highlighted seasons, such as winter and summer, do not exist in Tanzania. The climate of Tanzania ranges from humid and hot in the lowlands, for example, in Dar es Salaam, to hot in the afternoon and cool at night in Arusha.
In general, during the year in Tanzania, it is either hot and dry or hot and humid (“rainy seasons”). There are two such seasons in Tanzania: short, from late October to late November, and long – from late March to May.
At the same time, the “rainy season” is not a reason to refuse a trip, because it does not rain on the wall and around the clock. On the contrary, a trip at this time is a great opportunity to save a lot, since in the low season the cost of a vacation in Tanzania becomes much more attractive.
TO AFRICA ON SAFARI WITH GROUP
Probably the first idea of Tanzania you have already appeared, it is time to determine the details. First, we will consider the popular types of safari programs presented in the Coral Travel assortment, and then we will pay attention to beach vacation options: after all, combined tours combining safaris in Tanzania and holidays on the Zanzibar coast are also very popular.
Tanzania is rightfully considered one of the best countries for a safari in Africa. Her wildlife is very rich and diverse. Here you can find both the famous “Big African Five” (lion, rhinoceros, elephant, leopard, buffalo) and anthropoid apes, there are many birds and there are more than 1,100 species registered in the country.
Tours to the Great migration of the animals are very popular among tourists. Also, safari tours provide an opportunity to see the fantastic nature of Tanzania: Mount Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti Park, and other attractions remain in the memory of tourists for life.
To date, the Coral Travel reservation system has more than 20 options for safari programs in mainland Tanzania, in 2019 their number will increase.
It is important to note that the company offers both safari tours with English accompaniment, and guaranteed group excursion programs with a Russian-speaking guide – and this is a unique offer on the Russian market.
SHORT SAFARI TOURS
These Coral Travel programs involve visiting the northern national parks and reserves – Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara. If your tourists want a safari but are worried that for the first time they will not be able to withstand a full weekly program, recommend them a 2-3-day trip to the mainland from the resorts of Zanzibar Island.
In the assortment of the tour operator, there are short tours for two days, during which tourists visit the Tarangire National Park. The evening safari is planned on the first day of the program, and the morning on the next day.
All safari programs are held twice a day. It is very hot during the day, there is no point in a safari since the probability of meeting animals at this time of day is extremely small. The cost of such a trip is $ 585 per person for double occupancy. The price includes 3 meals a day, all transfers according to the program, entrance tickets to the national park, an English-speaking driver-ranger works with tourists.
There is a three-day program with a visit to Ngorongoro. Cost – from 920 dollars per person for double occupancy. The price tag of the three-day program, in which tourists visit the Ngorongoro Reserves and Lake Manyara, starts at $ 1,250 per person for double occupancy. All tours start in Arusha.
LONG SAFARI TOURS IN TANZANIA
If your tourists want to take part in a full-fledged safari trip, recommend them a 6-day tour with a visit to Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater. Cost – from $ 1,690 per person for double occupancy.
If tourists want to be accompanied by a Russian-speaking guide, advise them to a guaranteed Coral Travel group program with a Russian-speaking guide. For seven days spent in national parks – Lake Manyara, Serengeti Park, and Ngorongoro Nature Reserve – the supplier asks for $ 2,380 per person for double occupancy.
Note that the distances between the parks are impressive, the parks are at least 3.5 hours from each other. The nature in Africa is amazing and time will fly by, of course, unnoticed, especially since stops are made for photos.
If the tourist still has no desire to go in jeeps, you can offer him a flight on a small plane. However, as practice shows, mainly this type of transport is preferred by individual tourists. We will return to transport a little later, but for now, we will get to know better the main national parks.
Author Bio
Jacklin is the author of the site Easytravel which is about safari travel. She usually travels a lot around the world and almost experienced a lot. Usually people travel a lot to experience different phases of life. So for traveling we need a perfect guide. Here she comes with lots of stuff about various safari travel around countries and also more about travelling around the world.
Arrival in the Denpasar Airport, meets with our representative, and will directly proceed to Hotel. Rest of the day free at leisure by own arrangement.
Day 2. WATER SPORT + 60 MINUTES MASSAGE (B)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning at 09:00am pick up to Tanjung Benoa is a very suitable place for Water sport activities or water sports. Water sports can be enjoyed here include a Jet Sky, Fly fish, and Banana boat.
Afternoon enjoy 60 Minutes massage for relax your body and mind.
Day 3. TRANSFER TO GILI TRAWANGAN (B)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning at 07.00am will pick up for transfer to Padangbai/ Serangan Harbor for transfer to Gili Trawangan.
Arrive at Gili, take Cidomo transfer ( arrange on clients own) and transfer to hotel at Gili Trawangan.
Day 4. FREE AT LEISURE (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning Free at leisure by own arrangement
Day 5. TRANSFER GILI TRAWANGAN TO BALI (B)
Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning around at 08.00am take Cidomo transfer to Gili Harbor ( arrange by clients on own)
Arrive at Gili Harbor check in at boat counter and transfer by boat to Bali. Arrive at Serangan/Padangbai harbor will transfer to hotel at Bali.
Rest of the days free leisure at own arrangement.
Day 6. HD ULUWATU KECAK TOUR (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning free leisure at own arrangement.
Afternoon at 15.00pm will pick up for trip to the most southern tip of the island: Uluwatu temple hanging on a cliff over a 100 meters sheer drop to the ocean. Within this area, we also have a chance to see the map view of Bali. As the evening approaches, enjoy the Kecak and Fire Dance to enrich your afternoon.
Day 7. BOUNTY SUNSET DINNER CRUISE (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning free leisure at own arrangement.
Afternoon there’s no better way to spend a balmy tropical evening than on Bounty evening Dinner Cruise. As the sun goes down we set off on a relaxing cruise around the harbour.
Cruise Include
· Return hotel transfer (Nusa Dua, Kuta, Sanur, Seminyak, Denpasar hotel area only)
· Welcome drink
· International Buffet Dinner
· Traditional Balinesse Dance
· Live Music
· DJ on board
· Comedy Cabaret Show
· On Board Entertainment
· Duration : 17:30 pm – 20:30 pm
· Boarding commences : 17:30 pm
Day 8. Bali – Out (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning Free at leisure by own arrangement until departure time to be proceed to the Airport.
Package cost – INR 1,20,000/-* Approx. (Ex-Delhi/ Mumba) for a Couple.
If you like the package, please email us or call/whatsapp us on 9975712713, we would be happy to book it for you.
Of-course we would be glad to tweak and modify this to suit your desired trip.
Imagine the way a waterfall flows: as the water hits each level of earth, it cascades down, never stopping or ceasing, and in perfect harmony with its surroundings. Now superimpose this image with a series of perfectly manicured gardens flowing down the side of a mountain, each slope containing a beautiful and unique layout. What you’re imagining now are the Bahá’í terraces found on the slopes of Mount Carmel.
Nineteen terraces, combining both the mountain’s landscape and nature with detail and precision in order to create an exquisite work of art. The gardeners are the painters and with each stroke of their brushes, they create forms pleasing to the eye.
It’s not surprising, that with all of the loving labour that the gardeners (volunteers coming from all corners of the earth) put into these gardens, that the gardens are always in such pristine condition no matter what time of the day you visit them.
Much thought has been put into every aspect of the gardens. The flowers and the plants have been chosen in such a way that no matter what time of the year you find yourself walking in the gardens, there will always be something in full bloom. And how remarkable it is that when you walk throughout the terraces that these very flowers create the sweetest of smells wafting within the air.
As you walk around, you’ll hear the pebbles under your feet, reminding you to walk thoughtfully and respectfully. And throughout the terraces, you will see and hear the fountains, which paired with the breeze coming up from the sea will make you feel as if you’ve entered an otherworldly plane.
Within the center of the terraces stands a Shrine robed in white and crowned in gold. A Queen of Carmel, looking over the city of Haifa and pulsating at its heart. This beautiful structure is the Shrine of the Báb, and is both the resting place of the Prophet Herald of the Bahá’í Faith and that of the son of the Prophet of the Bahá’í Faith.
Pray, meditate, or contemplate life – the quietness seeping through and around the Shrine will help you come up with an answer to the challenges you face or will give you a moment in the day to get wrapped up in peaceful thought.
* * *
Additional Information
Location
80 Hatzionut Avenue, near Shiffra Street
Visiting Hours
9:00am – 5:00pm daily
Note: The inner gardens near the shrine close after 12:00pm.
The gardens are closed on Bahá’í holy days and Yom Kippur. May be temporarily closed during rainy weather.
Admittance Fee It is free. A free walk-in tour is also offered daily (except for Wednesdays).
Dress Clothing that covers shoulders and reaches the knees.
For more information, please visit the official website for the gardens.
Author Bio:
Iman Zahirfar is a blogger who enjoys exploring the hidden corners of the world. In her spare time, she’s an avid book reader, and when no one’s watching she’ll eat as much ice cream as humanly possible.
Disclaimer: *Contents of this story is Authors personal views and presentation.
If you also want to get featured as a guest author on yatripandit.com, share your story with us on info@yatripandit.com
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When traveling, one of the objectives is to make the most of the time and to return home with the feeling of not having lost anything in the newly discovered city. It’s a complicated task, I know, so I’ll give you a hand with this selection of the 8 things you can do in Barcelona. If you have many on the list you can always come a second time.
Walk to discover the city:
Barcelona is a big city, but it is perfect to witness beauty while walking. Forget about a day of the subway or the tourist bus and re-cross it by giving nice walks and wandering around the roads. You can choose to visit the most important buildings and parks of the city such as Citadels, Joan Miro Park or Montjuic castle, but there is also a Barcelona that does not come in the guides. We encourage you to go up to Horta, to know the charm of the Saint Andreu neighborhood, to see a side of the lesser known Example and enjoy unique panoramas.
Go to concerts:
Barcelona has plenty of live music venues such as Razzmatazz or Sala Apollo, but it also has wonderful concert halls. The Gran Theatre Del Liceu is a splendid survivor decorated with gold leaf, luxurious red carpets and lots of ornamentation. Check the schedule since the tickets are not always as expensive as it may seem and is a place worth a visit.
On the other hand is L’Auditori, an elegant space with capacity for 2,400 spectators that not only program concerts of classical music but also jazz or world music. The Palau de la Musical Catalonia’s is famous for its modernist architecture and the number of activities it hosts. Barcelona also hosts various festivals from Primavera Sound to Barcelona International Jazz Festival, Sonar and Cruilla, and others.
Gaudi and Modernism:
Undoubtedly, one of the tourist attractions (and also for those who live here) is to admire the modernist architecture and the works of Gaudi in particular. You can find several examples of his work throughout the city, whether civil or religious buildings. The most famous is the Sagrada Familia, impressive on the outside and inside; The Park Guell, a place almost of the story that emulates an English garden or the Pedrera, but do not miss the opportunity to visit other buildings of Gaudi that sometimes occupy a smaller place in the guides.
Discover the Barcelona of the young Picasso:
Picasso remembered Barcelona as beautiful and brilliant, a city where he spent his first years. Follow the steps of the genius by visiting the regions that marked his youth. Walk along the street of The Queen Cristina and then cross to street number 3 (street of Merce) where his family lived, although the building was destroyed. If you need to stop on the way, get closer to Ells 4 Gats, a place where artists of the time met for dinner parties, dinners, and art meetings. Finally, visit the Picasso Museum, a gallery that houses
the works of Picasso’s formative years.
Try the seafood cuisine:
Nobody should leave Barcelona without trying their seafood cuisine. The city offers Rias de Galicia, in Poble-sec and Cachitos which is famous for its fantastic variety of fish and seafood. Cal Pep, in La Born, is known for its three-phase, a mixture of fried chanquetes, squid and shrimp and exquisite noodles. In La Barcelonnette, you will find La Mar Salada and Can Sole with fresh fish and seafood every day.
Climb the mountain of Montjuic:
The Montjuic Mountain is perfect for strolling through trees and having a great view, but it very costly to access… There are facilities that were built for the 1992 Olympic Games, including the Palau Saint Jordi or the telecommunications tower designed by Santiago Calatrava. Those who have more energy and climb to the top of the hill will find the Olympic Stadium and the Jardi Botanic at its feet, Plaza de Espanya is the most popular entrance to the mountain, and you can also take advantage of the Pavello Mie’s van der Rohe and the Caxias forum cultural center.
Bath in the Mediterranean:
Barcelona has a little more than 4 kilometers of beaches in which to stretch the towel, plant the umbrella smeared with cream and put the backpack to a good collection is a good choice. With just a few minutes by train or a short drive, you can visit other coastal towns with dream beaches. The Mediterranean is a gift!
Approach the sky:
Even if you are not a loyal believer, you should visit the magnificent churches of Barcelona for pure artistic and architectural pleasure. Saint Pau del Camp is a rare example of Romanesque architecture with a fantastic cover-up and superb pathway and the elegant Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar is perhaps the best example of the survived Catalan Gothic architecture and is a place of peace up to the atheists. The Gothic religious building par excellence is the Cathedral of Barcelona, dedicated to Santa Eulalia, the
patron saint of the city. The majestic Gothic with a monastery is famous for its 13 white hollows.
About the author in his own words: This article has been written by Daniyal Buksh a professional content strategist and digital marketer at flights to Stockholm from London. You can catch him on Facebook.
Disclaimer: *Contents in this story is Authors personal views and presentation.
If you also want to get featured as a guest author on yatripandit.com, share your story with us on info@yatripandit.com
Please click on the ads which appear on the website. This blog is still very young and growing. If you like the story, do not shy away from reciprocating your love in form of likes comments and sharing on social media
There’s no place like Rome. The impressive showcase of ancient history, celebrated monuments, and bustling city vibes are the ingredients for an ideal city break for anyone with an appetite for world culture.
There are relics of old worshiped gods dispersed across the city and cafe bars where both young and old take their espresso exchanging the latest news. Morning traffic is colored up by well-dressed business people on Vespa scooters, and upscale locals stroll the elegant shopping streets looking for the most recent design pieces. Rome is full of stereotypes and of world-famous attractions that visitors want to see with their own eyes, from the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the Pantheon, and the Vatican; they are all extraordinary sights you can’t miss when you are in Rome because each of them is unique. We suggest however, also to go off-the-path for a little while to uncover alternative things to do beyond the famed churches and museums and archeological ruins. It will show you a different aspect of the city and you experience what Rome is about and what it feels like.
Here our recommended seven things you cannot miss on your next trip to Rome.
The Colosseum & Roman Forum
The Colosseum is the most abiding sight in Rome and still remains in its perfect condition after about 2,000 years. Back then, it was the largest amphitheater, seating up to 80,000 Romans. The design of the magnificent three-tiered structure conveyed the wealth, might, and power of the city of Rome and the Roman Empire. Holding lots of history about the city, The Colosseum is such an important landmark that you simply must visit when in Rome.
There is likely to be long lines to enter the Colosseum, so to save time choose the Palatine Hill entrance at the Roman Forum (at a less than 5 minutes walk). Here you can purchase a combined ticket for the Roman Forum, the Palatine Hill, and the Colosseum, which is valid for two days. The Roman Forum is one of the most prominent archaeological sites on earth, as it was once the epicenter of the massive Roman Empire. Here elections, public speeches, and important events took place.
As there is not that much of information we would recommend investing in an audio guide when visiting the Roman Forum, to help give you some context of the impressive sprawl of ruins in front of you! Also, we advise to visit the (fully intact) Pantheon first, so you get a better feeling of the grandeur this ancient Rome’s center used to be.
Photo by: Bjarki Sigursveinsson / Wikimedia Commons Licensing: Public Domain
The Pantheon
The Pantheon is an architectural marvel, that looks today – inside and outside – much the way it has been for almost 2,000 years. Imagine that on the marble floors people have been walking for two thousand years and that the building still possesses its original bronze doors! When you are inside (entrance is free) gaze at the domed ceiling and watch the sunlight entering the room.
Photo by: Ian Monroe / Wikimedia Commons Dual-licensed as GFDL and CC BY-SA 2.0
The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
The Vatican has a lot to offer to visitors, particularly if you are interested in the history of the Catholic religion. Inside the city walls, there are some fantastic museums with a seriously impressive collection of artwork and it is the home of the Sistine Chapel famous for its breathtaking ceiling painting by Michelangelo.
Laocoon Sculpture in the Vatican Museum, Rome. Picture by Benutzer / Wikimedia Commons Licensing: CC BY-SA 3.0
For most travelers, visiting the Vatican is one day out of their city trip to Rome, and that’s what we believe is the right time to spend in Vatican City. In addition to dedicating a day for the Vatican, we also recommend reserving a good guided tour here. This will not only facilitate navigating the labyrinth of the Vatican Museums but will also help you understand the context of what you see as well. Be aware that there is some serious walking involved on this day, so make sure to get out in the morning with your comfy shoes! If you book online for the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, you will be able to skip most of the lines to make your way inside.
Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of the historic center
Rome’s medieval “Centro Storico” (historic center) is a maze of narrow alleys and cobbled streets filled with churches and palaces dating from the Renaissance and Baroque eras. The only way to explore it is on foot, and the best time of the day to do that is in the evening. Its heart is the bustling Piazza Navona, home to Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers. It is a beautiful place to enjoy an excellent meal and a delicious “Tartufo” (a traditional chocolate ice-cream dessert) at Bar Tre Scalini. The wine bars and cafés around Piazza Navona are definitively chic, trendy and as well excellent spots to watch people. Head over the Trevi Fountain, Italy’s largest and most famous Baroque fountain, an ensemble of mythical figures and wild horses that is dominating the small Trevi Square located in the Quirinale district. Toss a coin in the fountain to ensure a trip back to Rome, as the original legend says. Continue your walk to the square in front of the Pantheon (Piazza della Rotonda) which is a cool hangout spot on a warm summer day.
Explore the Trastevere streets
If you need a break from the city vibes of Rome, go to the relatively peaceful Trastevere neighborhood on the west bank of the Tiber. Trastevere is a little unconventional, has a real Roman appearance, but is at the same time very international. The cobblestone streets are mostly car-free, the restaurants serve up excellent (and cheap) dishes, and there a plenty of good pubs and wine bars for an aperitif. The piazza in front of Basilica of Santa Maria (which is beautiful) is as charming and splendid as you would find in any Tuscan hilltop village. After nightfall, the Trastevere becomes the place to be for young locals and travelers alike, who love its original scene and relaxed atmosphere.
Stroll Rome’s food markets
Rome is a perfect city for a picnic lunch, and its food markets are ideal places for filling up your basket. The oldest market in all of Rome, and undeniably one of the most famous, is the open air market, Campo dei Fiori. Colorful vegetables and fruits, beautiful flower shops, ham and cheese to enjoy at your picnic, as well as clothes, and souvenirs. You can find all kinds of goods in this market. In the heart of Rome’s most multi-ethnic neighborhood, nearby the Termini train station, you find Nuovo Mercato Esquilino. Here you feel the atmosphere of a multicultural hub; usual grocery stands are complemented by exotic produce, perfect for an international meal.
Then there is the Mercato in Testaccio where you will experience a real taste of Rome’s authentic food and soul. Get some olives, fresh mozzarella, and bread before heading out to the gardens of Villa Borghese – the largest public park in Rome – for your picnic.
Cultural lovers should not miss the Borghese Gallery inside the park, featuring some of their most exquisite (and famous) works of Bernini and Caravaggio and offering one of the best collections of art related to sculpture, painting, and architecture (the building itself is one of the attractions.) If you plan a visit to the Gallery, buy your ticket online to avoid the long, long wait to enter.
Go shopping
Rome is well known for its luxurious shopping; the city has many beautiful streets that are home to glamorous designer boutiques and flagship stores, while in others small exclusive stores with an authentic style are hidden. For the best upscale shopping head to the prestigious and famous Via dei Condotti and Via Borgognona near the foot of the Spanish Steps. Wander to the lively Via del Governo Vecchio for trendy boutiques and to beautiful Via Giulia for art and antiques. When it’s time to take a breath, go to Via Vittorio Veneto. Walking down this elegant boulevard – as well renowned for its stylish hotels and lively bars – it will showcase some truly unique and exclusive stores from high fashion to authentic Italian boutiques.
Piazza Venezia with Trajan’s Column, seen from Vittorio Emmanuele II monument photo by Markus Bernet / Wikimedia Commons Licensing: CC BY-SA 2.0
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If you are looking for the definition of cool transformed into a city, then you are looking for Melbourne. The capital of Victoria, and Australia´s second biggest city (after Sydney), is one of the trendiest cities in the world (even being 20+ flight hours away from London, Berlin or NYC). Of course, if a city is cool, trendy and far away, it is a flashpacker’s paradise!
Melbourne has been appearing as the world´s most livable city in many rankings during the past few years, and this is just a way to say it is full of cultural spots such as libraries, museums and theatres, good transport, amazing parks, top universities and sport venues plus a vibe that transmits the sensation that there is always something happening in the city.
After almost a year and a half living in Australia (in Perth, to be specific), we decided it was about time we travelled to Victoria to see the city with the world´s largest urban tram network…and guess what? We loved it!
We started by taking an awful overnight 3.5hs flight that arrived at 6am, so with close to zero hours of sleep, we decided to start exploring the marvelous Melbourne.
We decided to stay in an AirBnB apartment in the CBD, so it would be easy (and free) to move around mostly all important places in a first visit. The apartment was located in the Chinatown area, which as you can imagine is full of great places to eat. Also, as Chinese influence in Australia is huge these days, it is a great place to see that influence.
As mentioned, Melbourne has a Free Tram Zone, so you can just jump on and off the tram without paying as long as you stay within that area. It is well signaled in the stations and also, in case the tram you are on gets to the end of the FTZ, it will be announced on the speakers.
Day 1 – Melbourne 101
So, as said above, we arrived in Melbourne early in the morning, and we took the Skybus from the Melbourne Tullamarine airport to the city. Skybus costs 19 AUD per person, so normally taking Uber would be cheaper when 2 or more people are going to the CBD. However, when requesting from the Airport, you can only request Uber deluxe service, so it is more expensive than taking the Skybus. This being said, we took the bus to the Southern Cross Station, and from there, the free tram to get to the apartment.
After leaving the apartment, we did one of the Melbournians favorite things: meeting with a friend for coffee. In our case, we went to one located in Centre Place. One of the cafes, close to Flinders Lane, has a great deal of coffee + muffin for 5 AUD. And coffee is really good.
Centre Place: coffee, coffee, coffee
Once coffee was running through our veins, we decided it was time to start the real walk. We took the tram on Swanston St and went all the way up north of the Hoodle Grid (name for Melbourne´s CBD), to see the State Library of Victoria on La Trobe St. Beautiful building, the gem there is the La Trobe reading room. Amazing place to enjoy quietly, the views from the higher balconies are really nice. Also, right in front of the Library on La Trobe St nice Victorian buildings that are part of the RMIT University campus can be seen. Good place for photographs.
From there, we took La Trobe St to the east, towards the Carlton Gardens. The Royal Exhibition Building is located within the gardens. This Building was constructed for the Melbourne International Exhibition in 1880, and is currently used for diverse events closely related to the Melbourne Museum located right behind.
After walking through the gardens, we went to see St. Patrick´s Cathedral, on Albert Street. A Victorian Era building, it is Melbourne´s Roman Catholic Cathedral, and considered the biggest church in Australia. We kept onto MacArthur St., to see The Old Treasury building (to our left) and the Parliament House. Both nice buildings, what we enjoyed the most was the view of Imperial Hotel with the Old 35 Tram coming by on Spring St.
The Melbourne Tram
By that time we entered into the “Huddle” again, especially to start discovering Melbourne´s famous lanes. The city is so full of those alleys full of urban art and hidden bars and cafes you can never get tired of exploring them. Some of our favorites during the visit were Hosier lane, AC/DC lane, and Tattersalls lane. One tip: go really early in the morning, so you can find them as desert as possible. We came back on Sunday morning to have the chance to find them that way 🙂
Hosier Lane
Within the CBD, we also visited Federation Square, which is the heart of Melbourne´s city, right in front of Flinders Train station and St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral. On peak times, the spectacle of people crossing the street after the lights change can be pretty intimidating if you are not used to huge cities. At Melbourne Visitor´s centre, located on Federation Square, you can get maps as well as lots of discounts for different attractions. Good to have a look there.
Federation Square
After walking through that area (and having lunch), we headed to see two of Melbourne most famous Arcades: Block Arcade and Royal Arcade. The first one was built in the late 1800s inspired in Milan´s galleria Vittorio Emanuele, and is a classic of Victorian architecture. The second one, the Royal Arcade (Main entrance on Bourke st., but also can enter opposite to Block Arcade on Little Collins St.), is the Oldest Surviving Arcade in Australia, having been open since 1870. In the same area, corner of Bourke and Elizabeth St., the former General Post Office can be found. Nowadays a flagship store for Swedish fashion brand H&M, the building is very nice and worth a visit.
Royal Arcade
After that, we took the tram on Bourke Street to head south west to visit the new development known as “the Docklands”. It is full of super modern buildings, a multiuse stadium and the Melbourne Star, Southern hemisphere biggest Ferris wheel.
As you can imagine, it was almost 5 pm, Friday, in Australia, so it was beer time! We met friends at the Southbank area, in a Pub named Munich Brauhaus with 5 AUD pints from 4PM to 7PM (great deal!). We enjoyed a few of those and walked over the Southbank, passing through Melbourne´s tallest building, the Eureka tower, as well as enjoying a lovely skyline lit up.
Night City Skyline from Southbank
As already mentioned a million times in this blog, Australia is possibly the most multi-cultural country in the world. And one of the biggest influences is Chinese, so we decided it was a good opportunity to have Chinese food. We took the tram and went back to Chinatown to have dinner at a place on Little Bourke St and Celestial Ave. The place has Mao´s face in the logo, and is right in front of Vintage Cellars. This last thing is an important tip for Australia. Many restaurants, mainly Asian ones, have the BYO policy, meaning you can bring your own beer or wine from outside and you can drink them there. Eventually, they might charge you a corkage fee, but it is still cheaper than buying it at the restaurant (if they sell it).
After dining dumplings and sweet and sour pork, it was time to call it a day. We were too tired to continue so we went to bed. Next day, new adventure: the Great Ocean Road!
Day 2 – The Great Ocean Road
One of Australia´s must visit, the Great Ocean Road disserves more than one day to enjoy it fully. As our first visit to the state of Victoria was just for three days, we decided to struggle it in just one. It is doable, yes. But if possible, it is good to have an overnight stop in the area (we will go for it again!). Read about our visit here.
Day 3 – Market, Parks and Sunday life.
Day number three in Melbourne started with a photo tour of the lanes we had seen on Day one. Yes, as mentioned we wanted to see them empty, so we went there 7.30am. And it was a good decision that can be seen in our picturesJ.
After enjoying the lanes, we took the train south to see the Brighton Beach Boxes. One of Melbourne classics, it is possibly more enjoyable in Summer than in July, however, we could see them all, have a nice walk on beach and take the glimpse of one of Melbourne´s nicest suburbs. The boxes, particularly, are used by their owners to change when they go to the beach, to keep some belongings and to provide shade. Sadly, it is impossible to rent one, as they are only allowed to be used by owners approved by the city council. To get there to see them, take the train to Sandringham and get off at Middle Brighton Station and walk towards the beach.
Brighton Beach Boxes
The train took us back to Flinders, from where we took the tram to the Shrine of Remembrance located within the Royal Botanic Gardens. The Shrine, erected as a memorial for all Victorians who served in World War 1, is now a memorial for all Australians who have served in War. While the building itself is impressive, our favorite thing was the view of the city from the balcony.
View from the “Shrine of Rememberance”
To return to the city, we took the tram again. It left us close to the Queen Victoria Markets, which we visited with friends. The Market has been there since late XIX century, and currently is an experience itself with different stores from fresh markets to deli and clothes shops, as well as some food trucks and food stalls. One funny story, the name is not directly after Queen Victoria, but instead it gets the name from the location on the corner of Queen and Victoria Streets.
When it was about lunchtime, we headed to Fitzroy. This former working class neighborhood is currently one of Australia´s most trendy and bohemian areas, with lots of bars and eateries on the Brunswick street area. We ate at Vintage, which had a great deal of a Chicken Parma + Pot for 12 AUD (meaning Chicken Schnitzel with Cheese, tomato and fries, and half pint of good beer!). Highly recommended.
After lunch, we walked all the way to the Fitz Roy Gardens. James Cook´s family house, brought from England, is located there. Captain Cook was the first European to make contact with Eastern Australia, making him very important for Oceania´s history, but as per the house, we don´t think it is worth to visit. The park is nice.
Fitz Roy
Our next to final stop in Melbourne was the Sports and Entertainment Precinct. Containing the Olympic Park – where 1956 Olympic games took place- as well as the Melbourne Park -where the Australian Tennis Open is played-, and the Yarra Park – where one of the world’s biggest stadiums, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, is located- this is a central part in Melbournians life, and a must for any sports fan.
Finally, last stop was one more coffee in the lovely lanes, before heading back to the airport. While we still have so much more to visit in Melbourne, these three days have given us a great first glimpse of this amazing city.
Have you been to Melbourne? Are you planning to go? What are your impressions? Tell us!
About the authors in their own words:We are a young Argentinean couple who have been enjoying traveling for a while. We have visited several destinations on our own (or with friends and family), and in the past few years, a lot of destinations together.
Flor: Born & raised in Buenos Aires, my first backpacking experience was with friends in Argentina’s Northwest, followed by a couple other trips around South America. As I grew older I was more than happy to switch backpack for wheels, considering I could afford a more “comfortable” style of travel. Now I realize that traveling light (no more than 8kilos) is part of “comfortable” if you are planning to travel a lot! An amateur photographer, I enjoy capturing moments in the places I visit.
Born in La Plata, Argentina the same year Back to the Future was released (don’t look online, it was 1985). First travelled at the age of 6 to Rio, Brasil. At 12 took my first ‘long’ flight to Florida, US, and since 21, travelling has been one of my top priorities, mixed with work and study. Visited 30+ countries in 4 continents, and always plan to add more. Besides travelling, huge fan of association football (soccer), history and long discussions about “what is your favorite city”.
Disclaimer: *Contents in this story is Authors personal views and presentation.
* All pictures by flashpackermemories.com
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Hearing about Germany, two things normally come across the mind of an average person – beer and sausages. Although Germany is more than that. Of course, its beer and sausages are famous all over the world and every aware person would want to try them at least once in a lifetime. Apart from that, it is a land of poets and philosophers and a country with beautiful architecture.
Düsseldorf. It is the seventh city of Germany by its size. It is chic, fashionable and business. There is plenty of things business elite and people of fashion would find inviting and engaging for themselves. Along with its deep gratitude for art, high cuisine and exceptional stores. The city buzzes with cultural events as long as its citizens live according to the standards of high life. There is a boulevard of shopping, which is called Königsallee. You can find the stores of such worldwide famous fashion brands as Prada and Louis Vuitton. For those ones of you, who are into retro style jewelry, you will be happy to find out about the stores on here to make some based on the pieces of artists from 19th and 20th century. Some are so unique being manufactured in here and Munich only so the guests of the city might find something really distinguished from every other.
If to speak about its architecture, it does have its moments. The old city should be mentioned here. You will find a huge variety of restaurants and pubs, markets and museums, decorated in classic for Germany style buildings. There is also the biggest in Germany Japanese community with places to eat traditional food accordingly. Düsseldorf`s biggest church is called St. Lambertus Basilica. You will easily recognize it by its twisted spire. It is its famous feature. Also, there is tower on its central square Burgplatz. This tower is everything what has left after the fire in 1872. Originally, there was a palace built in baroque style. Among the places of interest, are also the Neander church and St. Andrew`s church. This is one more church, which is worth seeing once you visit Düsseldorf.
Going back to the theme of beer, “Atlbier” (alt is German for old) is traditional for Düsseldorf. It is dark and hoppy. Back in the 20th century, there were nearly 100 breweries making Altbier while today – less than ten unfortunately. Altbier is considered to be an ale and even though it is hoppy, the taste of fruit is felt less than in other light ales.
The night-life of the city is really something. As has already been mentioned, the largest amount of beer houses are located in the area of the old city but its beer is not the only “treat” you may get visiting Düsseldorf. I am talking about herb-infused liquor, which is called Killepitsch. There are more than 90 kinds of fruit, herbs and spices. Quite often, it is compared to Jagermeister but it is stronger.
The trip is nothing without a souvenir for your family and friends apart from taken pictures and re-corded videos. If to talk about something traditional, a typical for Düsseldorf souvenir, draw your attention kindly to store of spices. It is a business run by a family. You will find hundreds of jars in there full of spices. Those jars are ceramic and decorated by hand. Its mustard is well known.
About the author: Melisa Marzett is the author who has an outstanding blog available for your viewing HERE, where you may find interesting posts on traveling and look through the tips for those ones of you, who are eager to travel and has traveling in plans some time soon. The information is given clearly and wisely so there is no way you could get lost but will be well-versed in the area of traveling.
Disclaimer: *Contents in this story is Authors personal views and presentation.
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In 2014, I was blessed with the opportunity to visit Beijing on a study abroad program at china’s top university, Peking University. Peking university is commonly referred to by American’s as the Harvard of China. Twenty five students are chosen from each Chinese district every year to attend this premier school. It remains the only liberally motivated school where free speech is allowed and encouraged in China. Embedded in the the hundreds of thousands of concrete buildings that make up the the whole of Beijing’s inner city, under the dense smog of out of control pollution, sits Peking university, where myself and other fortunate students were taught Chinese legal educations by the country’s most elite and forward thinkers of China.
The ideals of China have since changed and grown more open to more democratized realities, but on June 4th, 2014 the only persons occupying the Tiananmen square (a top tourist attraction with thousands of attendees every day) was twenty five law students from america, and a number of armed chinese guards. We watched the Chinese flag rise as it is every morning in the middle of the square outside the building where Chairman mao’s body lay, preserved in a glass box for viewing. Usually thousands of people would watch the flag rise in the morning, but the sour and chilling taste of the Tiananmen Square incident prevented chinese citizens from attending the twenty fifth anniversary of the the bloody event.
Beijing is a truly wondrous city full of tradition and rich history. One might walk down the concrete strips of road to visit an ancient relic of traditional chinese history, only to walk a few yards to find a well lit street of modern chaos. The city in all its supreme gradiouse, hides large pockets of hip dive bars, and night clubs lit up by neon lights of luminous video billboards and neon signs. Young couples dress up for date night at Pizza hut where, wine and beer is served, and scattered homeless citizens wrapped tight in rags, beneath the dawn sky, hesitantly ask for money.
Truly remarkable is the meshing of perspectives ancient parks and cultures intertwined with the westernized retail stores. You may find yourself eating at premier restaurants atop large skyscrapers talking business and formalities, while looking down upon the dusty cement where a woman potty trains her child below the tree-cornered on the sidewalk of a busy street.
One afternoon a few of us students had rented bikes for the following day. We had bought our face masks to protect our lungs from the pollution, and made our way bicycling down the populated streets of Beijing. Our travels brought quickly midnight, and one of our favorite bars was serving beer towers for five American dollars. By day the streets felt grey and prosthetic, yet by night the same street felt alive with electricity and lively populations of koreans, chinese, and middle eastern souls.
The mass number of people we met from vast backgrounds would astonish and delight anyone. For a country so rich in change, the citizens and visitors mixed like a fine progressive salad with no need for spice or dress.
Many signs on our ride that night lit up the path to guide our wheels to our destination. A small crack in the concrete buildings revealed a dark staircase, that led up to a dimming room full of florescent lights flashing across the empty tile walls. A dark steel door slid open and the bar light flooded our eyes. Rough english and beers were traded freely among the many wondrous travelers and bright chinese millennials.
Beer after beer, and drink after drink we invited a group of locals to sit with us and taught them some American drinking games (circle of life/death). Laughs, cigarettes, and conversation were shared and the live improvisation music filled the air. I soon found myself holding a guitar on stage after my liquid courage allowed. I began playing “Hey Jude,” and every person, no matter what language they spoke, in the the second story bar began singing along. The Beatles classic could be heard outside on the sidewalk where a small bedroom/convenience store sold ice cream to passerbys. “Na na na na na na na…”
We spent a long time in bed the next morning, but not too long, as breakfast was always a delight. Eating with chopsticks comes quickly and learning to drink warm liquid or remembering to ask for cold water becomes a happy memory for me now. Duck, squid, egg rolls, small cakes, fast food dumplings, and so much rice… so much rice. The chinese food makes the mouth salivate and the mind desire excess.
After filling our belly’s some of us traveled by train to Mongolia, yet myself and another lad traveled to the Great Wall for the “Great Wall Festival,” where we and thousands of other travelers gathered to attend a David Guetta and Afrojack concert. After shotgunning beers with some brazilian women on the Great Wall itself, we made our way toward the stage, where the grand structure of the wall served as the backdrop for the festivals artists and DJ’s.
Among the crowd of people there was no space to be had for one’s self. The amount of mobility was equal to that of local Beijing subways, where personal space was a distant concept. Above the crowd several small drones hummed and recorded the experience. Until the wee hours of the morning we attempted to (as Mr. Guetta put it) “tear the motherf%&$ing wall down!” Fireworks commonly ended events in China. The explosions in the sky were coupled with a lazer light show projected on the wall stretching across a nearby mountain.
Every night in china is a gem of wonderful people and genuine souls seeking a lively time. Every day was a reminder of the strength of the chinese people, culture, history, and future. Beijing in all its majesty, from the reminiscence of the 2008 Olympic park (where Michael Phelps earned eight gold medals), to the Forbidden City, to the Great Wall serves as a great tourist destination and a blessing of fond memories in my life.
Knial Piper II
About the Author: Knial Piper II is a twenty seven year old United States veteran Infantry Officer with a Juris Doctorate. He was born and raised in Springfield, Missouri., with an eye for travel and a heart for experience. Currently Knial resides in Vero Beach, Florida and has published his first novel Freedom Blues and American Soul, to be released worldwide July 1st, 2017.
Disclaimer:*Contents in this story is Authors personal views and presentation.
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do not need to be taken from Russia: they are more convenient and cheaper to purchase locally. But the medicines that are necessary for the tourist (painkillers, stomach pains, etc.) must be taken care of in advance and be sure to take a safari tour from Russia with you since there are no doctors in the savannah.
Iman Zahirfar is a blogger who enjoys exploring the hidden corners of the world. In her spare time, she’s an avid book reader, and when no one’s watching she’ll eat as much ice cream as humanly possible.
professional content strategist and digital marketer at 
About the author: 
Flor: Born & raised in Buenos Aires, my first backpacking experience was with friends in Argentina’s Northwest, followed by a couple other trips around South America. As I grew older I was more than happy to switch backpack for wheels, considering I could afford a more “comfortable” style of travel. Now I realize that traveling light (no more than 8kilos) is part of “comfortable” if you are planning to travel a lot! An amateur photographer, I enjoy capturing moments in the places I visit.
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