Category: Vacations

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Things to See and Do in Antigua Guatemala

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antigua-guatemala

Guatemala is a country with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes. There are tons of fascinating cities to visit here but one of my personal favourites is Antigua Guatemala.

Antigua Guatemala is a charming colonial town nestled in the central highlands of the country. It was the capital of Guatemala until a series of earthquakes in the 18th century. The city has since been preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discover the colonial-era churches, monasteries, and plazas as you explore the tropical island of Antigua. Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and crafts scene by visiting local markets and workshops. Of course, Antigua offers more than history and culture as it lets you explore nearby volcanoes, hike through rainforests, and discover Lake Atitlan’s beauty. Here are some of my favourite spots in the city!

Santa Catalina Arch

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During my visit to Antigua, I had the opportunity to see the Santa Catalina Arch up close. It was fascinating to learn about the history behind the arch, which was built in the 17th century as a passage for nuns to cross between two buildings. The bright yellow colour and intricate design of the arch were striking, and it made for a perfect photo opportunity. The arch is also located in a vibrant area of Antigua, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.

La Merced Church of Antigua

The La Merced Church is a stunning example of colonial architecture. The intricate details on the facade of the church were awe-inspiring and the interior was just as impressive with ornate altars and religious artefacts. The church is also known for its striking yellow colour, which is a result of the sulfur that was used to build it. I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the church to learn more about its history and cultural significance.

Nim Po’t Centro de Textiles Tradicionales

During my tour of Antigua, I was able to explore the Nim Po’t Centro de Textiles Tradicionales. This cultural centre showcases the traditional textiles of Guatemala and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the country’s rich cultural heritage. The centre features a wide selection of textiles, including colourful huipils, woven blankets, and intricate embroidery. I was particularly impressed by the demonstrations of backstrap weaving, which is a traditional technique used by indigenous women in Guatemala. The centre also offers workshops and classes for those interested in learning more about the art of traditional textile-making.

Jade Museum

The Jade Museum in Antigua Guatemala is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of the region. The museum features an impressive collection of jade artefacts, which were highly valued by the Maya civilization. The exhibits showcase the intricate designs and symbolism of the jade pieces, which include jewellery, masks, and figurines. I was particularly fascinated by the explanations of the different colours and types of jade and the cultural significance they held for the Maya people. The museum also offers workshops for visitors interested in learning how to carve jade themselves.

Pacaya Volcano

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Hiking up Pacaya Volcano was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my tour of Antigua Guatemala. The trail was challenging but the stunning views of the surrounding landscape made it all worth the effort. As we approached the summit, we could feel the heat coming from the molten lava. Watching the lava up close was an unforgettable experience and our guide was knowledgeable and provided insights into the geology and history of the area.

Lake Atitlan

It’s a few hours away but the trip is rewarding. The stunning natural beauty of Lake Atitlan was spectacular, with crystal clear waters surrounded by towering volcanoes and lush green hills. I took a boat ride around the lake and visited some of the small towns and villages that dot the shoreline. Each town had its unique culture and traditions, and the people were friendly and welcoming. I highly recommend visiting Lake Atitlan to anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing natural retreat.

Hobbitengano

Hobbitenango was one of the most unique natural attractions I explored during my tour of Antigua Guatemala. The eco-tourism park is designed to look like a hobbit village, with houses built into the side of a hill. The views from the park were spectacular, with green valleys and rolling hills stretching out into the distance. I enjoyed exploring the hobbit houses and the surrounding gardens and even got to try my hand at ziplining. Overall, Hobbitenango was a fun and whimsical natural attraction that is perfect for families and nature lovers alike.

Convento de las Capuchinas

Visiting Convento de las Capuchinas in Antigua Guatemala was a fascinating historical experience. The convent is a beautifully preserved example of 18th-century architecture and it offers insights into the daily life of the nuns who once lived there. I enjoyed exploring the various rooms and spaces, including the chapel, kitchen, and living quarters. The ornate carvings and intricate details of the architecture were truly impressive, and it was fascinating to learn about the history of the convent and the role it played in the cultural and religious life of the region.

Antigua Guatemala Central Park

Central Park in Antigua Guatemala is a vibrant and lively hub of activity in the heart of the city. The park is surrounded by beautiful colonial-era buildings and is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. I enjoyed strolling through the park, taking in the sights and sounds of street vendors, musicians, and performers. The park is also a great place to relax and people watch, with plenty of benches and shade trees.

Antigua Guatemala is a destination that is simply too captivating to miss out on, particularly for those with a keen interest in history, culture, nature, and adventure. This city’s vast array of incredible natural landscapes, including breathtaking volcanoes, luscious rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, make it the perfect destination for nature lovers. The city is truly a destination that is unmatched in its ability to capture the essence of Central America and provide an unforgettable experience for those who are looking for a truly authentic cultural and natural experience.

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Discover Dresden This Year

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Dresden is the epitome of beauty and culture. This magnificent city lies on both sides of the Elbe River and is often called the Florence of the East and the state capital of Saxony. From baroque buildings to gleaming gardens to museums and other tourist attractions, there are many things to do in Dresden. Let me help you discover Dresden as I list down some of the best places to see in this glorious city.

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1. Explore the Residenzschloss Dresden Castle (or Royal Palace)

The Dresden Castle of Royal Palace is one of the oldest buildings in the city. One of the most popular castles in the European continent, it served as the residence of the electors and kings since the 15th century. Today, the Residenzschloss Dresden Castle contains an array of museums. You can find here the Historic Green Vault, which is known as one of the richest treasure chambers in Europe. Another museum is The Dresden Armory, which houses valuable collections of weapons and costumes.

The Coin Cabinet is where you can see the oldest and most renowned collections of coins, medals and banknotes, and the Collection of Prints, Drawings and Photographs, where you will get to appreciate 515,000 works representing eight centuries of over 20,000 artists.

2. Visit the Frauenkirche Dresden

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Dresden’s Frauenkirche, which translates to Church of Our Lady, is one of the city’s most important edifices. This Lutheran church was designed by the architect George Bähr. However, he did not even live that long to see its completion. It was completed in 1743 but was later destroyed during the Allied bombings in World War II.

The church ruins had been put together as a war memorial. Then in the 1980s, plans for reconstruction started, and its reestablishment was completed in 2005. You can still find the old damaged cross at the church’s new altar. The reconstruction of Frauenkirche Dresden symbolizes the international reconciliation after World War II.

This church is truly something you can’t miss when you go to discover Dresden. Remember to check out the fantastic view over the city of Dresden and its surroundings. The viewing platform is open to visitors all year round.

3. Wander Around the Zwinger

The Zwinger in Dresden is a baroque palace situated in the old town. It is very grand, and you will be mesmerized by its beauty. Wandering outside the building is worth your time because of its unique and intricate architecture. Zwinger was meant to stand as a testament to the glory of Augustus the Strong’s time in power. It was later developed into a cluster of cultural venues till its destruction in World War II.

The reconstruction began in 1945 with the help of the Soviet military. It was later restored to its pre-war condition in 1963. The exterior and the surrounding views of this palace are enough to feast your eyes on. But if you want to explore the museum complex, head inside the Porcelain museum, which features 20,000 porcelain artefacts.

4. Relax and Enjoy the Views at Brühl’s Terrace

If you want to see the scenic and wide-ranging view of the Elbe River, then head out to Bruhl’s Terrace. Bruhl’s Terrace is where you can also find the 400-year-old Brick Gate, the only surviving original city gate in Dresden. Furthermore, you can also see the relics of the old town bridge, the medieval defence system, the casements and the bastion.

Bruhl’s Terrace, also known as the balcony of Europe, is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the stunning view of the Elbe and the other side of the city.

5. Discover Dresden and Stay at Taschenbergpalais

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If you are looking for a great hotel in Dresden, then Taschenbergpalais should be at the top of your list. Taschenbergpalais is a palace hotel that is just in front of the Zwinger and beside Dresden Castle. This hotel was built in the 18th century by Augustus the Strong. Some famous past guests of this grand hotel include President Jacques Chirac of France, Prince Albert II of Monaco, and designer Karl Lagerfeld.

It features 213 rooms and suites. Dine in the Palais Bistro or have a coffee break at the Cafe Vestibul. Other amenities of this historic hotel include a spa area with a sauna, a pool, a steam bath, massage treatments and a fitness centre.

6. Enjoy Your Time at the Großer Garten or the Grand Garden

Spending quiet time in a garden is something I love to do. That’s why this park is one of the things that I had to include on the list. The Großer Garten is a Baroque-style park in central Dresden. This huge park was established in 1676 on the instruction of John George III, Elector of Saxony. The rectangular-shaped park has been open to the public since 1814. A miniature railway runs in the park from April to October.

Other features of the park include a souvenir shop at the main station where you can also buy refreshments, The Summer Café which is located at the Palace Pond, and The Boat Hire and its Beer Garden, which is located on the western shore of Lake Carolasee.

This is truly a great place for walking, jogging, skating and riding a bike—a perfect place to spend time with friends and family.

7. Shopping in the New Town

Dresden won’t disappoint when it comes to shopping. You can either go to Innere Neustadt, the Baroque Quarter or go to a much hipper place at Äußere Neustadt.

The Baroque Quarter welcomes guests with galleries, museums, and boutiques. In contrast, the trendy Äußere Neustadt offers its visitors with various bars, restaurants, cafes, music hubs and chic shops. Dresden’s two shopping secrets are must-visit places when you travel to Dresden.

Dresden is an incredibly beautiful city. I was mesmerized by its rich history and architecture. Though it was heavily destroyed during WW II, it has recovered quite well and is now one of Germany’s most beautiful historic cities. The combination of baroque architecture and romantic landscapes makes Dresden stand out from other German cities. Plan your trip now and discover Dresden this year!

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Best Lakeside Destinations in Europe

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The lakes in Europe have been a favorite summer destination for a long time. It is ideal for those who want to enjoy nature. It is also best for those who do not want to be on a crowded beach. Check out my top 5 lakeside destination choices when in Europe.

1. Lake Como Italy

Lakes can be deep and Lake Como is among the deepest in Europe. It measures 400 meters deep and is listed to be the 5th deepest lake while the other four are all found in Norway. A lot of wealthy people come to visit as well as royal families and tourists. Many stars from Hollywood and all over the world have also built their residences on its shores.

Watersports lovers find Lake Como a haven. They can enjoy water skiing, windsurfing, and wakeboarding when visiting here. They can even do diving and enjoy a day at the spa while looking at the picturesque sceneries all around. The temperature in areas surrounding the lake remains warm even during winter. This is why a lot of hikers and explorers enjoy hiking all year round.

2. Lake Geneva Switzerland

Lake Geneva is found sitting in the Alps. It is shaped like a crescent and serves as a border to France and Switzerland. Activities for visitors include boating, antique shopping and even walking the steep streets made of cobblestone.

If you ask me, the most stunning areas to visit can be found on the western shore. This is where the lake sits against Mont Blanc where a picturesque snowy scene can be seen.
If you’re looking to visit for watersports or swimming, then you have to come between June and September. The waters of the lake remain warm despite being situated against the Alps.

3. Lake Bled Slovenia

Lake Bled is located in northwestern Slovenia. The main attraction for most tourists who come here is the bluish-green waters. Aside from that, the tiny island in the center of the lake makes it more interesting.

The 16th century Bled Castle offers visitors a magical view especially when the quiet waters stay still surrounding it. During winter, the lake is mostly frozen. However, you can reach the castle using the traditional “pletna” boat during warmer months.

Water Sports activities are mostly sought after in the lake. Aside from that, hiking and biking are also popular choices.

4. Lake Hallstatt Austria

Austria takes pride in one of its most striking bodies of water, the Lake Hallstatt. The lake was named after the village where it sits. Divers also love the clean waters here making it a prime destination. Aside from diving, pedal boats and rowing are available for rent.

The months of July and August are the busiest as millions of visitors come here during this time every year. If you want a new experience, you can try coming during the winter when the Alpine Village is covered with snow and turned into a winter wonderland.

5. Lake Lucerne Switzerland

This lake is Switzerland’s most scenic body of water. You can go cruising on Lake Lucerne and appreciate the winter landscape of the snow-covered mountains. Visitors can try many activities including antique shopping, cycling, and even skating. During the warmer months, events including musicals and culinary programs take place. Some of Switzerland’s oldest communities can also be found surrounding Lake Lucerne.

6. Trevassack Lake, United Kingdom

As well as the large, well-known lakes like the above there are thousands of smaller lakes that rarely get a mention. In the United Kingdom, where it rains a lot, there are hundreds of lakes and reservoirs dotted around the countryside. Trevassack Lake is one such lake, located in Cornwall in the southwest of the country. Trevassack Holidays runs a watersports centre at the lake, plus there is excellent, brand new family holiday accommodation so visitors can stay lakeside in this beautiful destination.

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The Must-See Castles In Europe

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Beyond being remnants of the past, castles are a must-see when traveling in Europe. There is simply something so romantic about them, especially when you imagine how the royals spend their days inside them back then. Due to the many royal families in Europe, there is no shortage of castles to visit. Here are the ones you should not miss.

1. Carreg Cennen Castle, Wales

For such a small place, Wales has more castles for every square mile than anywhere else in the whole world. Carreg Cennen is also unique because it is in a state of ruins, but it does not mean that it will not fill you with awe.

2. Hohenwerfen Castle, Austria

Given that the royal family of the Austro-Hungarian empire ruled most of Europe for centuries, it is not surprising to find one castle in Austria making it to this list. The views alone will enchant you, as you can see the Salzachtal Valley and the Berchtesgaden Alps. Being more than 900 years old, it has been home to kings, archbishops and even prisoners (it served as a state prison for some time).

3. Predjama Castle, Slovenia

Built on the side of a 400-foot cliff, it will remind you of Tolkien’s Helm’s Deep. The castle itself also boasts of so many dungeons, castles, and hidden tunnels. They also host an annual medieval tournament every July.

4. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

No other castle is as well-known and as photographed as this fairy-tale castle. It has inspired Disney movies, computer games, and books.

5. Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

This is also quite popular, thanks to being a popular feature in Highlander shows and in many postcards. It is also an important site during the 1719 Jacobite Rising. The surroundings, where 3 locks meet at the bottom of the mountain range will also take your breath away.

6. Hohenzollern Castle, Germany

This castle feels like a dream, being literally in the clouds. While it is the 3rd to have been built on the site, visiting it can be surreal.

7. Hunyad Castle, Romania

The impressive Hunyad Castle is known for being where Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for Dracula) was imprisoned. It is grand, especially since it has a Gothic-Renaissance influence. It has also been greatly restored after being neglected for years.

8. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

This medieval fortress has been fully restored, so locals can enjoy the views on top of an extinct volcano named Castle Rock. Since being built in the 12th Century, the Edinburgh Castle has been passed on from the English and the Scots and vice versa.

9. Versailles, France

No list of best European castles is complete without Versailles. While it started out as a hunting lodge, it is now the most popular castle in the world.

Thanks to the centuries of history of this continent, many relics remain for current generations to explore and enjoy. You can discover the different styles and use them to guess how old the structure is. Or you can simply walk through the halls and pretend to be a princess for a day.

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Hong Kong’s Hottest Tourist Attractions 2019

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Almost everyone knows that Hong Kong is one of the world’s best places to shop. It is both a tropical paradise and a cosmopolitan city known for its vibrant multicultural makeup. Restaurants fill tummies round-the-clock while two of the largest theme parks slug it out for the attention of kids and kids at heart. Despite having only 428 square miles of territory, almost all of the world’s best are already in this financial, fashion, culture, travel, and retail center. It is not surprising why more than 65 million tourists flock to this Asian pearl of a city every year. This year, 2019, is not going to be any different, especially with Hong Kong’s hottest tourist attractions.

Monopoly Dreams

Starting June 2019, visitors who are fans of the classic board game Monopoly will get the chance to play a life-sized version of the classic game. Monopoly Dreams is for enthusiasts as well as anyone who would like to have a different kind of fun. Creators integrated 4D interactive projections and state-of-the-art augmented reality technology into classic games like Water Works, Jail, and Chance cards. Keep in mind that this attraction will change the way you play board games. It is best to think hard before going as you will no longer want to play your standard-sized board games from then on.

Marvel Hits Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland is welcoming a new brand of characters to beef up the likes of Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy. The theme park is on a 6-year expansion program that will showcase a larger Disney castle as well as the entry of Marvel’s iconic superheroes at Tomorrowland. When the Marvel Universe at Disney gets completed by 2023, expect the likes of Iron Man, Captain America, and Black Panther, among others to be permanent fixtures in the Hong Kong attraction.

Impossible Burger 2.0

In 2018, Impossible Foods wowed the Hong Kong crowd with their take on vegetarian-inspired burgers that boast of nothing but plant-based meat patties. Today, there are more than 150 HK restaurants that serve Impossible Burgers. This year, the brand has done the impossible. The Impossible Burger 2.0 boasts of meatier and juicier burgers that its creators, Castelo Concepts, says will make you unable to differentiate between a plant-based meat and a true meat. It may not be a place to visit, but the Impossible Burger 2.0 is one of the best experiences you should try this 2019.

Maruju Aburi Farm

You don’t need to go to Kobe, Japan to enjoy luscious Wagyu beef. You can have one at the recently-opened Maruju Aburi Farm. This is a restaurant that serves ranch-to-table wagyu. This means you get only the freshest and most succulent steaks you will ever have in the world. However, Maruju Aburi doesn’t only serve premium cuts. It is a restaurant that offers nose-to-tail dining. The best part of it is that it doesn’t cost a fortune to enjoy a prime wagyu cut. Now that’s an awesome deal worth having this year.

The year 2019 opens up more fascinating Hong Kong sights and experiences for the whole world to see. And that’s just the tip of an ambitious tourism upgrade of the crown jewel.

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How to Make a Portugal Vacation Memorable

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Everyone wants to have a holiday to remember, because of the great times and not because of unfortunate experiences. Visitors to Portugal can easily have the best vacation of their lives, as long as they prepare properly. By following these tips, you can relax and enjoy your time in this beautiful country.

1. Do Not Hesitate To Get A Tourist Card

One of the biggest letdowns during a holiday is to worry about going over budget. While spending is a natural part of a vacation, it does not mean you cannot control your expenses or save some money. You can opt to buy a tourist card, like the Lisbon Card that will allow you to take public transportation and get discounts on some entrance fees.

2. Learn Some Basic Portuguese

It is not that difficult to get around the country when you speak English, but learning some phrases in the local language is always a good tip when you are traveling. Beyond learning how to say hello and good morning to be friendly and respectful, you can learn some important words you might need, like medicine, doctor, toilet, help, and many more.

3. Protect Yourself From The Sun

Visitors from the cooler parts of the world are always eager to go out into the sun, not realizing that their skin can get burnt quickly. While this is not a health emergency, a sunburn can make you very uncomfortable and ruin your holiday. Make sure you are ready to stay under the sun by stocking up on sunscreen with high SPF and avoiding the sun between 12 and 3 pm when the sunlight is very intense.

4. Pack Light And Wear Comfortable Shoes

Tons of visitors to Europe do not realize that many of its cities are full of cobbled streets dating back hundreds of years. While they make the streets look beautifully old, they are definitely not friendly to heels and stilettos. You should pack sneakers or sturdy sandals instead to allow you to walk without any problems. These cobblestones are also a menace for big suitcases, as they can run down the wheels especially if they are heavy. Pack light instead with a backpack or invest in suitcases with sturdy wheels.

5. Taste The Local Cuisine

One of the highlights of a Portugal holiday is the food. They have many delicious dishes that you should never miss out on, especially if you have the chance to dine at the local restaurants. Avoid fast food restaurants and ask the locals for recommendations where to try out the cuisine.

6. Drink Coffee

Coffee lovers will love the local cup that will certainly put Starbucks to shame. Watch out, however, because they use strong espresso so you might not want to order too many, otherwise you cannot sleep at night. To make it easy for you, a meia de leite contains 50% coffee and 50% milk, while a galão contains an espresso shot with triple the amount of milk.

Thanks to their beautiful beaches and charming cities, Portugal tops the list of favorite destinations around the world. With these tips, you can plan your holiday perfectly and have a hassle-free time.

Why Try Cornwall for a Holiday or Vacation

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The UK’s leading holiday destination is undoubtedly the picturesque county of Cornwall. Located right next door to Devon, which is also popular with tourists, Cornwall offers an amazing experience for holidaymakers. Cornwall has attractive beach towns and fishing villages, exceptional sandy beaches, jaw-dropping sea cliffs, rugged moors, dense forests and rolling countryside to discover. It is a fantastic location to visit for a holiday or vacation, consisting of many natural, historical locations and picturesque destinations such as castles and Celtic ruins. And now with a big selection of fantastic tourist attractions, activities and restaurants, it’s no wonder that Cornwall holds the title of the UK’s leading vacation destination.

Great Weather

But why is it so great? To start with, the weather is milder in this remote, south westerly part of Great Britain. Because of that the Cornish peninsula boasts subtropical gardens which motivate and impress visitors. Its steep cliffs are natural tourist attractions worth the journey alone. With its location at the far fringes of mainland Britain, this peninsula is almost surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and bordered on its north eastern edge by the River Tamar, giving it an island feel. This helps to offer Cornwall it’s own character and culture, and a real sense of pride and self-reliance in its citizens.

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All this makes Cornwall an original and celebrated holiday location for visitors from the UK and many places worldwide. it is always voted the UK’s leading tourist area and for fantastic reason. It’s an amazingly spectacular location with its own laid-back culture and wonderful environment. No wonder families return here again and again to holiday in Cornwall holiday cottages and have fun together in this stunning location.

Celtic Heritage

Cornwall has rich Celtic heritage still intact from its days as a backwater far away from English power. It is at Tintagel where the legend of King Arthur was created. And there are Celtic crosses and monoliths to check out everywhere.

In more recent centuries Cornwall became one of the nation’s important places as its production of tin and clay were exported worldwide for the manufacturing of industrial materials. The remains of these markets can be seen dotted around the landscape. The noticeable outlines of tin mining engine houses are obviously all over and permanently connected with the county of Cornwall. And it’s this human communication with the landscape and environment that is now safeguarded in lots of UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the county.

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Untamed Beauty

In spite of it’s industrial past, Cornwall remains an untainted and rural location. There are still wild, wilderness areas and sensational countryside to check out and farming stays a big part of the economy below. If you step away from the towns and villages, and crowded beaches, to find the interior, you will find yourself in a landscape untouched by time and raw and reliable in its spectacular charm.

It is a backwoods with a laid-back environment, you should not be mistaken for thinking Cornwall is old-fashioned. Just recently Cornwall has actually experienced a little a revival and end up being a little bit of a trendy area, with a huge array of trendy hotels, great dining establishments, art galleries, cool stores and hip bars, coffee shop’s and dining facilities opening up in all corners of Cornwall. Star chef Rick Stein has really originated the culinary revolution in Cornwall, now followed by other Michelin starred dining facilities and wonderful dining establishments up and down the county.

Excellent Accommodation

There are many excellent hotels, bed and breakfasts, guest houses, self catering lodges and hundreds of holiday cottages for rent in Cornwall. There are many local holiday companies who can help you find the perfect base for your adventures in this beautiful part of the country. Using these holiday accommodation options as a base, you can explore and enjoy the best that Cornwall has to offer. For those people looking for a less costly vacation, there are various exceptionally located caravan parks and campsites around Cornwall to choose from.

Newquay is among the primary destinations for a holiday in Cornwall and is world-famous for the sport of surfing. The coastline in Newquay and throughout Cornwall routinely produce great waves to be enjoyed by surfing enthusiasts of all abilities. Together with kite surfing, stand up paddle boarding, mountain biking and other modern-day activities, surfing is one of the main reasons for adventurous people to visit Cornwall. But it’s also an excellent destination for people who want to do nothing more than a short walk along the beach.

Perfect for a Holiday or Short Break

Whatever you prefer to do on holiday, Cornwall has something for everyone. From romantic couples, to groups of friends, to families with kids, teenagers or students, Cornwall is a superb place to visit for a really special vacation.

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The Best Countries in the World to Visit for Nature Lovers

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There’s no doubt that we live in a very beautiful planet. From the deepest oceans to the highest peaks to the most rugged terrains and to the flattest of regions, the planet we live in is full of remarkable contrasts. While most of us are content on seeing the beauty of this planet through pictures alone, there are those who prefer being with nature to feel what it’s really like to be one with Mother Nature. Here are the six of the best countries or places in the world to visit for nature lovers.

Banff, Canada

Banff-Canada-Natural-Wilderness

Covering an amazing 2,500 square miles sprawled in the Canadian version of the Rockies, the Banff National Park boasts of turquoise lakes that are fed by Canadian glacial systems, abundant wildlife, breathtaking Rocky Mountain peaks, and outworldly scenic drives. There are more than 1,000 miles of well-maintained hiking trails that take you on a sunset stroll by the river or even let you feel the Alpine breath of glaciers. There are nearly 120 miles of mountain bike trails making the exploration of Banff more exciting.

Plitvice, Croatia

 

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Travelers who love to study geologic formations will marvel at what the Plitvice National Park in the Dinaric area of Croatia has to offer. It boasts of being one of the planet’s most impressive and truly magnificent karst entities. It features canyon-like formations, carved by water that flows through the Mesozoic limestone and guarded by dolomitic rocks. Aside from its karst features, Plitvice is known for its forest communities made up of Alpine beech, beech-fir, spruce, and silver pine, among others. Animals that live off these forests abound. It is truly one of the most mesmerizingly beautiful, natural travel destinations in the world.

Pembrokeshire, Wales

Stunning-Sea-Views-in-Pembrokeshire-National-Park

UK travellers have long known that Wales is a first class destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It’s an incredibly beautiful, but small, country attached to the United Kingdom. Wales has a lot to offer for nature lovers from the mountain top wildernesses of Snowdonia National Park, to wildlife rich estuaries, and thick pockets of native forests to the wild expanses of the Brecon Beacons. But perhaps one of the country’s most beautiful areas for a vacation is Pembrokeshire in the South West of the country. This is a little populated region with some of the most stunning coastline you are ever likely to see anywhere in the world. Here you will see high cliffs, crashing waves, small sandy coves and a plethora of wildlife including seals, dolphins and all sorts of sea birds. The sea views here are astonishing – providing sights you will remember for the rest of your life.

Göreme, Turkey

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What makes the Göreme National Park so special is its natural land formations that have been shaped by several millennia of erosion. Ancient dwellings can still be seen from these natural rock formations as if you’re essentially looking at a gigantic anthill. But don’t underestimate these dwellings as they provide the world of solid evidence of the exceptional brilliance of Byzantine art from the post-Iconoclastic era.

Khao Sok, Thailand

Khao Sok-thailand-beautiful-travel-location

Actively promoted by the Thai Tourism Ministry as the place where nature meets adventure, Khao Sok is nothing less than a magical place for nature lovers. Covered in the world’s oldest rainforest of evergreens, deep valleys, exciting caves, tall and imposing limestone mountains that reach for the sky, and breathtaking lakes, the Khao Sok National Park is undoubtedly one of the planet’s best when it comes to nature adventures. It’s also within popular southern Thai destinations like Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi, and Khao Lak.

Tongariro, New Zealand

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The moment you set foot on Tongariro National park, you will instantly be transported to Middle Earth, specifically to Mordor, in the Lord of the Rings franchise. Its fantastic and very unique landscape can be both incredible and surreal at the same time. Trek the Tongariro Alpine crossing and you’ll find yourself traversing Ruapehu, Tongariro, and Ngauruhoe volcanic peaks.

From space, Earth is a gem in a sea of darkness, lit up only by distant stars. On Earth, these places are fitting testaments to just how beautiful this planet really is. For more travel inspiration, check out this video: