Navigating the proper and authentic resources is vital when studying abroad; it provides security and a hassle-free process. Living as a student in a foreign country can be overwhelming from time to time due to exposure to a new environment and feeling homesickness; a student has a lot to adjust to in their new host country.

For all the new students who just graduated from high school and planning to move to Australia, this blog is for you. We will discuss six tips and resources for navigating student life in Australia. Read on!

1.Finding Accommodation

Securing suitable accommodation is one of your first and foremost steps. Whether it’s on-campus housing, private rentals, homestays, or shared accommodations, Australia offers a variety of options. Contact your university’s accommodation services; they often assist and guide international students.

You can also book your student accommodation from the comfort of your home; amberstudent provides a hassle-free online process with top security that will give you enough time to explore your new city before boarding with lectures.

2. Understanding Health Insurance

Australia requires all international students to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This health insurance helps cover any medical expenses incurred during your stay. Familiarise yourself with your policy’s coverage, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and medication costs. 

Additionally, make sure to register with a local general practitioner (GP) upon arrival for regular check-ups and support. Self-care is crucial for international students since they live far from home and independently. 

3. Adapting to a New Culture

Moving to a different country means immersing yourself in a new culture. Embrace the opportunity to learn about Australian customs, traditions, and values. It will help you make friends and enrich your overall experience. 

Since Australia is a multicultural and diverse country, adapting won’t be that tough. Engage with local communities, join clubs, and participate in cultural events organised by your university. In no time, Australia will feel more like home once you start going out and making new friends.

4. Managing Finances

All international students moving far from their home countries must be financially prepared; living without troubling your pocket is much easier than living broke. You can create a budget that covers your tuition, student housing, groceries, transportation, and leisure activities to enjoy all the perks of living without struggling financially.

Also, remember to take advantage of student discounts whenever possible. Try to find a job that keeps your academic journey going smoothly. Work-study programs and internships can provide valuable experience and help ease your financial burden. The work-study balance will help you build organising and managing skills to balance your busy new lifestyle. 

5.Utilizing Student Support Services

You don’t have to worry about being left out in Australia since most Australian universities offer all the support international students require. Avail yourself of resources like academic tutoring, career guidance, mental health counselling, and language support.

Creating a versatile personality should be your goal to master all the skills of a great asset. These services are designed to help you thrive academically and personally, so do not hesitate to reach out when you need assistance.

6.Exploring Australia

Australia has a diverse population, mindblowing landscapes, and high standard lifestyle, which you must explore once in a lifetime. During your time as an international student, make an effort to travel and discover various parts of this beautiful country. 

Ensure you take advantage of student perks to save up over discounted student travel passes and see the local corners of the country. An adventure-filled experience outside campus will add a bonus to your academic journey far from home.

Conclusion 

It is essential to embrace and get a hold of your new environment. Living comfortably in a foreign country requires a great understanding of finding the right resources and navigating your life inadvertently. So, have faith and patience and enjoy your journey!

About Amber Student – amber Student is one of the leading student accommodation platforms put in place in 2016 and has served over 80 million students globally. Amber Student is your one-stop destination for all your housing needs, fully assisted by amber experts and secure housing far from your home. Do check out our social platforms on Instagram and Facebook and stay connected!

Author’s Bio – Bobby Sinha is a storyteller; she enjoys watching Japanese indie movies and knows various ways of using a chopstick. A graduate in business, working as a writer, and someday aspiring to become a Filmmaker proves how versatile she is.

ALSO READ: Studying in Australia on a Budget: Money-Saving Tips for International Students

The post Navigating Student Life in Australia: Tips and Resources for International Students. appeared first on Australian Times News.

Most tourists are unaware of these hidden gems, which, while unfortunate, means that the areas are not so crowded, and you can take your time visiting everything at your own pace. Here are some of the nicest spots to add to your itinerary. 

Ghibli Museum 

If you’re a fan of animation, you’re most likely familiar with the legendary Studio Ghibli. Located in Mitaka, in the western part of Tokyo, the museum combines displays meant for children with technological exhibits and the fine arts. A lot of it is also dedicated to animation techniques, making it a must-see for those interested in the craft that goes behind their favourite films. 

If you want to visit, you must purchase your ticket in advance. Only two hundred overseas visitors are admitted daily to avoid overcrowding. The museum has several other features, all inspired by characters and motifs in Ghibli movies. The Mamma Aiuto souvenir shop, getting its name from the sky pirates in “Porco Rosso”, sells several different items, including animation movies under the Ghibli Museum Library label. 

There’s a rooftop garden featuring a five-metre statue of one of the robots in Castle in the Sky and a playroom for children twelve years old and younger which includes a Catbus just like the one in “My Neighbor Totoro”. You can also enjoy a bookstore and reading room where you’ll find books recommended by Miyazaki Hayao. 

In 2022, Ghibli Park was opened in Nagakute, Aichi Prefecture. It includes a replica of the Kusakabe house from “My Neighbor Totoro”. The theme park is still in development, but it is set to have the antique shop from “Whisper of the Heart”, the Cat Bureau from “The Cat Returns”, settlements and villages reminiscing those in “Princess Mononoke”, as well as a Valley of Witches inspired by “Kiki’s Delivery Service” and “Howl’s Moving Castle”. 

Beautiful nature 

When booking a trip to Japan, secure a Sydney Airport car park spot beforehand. Australian tourists enjoy travelling to the country, so you must be quick to get the best site. 

Japan is well known for its breathtaking natural spots, of which there are many you can visit yourself. One of them is the wisteria tunnel in Kitakyushu. Around 150 flowering plants belonging to approximately twenty different species can be admired here. Not only is Wisteria an ornamental plant, the arrangement of the tunnel makes it even more impressive. 

The Sagano Bamboo Forest in Kyoto is ideal for peaceful walks. You can follow several designated pathways, but exercise isn’t the only thing you’ll get from this walk. The Japanese government recognises the forest as having its unique sound, created by the creaking, swaying and rustling of the bamboo. The forest is all the more interesting as it contrasts with the urban landscape nearby. 

Jigokudani Monkey Park

The Japanese word here stands for “Hell’s Valley”, so you’ll be forgiven for expecting this place to be a little scary. Yet, it is anything but. An incorporated area of the Jōshin’etsu-kōgen National Park, the name comes from the landscape, which combines cold forests with the steam and boiling water that seeps from the ground. 

The area is famous as the home of a considerable population of Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys. Typically, they would only come to the park during the winter, when they enjoy lounging in the onsen’s warm waters, while during the summer, they live in other areas of the park. However, as park attendants have begun feeding the monkeys, they remain near the hot springs regardless of the season. 

If you’re lucky, you might see them gathering around in huge numbers, sometimes amounting to a few hundred. 

Look for airport parking in Sydney before you set out to ensure you get the best spot available for your vehicle throughout your journey. 

Nishiki Market 

Japan’s cuisine is well-known worldwide, with an incredible number of recipes and iterations on all dishes; visiting the country is a veritable adventure for any food lover. Some believe that to get the best of what a country’s cuisine offers, you must become familiar with its street food and local ingredients. In this regard, Japan truly has a lot to offer. 

The Nishiki Market in downtown Kyoto is one of the best ones you can visit. The Japanese have been selling fish in the area since the 780s, and it is commonly referred to among the locals as “Kyoto’s kitchen” due to the abundance of food options and ingredients available. With nearly 200 stalls available, you sure have much to choose from. 

You can sample locally-made tofu, red bean paste desserts, mochi, the traditional Japanese pickles known as Tsukemono, barbecued quail, candied kumquats, sushi, tea and boiled squid. Whether you’d like to stick with something more traditional or are ready to expand your tastes, there’s something for you here. 

Hidden spots 

If you enjoy going off the beaten path, there are many places you can visit in Japan. Mount Koya, in the Wakayama Prefecture south of Osaka, is home to the ancient temple of Kongobu-ji, completed in 816 and the head of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism. If you enjoy hiking, you can try the Koyasan chichi-Michi while you’re here, a traditional pilgrimage route through the mountains. 

In the mountainous Gifu Prefecture, you can explore Takayama, a town with narrow streets and wood houses dating back to the Edo Period. There are also several small museums. Since the mid-1600s, Takayama has been the spot of a biannual festival celebrating spring and autumn. 

Be prepared for an exquisite experience when you visit Japan. To make the experience complete, choose accommodation at a traditional Japanese ryokan, and wear the customary geta footwear and a kimono to show your appreciation for the culture. 

ALSO READ: Australia working to keep strong tourism ties alive with Japan

The post Remarkable and uncommon tourist destinations in Japan appeared first on Australian Times News.

The French Riviera – A Playground of Glamour and Luxury 

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is renowned for its glamorous allure and vibrant atmosphere. Start your Mediterranean yacht charter by exploring the opulent cities of Cannes, Nice, and Saint-Tropez. Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of the Cannes Film Festival, stroll along the promenade in Nice, or anchor in the iconic port of Saint-Tropez. Indulge in exquisite cuisine, visit world-class boutiques, and experience the vibrant nightlife that makes the French Riviera a playground for the elite.

The Greek Islands – A Paradise of History and Beauty 

No Mediterranean yacht charter is complete without visiting the captivating Greek Islands. From the ancient ruins of Athens to the pristine beaches of Mykonos and Santorini, Greece offers a blend of rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. Sail through the Aegean Sea, exploring islands like Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu. Discover hidden coves, swim in crystal-clear waters, and immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Greek villages. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, the Greek Islands provide an unforgettable experience.

The Amalfi Coast – A Romantic Retreat

The Amalfi Coast in Italy is a picturesque destination that captivates with its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and azure waters. Cruise along the coastline, marvel at the stunning views of Positano and Ravello, and anchor in the charming town of Amalfi. Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, explore the historic sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and take in the beauty of the rugged coastline. The Amalfi Coast offers a perfect blend of romance, culture, and natural splendor.

The Turkish Riviera – Where East Meets West 

Immerse yourself in the unique blend of cultures and landscapes that the Turkish Riviera has to offer. Begin your journey by exploring the vibrant city of Istanbul, where the East meets the West in a captivating fusion of traditions, architecture, and flavors. Marvel at the iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, which reflect the rich history and cultural heritage of this magnificent city.

After experiencing the allure of Istanbul, set sail along the stunning Turkish coastline. Discover the ancient city of Ephesus, where you can wander among well-preserved ruins that tell stories of a bygone era. Explore the grand amphitheater, the Library of Celsus, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The archaeological treasures of Ephesus offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.

Continue your journey to the idyllic beaches of Bodrum, a popular resort town known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant nightlife. Relax on the sandy shores, soak up the sun, and indulge in water sports activities. Visit the impressive Bodrum Castle, a medieval fortress that houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, showcasing artifacts recovered from ancient shipwrecks.

No visit to the Turkish Riviera would be complete without exploring the vibrant markets of Antalya. Lose yourself in the bustling streets of the historic city center, where you can browse through a variety of shops selling traditional handicrafts, spices, and textiles. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and aromas, and engage with friendly locals as you haggle for unique souvenirs to take home.

The Turkish Riviera offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the picturesque coastline of Bodrum and Antalya, this region will leave you mesmerized with its diverse offerings.

The Balearic Islands – Paradise in the Mediterranean 

Located off the eastern coast of Spain, the Balearic Islands are a paradise in the Mediterranean. From the lively nightlife of Ibiza to the tranquil beauty of Formentera, these islands offer something for every taste. Explore the charming streets of Palma de Mallorca, soak up the sun on the pristine beaches of Menorca, or dive into the vibrant underwater world of Cabrera National Park. The Balearic Islands provide a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and Mediterranean charm.

Conclusion

Embarking on a Mediterranean abu dhabi yacht rental with Butinah Charters allows you to discover the most captivating destinations in unparalleled luxury. From the glamour of the French Riviera to the enchantment of the Greek Islands, the Mediterranean offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler. Immerse yourself in history, indulge in exquisite cuisine, and soak up the breathtaking natural beauty of these destinations. Contact Butinah Charters today to plan your unforgettable Mediterranean yacht charter and create lifelong memories in these stunning locations.

ALSO READ: How does London compare to other places to live?

The post Explore Abu Dhabi with the Best Mediterranean Butinah Yacht Charter! appeared first on Australian Times News.

But the financial facet of studying abroad for international students, especially in a high-cost-of-living country like Australia, can be a challenging obstacle. 

Today, we’ll navigate through the maze of expenses, offering savvy money-saving tips for international students to manage their budgets effectively while enjoying their Australian educational journey.

Consider Shared Accommodation

Shared accommodation is an excellent option for international students seeking to save money while studying in Australia. Unlike living solo, sharing a flat or house with others can significantly reduce your housing expenses. Rent, utilities, and even groceries can be split among roommates, making life more affordable and leaving more room for other essential things in your budget.

For example, studying abroad in Sydney, one of the costliest Australian cities. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the Sydney city center is on average AUD 3,500 per month. Compare that to the average rent of a room in student housing in Sydney, which ranges from AUD 1,500 to AUD 2,000 a month. International students can see the potential for significant savings in terms of rent in student housing.

Shared accommodation often leads to more than just monetary benefits. It provides a built-in community that can be especially comforting when you’re far from home. You’ll meet diverse individuals, potentially from different countries and cultures, broadening your global understanding and friendships.

The goal is to create a budget-friendly, comfortable home away from home while studying in Australia.

Take Public Transportation

Australia boasts a robust public transportation system that efficiently connects city centers, suburbs, and even outlying regions. From buses in Brisbane, trams in Melbourne, or the Sydney Ferries, there’s a multitude of cost-effective options to get you where you need to go.

In the city of Melbourne, the trams in the city centre operate in a ‘Free Tram Zone’, which is an absolute boon for international students studying in the city. Utilising this public transport service for daily commutes can help you save quite a sum on transportation costs.

Many Australian cities also offer travel cards, such as the Opal Card in Sydney, Myki in Melbourne, and Go Card in Brisbane. These cards provide discounted fares and cap daily commute expenses, resulting in substantial savings over time.

Don’t forget to check out if your student status can fetch you further discounts. For example, in Victoria, tertiary students can avail of a 50% discount on fares by applying for a PTV Tertiary Student ID.

International students not only save money but also get to experience the Australian local culture and lifestyle up close by making public transportation their primary mode of commute.

Cook at Student Housing

Student housing often comes with a shared kitchen, which can be a goldmine for saving money while studying in Australia. Eating out can quickly add up, and even takeaways or cheap eats can accumulate into a substantial portion of your budget. 

So to save money, it’s time to reveal your inner chef and start cooking in your amber student accommodation.

Start by planning your meals for the week. This helps you manage your grocery budget better and saves time deciding what to eat each day. Next, find a local farmer’s market or a discount grocery store. Fresh produce is generally cheaper and healthier than packaged foods. 

Consider buying in bulk and splitting the cost with your housemates for items like rice, pasta, or oil that can be used in numerous meals.

Think about preparing ‘batch’ meals, like a big pot of chilli or pasta sauce that can be eaten over several days or even frozen for later.

You can cook a simple meal like stir-fried vegetables with tofu, categorised as nutritious, inexpensive, and easy to cook. All you need on the shopping list are a few vegetables of your choice, some tofu, and a bit of soy sauce. You can cook this dish once and can eat a healthy meal ready for the next few days!

It’s also an opportunity to explore new recipes, bond with your housemates over a shared cooking session, and discover a hidden talent!

Conclusion

We hope this article helps you identify and understand money-saving tips for international students studying in Australia.

You can make the most of your Australian study experience without emptying your bank account or mental health if you approach budgeting properly and apply the money-saving tips provided in this article.

As an international student, the objective isn’t just to save each dollar but to maximise the value and enrich your life as an international student in Australia.

How can Amber student help you?

amber serves millions of students around the world by providing the best and most rewarding experience for booking student housing. We are upgraded with the latest COVID protocols and would be more than happy to assist you in booking your ideal home. Please tune in to our Facebook and Instagram to stay updated.

Author’s Bio

Archit is an avid writer who is keen to get his doctorate. When not writing, he can be found reading, taking the metro and then questioning this decision, and haunting local bookstores.

ALSO READ: The best places to visit in Australia on a student budget

The post Studying in Australia on a Budget: Money-Saving Tips for International Students appeared first on Australian Times News.

Don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back – with the right preparation and knowledge, you can make your move to Spain a success! We understand that navigating the immigration process can be overwhelming, so we’re here to help. Discover our top tips for immigrating to Spain and set yourself up for a successful, fulfilling life in this beautiful country.

Research local rules and regulations

If you want to ensure a smooth transition to life in Spain, it’s crucial to do your research and become familiar with the country’s rules and regulations. From visa requirements to cultural norms, taking the time investigating all the ins and outs of living in Spain can save you a lot of stress and headaches in the long run.

Don’t let yourself get caught off guard by unexpected bureaucratic hurdles or cultural misunderstandings. Arm yourself with knowledge and prepare to embrace all that Spain has to offer. Your dedication to learning the rules of the land will pay off in spades, giving you the freedom to truly thrive in your new home.

Collect all your documents

Spanish is the official language of Spain, so it’s important that you learn it if you don’t already speak it. Additionally, it’s a good idea to know some basic Spanish words and phrases to make easier communication in your daily life.

Emigrating to Spain may require different documents depending on your country of origin and the purpose of your trip. However, generally, the following are the most common documents you need to immigrate to Spain:

Passport: You need to have a valid passport to enter Spain. If you are European Union citizen, you can enter with your National Identity Document (DNI).

Visa: Depending on your country of origin, you may need a visa to enter Spain. You should check if your country of origin is included on the list of countries whose citizens need a visa to enter Spain.

Certificate of criminal records: This document verifies that you do not have a criminal record in your country of origin or in the countries where you have resided in the last five years.

Medical certificate: You need to show a medical certificate indicating that you are really healthy.

Proof of your financial status: it is necessary to demonstrate that you have sufficient economic skills To obtain a long-term visa, means to support your stay in Spain.

Employment contract: If you are immigrating to Spain to work, you must have an employment contract with a Spanish company.

Get informed about job opportunities

Get informed about job options in Spain before immigrating. Research the job market and opportunities in your professional field. You can also search online for job offers and labor conditions in the country.

It’s important to keep in mind that the process of finding employment in Spain can be longer than in other places, so it’s advisable to be financially prepared for the job search process. This is one of the tips for immigrating to Spain successfully that you cannot overlook.

Learn about local culture

Spanish culture is known for its relaxed lifestyle and love for family, food, and wine. Spaniards value friendship and personal relationships highly, so it’s common for them to spend time socializing and enjoying life.

In addition, religion and traditions have great importance in Spanish culture, especially during festivities such as Holy Week and Christmas.

It’s also important to note that there are regional cultural differences in Spain. Each region has its own customs and traditions, so it’s recommended to research the specific region you will be moving to in order to have a better understanding of its culture.

You should consider this as one of the tips for immigrating to Spain successfully, as culture has a big impact on the quality of life for any foreigner.

Search for accommodation in advance

Finding accommodation in Spain can be a long and complicated process, especially in larger cities. That’s why it’s important to search for accommodation in advance to avoid the stress at the last minute.

A good option is to search online, either on accommodation websites or in Facebook rental groups. You can also contact a real estate agency to help you find accommodation that suits your needs.

It’s important to keep in mind that accommodation prices can vary depending on the location and amenities offered. In general, more central and touristy areas are more expensive than residential areas.

Open a bank account

Another tip for successfully immigrating to Spain is to have a bank account in Spain. Generally, it is easier to open an account if you already have a residence permit in Spain, but you can also do it as a tourist or student.

You may need to provide more documents and demonstrate that you have regular income or a stable job in your home country.

It’s best to research banks that offer accounts for foreigners and review the requirements and necessary documents. It is also recommended to compare the fees and charges each bank charges for their services.

Hire an immigration lawyer

Hiring an immigration lawyer can be an excellent option to help you with the necessary paperwork to immigrate to Spain. A lawyer specializing in this area can help you with any aspect related to:

Obtaining a visa and residence permit.

Processing the necessary documentation to work in Spain.

Understanding immigration laws and regulations in the country.

In addition, a lawyer can provide you with personalized advice and help you resolve any legal issues you may face.

If you need help in this process, you can contact Balcells Group’s immigration lawyers here. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best tips for successfully immigrating to Spain.

Prepare for your new life in Spain.

As a result, immigrating to Spain can be a great challenge. However, with careful planning, preparation, and a positive attitude, you can achieve a successful transition to this beautiful country. Make sure to follow these tips for immigrating to Spain successfully and we wish you good luck!

ALSO READ: Tips for travelling as a beginner

The post Empowering Advices for a Successful Move to Spain appeared first on Australian Times News.

This city is one of the favourite destinations for tourists from all over the world for its unique landscapes, for the goodness of the culinary specialties of this land and for its unmistakable glamorous style. Florence is well connected to major foreign cities thanks to its airport (Leonardo da Vinci) – mainly served by seasonal flights – and the nearby Pisa’s Galileo Galilei, which is mostly provided by low-cost flights. As a matter of fact, those who want to explore this must-visit destination while keeping an eye on the budget, choose to land in Pisa which also offers a convenient bus service that connects Pisa airport to Florence within an hour. 

In this article we will get to know Florence better and we will propose five reasons why you should visit this city

Art

Florence can to all intents and purposes be considered as an open-air museum. It is home to some of the best known and most appreciated works of art in the history of mankind. Booking a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, the Boboli Gardens are some of the unmissable experiences you can experience in this Tuscan city.

Not to mention Michelangelo’s David, the Galileo Museum, or the Leonardo Da Vinci Interactive Museum. Here it will be possible to have a real sensory experience to retrace the steps of the greatest scientist of all time who created some of the most important masterpieces in history in Florence.

Culture

Not only works of art, but also culture in its full meaning. Florence is the cradle of the Italian language, home of the great poet Dante Alighieri who began writing in the vernacular here so that all those who did not speak Latin could begin to read. Dante would later write his most famous work, The Divine Comedy, in Florentine, which we might call the “ancestor” of the current Italian language.

History

Many of you do not know that in the years immediately following the unification of Italy in 1861, Florence was also the capital of the Kingdom of Italy for six years, from 1865 to 1871, when the capital then became the current Rome. Whole pages of history have been written in Florence thanks also to the influence of the Medici family. A new way of governing which marked the history of the world, and which was told in The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli.

Architecture

Florence is also home to unique structures in the world. Among these how not to mention the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s marble bell tower and the octagonal Baptistery. Among the other monuments that we recommend you go and visit there are also Palazzo Vecchio, the Medici Chapel and the Duomo. Taking a walk along Ponte Vecchio, which connects the two banks of the Arno, is another of the must-see experiences for those who choose to visit this city.

Food

Have you ever heard of Chianti and Maremma? Well, in this vast area of the Tuscan hinterland some of the typical products present not only on Florentine tables but on those of the entire country are produced. If we talk about wines, Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino are some of the absolute top class recognized all over the world.
If we move on to food, let’s go from ribollita to Cinta Senese. But also, Finocchiona, a particular type of salami that is produced only in this part of the world and is savoured at its best in a freshly baked focaccia with oil in which the fat drips inside, leaving a unique flavor. And then again, the famous Florentine steak. And finally, the cantuccini to be tasted with Vin Santo. In short, coming to Florence means immersing yourself in a unique experience that will satisfy your palate but also your mind.

ALSO READ: The Best European Destinations for Your Next Holiday Break

The post The best and most 5 reasons to visit Florence in Italy appeared first on Australian Times News.

Paris, France

The City of Light needs no introduction. Paris is a city of romance, culture, and art. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, there’s always something to see and do in Paris. Take a stroll along the Seine River, visit Notre Dame Cathedral, or explore the trendy neighborhoods of Le Marais and Montmartre. With package holidays in Europe, you can experience the magic of Paris without breaking the bank.

Rome, Italy

Rome is a city that’s steeped in history and culture. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, there’s something for everyone in this ancient city. Take a walk through the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, enjoy a slice of pizza or gelato, and marvel at the beauty of the Pantheon. With package holidays in Europe, you can explore the Eternal City at your own pace.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a city of art, architecture, and cuisine. The city’s most famous landmark is the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, an unfinished masterpiece by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. Other must-see attractions include the Gothic Quarter, Park Guell, and La Rambla. With package holidays in Europe, you can enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine and explore this vibrant city.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a city of canals, bikes, and tulips. The city is famous for its museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. Take a stroll through the beautiful Vondelpark, visit the Anne Frank House, or explore the trendy Jordaan neighborhood. With package holidays in Europe, you can experience the Dutch culture and enjoy the charming atmosphere of Amsterdam.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a city that’s often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” The city’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. With its medieval walls, narrow streets, and red-roofed houses, Dubrovnik is a stunningly beautiful city. Take a walk along the city walls, visit the Rector’s Palace, or take a cable car up to Mount Srd for a panoramic view of the city. With package holidays in Europe, you can experience the beauty of Dubrovnik and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a city of music, art, and coffee. The city is famous for its stunning architecture, including the Schönbrunn Palace and the Hofburg Palace. Take a walk through the beautiful Stadtpark, visit the famous Naschmarkt, or enjoy a coffee at one of the city’s many cafes. With package holidays in Europe, you can experience the beauty of Vienna and enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is a city of history, literature, and whisky. The city’s most famous landmark is Edinburgh Castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking the city. Other must-see attractions include the Royal Mile, the National Museum of Scotland, and the Scottish Parliament. With Europe city breaks, you can explore the winding streets of the Old Town and enjoy the charm of Scotland’s capital city.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a city of medieval charm and stunning architecture. The city’s most famous landmark is the Charles Bridge, which crosses the Vltava River and connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town. Other must-see attractions include Prague Castle, the St. Vitus Cathedral, and Old Town Square. Prague is also famous for its beer and delicious cuisine, so make sure to try some traditional Czech dishes like goulash and dumplings. With package holidays in Europe, you can experience the magic of Prague and its rich history.

Athens, Greece

Athens is a city of ancient history and culture. The city is famous for its landmarks, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Take a walk through the Plaka neighborhood, visit the National Archaeological Museum, or enjoy some Greek cuisine at one of the city’s many tavernas. Athens is also a great base for exploring the Greek islands, so why not combine your city break with a beach holiday? With package holidays in Europe, you can experience the magic of Athens and the beauty of the Greek islands.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is a city of history, culture, and nightlife. The city is famous for its landmarks, including the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag building. Take a walk through the trendy neighborhoods of Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg, visit the Berlin Museum Island, or enjoy some German beer at one of the city’s many bars. With Europe city breaks, you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of Berlin and its rich history.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is a city of hills, colorful buildings, and delicious food. The city is famous for its landmarks, including the Belem Tower, the Jeronimos Monastery, and the Sao Jorge Castle. Take a walk through the Alfama neighborhood, visit the LX Factory, or enjoy some Portuguese wine at one of the city’s many bars. Lisbon is also a great base for exploring the beautiful beaches of the Algarve, so why not combine your city break with a beach holiday? With package holidays in Europe, you can experience the charm of Lisbon and the beauty of Portugal.

Conclusion

Europe is full of amazing destinations, each with its own unique charm and attractions. With package holidays in Europe and Europe city breaks, planning your next holiday break has never been easier. Whether you’re looking for a city break full of history and culture or a beach holiday full of sun and sand, Europe has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the best European destinations for your next holiday break.

ALSO READ: The best places to visit in Australia on a student budget

The post The Best European Destinations for Your Next Holiday Break appeared first on Australian Times News.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a city that offers something for everyone. From its beautiful parks, vibrant arts scene, and great food, Melbourne has it all. And the best part? Many of the city’s top attractions are free. So, if you’re staying in a student accommodation in Melbourne then here’s what all you can do! 

One of the places to visit in Melbourne is Federation Square. This iconic public space hosts free events and performances throughout the year. You can also stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens, which offers beautiful views of the city skyline and a chance to see some of Australia’s unique flora and fauna. And for those interested in history, the Shrine of Remembrance is a must-visit. This beautiful monument honors the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers in various wars.

One of the top attractions in Melbourne is Federation Square. This public space hosts free events and performances throughout the year. It is also home to the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), which offers free entry to its exhibitions and galleries. You can also enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes located in the square.

For those interested in nature, the Royal Botanic Gardens is a must-visit. This beautiful park covers 38 hectares and is home to over 8,500 species of plants worldwide. You can walk through the gardens, enjoy a picnic on the lawn, or take a guided tour to learn more about flora and fauna of the area.

Sydney

Sydney is one of the most popular destinations in Australia, and for a good reason, and If you are living in a student accommodation in Sydney then you will have a great time! The city is home to a few of the most iconic landmarks in Australia, including the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. And like Melbourne, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy.

A visit to Bondi Beach is a must when in Sydney. It is a famous beach in Australia but also free to visit. You can also walk along the beautiful coastal trail from Bondi to Coogee. For those interested in culture, the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the Museum of Contemporary Art are free to enter.

Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a beautiful and unique natural wonders of the world. And the good news for budget-conscious students is that there are ways to visit without spending a fortune. One option is to take a day trip from Cairns, which will allow you to snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal-clear waters. Another option is to take a scenic flight over the reef, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the stunning coral formations.

Uluru

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Australia. Located in the heart of the Outback, visiting Uluru can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. One option is to camp in the nearby campground, which is affordable and allows you to see the stars in one of the darkest skies in the world. You can tour the area, which will give you a chance to learn about the culture and history of the local Indigenous people.

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in the Northern Territory of Australia. It is one of Australia’s most recognizable natural landmarks and is considered a sacred site by the local Anangu people.

Uluru is an essential site for cultural and spiritual practices of the Anangu people, who have lived in the area for over 60,000 years. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site’s cultural significance and learn about its history and importance to the local Indigenous people.

One of the main attractions at Uluru is watching the sunrise or sunset over the rock formation. This is a breathtaking experience and one that should not be missed. The colors of the rock change throughout the day, with shades of red and orange that are particularly stunning at dawn and dusk.

The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is a 243-kilometer stretch of coastline that offers some of the most stunning views in Australia. The road trip is a popular option for students on a budget as there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy. Highlights include the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Otway National Park.

In conclusion, Australia has a wealth of attractions that can be enjoyed on a student budget. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or adventure, plenty of affordable options exist. So, if you’re studying in Australia and looking for a break from the books, consider visiting one of these affordable destinations for an unforgettable experience! 

If you want to have a fruitful and comfortable stay in Australia, then get yourself a student accommodation from amber! Amber is a platform that provides thousands of accommodations worldwide right from the US to Canada, the UK and of course Australia. So, visit the website and begin your tension- free house hunting today! 

ALSO READ: Top 5 spring break destinations for students who love to travel

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Spring break is typically a week-long break that provides students with numerous opportunities. Some are capable of going back to visit their families. Some prefer to spend it catching up on schoolwork they did not finish before the break.

For many, it tends to mean travelling to different places, letting them wind down from stress by taking a memorable trip. Their places are mostly focused on nightclubs or beach resorts. So, here is a list of the top 5 spring break destinations for university students.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana, located on the Dominican Republic’s easternmost tip, is best known for its resorts and sandy white beaches. This is a low-cost destination where you won’t have to skip having fun, entertainment, the weather, or the views. It’s a popular destination for college spring breakers, with days packed with pool and beach parties, casino games, discos, and spring break concerts. If relaxing in the sun is your style, head down to one of the many beautiful beaches. For a stay, you also opt to stay in shared student housing along with your friends.

• Punta Cana’s most impressive stretch of beach is Bavaro Beach, where you can sift into the ocean or spend hours strolling along the sand. The beach is lined with resorts that provide quick access to all activities. This is not a location to go for peace and quiet.

• Boats, parasailers, and sightseeing tour boats are constantly coming and going on the ocean. Swimming is safer in roped-off areas. Inland from the beach, there are a few restaurants and shops, most of which are very contemporary, especially by Dominican Republic standards.

Austin, Texas

From modern bars to eclectic music and a thriving nightlife, Austin offers something for everybody. You can go the traditional country path and check out a country music bar for country dancing or hit 6th Street or Rainey Street, two of the city’s hottest bar scenes. Rainey Street is home to various cocktail lounges, live music venues, and wine bars, all set in an old residential street with outdoor patios ideal for relaxing and socialising. You can opt to stay in Austin student housing with your friends. 

New York City

Despite the lack of sandy beaches, New York City is a popular spring break destination. It is brimming with open-air activities that will help you make the most of your vacation. It also provides alternative landscapes if you want to escape the proper city environment.

Although New York City can be expensive, you can plan your trip to stay within your budget. Select hostels with lower nightly rates. Instead of taxis, consider taking the subway. You also opt for New York City student housing.  

As students, you will have free access to iconic locations like:

• Central Park
• Times Square
•  The 9/11 Memorial are included. 
• The American Museum of Natural History.
•  The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
• The Whitney Museum.

Miami, Florida

Miami is a historical, cultural, and architecturally significant city. The glamorous South Beach area, with its high-profile eateries, indie fashion stores, and thriving nightlife, attracts the majority of college spring breakers. However, college students frequently venture out to enjoy Magic City’s nightlife.

Nearby universities include the University of Miami and Florida International University. There’s also a Wynwood Arts District to explore if you’re into art. Don’t miss Wynwood Walls, Miami’s first street art museum, with sprawling hand-sprayed wall paintings, street art galleries, and retail shops.

If you like beaches, you are in luck with a trip to Miami Beach. This ideal spring break attraction provides you with the best mix of cultures and people. Some areas are family-friendly when daylight but transform into super-chic metropolitan areas at night. The majority of college students relax outside in the sun. They like the beach, wild parties, music, food, art, and cocktails.

Daytona Beach, Florida

The main city on Florida’s Fun Coast is Daytona Beach. Daytona beaches are also ideal for motorsports, which are popular in this spring break destination due to the hard-packed sand. Sixteen of the beaches’ 23 miles are dedicated to motorsports, such as the Daytona Beach Road Course. There are also 20 waterparks on the waterfront and free double-decker buses that start taking spring breakers from restaurants and bars to the beach. However, even if you do not take one of these buses, most attractions in Daytona are all within walking distance.

Between March and May, Daytona Beach is the place to be to avoid crowds during the Speedweeks. Although it is a party town, alcohol and glass bottles are prohibited on the beach.

About amber 

amber is a student accommodation provider that helps you reduce your hassle during home hunting in a foreign country. Amber student is a one-stop destination for all your accommodation to airport pick-up requirements while you move abroad. Amber helps with prices and accommodation booking, airport pick-ups, and luggage shipping. amber aims to provide a stress-free move abroad to students making the big move away from home.  

Author’s Bio 

Deepshikha Katuri has been into books, films, and poems for the longest time. Being a coffee/tea lover and a big-time foodie, you won’t be surprised to find her at the cafe brewing conversations. Her love for writing developed while she was doing her undergraduate in Mass communication and journalism. 

ALSO READ: Gaming On The Go – Up Skill While Travelling, Anytime, Anywhere

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However, besides all the fun, the truth on road trips is that most drivers risk their lives by either driving non-stop for hours or not being properly equipped for emergencies. For example, a recent survey by the RAC European Breakdown showed that 16% of drivers had not taken any break for six or more hours when on the road. 

We know getting to your destination as soon as possible is urgent. But being fully prepared for long trips is vital, which is why we’ll get into some essentials you need to consider for smooth journeys. 

Paper maps and documents 

Being environmentally friendly is a priority, but when it comes to travelling long distances, sometimes you can’t rely on technology. In some areas, it will be impossible to have a phone signal to guide you on the route. One solution would be to download the maps you need or use your GPS app, but it can drain your battery really fast. 

However, having paper maps and other documents would allow you to get a better grip on the region you’re about to visit. You can find such products online or at the gas stations near your city. You can also invest in an atlas to have the perfect image of the roads and essential points on the road. 

Car organiser 

When carrying so many things with you, it’s easy to create a mess. But this won’t help you when you urgently need something from the back of your car. So, we recommend purchasing (or DIY-ing) some organisers you can use in your car, van or whatever vehicle you own. Some transparent plastic organisers would be efficient for you to take what you need fast without much of a fuss. This is also helpful if you get a rental car for your trip and don’t want to deal with cleaning too much. Organisers could hold clothes, food and supplies, tools and many other things you need on the road. 

Emergency kit 

An emergency kit is a must for a road trip, no matter how simple or basic it is. It may happen that you injure yourself when out of the car, or, in the worst case, you might hurt someone else, although if you’re driving in a more isolated region, the chances of seeing people can be smaller than usual. Know that paying someone’s road accident compensation can be quite costly for you as a driver, so make sure you respect all driving guidelines and immediately provide first aid when necessary. A first-aid class would help you learn how to properly do that.

Tech essentials 

A road trip between the mountains or somewhere far from the city shouldn’t be without technology. So, here’s what you should pack:

• Smartphone with which you can check various things and let your loved ones know where you are;
• A phone charger is essential regardless of the period of your trip;
• A phone stand is absolutely necessary for navigation purposes;
• Solar-powered light is the best for providing illumination since only a few hours of sunlight can charge your device;

Also, don’t forget to get your car accessories for smoother journeys:

• A dash cam allows you to record footage of your trip, which can come in handy at some point;
• Jumper cables shouldn’t be left behind because, in case your vehicle lets you down, these can connect to another’s car to provide electricity;
• A portable auto battery booster should let you jumpstart your car without needing another vehicle; 

Reusable products 

Travelling by car doesn’t provide you with the same luxury as some other travelling means do, which is why you need to be prepared with reusable products, such as:

• A small trash can (along with trash bags) so you can keep your vehicle neat;
• A water bottle will spare you the plastic issue, and you can refill it in many places;
• Eco-friendly wet wipes are biodegradable and great for any kind of clean-up;
• Reusable shopping bags are also essential and more resistant than plastic ones;
• Reusable utensils will always be there when you need them, and there’s no risk of them breaking apart;
• Collapsible Tupperware is perfect for saving up space when you don’t use them;
• Antibacterial clothing saves you time and money spent at the laundromat;

For any weather 

Depending on the time of the year you travel, it’s crucial to be prepared for any conditions outside but also have proper clothing. For example, winter travel requires special tools and appliances to ensure a safe journey. This includes a multi-head screwdriver and wrench, a shovel and traction mats (or salt and sand). Always be mindful that your vehicle may get stuck in certain places, and make sure you have all the tools necessary to get out of trouble. 

Regarding clothing, it’s important to have thermic pants and shirts to keep you warm, as well as rain jackets, boots and gloves. In some cases, when the car won’t jumpstart, you’ll need to face the weather, so even during spring or summer, make sure to be prepared for any climate change. At the same time, during hotter seasons, make sure you use enough sunscreen to cover all your body and avoid sunburns. Don’t forget about UV protection by using proper sunglasses. During these times, things catch fire easier, so make sure everything is adequately ventilated and no mess around the vehicle can boost the fire. 

Bottom line 

When travelling on your own, always remember that prevention is better than cure. Therefore, make sure you’re prepared in case of an emergency and don’t worry about overthinking too much because you never know what’s to follow. So, make sure you check all the tips above and never leave unprepared, especially on challenging roads. 

ALSO READ: Tips for travelling as a beginner

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What is the Eden Beach Resort & Spa?

Eden Beach Resort and Spa is a premium hotel in Thailand that offers world-class amenities and services. Eden Beach Resort features a wide range of accommodations, from standard rooms to deluxe suites, all of which are stylishly furnished and equipped with modern amenities. In addition, Eden Beach Resort offers a variety of dining options. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Eden Beach Spa is the perfect destination.

What to Expect at the Eden Beach Resort & Spa, a Lopesan Collection Hotel

The Eden Beach Resort & Spa, a Lopesan Collection Hotel is a world-class hotel situated on the white-sand beaches of Thailand. The resort offers luxurious accommodations, first-class service, and a wide range of activities and amenities to make your stay truly unforgettable.

Here’s what you can expect during your stay at the Eden Beach Resort & Spa:

Luxurious Accommodations: The resort features beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each with stunning views of the ocean or lush gardens.

First-Class Service: From the moment you arrive, you’ll be pampered by our attentive staff. Enjoy 24-hour room service, concierge services, and much more.

Wide Range of Activities: There’s always something to do at the Eden Beach Resort & Spa. Take a dip in one of our three outdoor pools, get pampered at the spa, or take part in one of the many other activities offered by the resort.

Endless Dining Options: The Eden Beach Resort and Spa features several restaurants and bars, offering everything from Thai cuisine to international fare. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a multi-course meal, we have something to suit your taste.

Why Choose the Eden Beach Resort & Spa?

The Eden Beach Resort & Spa is a luxurious and secluded beachfront resort located in Khao Lak. The resort offers guests a unique and exclusive experience with its stunning oceanfront setting, world-class facilities, and personalized service.

The Eden Beach Resort and Spa is the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The resort offers a wide range of amenities and activities to keep guests entertained and comfortable during their stay, including an infinity pool, a spa, a fitness center, and more.

What sets the Eden Beach Resort and Spa apart from other hotels in Thailand is our commitment to providing our guests with the highest level of service possible. Our team of dedicated staff members are always available to attend to your every need, ensuring that you have a truly memorable experience while staying with us.

The Rooms and Suites

Eden Beach Resort & Spa in Thailand offers an array of rooms and suites to choose from, each one designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Whether you’re looking for a cozy room for two or a spacious suite for the whole family, we have just the right accommodations for you.

Our rooms and suites are appointed with all the modern amenities and conveniences you need to make your stay as comfortable as possible. And our friendly staff is always on hand to attend to your every need.

So come and experience the luxury and relaxation of Eden Beach Resort or Spa for yourself. We guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

The Food and Drink Options

The food and drink options at Eden Beach Resort & Spa are unbeatable. From our world-class restaurants to our on-site bars and lounges, we have something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a five-course meal, our restaurants will not disappoint. For those who want to relax with a cocktail in hand, we have multiple bars and lounges for your enjoyment. And for those who like to keep things healthy, our fitness center and spa offer the perfect escape.

No matter what your preference, Eden Beach Resort and Spa has the food and drink options to make your stay unforgettable.

Activities at the Eden Beach Resort & Spa

The Eden Beach Resort & Spa offers a wide range of activities and facilities for guests to enjoy during their stay. The resort has two swimming pools, a spa and a fitness center. There are also plenty of activities to keep guests entertained.

How to Get There, Parking, Security and More

Eden Beach Resort & Spa is located in Thailand. The resort is on the right-hand side. Parking is available on site, and security guards are stationed at the entrance and exit to ensure the safety of guests.

The best way to experience all that Eden Beach Resort and Spa has to offer is to stay for a few days, but if you’re just passing through, there are plenty of activities nearby that can be enjoyed in a day or two.

Connect with an Experienced Travel Expert

Eden Beach Resort & Spa, a Lopesan Collection Hotel offers travelers the opportunity to connect with an experienced travel expert who can help them plan the perfect trip to Thailand. The travel experts at Eden Beach Resort and Spa are knowledgeable about all of the best places to visit in Thailand, and can help travelers plan an itinerary that includes all of the must-see attractions. In addition, the travel experts at Eden Beach Resort & Spa can also provide travelers with insider tips on how to make the most of their time in Thailand.

ALSO READ: Tips for travelling as a beginner

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Budapest, Hungary

Voted the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe, Hungary’s Christmas market on Vörösmarty square is Budapest’s longest-running and biggest. The market is home to many local artisans and craftspeople, all of who set up a stall and sell their handmade crafts, with popular options being wooden toys and pottery. If food is more of your thing, many stalls sell freshly made Hungarian delicacies, such as chimney cake (kürtőskalács) and goulash (gulyás). With over 100 stalls, there is guaranteed to be something for everyone. 

Although Vörösmarty square is Budapest’s biggest, the city also is home to smaller yet equally exciting markets. Other options include St Stephen’s Basilica market, which not only has an ice-skating rink but St Stephen’s displays an incredible lighting display right on the basilica. With Budapest being a short flight away, why not visit both?

Krakow, Poland

Krakow’s Christmas market is Poland’s number one Christmas market, located in the middle of the historic Old Town, the city’s central square. A long-standing tradition which dates way back to the 13th century, local artists set up their own timber stalls and sell a huge variety of Christmas decorations and traditional gifts.

In addition to numerous stalls across the square, the market also provides free entertainment in the form of musical performances by choirs and village artists alike. Krakow also hosts an annual Christmas tradition, where locals compete to create their very own nativity scenes (szopkas.) These structures can vary in size and grandeur with the winning nativity scene earning a spot in Krakow’s historical museum. If you time your visit for the first Thursday of December, you will witness the procession of the nativity scenes, where those who have entered present their creations in the market. 

Rome, Italy 

Rome is home to many Christmas markets which are all nearby popular tourist attractions. The most popular Christmas market in Rome is located in Piazza Navona, one of the largest squares in the city. Piazza Navona is steeped in history, making it the perfect backdrop for history lovers. The square is built upon the Stadium of Domitian, which housed 20,000 spectators back in 86 AD. 

The Christmas market itself hosts everything from stalls selling Christmas treats and handcrafted presents and souvenirs to a Christmas carousel. Even though the temperature in Rome averages about 13 degrees during the winter months, the Christmas lights and mulled wine help create a festive atmosphere.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia is home to a German Christmas Market, held in the beautiful City Garden on Knyaz Alexander I Square. A great choice for those travelling on a budget, this lesser-known market has everything you would expect from a traditional Christmas market but is known for its exceptional value. The market stays open late and hosts musical performances as well as providing drinks such as mulled wine throughout the evening. 

As it’s a German Christmas market, you will find typical German cuisine however you can expect more traditional Eastern European delicacies, including sauerkraut. For those looking to bring home souvenirs, the market is also home to a wide array of gifts and crafts. With affordable flights, Bulgaria is an enchanting and budget-friendly winter escape.

Oslo, Norway

With the promise of snow and colder temperatures, Norway is a fantastic choice for a festive destination. Even despite the shorter days, the festive spirit and cosy atmosphere make for the perfect backdrop to Christmas markets. The main Christmas market is called “Christmas in Winterland” (Jul i Vinterland) which is centrally located in the centre of the city and offers handcrafted goods, food, and hot drinks to keep you warm in the colder temperatures. There’s even an ice rink and a Ferris wheel which is perfect for families. 

With temperatures averaging with highs of just 1 degree in winter, you would be forgiven for not wanting to get your Christmas market fix outdoors. Luckily, there’s an indoor market not far away at Youngstorget, a plaza in downtown Oslo, Julemarked. This market is held in heated traditional tents and sells all you can expect, from handmade souvenirs and decorations. 

ALSO READ: The impact of Online learning on Mental health

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In short, autumn is unquestionably the finest season of the year to see Europe. You will enjoy the best accommodations at the best prices, fewer crowds for your favourite activities in Europe, more seating options at restaurants, and fewer people in your photos.

1. Lugano, Switzerland

A riot of flavours and colours, where the desire to enjoy the start of the fall season with friends over a fine glass of wine and delectable local fare is always alluring.

The well-known Lugano Autumn Festival is back, bringing life to the streets and squares of the historic city centre. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample top-notch Ticino wines for three days during the first week of October at the different grottos dotted across the streets of the city.

Not to be missed is the autumn market, which sells regional foods and crafts. There will be a ton of musical entertainment provided by several folk bands to enhance the celebrations. In addition, a free guided tour will be provided so that visitors may learn about and appreciate Lugano’s stunning architecture and surroundings.

2. Pula, Croatia

Pula is evidence that Croatia has more surprises in store for you. You love Zadar and its stunning sunsets, Nin, one of the most romantic locations, and Dubrovnik, which served as inspiration for the Game of Thrones television series. You are familiar with Zagreb, this lovely city that is perfect for a city break in Europe as well as a perfect destination for Christmas in Europe. You will also adore Pula, which is a city rich in history and is known for having one of Europe’s best surviving Roman amphitheatres.

Additionally, Pula is the ideal vacation spot for individuals who enjoy the sea, sun, and relaxation.

3. Gdansk, Poland

Another of Europe’s ideal fall vacation spots is Gdansk. The splendour of this city never ceases to astound visitors.

Gdansk is one of the locations I like; it is a city of bravery, freshness, and independence. A bustling centre of research, sports, entertainment, and culture. Experience Gdansk in the fall for a unique adventure.

4. Ibiza, Spain

Spain is where the Ibiza Gran Hotel is situated. It is a fantastic vacation spot. The hotel blends leisure and gaming. Tourists that like to gamble and apply the roulette double up strategy should visit this area if they want to experience what an island break is like. Beautiful gardens surround the resort, creating an interesting landscape. The staff provides childcare, a spa, and a restaurant, and the rooms are furnished with high-quality items.

Casino de Ibiza is located at the Ibiza Gran Hotel. There are numerous video games in the sizable casino. They consist of video slots, slots, bingo, and poker.

5. Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux, voted the most beautiful city in Europe, will leave you with aromatic, gastronomic, visual, and indelible memories. This city is currently a top choice for tourists looking for authenticity. It will provide you with an exceptional stay filled with history, cuisine, warmth from the locals, and smiles. Let’s not forget about the Saint-Emilion vineyards and Arcachon beaches, which will make you fall in love with Aquitaine, one of France’s most stunning locations.

Bordeaux is both conventional and modern, classical and underground, and international. Autumn is the best time to visit this city and its vineyards.

6. Florence, Italy

Travellers from all over the world choose Italy as their favourite vacation destination, and those looking for the most romantic locales, top cultural experiences, and most stunning museums in Europe choose Florence.

Come and explore the Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s David, and the Florence Duomo on a peaceful autumn day.

7. Bilbao, Spain

At the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao in the fall, the greatest artists like Robert Wotherwell, Yves Klein, Andy Warhol, and Jean-Michel Basquiat are waiting for you.

Avoid long lines and congested spaces in the fall when Bilbao is more peaceful. Incredible pieces of art are available to you in the museum’s permanent collection, which you can admire in the peace of a calm museum space that is only accessible to a select few.

No issue if you prefer natural scenery to museum art; in the fall, the vineyards in the area of Bilbao are a wonderful colour. Treat yourself to a daylong tour of Bilbao or a trip to the Rioja vineyards.

8. Hannover, Germany

Thanks to these numerous parks, the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, or the cherished Eilenriede Forest, Hannover is not only a paradise for lovers of green spaces. With the Georgstraße, one of Germany’s busiest shopping streets, Hannover is also a great place to go shopping.

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Planning a trip can sometimes be cumbersome. Starting with picking the locations, and travel documents, packing the bags, and sorting finances. Ideally, travelling should be something of fun, just like visiting the casino online NetBet where you have so many fun games available.

Plan your finance

Travelling requires finance even if it is an all-expense-paid trip. You will still spend money while on the trip, so it is important to plan out the finances appropriately. There are two sets of money you need to carefully plan for every trip. The first set is the cash you plan to spend for the trip. The second set is emergency cash. You need to hide it somewhere safe in the case of any emergency. Remember that it is best to spend in the local currency, so consider the exchange rate. If you can get the local currency in your country before the trip, good. Otherwise, get some at the arrival airport to avoid fraud.

Make local transportation bookings

When on a trip, you may have lots of places to visit and would require transportation. How do you plan to commute from one beach to another? How do you go to that restaurant with the amazing meals you have been dreaming about? In some cities and towns, you have platforms like Uber, Bolt, Taxify and so many others. You can use these apps to get a ride. You can also use a shared ride to save costs. For safety reasons, do not use unregistered cabs. You might fall into the hands of unreasonable men who exploit tourists.

Take hard copy documents

In life, the unexpected happens. Always prepare for the worst. Keep a backup copy of all your important travel documents such as passport, hotel reservations, vaccination certificates, insurance details, driver’s licence, health plans, and even medications. Do not leave everything online on your phone, tablets, and laptops. Devices can crash, and phones can go missing. Do not over-trust these devices.

Respect the local culture

As you travel to a different city and town, you will notice a difference in culture and religion. Don’t be carried away by your excitement and disregard the local cultures. Respect landmarks, traditions, myths, and beliefs. Remember, you are only there for a few days; you do not know better than those who are born and bred there. Be respectful of cultural differences. Do not go against the local beliefs and culture, the penalty might be unbearable. If possible, use a tour guide and remain careful at all times.

Watch your dressing

New cities, new weather, and, in most cases, strange and unbearable weather. In some places, the weather can be quite extreme. As you study, the weather of the region also carries the right clothes. You want to be caught in a raincoat on a sunny day. Dress for the weather according to the weather report. Also, dress to blend into the environment. Leave your best clothes at home. Get the local dresses if possible and blend them. It will reduce the attention you will draw. The less attention, the better for you.

Ensure you have internet access

Unless you are going to the deep jungle or amazon forest, make sure to have internet access. Get the local internet upon arrival and make use of it as you stay. Sometimes it is significantly cheaper than roaming. You need the internet to stay in touch with your family and friends and also to upload fun pictures. Also, for safety reasons, the internet can track your location easily. With some apps like Google maps, it automatically saved your location as you go from place to place. In case you wander off or go missing, you can be traced with the locations.

Watch what you eat

People often get carried away while on vacation and eat whatever they can see. Your body system might not be used to the ingredients, fruits, and drinks. So, it is best to experiment carefully with foods and drinks in a new location. Start with that, you know, and eat only a few new ones. Keep track of what you consume in case of health emergencies such as allergies, and food poisoning. Ask about the food and know more about it before consuming it. As for water, you should drink only ones you trust to avoid any issues.

Lastly, have fun! Make sure to enjoy every second of the trip. Such memories last forever.

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Endless family fun for family travellers

Travelling with family is special as you spend quality time and make memories to last a lifetime together. It is vital to choose safe destinations with activities suitable for all, be it toddlers, teens, parents or grandparents. Such a destination should include entertainment, sporting activities, hiking, pools, water parks or beaches. Here are just a few top picks for the perfect family holiday destination:

• Spain

Whether you choose Barcelona, Costa Dorada or Costa del Sol, fulfilment is guaranteed. You can enjoy the PortAventura theme park, which has the tallest rollercoaster in Europe as well as a great range of thrilling rides for all ages. At the Aquopolis waterpark, you can enjoy fast and slow slides, sea lion watch and get to swim with the dolphins- a great way to make those everlasting memories!

• Disneyland

There are several Disney parks around the world that are ideal for kids and adults. Disneyland Paris, Shanghai Disneyland, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland California, which each offer magical adventures. At Disneyland California, you can enjoy roller coasters, a magical animal kingdom park, canoeing, hiking, campfires, character meet and greet, and archery. There really is no better place on earth for those disney fans out there!

Calming holiday escapes for relaxation travellers

This traveller loves luxury and enjoys style and comfort. The sole aim of the vacation is getting away from the everyday hustle and bustle. You do this by enjoying first-class flights, seven-star hotels, and luxury resorts. Some of the top relaxation destinations include The Maldives, Portugal and Thailand, and many more luxurious countries. The Maldives in particular is a spectacular tropical island with coral atolls, where you can enjoy Asian therapies in various tranquil spas, watch the sunset or the dolphins and enjoy a bit of adventure. 

Some of the activities you will love include skydiving, jet skiing, snorkelling, fishing, whale submarine tour or surfing. You can unwind as you watch a film at the beachside cinema or visit ‘Sea of Stars’ to watch water glow under the moonlight.

Tasty holidays for foodie travellers

Travellers seek to tantalise their taste buds and discover different cultures through cuisines. Foodies are curious about flavours, ingredients, the origin of a particular dish or drink, and how it is eaten and served. Such a traveller looks out for festivals, food trucks, and outdoor markets and prefers eateries serving local delicacies. One of the best foodie holiday destinations in the world has got to be Italy. The perfect place where you can experience fine dining in classic restaurants or tiny cafés, join cooking classes to learn new recipes or shop in the open markets. 

Why not indulge in traditional cuisines that include seafood, risotto, lasagna, and pasta or even go on a wine tasting tour. The country has food festivals in every season. Some of the most popular food festivals being the wine festival in Chianti, Tuscany, the chocolate festival in Perugia, the fish festival in St Fortunato, the feast of the grape in Marino and many more for food lovers to enjoy!

Perfect getaways for solo travellers

If you enjoy roaming the world alone to rejuvenate, think things out, learn new things and look for inspiration, then you need to discover this amazing holiday destination perfect for all the solo travellers out there who wish to explore the world independently! Iceland is an idyllic destination with steaming geothermal pools that you can bathe in, and you can also visit waterfalls like Skógafoss, Dettifoss and Gullfoss. 

Other activities to enjoy include, whale watching, nature walks in the botanical gardens, watching the alien glows and swimming in a pool hidden in a volcano valley. An adventurous traveller may enjoy snowmobile tours across Europe’s largest glacier. If you love live music, visit Hurra or join locals for the weekend festivities in Laugavegur street.

Endless options for entertainment travellers

For the entertainment lovers, it’s all about having a good time, partying, and great nightlife. They enjoy live bands, comic shows, adult shows and trending party hangouts. Some of the famous entertainment destinations are Las Vegas, Amsterdam and Macau. In particular, the Las Vegas strip is famous for nightclubs, casinos, fine dining, resorts, theatres and world-class entertainment. If you are looking for the infamous casino experience that Las Vegas has to offer, many online casino operators offer table games such as Blackjack and Roulette, live games like Monopoly casino, and much more for players to get the real Vegas experience from your own mobile. 

With footbridges in all the main intersections, the Strip is ideal for shopping. You can also enjoy SkyPod ‘s panoramic views, Ferris high roller wheel, and a helicopter ride to the Grand Canyon and Bellagio fountains- these are views you certainly don’t want to miss!

Exciting choices for city travellers

If you love roaming the streets discovering architecture, arts and culture and shopping whilst enjoying dynamic urban life, Sydney is for you. It has hot summers during which you can enjoy surfing at the magnificent beaches. While travelling in Australia, you can also enjoy the renowned rotating restaurant at the Sydney Towers, visit the Featherdale Wildlife Park or the Sydney Opera House. 

Experience spectacular views of sparkling waterfront settings aboard the Sidney Harbour. If you are a nature lover, relish the royal botanic garden and wildlife at Taronga Zoo. At The Queen Victoria building, you can shop in the numerous high-end shops.

Adventures for thrill seeking tourists

Thrill seeker travellers often find themselves doing extreme things and craving the excitement the activities bring. An ideal destination is adrenaline-filled with excursions like bungee jumping, cliff climbing, water rafting and climbing the tallest mountains. Just one perfect destination is Queenstown, where you can enjoy a fast-speed jet boat ride down the Kawarau River. 

Other activities you could enjoy include bungee jumping, skydiving, canyon swinging, mountain biking, river surfing, white water rafting and kayaking. You can experience spectacular views of Queenstown by paragliding, hang gliding or hot air ballooning. Get to enjoy steep hill climbs and creek crossings with a quad bike!

The post Best Holiday Destinations In The World For Every Type Of Traveller appeared first on Australian Times News.

Ancient and Picturesque Cordoba

The history of Cordoba is mixed, as in any Andalusian city: the Romans in the 2nd century BC, an independent Arab caliphate since 711. At this time, the city became the capital of the caliphate, a mosque, and baths were built here and one of the largest libraries of that time was equipped. In 1236, Cordoba was returned to the Christians, and the mosque was turned into a cathedral. In Cordoba, Christopher Columbus for the first time offers the Spanish monarchs a plan of his journey and is refused, and at the end of the 19th century bullfighters become local rock stars – you can still see their portraits in bars. The rebuilt mosque and the entire city center are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral 

It is the heart of the city and the point of attraction for all tourists. This is definitely a place of power: 

1. Even before the construction of the mosque in the 8th century, there was a basilica here. 
2. In 1238, after the Reconquista, the mosque was turned into a cathedral – you can imagine the cool mix of styles that ended up. 
3. The scale of the building is amazing – it is huge. 
4. The ticket costs only €10.

Once upon a time, railway tracks passed through the city, which divided it into two parts steeper than the Berlin Wall: it was possible to cross them only in four places. In 1992, the paths were hidden underground, and an avenue with fountains and parks (Paseo de Córdoba) was arranged on top. The locals affectionately call this place “our embankment”.

In general, the best thing to do in Cordoba is to get lost in the white streets of the old town (don’t forget to take a look at the narrowest street in the city, Calleja del Pañuelo, and test your ingenuity as a photographer). In the morning, go to the local Mercado de la Corredera market, in the evening sit in the spacious Plaza de la Corredera, or take a walk along the majestic Guadalquivir along the Ronda de Isasa, cross the wide river on the preserved Roman bridge and have a picnic in the park on the other side.

See portraits of Spanish beauties at the museum of local artist Julio Romero de Torres. You can also visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Plaza del Porto – by the way, the square itself was mentioned by Cervantes in Don Quixote. Locals say that nothing much has changed since then. But for contemporary art, go to the Vimcorsa gallery.

Stop by the local university, a luxurious baroque building that has an inexpensive cafeteria (you can safely go to the courtyard). Students and, as they say, ghosts live here.

When you get tired of walking around the city, you can relax in the hammam – there are several Arab baths in the historical center (it’s not for nothing that Cordoba was the capital of the Arab caliphate for several centuries). For two or three hours of relaxation, you will pay € 20-60 – depending on the duration and number of procedures. Here are two options to choose from: Baños Arabes Cordoba (Calle Almanzor, 18) and Hammam Al Andalus.

Take your fantastic trip to Cordoba!

The post The Ancient Pearl of Andalusia – the City of Cordoba appeared first on Australian Times News.

Irrespective of which holiday style you plan, how many days you want to stay, or if it’s just a day trip, you should opt for some staycation ideas that will help you see the UK to the fullest. Considering all the options for visitors, excellent properties, holiday homes, and more, the UK has increased in tourism with some dreamy vacation spots that offer all the comforts of high-end resort and hotel chains, with the feeling of being at home. 

Michelin experience in Oxfordshire:

The Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire is the baby of celebrated chef Raymond Blanc. This restaurant is one of the UK’s top-rated Michelin dining experiences that everyone should try at least once. Blanc has prepared a magnificent seven-course dining menu in the main restaurant with tours of the garden. This experience also includes a trip into the kitchen garden (from where they source the fresh produce) and a Japanese garden which is drop-dead gorgeous. 

People wishing to relax can also opt for luxurious bedrooms to extend their stay and enjoy a Michelin experience that offers the best food and living options. Close enough to London to not feel remote, the hotel feel is a fabulous break for foodies who want to live a good life for a few days. Many couples also choose this staycation as a proposal option to make the event even more memorable. 

Destination Spa in Leicestershire:

If you want to plan a relaxing, spa-style staycation, luxurious Ragdale Hall should be your first preference. This blissful spa is in a country-style setting with several excellent treatment options for singles, couples, and groups. Not only is it uber-luxurious and relaxing, but also incredibly peaceful and tranquil. Ragdale Hall makes you feel pampered, close to nature, and extremely happy. 

One of the best features of Ragdale Hall is the stunning rooftop infinity pool. It is also an old-style Victorian construct with excellent healthy food options cooked by some fantastic chefs. There are plenty of stay and travel options where you can avail of package deals, including visits, travel, and treatments. 

Enjoy the Seaside at Cornwall:

Who doesn’t enjoy lounging by the seaside? Cornwall is the place to experience some of the UK’s most spectacular seaside spots, with options for surfing and swimming to your heart’s content. The laid back atmosphere of Cornwall, excellent food options, and gorgeous interiors of The Idle Rocks are definitely worth visiting. 

The Idle Rocks at Cornwall offer serene interiors, nautical décor, and a beach-chic vibe. They also have a gorgeous terrace where you can relax with some sundowner cocktails as you enjoy the smell of the salty sea. What’s more, is that most places in Cornwall are family and pet-friendly. However, they are also great for solo travellers and couples wishing to escape the hustle-bustle and stresses of daily life and work. 

Luxury Yacht Experience in Scotland:

When most people think of Scotland, they only presume dazzling lochs, magical castles, and rolling hills. Many forget that the sea is the best place to be when in Scotland. While exploring Scotland by land, you should never forget the maritime experiences. Scotland has several luxurious boutique yacht experiences for staycations. You can easily book a private yacht and crew for a few days and invite close friends and loved ones (if you want). 

There are exclusive yacht trips that you can book to take you around the Scottish Isles so you can disembark, visit Loch Ness (and maybe search for the Loch Ness monster), and see the Isles of Skye, Fort William, Eigg, and the Sound of Mull. You can also easily venture into the many coastal towns, spot some Scottish wildlife, grab the world-famous Scottish whiskey at one of the many local pubs and click plenty of photographs to make your trip memorable. 

When it comes to staycations, the UK has some fabulous experiences. If these options aren’t enough, you could also consider resting in the stunning Peak District, opt for a treehouse stay, and take a quick break in one of the many holiday homes and townhouses in busy London. 

The post Best Staycation Ideas UK appeared first on Australian Times News.

Landmarks in London

Bustling and busy, London is also home to some famous landmarks and attractions, including Buckingham Palace, The London Eye, art galleries, the British Museum, Big Ben, and the Tower of London. You can take in a show at the West End or enjoy the view from the London Eye. There are plenty of English pubs to enjoy, places to stroll, and restaurants serving everything from Chinese to Indian cuisine.

The outdoors

The city is filled with gorgeous, landscaped gardens, parks, squares, and riverine areas where you can while away a few, calm hours in the midst of the cityscape. At Trafalgar Square travellers can see imposing fountains and Nelson’s Column, commemorating the historic battle. It’s also a great place to have lunch! Probably the best-known garden in London is the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew. Set in hundreds of acres of plants, trees, and lawns it’s an ideal spot for a picnic or lunch and a decent beer or two at the restaurant.

Day, night, and overnight trains

Trains to and from the greater London area are frequent and plentiful throughout the day. There are numerous trains leaving the area at peak times, midday, in the later afternoon, and a good number of evening trains. The Caledonian Sleeper is an overnight train that travels between Scotland and London. Travellers can opt for a Lowlander route – which travels to Glasgow and Edinburgh, or the Highlander journey which travels to Inverness, Aberdeen, and Fort William. You can choose from luxurious double berth accommodation or overnight comfort seating, but for the best accommodation choose First Class tickets.

The Night Riviera train

This sleeper train travels overnight from London to the natural and beautiful Cornwall region and is the perfect choice for families wanting to spend a few days exploring the coastal areas of this amazing beach destination. Hiking, bird watching, and swimming are all plentiful in the area, as are a wonderful selection of upmarket and rustic B&B’s.

London in the winter months

London is a wonderful holiday destination during the summer months of June to August but there are also plenty of things to do in London during the winter months.

Adrenaline-based holidays

Adventurous travellers will have plenty of options to titillate their thrill-riding taste buds with a great choice of adrenaline-based holidays in London. You can enjoy London Helicopter tours, speedboat trips along the Thames, The Dare Skywalk, – or why not try one of London’s top Escape Rooms!

Seen the sights? London is closer than you think to some awesome family activities in natural areas along the coast, so while you’re there why not take a train trip to explore the fossils on the Jurassic Coast.

This absolutely breath-taking area is richly endowed with some of the world’s most amazing geology. The coastline was proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001 and it’s the best place to discover rocks of important historic value, interesting and rare fossils, and unique landforms. As the only World Heritage Site in England, it’s well worth seeing!

Need some more ideas? For some additional inspiration for your next rail-based holiday here are some fantastic rail holidays in and around the region.

Where to from London?

London is so centrally located that it makes it really easy to travel to other famous cities in the surrounding countries, including:

• Paris
• Berlin
• Rome
• Dublin
• Milan
• Lisbon
• Cologne
• Rotterdam

Explore the majesty of London on your next holiday

Trains to and from London are plentiful and you can travel to all the counties in the area on the London Underground or “Tube”. There are trains available at all hours of the day and night and numerous trains to almost all popular and outlying destinations at peak times. You can travel by day, in the evenings or opt for a trip on one of the overnight trains from London to Scotland or London to Cornwall. London is a smorgasbord of attractions, and you can enjoy calm, peaceful gardens, see Buckingham Palace, or go wild with thrill-seeking adventures in this famous, and iconic city.

The post The best trains to and from London appeared first on Australian Times News.

Get Your Local On Board

Many broadcasting companies are offering bars and pubs the opportunity to show the Royal Ascot coverage for free this year. So, if your local happens to open late, or coincide in any way with the race times then it wouldn’t hurt to ask them if they’d be interested in showing it. People love having something to chat about over a drink or two and your local could benefit from a couple of extra customers, plus you’ll have an easy journey back to your place. Of course, if they’re not interested though, then don’t worry, it can be just as much fun sorting things out for yourself.

Host a Party

If you can’t find a suitable venue, then become the venue yourself. This is a great opportunity to invite your neighbours over and get to know each other over a bit of horse racing. As we said before, there are lots of free ways of watching the coverage, so get it up on the big screen for everyone to enjoy. If you really wanted to go for it and get everybody in the celebratory mood then you could suggest a Ladies Day themed fancy dress. Cocktail dresses and fascinators will certainly be a talking point and will help you to feel a bit more at home if you’re a little homesick during the festival. Don’t forget to lay on some refreshments for your guests, you could go down the Australian route with beers and a barbecue, or you could keep things quintessentially British with Pimms, strawberries and cucumber sandwiches. The choice is yours.

Have a Flutter

For some people, part of the enjoyment of the festival is having a bet on the action and if you’re one of those people then there are a couple of things to bear in mind. The first is to get the maximum value that you can and free bets for Ascot are a good way of doing that. At the moment there are plenty on offer thanks to the huge popularity of the festival. 

The second is to do a little research. It can be great fun doing a sweepstake for the big races along with your friends, but if you want to see a return on your bets then the only way to do that is to study some form. If you approach your studying as though it’s hard work then it will feel like it, but instead, approach it like a puzzle to pick apart. Look at each horse in the running one by one, making notes on their strongest and weakest performances, plus any trends you notice, like the ground they seem to like, or if they run better with one jockey over another. Once you’ve done this, give them all a price. If your price varies significantly from the bookmakers then you’ve either made a mistake, or you’ve found a good value horse. Approaching races in this way gives you a better chance of winning or placing, as you’ve put in the leg work and spotted the horse with the potential to do well.

The post Enjoy Royal Ascot like a true Brit abroad appeared first on Australian Times News.

Here are some of the most popular things to pass your time in Sydney

Travel across the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display features the Harbour Bridge as the centerpiece. Pedestrians may enjoy the view of the Sydney Opera House from the bridge’s walkway as they go across the water. Pause at the 1st pylon you strike if you’d like. The best views of the city may be had by climbing a few floors.

Playing at an online casino

Gaming possibilities are endless at online casinos. These online allow gamers to not only have fun but to earn money as well, which contributes to the enjoyment. Playing at an online casino is unlike anything else you’ve done before. Since internet casinos may be accessed from anywhere in Sydney, it makes it play from anywhere and at any time. In addition to the wide variety of games you may play at an online casino, you can also build a network of like-minded people who also like online casinos and meet new people in the process. For more information, you can check out 32 Red phone casino which will certainly give you a good experience when gambling online!

Visit the Blue Mountains for the day

The Blue Mountains, located west of the city, are a great place to get a breath of fresh air. As moisture and light interact with the eucalyptus trees in the highlands, a gorgeous blue haze appears against the steep landscape. The Blue Mountains are easily accessible by train and maybe explored at your own pace. Look out over the valley from the 3 Sisters Echoes Point Overlook, or take a cable car ride to get a bird’s-eye view.

Tower of Sydney

You can unwind with a drink at Panoramic Bar and Dining, which is located on the 102nd floor of the Sydney Tower, after a long day of exploring the city. The Tower Eye, as it is known in Sydney, is the city’s tallest building and the second observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere, after the Sydney Opera House. Because of the rotating floor in the dining area, you won’t have to worry about missing anything. Relax on a couch near the window, sipping your beverage of choice, and take in the breathtaking views of Sydney while sipping your beverage. Online reservations for a table at the restaurant are also available if that is more to your liking.

The Barracks Museum in Hyde Park

A museum dedicated to the history of Australia’s convicts is located in Hyde Park. In addition to being a National Historic Site, Sydney’s bunkers played a pivotal part in the movement of convicts around Australia. Inmates’ experiences and the history of the barracks’ transformation into a museum are available to visitors.

The post How to pass time in Sydney appeared first on Australian Times News.

Some examples of where you may store your valuable items or luggage.

Many hotels or even the smallest hostels have safe deposit boxes or local luggage storages near the reception desk or in separate rooms. Most of the time, it is a paid option, but it is one of the safest methods. It works pretty straightforward. You pay for storage place and then receive the key from it. As soon as you have obtained the key, you are free to store in your place whatever you want. Some hotels will provide receipts or receipts and put sealers on your luggage as insurance of their safety. To make things easier for yourself, you can record everything on video, but there is not much to worry about. It may be beneficial to keep track of the total quantity of cash on hand. Maybe toss an identifying piece of paper inside your wallet. To not worry about anything and hotel’s receptionists, it is better to use a specialised luggage storage service so that it is under the supervision of the company’s reputation. 

If you want to store things inside your hotel room, there are some safety requirements to follow. For instance, you should never leave anything on your balcony, especially if it can be reached from other places. Don’t keep valuables on your bed, table, or bedside table unless absolutely necessary. Leave nothing precious on easily visible places such as the lobby, kitchen, lounge, or swimming pool. Next, when you go outside for any period of time, made sure that balcony is shut off, and the door is firmly closed. With all these precautions, there is a high chance that if a thief will sneak into the room, he will not be able to find anything.

Another one cheap option for storing small items and documents is a safe in your room. It is usually free of charge. There are many models of such safes. Some come with instructions that allow you to set up a personal password code on your own, which is quite convenient. Others might be locked on a plain key. You may even ask hotel stuff to bring you a safe if your room does not have one. They usually can bring you one or offer other storage services available.

The post Places tourists may store their luggage appeared first on Australian Times News.

Although backpacking is far more common with non-Australians, Aussies often make the mistake of thinking they should go elsewhere for their travels. But why? There are so many fascinating places to visit across Oz, don’t let yourself miss out. Besides, with airlines like Jetstar discounting flights recently, there has never been a better time to experience our country’s wonders. 

Regardless of who you are and where you come from, you should know about some of the best Australian backpacking destinations, as you never know when you might end up making use of them. With that in mind, we’ve chosen our favourite five places to visit across Australia. Sit back and enjoy the ride! 

Uluru 

Uluru, also known as Ayers’ Rock, is undeniably the most impressive natural structure you can find Down Under. In fact, it’s one of the most jaw-dropping spectacles in the world, standing at an impressive 2,831 feet and measuring roughly 10 km in diameter. Part of the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park deep in the outback, Uluru is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and incredibly important to the indigenous community. 

There are so many fascinating aspects of Uluru’s history, so make sure to read up on it to maximise the awe-inspiring experience once you’re there. Aside from everything else, the magical red glow caused by rusting iron minerals in its formation is something you just cannot miss out on. 

Great Ocean Road

Although flying is a far quicker way of getting around Australia, driving can be far more gratifying, especially if you’re heading down the Great Ocean Road from Torquay and Allansford. This 240-kilometre stretch of ocean-hugging road is listed as an Australian National Heritage site, showcasing beautiful views over the South coast. 

Not only do you get sweeping panoramic vistas, but there are several interesting landmarks along the way, too. One of the most interesting is the Twelve Apostles’ limestone stack formations off the shore of the Port Campbell National Park, almost 15 million years old. 

Sydney Opera House 

Arguably the most iconic building in the entire world, no backpacking trip around Australia is complete without witnessing the marvels of the Sydney Opera House. Designed by Jørn Utzon, the unique multi-venue performing arts centre is situated on the beautiful city coast. As you can imagine from such a pioneering example of human innovation, the Sydney Opera House is yet another of Australia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

But despite this amazing building’s aesthetic, it isn’t the best bit either. Visitors can enjoy numerous concerts involving international operas, orchestras and bands in a venue built to create the best sound possible.

The Star Casino 

Australia has countless timeless and unique attractions for backpackers, but it may surprise you to know that the local casino industry generates far more tourist revenue than anywhere else. This is one of the positives of travelling here rather than other popular backpacking destinations like Thailand where land-based casinos are illegal. The Star Casino in Melbourne is arguably Oz’s dominant casino hotspot, offering various table games, slot machines and 24/7 global sports entertainment. Whether you are in Australia or Thailand, it’s crucial to know the top gambling sites before playing. Thai players, in particular, will enjoy the selection of quality platforms, especially in the country’s upwardly mobile online casino industry. It’s an excellent way to practise your skills on the move and experience a wide variety of different options. Regardless of where you’re playing, having a solid grasp of the best casino tips is indispensable. Although a lot of it is down to luck and chance, you’d be surprised by how much you can increase your odds just by being savvy. So, if you get round to visiting The Star Casino, make sure you do your research before you start gambling. 

Great Barrier Reef 

Probably the most iconic coral reef in the world, it is difficult to put the sheer beauty of the Queensland coast’s Great Barrier Reef. Along with Uluru, this is undeniably the most impressive example of Australian national beauty, a 344,400 square kilometre expanse of marine coral polyps. 

Amazingly, the Great Barrier Reef is visible from space and is widely regarded as the largest organic structure built by living organisms. Snorkelling is the ultimate way to enjoy it, although even simple boat trips will completely blow your mind. 

The post Top 5 Australian Backpacking Destinations appeared first on Australian Times News.

Boat Charter

Chartering a boat isn’t a caper reserved only for billionaires—it’s far more straightforward and affordable than you might think. Whether you’re sea-savvy or still wet behind the ears, Borrowaboat keeps the process simple. You can make a fuss-free digital booking of a wide range of yachts, motorboats and catamarans with the option of a skipper too.

With a boat charter you can truly customise your own itinerary and discover hidden coves and beaches unreachable by any other means. Lovers of the sea will relish in the fact that your boat doubles as a pontoon from which you can readily dive into the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

The various Croatian archipelagos can be extremely popular, especially during the high season, which runs from mid June to mid September. The exclusive use of your own vessel allows you to escape the throngs of the most frequented destinations and travel routes, and creates a luxury experience with privacy for you and your family and friends. A skipper from the area is likely to be a fount of local knowledge too, to really make your holiday unique.

Croatia lays claim to over 1000 islands and islets—the second largest number in the Mediterranean after Greece—so it can be a difficult task to narrow your holiday schedule down. Here are a few highlights which you should try to include in your plans.

The Middle Adriatics

Including Hvar, Mljet, Korcula, Brac and many more—each with their own personality and charm—the Middle Adriatics in central Dalmatia are some of the more popular spots in Croatia’s repertoire, and justifiably so. Set sail from the country’s second city, Split on the mainland—a vibrant mix of old and new—to Šolta just 9 nautical miles away. 

Šolta is a quieter destination than its neighbouring islands with numerous sleepy coves. You’ll not be hard pressed to find your own private oasis to dip in the cool waters. Most of Šolta’s beaches are pebbly so you might prefer to sunbathe on deck.

By sea you’ll want to spend time in Maslinica’s marina, sail into the sheltered harbour at Stomorska and explore the many bays of Šolta’s south coast.

The Pakleni Islands to Hvar’s southwest provide your best beach options. Don’t leave before you’ve had a mud bath at Soline Beach near Vlaka. Centuries ago there stood a Roman spa on the very same spot. You can check out the ruins before basking in the healing mineral properties of the bay.

The shallow waters extend for quite some distance so this is a great chance for kids and non-swimmers to enjoy the water. You’ll also be thankful for the shade provided by your boat because the shores are quite exposed to the sun.

The Zadarian Islands

Lying just west of the eponymous Zadar city, this special group of islands are among the most beautiful in the Adriatic. Dugi Otok, literally Long Island in Croatian, is the seventh largest of them and provides some of the best snorkelling you could hope for.

It’s almost 30 miles long but only 3 miles across at its widest and features many interesting natural characteristics. Drop anchor in the impossibly turquoise waters of Sakarun Bay and accompanying beach, noted for its white sands.

Just off the north west tip of Dugi Otok lies the wreck of an Italian cargo ship, Michele, that sank in 1984 with no casualties. This makes an interesting place to investigate with your snorkel or paddle board; mornings are the best time when it’s quieter.

Dubrovnik

You cannot visit Croatia without spending some time at the famous ancient walled city of Dubrovnik at the country’s most southerly point. Historically known as Ragusa and initially under the protection of the Byzantine Empire, the region has changed hands several times over its long and colourful timeline.

The architecture reflects its many facets, from baroque to Renaissance to Gothic, the Old Town demands a full day of meandering on foot, the best way to uncover its many hidden gems. Depart for the Elaphiti Islands, a quieter archipelago than some of Croatia’s hotspots but no less stunning; Lopud, the second largest, is known for its sandy beaches, most notably the bay of Šunj.

A cruise to Dubrovnik can be an ideal way for those who will be excited to explore some of Croatia’s interesting islands. Depending on your preference, you can opt for different itineraries, which will give you a chance to admire Dubrovnik’s Old Town charms, visit ancient monuments and sail along Malta’s rocky coastline. With such amazing experiences on offer, it is clear to see why these glamping trips through Croatia are so highly sought-after.

Šipan, around 9 miles from Dubrovnik, has some remarkable fish restaurants serving the best of the day’s catch. The Blue Cave on Koločep Island is a magical place to swim and snorkel, and the nearby white sand beach creates the perfect respite from the morning’s activities.

If you’re not quite in a position to buy your own yacht—and let’s face it, who is?—escape the commercial group tours this summer and create an unforgettable holiday with your own private boat charter in Croatia.

The post Experiencing the best of Croatia in the sea appeared first on Australian Times News.

If your interest is piqued and you’re thinking that coasteering may be something you’d like to dip your toe into, locally-based company Luxury Coastal gives an overview of what to expect from a typical session in Cornwall so it’s worth considering giving the sport a go when you’re next in the area.

A combination of several activities, coasteering is dynamic in nature owing to the variety of natural features and formations found on different parts of the coastline. Some areas may have sea caves and coves to explore or natural pools for wild swimming, while others have gullies for clambering through, whirlpool eddies for getting washed around in or boulders and cliffs for deep water jumps so expect exhilarating action and a truly magical experience.

It is important to note that all reputable coasteering companies will have stringent safety procedures in place that will include the right safety gear like wetsuits, helmets and buoyancy aids as well as instructors who are both experienced and knowledgeable of the coastline, and who are au fait with details such as tide times, the location of riptides and any other danger areas to avoid.

Often viewed as dangerous, the sport is in fact deemed ‘low risk’ with children as young as 8 years old welcomed (accompanied by an adult of course), so it makes for a fantastic way to get up close to the local flora and fauna as well as being an adventure that all the family can experience together.

All participants will need to acknowledge that they are able to confidently swim 25 metres in open water to be able to take part.

The post Coasteering in Cornwall appeared first on Australian Times News.

Jetstar $22 flights on Twosday!

As of Tuesday morning, many Aussies have rushed to the website in order to get the bargain they will most likely only see in a very long time. While many Aussies were purchasing their tickets, the website crashed for a while as there were an immense amount of visitors to the site. 

According to Perth Now, Australia re-opened its international border on Monday. It is no surprise that man has opted to get their fair share of bargain tickets.  Jetstar revealed that their website crashed for a brief period on Tuesday morning as many sought to purchase flights.  

Palindrome day

So, Tuesday marks one of the days in which the date can be read the same way backward and forwards. And Jetstar is in on the fun of the day. It can also be read up and down. While this may not be very significant to some, others find the pattern significant in superficial ways. This includes letting go of negative energy so that you may get positive. 

More: Quick tips for reducing digital footprints and staying safe

Now, since the day does carry some significance and is even known as an angel number. Many stores or businesses like Jetstar have opted to give discounts on this day. This won’t happen again until 11 years later, the date would be the same.

The post Jetstar drops countless flights to as low as $22 until Tuesday appeared first on Australian Times News.

The Essentials

Before you get too excited about the finer details of your campervan trip, you should ensure you have all of your ducks in a row with regard to essentials. Make sure your insurance plan covers driving a campervan, and the risks included in your trip. Ensure you have your insurance papers to hand, as well as your driver’s license and any user manuals attached to your mode of transport. You should also think about other glovebox essentials, such as your passport and any travel spends you may collect.

Kitchen Essentials

One of the major appeals of taking a holiday trip using a campervan is the modern convenience of being able to cook for yourself with relative ease. As such, you should stock up your kitchen as well as you can, in order to ensure you and your travel companions can cook and eat comfortably at any point on your trip. You will need a frying pan, at least one saucepan, knives, chopping boards, cutlery and crockery. Bring a kettle for ease of tea-making, and make sure you draw up a comprehensive shopping list so you can stock your kitchen on the move.

Safety and Emergency Items

As much fun as you can have on a campervan trip, there is also an element of risk to the undertaking, from breakdown-related strandings to collisions on the road. Preparing for emergency situations can help you reduce anxiety about the trip, as well as make sure you’re comfortable and covered while waiting for assistance. A first aid kit is a must, for general accidents and injuries; you should also invest in disinfectant for general camper van safety, including on kitchen and bathroom surfaces. Generators can be super useful for charging phones or a flat camper van battery in the event of a breakdown, while torches allow you to carry out maintenance at night if you get caught short after dark.

Electronics

Just because you’ll be camping out doesn’t mean you need to take yourself completely off-grid. Indeed, electronics and smart devices can definitely be useful during your trip, not just for entertainment purposes but also for safety reasons. A rechargeable speaker system can keep the tunes going without draining your van’s battery, especially if you bring a battery power-bank. A separate GPS system is a great failsafe for keeping track of your journey if the worst happens to your phone, and an emergency burner phone can make sure you’re covered completely.

The post Everything you need for a camper van getaway appeared first on Australian Times News.

The gateway to Kakadu 

Nature lovers will be blown away by Kakadu National Park. It’s just a two hour drive from the city and $17 will buy you a two-week pass, so it’s worth stopping there for a few days. There are several hotels within the national park, the most famous of which is the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel. The reason it is so named will be immediately obvious when you see it! 

As for the park itself, it shows just how diverse the Australian ecosystem really is. Spectacular waterfalls, lush forests and marshlands teeming with every kind of life – it has to be seen to be appreciated. There’s also plentiful opportunity to check out aboriginal art.  

A little slice of Vegas on the Timor Sea 

Once you’ve checked the nature and culture boxes, head back into the city to enjoy another fine Australian institution – the pokies! Of course, over the past couple of years, those wanting to place a wager have been more likely to visit cyberspace, where sites like Bitstarz Australia have won plenty of new fans with their immense choice of slots and live games. But in Darwin, there’s the opportunity to do things the old-fashioned way, too, at Mindil Beach Casino Resort. 

It’s like a little slice of Las Vegas transported to the Australian coastline. Gamers have more than 600 machines to choose from, and there are all the usual table games like poker, roulette, baccarat and blackjack. As well as the casino, the resort has hotel rooms, luxury suites by the lagoon, and a choice of eating and drinking options, from an informal sports bar to fine dining.  

Downtown nightlife 

The only trouble with staying at Mindil is that you can find yourself never actually leaving the resort. Again, in these uncertain times, that’s not necessarily a bad thing, but restrictions permitting, it would be a shame to miss the fun that downtown Darwin has to offer on a night out.  

There are so many nightclubs, craft breweries and live music venues that it would be unfair to single out individuals. However, as a starting point, you can’t go wrong with an early evening drink at Shenannigans on Mitchell Street. From there, it’s a pleasant stroll down to the waterfront where you’ll really be spoilt for choice.  

There’s no better time to discover Darwin – do it now, before everyone gets in on the secret!  

The post Reasons to visit Darwin in 2022 appeared first on Australian Times News.

Well while this is bad news, all isn’t lost as alternative transport has been given to those who were scheduled to fly on the 24th December.

Many customers have found themselves in a pickle as they would no longer arrive on time at their destinations since as many as 10 flights have been rescheduled.

 Now, customers have been informed about the change but only received these notifications that were sent as late as 9 PM on Thursday night.

This decision comes as the majority of the staff needed to be tested for the coronavirus as well as self-isolate during this period. 

Christmas eve flights Re-scheduled 

According to News.com, all of the passengers were offered replacements or alternative transport to get them to their destinations. These routes would then change their arrival time to eight hours later. 

Many Twitter users have since taken to social media to express their frustration as their Christmas eve plans have been thrown into complete disarray. 

Omicron Variant Causes Chaos On Christmas Eve

With the micron variant lurking around, infections continue to increase all the while Victoria brings back the indoor mask mandate. 

In the meantime, the federal health minister urged Australians not to be alarmed by the increase in covid infections as the number of people with serious admitted to hospital remains low. 

Mask Mandates Brought Back

Thus far, the NSW, Victoria, and Western Australia have announced the introduction of mask mandates to slow the spread of the virus in what is considered to be the busiest time of the year. 

In the midst of this chaos, many have been scrambling to get rapid anti-gen tests with the lines for it snaking along. 

Among other things, the police expressed their disappointment in the shutdown of a Toowoomba event after protests against mandates. 

The post Christmas Eve Flights Cancelled By Virgin Australia And Jetstar appeared first on Australian Times News.

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

If you want to learn new things about the indigenous culture, you simply must visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. During the day, you can learn to play the didgeridoo, weave baskets, and make traditional jewellery with the locals. Then, at night, you can sit and relax while enjoying a cultural dance celebration around a bonfire by the lake. This is a wonderful way to learn about history and culture.

The Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures and Johnstone River Croc Park

Cairns has a subtropical climate which is perfect for crocodiles. Therefore, if you are a fan of those lizards, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is the perfect place for you. It is located in the heart of Kuranda National Park and it’s home to many wonderful creatures. You can see the crocs swim and go to shore to feed. Also, you can visit Johnstone River Croc Park. This is a smaller crocodile farm and people there will allow you to have a close encounter with the crocs.

Kuranda Scenic Railway

For people who love exploring the rainforest, the Kuranda Scenic Railway represents one of the main attractions in Cairns. This is the best way to experience the World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest. Get on this historic train and enjoy a smooth ride through the rainforest on which you will see breathtaking waterfalls and other wonders of nature.

Flames of the Forest

You can also enjoy the rainforest in the evening. For example, you can be a part of the Flames of the Forest. This is a candle-lit dining experience among the stunning trees. There is a six-course meal that features tropical flavours and delicious Australian wines.

Mud Park Australia

If you always wanted to drive an all-terrain vehicle but never had the chance, make sure to visit Mud Park Australia. On this muddy course, you will be able to do whatever you like with the ATV. One thing’s for sure, you’ll have fun and you’ll get dirty.

The post Top 5 Reasons To Visit Cairns appeared first on Australian Times News.

1. Ischgl in Austria – skiing, lifestyle and party

Ischgl is not called the Mallorca of skiers for nothing, because there is always something going on here in winter. If surveys are started, Ischgl is guaranteed to always do well and is regularly counted among the most popular ski resorts ever. Not only are there numerous luxurious, but also reasonably priced accommodations on site, but 239 kilometers of slopes for every experience level await winter sports enthusiasts and all those who want to become one.

The maximum altitude in Ischgl is 2,872 meters, and the longest run is a total of 11 kilometers. There are no glaciers in the region, but in the evenings the focus is on partying without end. There is always something going on in the après-ski huts after sunset at the latest, and if you travel here as a single person, you will quickly get to know new people. Events take place regularly at the opening of the season, well-known German stars such as Helene Fischer, but also international stars such as Elton Job, Lenny Kravitz and Jason Derulo have already performed here.  

2. Zermatt – for those who want to go high up

Zermatt, located directly on the 4,478-meter-high Matterhorn, is the most legendary ski resort in the Swiss Alps. 360 kilometers of slopes await winter sports enthusiasts here, with the maximum altitude at an incredible 3,883 meters. Those planning a long descent can race down the valley for 17 kilometers while admiring the region’s enchanting glaciers. The highlight: in Zermatt, skis can even be strapped to your feet in summer.

Getting to this impressive ski resort by car is not possible. What is allowed are electric cabs or the shuttle train that takes visitors from the train stations and airports to the winter sports region. There are numerous 5-star resorts, but also inexpensive accommodations and those who look attentively into the face of their counterpart here will quickly meet one or two celebrities.

3. Arlberg – the largest ski resort in Austria.

Ski Arlberg is by far the largest ski resort in Austria, although here “only” an altitude of 2,811 meters is reached. The longest downhill run is 11 kilometers, and vacationers can expect a total of 306 kilometers of slopes here. Snow is guaranteed here around winter time and so tourism is one of the main sources of income for the resort. Particularly popular are the 200 km of ski routes, which are predestined for alpine cross-country skiing. In addition, heliskiing can test one’s courage.

In Austria, Ski Arlberg looks back on a long tradition and is considered the birthplace of skiing in the Alps. The first Austrian T-bar lift was put into operation here and the very first ski race was also held locally. There are no glaciers to be seen in the area, but there are numerous ski huts and après ski events that are frequented by tourists and locals alike.

4. Sölden – the skiing area of James Bond

If you love James Bond, you absolutely have to travel to Sölden for some skiing. The place calls itself a hotspot, but only offers a total of 146 kilometers of slopes. Particularly beautiful is the long downhill run, which at 15 kilometers is a highlight even for experienced skiers. The maximum mountain height in Sölden is 3,340 meters. Snow is guaranteed here every year, as two gigantic glaciers and three mountains over three thousand meters high await sporty visitors.

Especially among young people, Sölden is a highlight, because ski parties are held here regularly in the high season, which are worth seeing. Those who spend more than three days on vacation can then also use their ski pass in neighboring Gurgl, so you can also save money on skiing! And Bond fans know that Daniel Craig shot the legendary scenes for his film Spectre here!

5. St. Moritz – the skiing experience for the rich and beautiful

When you think of celebrity skiers, you automatically have St. Moritz in mind, and rightly so. Here, winter sports enthusiasts are guaranteed to meet a celebrity or two, because the rich and famous of this world like to return every year to enjoy their lives on speedy downhill runs or legendary après ski parties. But St. Moritz offers more than just a glimpse into the world of high society. With a total slope length of 350 kilometers and an altitude of 3,303 meters, the ski resort is one of the largest in the region and the season already starts here in mid-October.

The slopes are considered to be snow-sure and the impressive glaciers embellish the ambience even more. At just 10 kilometers, the longest run is somewhat smaller than in many other regions, but there are wonderful cross-country skiing routes that are suitable for a leisurely outing with the whole family. Corviglia, one of the slopes, even made history in 1948 when the Winter Olympics were held there!

Winter sports vacations are becoming more popular every year

While winter sports, and skiing in particular, were more the preserve of the upper 10,000 50 years ago, today more and more fans of the sport have found their way to the slopes of Europe, and so they are bustling with activity. Austria and Switzerland in particular are always inviting to adventurous vacations and are highly popular with tourists from all over the world.

The beauty of winter sports is that it is not only an occupation for athletes, but also a hobby where amateurs can have a lot of fun. For those who have never stood on skis before, it is not uncommon to find ski instructors in great demand locally, who offer courses and thus ensure a secure grip on the boards.

But even a minor fall is almost never a problem at the ski resort, because the thick, soft snow cover provides impact protection. The higher the ski area, the more guaranteed the snowfall, so it is mainly the areas beyond 3,000 meters that are very high on the list.

The post Winter is coming: These are the 5 best ski resorts appeared first on Australian Times News.

 
It can often feel like an uphill battle when trying to plan transportation while abroad, but thankfully we’re here with some tips before embarking upon such adventures: 

10 Tips on Getting Around Abroad

1) If possible take taxis when you don’t have to go far and have fewer stops. 

2 Don’t worry about communicating with the cab or car rental companies, they are used to non-native English speaking people. 

3) If you go on holiday during peak season remember that there will be traffic jams. Try to time your journey accordingly. 

4) Make sure that you have all your documents prepared ahead of time. 

5) And please remember that hiring cars isn’t as expensive as it seems. When we Rent a car in Eindhoven, we actually saved money by avoiding taking taxis. And the plus side is that we’re never stuck in a queue or waiting for a taxi.     

6) For those who were traveling by plane to foreign countries for the first time, we advise them to take out the basic package of insurance as usually it is included in the price. This way you could avoid any financial losses if something happens to your hired vehicle, like an accident or theft.

7) Make sure that you know where all the filling stations are located around the city that you are traveling to before leaving. It might be helpful to print out a map beforehand and take it with you for easier orientation. 

8) We recommend taking the car insurance and booking through a reputable car rental company like BB&L Car Rental. Insurance is especially important if you are going to a foreign country where you don’t speak their language and have limited knowledge of local customs. This way, you won’t be scammed by any dubious drivers.

9) Taking a GPS is highly recommended for those traveling with a rented vehicle as it will show you the quickest route to your destination. To be able to use it properly, you need to call the car hire firm and ask them for an access code. Just punch in this number, choose language, and voila! You’re ready to go. And of course, you can use Google Maps if you have Wifi.

10) And lastly, it goes without saying that we advise you not to drink any alcohol before driving as it impairs endurance and decreases the ability to drive safely. 

In Closing

And don’t forget about taking scenic routes while exploring great new destinations; you’ll appreciate all those viewpoints even more after spending time driving through them on roads less traveled by others.

We hope that these simple tips will help you have a pleasant stay in any city you are traveling to

The post Excellent Tips On Getting Around Abroad appeared first on Australian Times News.

By next week, restrictions will have been eased much more. This means that Australia’s international border will be opened to allow international students, eligible visa holders, and skilled workers to enter the country.

As the government eases the restrictions more and more, the country is continuing to take steps on bringing back normalcy. Doing it carefully is of utmost importance.

Travel restrictions further eased

However, safety precautions such as providing a negative Covid test three days before landing in the country and most importantly, being fully vaccinated is compulsory.

After the health minister called the vaccinations mandatory, it is only right that others entering the country abide by the same standards.

Travelers or those who enter the country would additionally need to provide proof of vaccination and would need to have taken a vaccine approved by the Australian government.

Among other things, Japanese and Korean citizens will join Singapore and New Zealand as international “safe travel zones” from 1 December provided they are fully vaccinated and receive a negative Covid test within three days of departure.

Since the 1st of November, the travel zones were only restricted to New Zealand and back to Australia. Adding two more safe travel zones is a big adjustment and can only get better from here.

Tourists will need to wait a little longer.

The post What’s New In Travel Restrictions As Of Next Week appeared first on Australian Times News.

Motorboats, sailboats, and high-end yachts are all equally available depending on the visitor’s choice. So with the vehicle in mind, here are a few unique places and activities to do in Brisbane.

Neighbouring islands

Being on the coast with a bareboat charter, there is easy access to various interesting islands. Of course Moreton island, an important space of natural beauty, is much faster to get to on a private boat. There are places on Moreton island to surf, sunbathe, feed the dolphins, look at WWII bunkers, and even tour the island on a 4WD.

Just south of Moreton island is the vast North Stradbroke Island, which takes some effort to explore given its size. But on the island there are quaint villages, surf beaches, and incredible fresh seafood. Many come for the lake and the 38km stretch of golden sand beach, but there’s a lot of hidden treasures on the island to keep you entertained.

Activities

One of the advantages of being on a private boat is that there are endless opportunities to spontaneously dip into the water and go snorkelling, swimming, and spot some rare sea life. A good place to do this is at Tangalooma Wrecks or Cook Island, which both have various tropical fish such as wobbegongs, Manta Rays, and dolphins. Of course, you don’t need to go to a dedicated spot, as pretty much everywhere on the east coast waters can be incredibly to swim in. For activities such as windsurfing, jet skiing, and scuba diving, you’re in no shortage of places to sail to for it.

Waterfront restaurants

With yacht rental, it’s possible to cook on your own boat – or even have a private chef. However, you may feel like exploring some waterfront restaurants – particularly ones situated on the romantic Brisbane River.

La Vue Waterfront restaurant is a great option for gourmet French cuisine, otherwise Eagle Street Pier just a few minutes south is also a local favourite. There are around 20 restaurants to choose from in this part of the river, all within a 400 meter radius of each other. Patina at Customs House is one of the highest rated places to eat seafood and steak, accompanied by a relaxed atmosphere and great service.

Brisbane city center also shouldn’t be overlooked, with endless museums, galleries, and performance venues. Of course, these are things many of us are already familiar with, which is why exploring the city on a boat can offer a new experience of the same place. Though, it’s difficult to pass up an opportunity to visit Botanic Gardens and the QAGOMA.

The post Boat Hire in Brisbane; Sunbathing, Swimming and Snorkelling appeared first on Australian Times News.

After the tragic bushfire at Scenic Rim, coronavirus restrictions, and severe drought, the attraction will soon be finding its feet again.

While Scenic Rim is still recovering from all the hardships it faced this past few years, the attraction is surely persevering through the roughest of times and hopes to benefit from international recognition.

Scenic Rim is unique

This destination surely has something unique about them as it made the list of the best attractions on an international scale.

Chris Zeiher from Lonely Planet found Scenic Rim to be one of the most beautiful nature reserves and is an absolute sight.

“It is this beautiful mix of nature, agriculture and adventure and an incredible community,”

More visitors

Before the attraction has made the top ten, many places have been nominated by writers and the travel community to officially list the most popular places in countless regions.

As soon as the border opens on November 19, the business should be welcoming international visitors to the region, allowing them to thrive in the way they once have.

It is possible that the attraction will do much better than before given the status it has recently been given.

“When your region’s been formed for 23 million years out of the remains of a volcanic event … and the valleys inside it hold World Heritage-listed rainforests and bespoke agricultural precincts … it’s no wonder we stand out from the crowd.”

So, busy times are welcomed by the business, and much excitement is revolving around the recent acknowledgment.

The post Scenic Rim is included in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2022 appeared first on Australian Times News.

While there are countless successful Airlines in Australia, Mr. Jordan is enthusiastic about launching his new Airline service in 2022. According to Jordan, the Airline has been in the making for 25 years.

To some, the idea of another Airline taking flight in Australia is asking for trouble, but Jordan, with many years of experience working at Cebu Pacific and FlyArystan under his belt is set on making a success of this venture.

According to Simple Flying, FlyArystan went on to take the largest market share of traffic in the Kazakh domestic market and as a consequence, Kazakhstan is now one of the fastest-growing domestic aviation markets globally.

In addition, Bonza Airline aims to target regional areas and does not aim to target the golden triangle of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

This airline is what many have been waiting for. Precisely through the fact that it considers routes other airlines have failed to consider.

So, an airline that considers its customer’s needs is all Australia needs. What do you think about the latest developments? We’re certainly impressed.

Bonza Airline: Nothing confirmed yet

To date, there are no confirmed dates, no confirmed routes or and no air operators certificate. The airline, however, seems to be on firmer ground than many airlines that have tried and failed.

At present, the idea of a cost-effective airline alone is set to get much attention but will it take flight when it should?

The post New Budget Bonza Airline expected to take flight in early 2022 appeared first on Australian Times News.

The Star is an experience you cannot miss while visiting Sydney. It’s the second-largest casino in Australia with two giant gambling floors, an event center, seven restaurants, and much more. The star is a luxurious and extravagant casino filled with everything you imagine when you think of a high-class casino. If you like to play games and gamble at an online casino, you’re absolutely going to love The Star.

Sydney Opera House

One of the world’s most famous buildings is located in Sydney. Sydney Opera House has a very unique and magnificent design. Danish architect Jørn Utzon is behind the design as he won an international design competition in 1957. The construction began the year after and the multi-venue performing arts center opened in 1973. Located by the Sydney Harbour this piece of architecture is one of Sydney’s most beautiful sights. It is definitely a must-see!

Bondi Beach

If you’re looking to put your feet in the ocean and lay on a gorgeous beach, you can do this in Sydney. Bondi beach is a huge, beautiful, and extremely popular beach located just 4 miles (7km) from the center of Sydney. Bondi Beach is also the name of the suburb where the beach is located. 

Sydney Harbour Bridge

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most popular attractions in Sydney. It’s an arch bridge famous for its beautiful design. This has made the bridge an iconic symbol for the city of Sydney. The bridge opened in 1932 and has ever since connected the central district with the North Shore.

The city of Sydney holds many treasures. Whether you like food, culture, architecture, art, sports, or pretty much anything else, you can explore this in Sydney. The location by the water gives Sydney a unique atmosphere differentiating this big city from all the others. If you can’t go to Sydney at the moment, then you can see these beautiful sights online and experience Sydney via webcam. 

Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens is Australia’s oldest scientific institution dating back to 1816. It’s free to visit the gardens and you can expect a beautiful nature experience right by the harbor in the center of the city. Of course, you can experience amazing trees, plants, and flowers, but there are also lots of events and exhibitions to experience. If you have children with you, this is the perfect spot for a family trip. 

If you’re on your way to Sydney and want to read a full guide to sights and experiences, you should read this inspirational guide on how to spend two days in Sydney. 

The post Best places to visit in beautiful Sydney appeared first on Australian Times News.

Hrdlicka called for Australia’s borders to be reopened before the stated goal of mid-2022.

Her subsequent remark that “some people may die,” as a result attracted widespread criticism on twitter.

VIRGIN AUSTRALIA DEFENDS ITSELF: FLYER SAFETY A “NUMBER ONE PRIORITY”

The airline took to Twitter to defend itself:

“The safety of our guests has always been our number one priority – nothing will change that. We have worked in lock-step with State and Federal governments to put the health and safety of Australians first, and we’ll keep doing that as long as we learn to live with COVID-19.”

Ms Hrdlicka proposed that international borders should reopen as soon as an adequate number of Australians have been vaccinated against Covid-19.

“COVID will be part of the community, we will become sick with COVID and it won’t put us in hospital, and it won’t put people into dire straits because we’ll have a vaccine,” Ms Hrdlicka said.

She went on to make the comment that, “Some people may die, but it will be way smaller than with the flu.”

PRIME MINISTER WEIGHS IN ON HRDLICKA’S “INSENSITIVE” COMMENTS

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison condemned Ms Hrdlicka’s comments and called them “insensitive”. He emphasised that any and all deaths of Australians as a result of Covid-19 are a tragedy.

“Nine-hundred-and-ten Australians have lost their lives,” Morrison said. “Every single one of those lives was a terrible tragedy, and it doesn’t matter how old they were. They were someone’s mum, someone’s dad, someone’s aunty, someone’s cousin, brother, sister, friend.”

ALSO READ: Covid-19: Australia halts flights from India as cases soar

The post Virgin Australia backlash: CEO under fire for border comments appeared first on Australian Times News.

Yet, it is not always easy to recover your medical expenses for the injuries caused by such an accident. In such a scenario, an experienced law firm can be your best companion in receiving the compensation. Injury lawyers have years of experience dealing with injury laws, which can help you to the greatest extent.

Chances of cruise ship 

Although cruise ship operators claim passenger safety, there are chances for accidents. Some of the most common cruise ship injury for which you can sue the owner or operator includes

Slip and fall injury

Most cruise ships have slippery decks with high chances of slip and fall injuries. Lack of proper document or notice board around such areas can cause such injuries. Thus, you can sue the operator for their negligence. All you have to do is make good evidence out of the nearby passenger when the incident took place.

Food poisoning

One of the least noticed reasons to sue the cruise operator is food poisoning. An attorney can review such cases for negligence in maintaining proper food on the ship.

Disasters and deaths

Death is least expected in a well-maintained cruise ship but is possible. Natural Disasters are unpredictable and uncontrollable. But, if the damage is due to any mechanical complications, the company is responsible.

Crime and threats

Any crimes like robbery and smuggling due to negligence are a cruise injury. With proper evidence in the crime scene, you can get compensation for the damage caused. 

Malpractices

Inadequate medical care is one of the most common malpractices noticed on cruises. If you come across such malpractices, your lawyer could help you recover the money for sure.

How often does such cruise injury take place?

As per the recent statistics brought out by the CLIA, there were only 16 deaths in cruise ship accidents. But, when it comes to overboard incidents, only 20sawsed more than 17. But the increasing cruise injury rate is due to the negligence of operators & malpractices. 

If you come across such incidents on a cruise ship, make sure to gather as much evidence as possible. Make a proper document of the whole scenario with the signature of other passengers. Later on, your injury lawyer can take care of everything. Most of the time, lawyers assure you of the best possible settlement using their years of experience.

Why choose a legal companion?

A renowned thriving law firm in California can provide a better solution for your requirements. They have the best team of lawyers mastered in different legal aspects. Besides, they can provide you the best settlement with a sure win in the court so that you won’t lose even a pinch of your hard-earned money. 

By choosing a well-known law firm, you are securing trustworthy help and reliable guidance throughout your legal journey. Besides, they provide some beneficial services. Some of such services include

• Separate case manager: – Reputed law firms assign an independent case manager for each of our clients. They can answer any of your queries throughout our journey. 
• Flexible services: – Our case manager and our team try their best to work around your schedule. Thus, we will always be available when you need us.

How can a reputed legal firm help in cruise injury?

• High success rates: – One should always approach a renowned law firm with the most win rates to get the best lawyer for an accident during a vacation. The lawyer team of such firms is always dedicated to helping clients in the best way possible. 
• Qualified legal expertise: – Injury lawyers of such firms have many years of real-time experience with accident cases. Thus, they can understand the whole scenario faster and make a clear-cut analysis of it. Such firms master the standard law section and stay updated with the new regulation.
• Patience interaction: – You can come across the best-in-class multilingual experts. Such facilities guarantee a friendly business to understand your side of the story from beginning to end. 
• Best settlement guaranteed: –Experienced lawyers research to provide the best possible settlement. They believe that potential defendants of a cruise accident deserve justice.  

A renowned law firm is never under the pressure of insurance companies. Thus, you don’t need any second thoughts for your legal recovery procedure.

The post Can I sue if I get injured while on a cruise? appeared first on Australian Times News.

Get to know Palau on an island yacht charter

What’s it like in Palau?

This relaxed archipelago can claim true remoteness, with its closest neighbour, New Guinea, based 650 kilometres away. Luckily, you will find more than enough to entertain yourself within its 300+ Micronesian islands. From idyllic beaches with some of the world’s clearest waters, to jungles that hum with wildlife, peaceful waterfalls, and steep limestone cliffs concealing ancient archaeological sites, Palau is one of those destinations that will entice you back time and time again. 

What is the weather like in Palau?

Palau has an average annual temperature of 30°C or 86°F year-round, reaching highs of 32°C or 89.6°F and lows of 27°C or 80.6°F. What’s more, the ocean temperature remains between 28-30°C (82.4-86°F) all year – ideal swimming temperature for those on a Palau yacht charter. 

When to visit Palau?

The best and most popular time for Palau holidays is the dry season, which runs from November to April, while the rainy season officially spans from July to October.

What to do on a Palau holiday

Those who crave activity and adventure on their Palau island yacht charter will love hiking in Babeldaob, Palau’s biggest island, where the landscape covers everything from rugged mountains to freshwater lakes, and from breath-taking beaches to scorched savannahs. 

Dense jungle makes up the majority of the land, hiding delightful remnants of ancient villages between its verdant foliage. You can choose to explore on foot or by bike, spending the day wildlife spotting before stopping for lunch and a dip at one of the island’s exquisite waterfalls. You’ll also find the largest lake in Micronesia here – Lake Ngardok, which is home to the saltwater crocodile and many species of birds. 

In fact, Palau has 68 recorded species of birds, including 13 endemic, making it an ideal spot for twitchers. If it is Palau’s famous sea cow, known locally as mesekiu, you wish to see, book a helicopter ride over the Marine Mammal Sanctuary to see these amazing but endangered creatures by air.

Those who wish to step into the past on their Palau holiday will appreciate the amount of WW2 history there is on this archipelago, with derelict planes, tanks, and cannons and more dotted across the landscape of Peleliu, a small but fascinating reef island. 

Stunning beaches are easy to find in Palau, but some of the best are located on the island of Angaur, where dazzling white sands provide the perfect place to soak up the sun and forget your troubles.

Koror City, Palau’s largest town, offers cultural hotspots and exquisite dining opportunities, with a selection of unique museums, as well as restaurants, boutique art galleries and an excellent night market.

The Palau archipelago is surrounded by a large barrier reef system and offers one of the planet’s most diverse marine ecosystems, making it an amazing spot for diving and snorkelling. Much more remote than the Caribbean or the Med, you will have lots of space to spread out and appreciate the beauty of underwater life. There are also fascinating WW2 wrecks in the sea, including Iro Maru, a boat that sank 130ft after being hit by a torpedo in 1994, while at Ngemelis wall, you’ll find an array of sharks, manta rays, turtles, angelfish and mesmerising corals. Don’t miss the Chandelier Caves – a famous and highly recommended dive spot on the archipelago.

We hope this has enticed you to explore Palau. If you are craving a yachting escape but island life isn’t for you, why not take a look at some alternative yachting destinations for inspiration.

The post Palau Island Yacht Charter: The coolest destination you’ve never heard of appeared first on Australian Times News.

Christchurch: 

Any trip around South Island begins at Christchurch. From the airport, you have several transfer options and can choose your rentals then and there. In Christchurch itself, check out the Cathedral Square and the Botanic Gardens. Museum buffs should stop by the Canterbury Museum too.

Dunedin:

Drive south along the coastline on the SH1 (State Highway 1) and you will arrive at Dunedin, which has many well-known tourist landmarks. Make time to visit the Larnach Castle and the Royal Albatross Centre at Taiaroa Head. Along the route to Dunedin, you can make a pitstop at Akaroa and try to spot rare Hector dolphins. Coffee lovers should stop at Geraldine for a brew; while you’re there, make sure to visit the Barkers outlet shop to stock up on jams and chutneys made from New Zealand’s fresh produce. Stop by the Steampunk museum at Oamaru too. 

Te Anau:

There are many ways to arrive at Te Anau – you could drive via the picturesque Catlins area or opt for the quickest route via SH1 and SH94. At Te Anau, the Fiordland National Park should be on your list of must-visit places. Depending on how much you want to challenge yourself, you can indulge in the Kepler Challenge, a 60km mountain run, or the 27km Luxmore Grunt. Amateur hikers may like to walk on the Kepler Track. There are also options for those who prefer more laidback activities, like canoeing and kayaking. Head to Milford Sound and book yourself on a flight that goes over the mountains. A boat cruise or hiking across Milford Track are also activities to consider.

Queenstown:

Queenstown is a place that has something for everyone. Want to get the adrenaline going? Queenstown offers bungee jumping, jet boating, and some great rapids for white water rafting. Prefer something quieter? Skyline Gondola is a must-visit. A tasting session at Central Otago Wine is also a reservation you’ll want to make. Or if you would rather café-hop, then Arrowtown has several quaint cafes to choose from. 

Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers:

Another must-visit spot. You can visit the glaciers on foot or opt to see them from a helicopter ride. Going on foot gives you an up-close experience and is perhaps the best way to view them. There are guided walking tours that you can take. Make it a point to visit Lake Matheson, especially in the early morning and at sunset when photography enthusiasts can get some amazing photos.

Greymouth:

Food and beer enthusiasts are going to love stopping over at Greymouth. Some great pancakes are waiting to be had at Pancake Rocks and Blowholes located in Punakaiki, but work up an appetite first by visiting Hokitika Gorge: views of the turquoise water are quite awe-inspiring. Stop over at Monteith’s Brewing Company for some great beer and a tour of the space as well. Beer tastings with some great bar food are a given here. 

Nelson:

There are so many things to do at Nelson. Start by visiting the Boulder Bank tower. Museum enthusiasts are going to love the World of Wearable Art museum, the Nelson Classic Cars collection and the Nelson Provincial Museum. Or you can hike the Grampians, a landmark hill in the middle of Nelson with multiple tracks going up on all sides. A key reason to have Nelson on your list of places to visit is that it is well known as the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park. You can choose to make your stop here a long one and spend it kayaking, going on hikes, or camping. 

Kaikoura:

This is a popular place for whale watching. As you drive here along the SH1, head into Blenheim in the Marlborough region. Make a stop here to taste some of the region’s finest Sauvignon Blanc. Kaikoura’s whale watching is a much indulged-in activity too. You must try and experience a dolphin encounter: boat or helicopter rides are ways to get as close as possible to the whale highway of Kaikoura’s oceans. A nugget of information – this route is the migration corridor for whales going from Antarctica to the warm waters of Kaikoura.

The South Island Circuit has a lot to offer the enthusiastic traveller. Take your time, pace yourself leisurely, and absorb the wonderful sites and experiences that the region has to offer. 

The post Best places to visit in New Zealand’s South Island appeared first on Australian Times News.

But these are not normal times, as we know. And circumstances that may have seemed preposterous barely months ago are now the norm.

So why not Broome, the coastal town in the Kimberley region of Western Australia that made its name as a peal-diving centre, being the new Bali?

Broome is cleaning up and raking in visitors

According to an ABC News report, which reported the ‘Bali’ descriptor, tourism in the town is booming right now as West Aussies seek some fun and a touch of the tropical lifestyle on its pristine beaches and among its adventure attractions.

With WA effectively sealed off from the outside world due to its closed borders and the only ‘overseas’ excursion on offer being a trip to Rottnest Island off the coast of Perth, the state’s residents are having to holiday at home or not at all.

Which is, of course, a boon for a tourism industry that has as hard hit as anywhere else in the world.

A ‘phenomenal’ past few weeks for visitors

ABC quotes Valerie Douglas, owner of the Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park in Broome, as saying the past few weeks had been “phenomenal”.

“We’ve never had a July school holidays quite like this before, for several reasons – mainly because the people who normally would go to Bali, are coming to Broome,” Douglas said.

“Broome’s the new Bali, and we’re loving it.”

Restaurants have been bustling in the town

According to the ABC, many accommodation providers in the Broome area have had a boost in visitors for the school holidays, restaurants have been bustling, and some tour operators have reported being booked out, bringing a welcome boost in morale after COVID-19 shutdowns.

There are many other similar good news stories in country WA this July, although whether the good times will be able to keep on rolling once the mid-year holidays are over and there are still no interstate or foreign travellers, is a moot point.

In the Pilbara, Tourism Association chairman Barry Harrison said 150-200 people were going through the Karratha Visitors Centre every day.

City of Karratha Mayor, Peter Long, told the ABC that was packed with people when he visited during the school holidays.

“It’s exploding here, it’s quite incredible and terrific to see,” he said.

The post As WA stays at home, the new Broome is cleaning up appeared first on Australian Times News.

James Higham, University of Otago

Unprecedented border closures and the domestic lockdown have paralysed New Zealand’s $40.9 billion a year tourism industry. In the process, the vulnerability of the sector to external shocks and the tenuous nature of tourism employment have been exposed.

While New Zealand’s handling of the pandemic has been hailed as a global masterclass, and the prospect of travel bubbles promoted as a way to restart the tourism economy and save jobs, it is clear there is no quick fix.

The inherent dangers of reinfection from travel to and from countries with uncontrolled community transition, and the challenge of protecting New Zealand’s borders, mean international tourism is grounded for the time being.

Nevertheless, planning for recovery is underway. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) wants to restore confidence and restart tourism without delay. The European Union recently opened its borders to travellers from certain countries, including New Zealand.

But the proposed trans-Tasman and Pacific bubbles will likely be among the first safe international travel zones in the world.

A Tasman-Pacific bubble is good for the planet

The economic benefits are obvious. A recent study using UNWTO data identified Australian tourists, who spend on average $7,490 on holidays, as the top spending tourists in the world. Of the 3.8 million international tourists who visited New Zealand in 2018, nearly 40% were from Australia.

By the end of 2019, Australian tourists had spent $NZ 2.5 billion in the New Zealand economy. Of course, that figure is offset by the $NZ 1.6 billion spent by Kiwis visiting Australia in 2019.

Simply wishing for a return to normal, however, is not enough. The tourism rebuild must negotiate a delicate balance between immediate recovery and long term sustainability. A new steady-state equilibrium that generates employment and income while driving down tourism carbon emissions is required.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic it was widely recognised that the global tourism system is economically and environmentally flawed. Our research has highlighted three main structural failures:

1. low value (caused by growth in arrivals combined with declining spending)
2. economic “leakage” (due to outbound tourism and the concentration of profit flowing to a few global players)
3. high carbon emissions (from high-carbon transport dependence, increasing distance of travel and falling average length of stay).

Reducing travel distances is key

In the case of a geographically distant destination like New Zealand, there is no ignoring the last of those problems, as a report by the New Zealand Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment highlighted in late 2019.

The fact is, high carbon emissions are embedded in New Zealand’s tourism GDP. In the rebuild we must commit to measuring the carbon footprint of tourism, and actively manage forms of tourism that come with a disproportionately high carbon cost.

In practice, this will mean more tourism from the regional medium-haul markets that fall within the proposed Australia-New Zealand-Pacific travel bubble. Increasing reliance on Australian states rather than long-haul markets will result in a dramatic reduction in carbon emissions per dollar of tourism GDP.

Research published in 2010 showed that while Australian tourists made up 37% of international visitors to New Zealand they were responsible for 13% of air travel emissions. By contrast, visitors from Europe made up 18% of total visitors but 43% of emissions.

Fewer long haul arrivals, more Australian tourists, more domestic tourism and less outbound travel will dramatically reduce tourism carbon emissions.

COVID-19 has already kickstarted the domestic part of this equation. New Zealand hasn’t targeted local tourists since 1984’s iconic “Don’t leave town till you’ve seen the country” campaign. But the regions are now competing for the roughly 60% of all tourist dollars that New Zealanders spend in their own country each year.

The closure of international borders has also, for now, stopped the significant economic drain caused by outbound travel. In 2019 Kiwis spent nearly $5 billion travelling overseas.

Time to stop marketing long-haul tourism

Most trade (including tourism exports) comes from markets closest to us. It is much cheaper to trade with neighbours, and it is far more sustainable to have tourists arrive from closer rather than distant countries.

New tourism models have to be found that can reduce the sector’s emissions while maintaining as much as possible its income and employment benefits.

Tourism carbon analysis is likely to point towards the growing importance of long-stay visitors, such as international students, who already provide 23% of total international tourist spending in New Zealand.

Equally it will be necessary to “de-market” and reduce long-haul, high-carbon, short-duration, and low economic yield tourist arrivals. Passengers who arrive on enormous carbon intensive cruise ships – 9% of visitors but only 3% of tourism earnings – fall firmly into the least desirable category.

An Australia-New Zealand-Pacific travel bubble clearly fits the new model. The tourism rebuild must involve all measures being taken to create a high-value, low-leakage and low-emissions tourism future.

James Higham, Professor of Tourism, University of Otago

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The post The sun is setting on unsustainable long-haul, short-stay tourism — regional travel bubbles are the future appeared first on Australian Times News.

We should not stop dreaming or thinking about views and worlds beyond the borders of our state or country. With this in mind, maybe it is time to start thinking about some unusual destinations to visit once the world returns to normal. Here are a few, off the beaten track countries that you might want to consider visiting:

1. Lichtenstein

If you are looking for a post-Covid fairy-tale experience, then Lichtenstein could be your perfect destination. This mountainous nation is so small that it doesn’t even have an airport – to get there you need to take a train from neighbouring Switzerland or Austria. An ideal place to ski or hike, Lichtenstein is so small that it has more tourists annually that it has actual residents.

2. Suriname

In a recent poll, Suriname was named as the country that the fewest people could locate on a map. For the record, it is in South America. It is also South America’s smallest country. But that is not to say that it is not fascinating. With an eclectic mix of cultural influences that range from indigenous people through to Dutch colonization, African slaves and modern Chinese it is a veritable melting pot of architecture and adventure.

 The capital Paramaribo buzzes with a myriad of fantastic market places and open grassy plazas, while the interior of the country is dedicated to conservation, with more than 12% of the country declared a nature reserve.

 3. Lesotho

This tiny mountain kingdom is the only country in the world to be completely surrounded by just one other country- it sits in the middle of South Africa and you would have to stop in Cape Town or Johannesburg to make it to Lesotho’s capital Maseru. Once there you will feel like you are on the top of the world. Hiking, skiing, pony trekking are all part of the allure and there are also many fantastic 4×4 routes if that is your vibe.     

The post Three unusual destinations to consider when planning a post-corona holiday appeared first on Australian Times News.

Vacation destinations

Once you have decided to go somewhere, the question that remains is which country? Why not go to the farthest and most amazing continent – Australia? Yes, the idea is a little crazy, and perhaps seems a little adventurous, but maybe this is exactly what you are missing right now – to do something a little crazy.

Australia and Oceania are excellent vacation spots for residents of the metropolis. Here, there are many nooks where, surrendering to the guardianship of nature, you can finally get rid of the crazy urban rhythm and put all your thoughts in order. Here, not only your nervous system, but the whole body will receive that missing breath of air and freedom. And then you will not need not only Kamagra, but also the sedatives that you used to take before bedtime.

What to see in Australia

If you decide to visit this amazing continent, keep in mind that there are so many wonderful places that you should decide in advance where to go. We recommend:

• Admire the delightful beauty of the ‘neon’ lakes. When you’re working, you hardly pay attention even to the beauty of the evening city. But here you will find something special. Gippsland Lakes is a chain of lakes in the State of Victoria where you can have a great time watching dolphins, swimming or fishing. And as darkness falls, the lakes begin to emit a bright blue glow, carrying you to a fantasy world. We can observe such an amazing phenomenon thanks to microscopic aquatic organisms with bioluminescence.
• Visit at least one national park (there are 17 such parks in Australia). Flora and fauna of the continent will not leave anyone indifferent. 11% of the territory is under state protection. The best option for those who want to spend time alone is Freycinet National Park in Tasmania. A very beautiful place, the main attraction of which is Wineglass Bay, the shape of which resembles a wine glass. The park is somewhat remote from places of civilization, and here you can completely surrender to the power of nature.

Meanwhile, in any park you can have a good rest and rediscover the world of flora and fauna – you will meet with a kangaroo, koalas, platypus and even the Tasmanian devil.

• Fly over a heart-shaped reef (Queensland), a composition of corals – do not miss this opportunity if you are a romantic, and set off on a journey with your soulmate. And if you choose Australia for your honeymoon, you will not find a more romantic place than the delightful island of Bora Bora, which merges the sky and the ocean together.
• Visit the Bay of Fires in Mount William National Park (Tasmania), where white sand and the blue of the ocean are combined with unusual bright orange cliffs. Here you can have privacy or go in for extreme sports (surfing, diving, etc.).
• Visit one of the beaches with the purest water and velvet sands, where you can not only sunbathe and swim, but also go surfing, diving, etc. One of the most spectacular is the Cape Tribulation Beach, which attracts crowds of tourists. And if you want privacy, go on Shell Beach – an amazing beach, covered with shells instead of sand.
• Admire the sunset over the Indian Ocean and explore Camel Beach on a camel as part of a real caravan.

Every corner of Australia is individual and famous for something. Its natural beauty cannot be described, but leaves a lasting impression on the most steadfast homebodies. Such a vacation will undoubtedly benefit you, and the boost of energy that you get from enjoying the Australian nature will allow you to start business with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

The post Why Australia is the best vacation destination appeared first on Australian Times News.

I have been lucky enough to travel to many exotic destinations across the globe but I cannot ever remember a more palpable sense of anticipation on board a plane, than there was that morning as we made our descent towards that giant sea-horse archipelago of the Pacific. My wife and I had both long read that this was a place to savour and before we had even touched down, we had experienced our first taste.

Out of our window in the middle-distance, giant frigate birds flew in parallel to us, flanking the plane like fighter aircraft, escorting us down to land. There is definitely something of the pterodactyl about these amazing birds and this only served to enhance the feeling that I was about to set foot in ‘the land that time forgot’. Leaping over lava lizards and circumventing cacti, we scampered across the runway to the surf-shack structure that is Baltra Airport. Finally, we had arrived.

Of course, Galapagos is famous for the tameness of its animals; as a photographer it is simply heaven. For starters, there is a non-stop abundance of unique and rare creatures to be found in this tiny sanctuary of our planet. But not only this, much more than this, they also advertise themselves completely openly for you to look upon their beauty. Devoid of natural predators for so long, the animals here live without a fear of man like nowhere else on Earth. Sleeping, eating, occasionally affording you the pleasure of their curiosity, they go about their daily lives undaunted. It was truly wonderful to feel so insignificant and unthreatening to such defenceless creatures.

The local people here too, it seems, are as relaxed and approachable as the animals themselves. Our guide and boat crew in particular were polite, friendly, helpful and calm. In fact, for islands born of fire, it is surprisingly hard to imagine Galapagos life getting heated at all. Everything seems peaceful and tranquil; from the sunbathing marine iguanas, strewn like confetti on the rocky shores of San Cristobal, to the park-bench sleeping sea-lions I found in the town of Peurto Ayora.

On each and every excursion, I was able to get up close and personal to the wildlife with my camera, in a way I could only dream of elsewhere. Whether snorkeling with sea turtles, watching waved albatrosses enjoying their first dance, or trekking with giant-tortoises, there was something breath-taking to photograph at every turn. Even between excursions the wildlife was never too far away, with dancing dolphins ushering us along in the waters below and endless bridal trains of birds flying behind us overhead.

It may be surprising to learn then, after reading of all this wonder, that the islands were originally described as ‘worthless’ and as ‘hell on earth’ by their early visitors. Even Charles Darwin compared them to the ‘Infernal regions’ but to be brutally honest, I can understand why. If you are expecting an equatorial paradise with miles of unspoilt gleaming white beaches, waterfalls, tropical lagoons or unbroken sunshine, then think again. A mass of black volcanic earth, peppered with scrub-land below an overcast sky, is a more accurate description of these somewhat drab and desolate isles.

However, long ago, pirates would often use these islands for refuge; and if you look more closely you will quickly uncover their hidden treasures. The Giant Tortoise, The Galapagos Sea Lion, three iguana species, lava lizards and snakes are all found here and only here. As for unique birds; along with the albatrosses there are herons, hawks, doves, penguins, gulls, mockingbirds, finches and of course, the indomitable Flightless Cormorant. Yes, beaches, waterfalls and sunshine can be found in any corner of the world – but make no mistake, there is nowhere quite like Galapagos!

And so, as we taxied the runway, accompanied by the frigates for one last time, my thoughts vacillated between waves of sorrow and delight. I felt sad to be leaving but extremely fortunate to have visited the havens of volcanic sand, which get under your feet and under your skin. The honeymoon was over but I knew I had been wedded to these enchanted islands forever.

For more of Glenn’s thoughts on travel and photography, among other things, follow him on Twitter, @asher_gordon.

The post Face-to-face with the astonishing wildlife of the Galapagos Islands appeared first on Australian Times News.

Driving into South Mission Beach, about 140kms south of Cairns in tropical northern Australia, you are met with many ‘Beware of Cassowaries’ signs. I was on alert on the road because I had been forewarned.

However, on this fateful morning I was standing over a camp stove making coffee and the rain had finally caught up with us. We awoke under a sagging canopy full of water and thanks to good fortune rather than good planning, the tent on our rental car was canvas. We managed to stay completely dry.

The air was still very muggy despite the rainfall and under a blanket of humidity we drink our coffee. All was quiet and still.

Then, while packing away the breakfast dishes and waiting for the caffeine jolt to take effect, I turned around to find a fully-grown cassowary trying to eat the scraps from the bag in my hand!

Also see: Heartwarming images of Aussies saving our animals following the bushfires

It was yet another notch on the trip’s unexpected animal encounter tally board; I had already been bitten on the toe by a possum (yes, you read that correctly) and was saved from treading on a snake by a quick thinking husband who stopped me just in time.

There were many beautiful moments that made that particular Down Under journey truly rewarding. There were days when covering so many thousands of kilometres confined in a car with one other person seemed insane. It became very easy to start counting bad arguments as well as coastal towns as they all start to blur together.

While the cassowary encounter does not exactly feature highly on list of favourite travel moments, it is certainly way up there on my husband’s.

The post Postcard from Australia: camping encounter with a hungry cassowary appeared first on Australian Times News.

The travel list is ever-stretching, but the good news is that I’ve done the hard yards on your behalf and have hunted down these hotspots covering all the cool. Noteworthy for an added element of unique energy, these neighbourhoods remind us of the very reason we travel. 

Here’s our hot list of ‘hoods:

Brixton, London

Uncover this hub of endless culture, just a little beyond the usual London tourist sites. Stroll past painted alleyways and spirited locals as you discover the vibrant food scene and soak in the creative community projects you’ll pass by. 

Shimokitazawa, Tokyo 

Calling all bohemians…let your hair down in Shimokitazawa – the alternative locale of Tokyo. This liberal neighbourhood has you covered for eccentric art, indie live music, local buzz and vintage stores aplenty. 

Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

East meets West in Sheung Wan where British-influenced architecture balances outdoor meat and medicine markets and no matter where you find yourself or whatever the time, there’s an undeniable buzz in the air. This old district showcases the real Hong Kong and we just can’t get enough.

 Trastevere, Rome

Ahhh! Authentic Roma. Where your aperitivo is best enjoyed in a locals-only piazza with ivy-clad trattorias at every corner. Explore local boutiques and outdoor markets in this classy neighbourhood and come prepared: Around dusk, this area is famed for its lively nightlife.

De Pijp, Amsterdam

“Renewed in renaissance’’ best describes multicultural De Pijp — once known for its working-class roots and now as the hotbed of creativity.

Take your pick from classic pubs, diverse eateries and choose to revel with the energy of many!

Williamsburgh, New York City

A unique urban paradise awaits in this Brooklyn neighbourhood. Soak up the creative spirit and unique street style that this hipster hotspot is known for. Fusion food, flea markets, and craft breweries are best explored by bike or relax, barge-side and let it all pass you by. 

Gràcia, Barcelona

Discover this best-kept secret spot in Barcelona! Boasting some of the best, sprawling city views, this artistic hillside neighbourhood is much loved for its quirky bars, far from the maddening crowds and will have you charmed in no time at all.

Woodstock, Cape Town

One of Cape Towns oldest suburbs, this hipster kid offers an incredible mix of diversity in just about everything. Food, fashion and of course, the arts. A culture clash of epic proportions, whether you skate in or saunter past en route the trendy eateries and outdoor markets, you’ll find it all here in our idea of creative heaven.

The post Hot list: Explore eight of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods appeared first on Australian Times News.

Where once we shared slideshows post trip and saved prints and postcards as keepsakes, we now share holiday images and selfies from the road, sea or air — expanding the “tourist gaze” from the traveller to include remote audiences back home.

Instagram-worthy

Travelling has gone from a solitary quest to a “social occasion”. As such, gazing is becoming inseparably linked with photography. Taking photos has become habitual, rendering the camera as a way of seeing and experiencing new places.

Travellers take selfies that present both locations and people in aesthetically pleasing and positive ways.

Indeed, the “instagrammability” of a destination is a key motivation for younger people to travel there – even if filters and mirrors have been used to create a less than realistic image.

This transforms the relationship between travellers and their social networks in three important ways: between tourists and destination hosts; between fellow tourists; and lastly, between tourists and those that stay home.

The urge to share travel imagery is not without risk. An Australian couple were released from detention in Iran in October, following their arrest for ostensibly flying a drone without a permit.

Other tourists earned derision for scrambling to post selfies at Uluru before it was closed to climbers.

Meanwhile, there is a sad story behind the newly popular travelgram destination Rainbow Mountain in the Peruvian Andes. It has reportedly only recently emerged due to climate change melting its once snowy peaks.

Testing the effects

To understand the way social media photography impacts travelling, we undertook an exploratory study of overnight visitors at zoological accommodation in lavish surrounds.

We divided 12 participants into two groups. One group was directed to abstain from posting on social media but were still able to take photos. The second group had no restrictions on sharing photos. Though the numbers were small, we gathered qualitative information about engagement and attitudes.

Participants were invited to book at Jamala Wildlife Lodge in Canberra. The visit was funded by the researchers — Jamala Wildlife Lodge did not sponsor the research and the interviewees’ stay at the Lodge was a standard visit. We then conducted interviews immediately after their departure from the zoo, critically exploring the full experience of their stay.

The study confirmed that the desire to share travel pictures in close to real time is strongly scripted into the role of the tourist; altering the way travellers engage with sites they are visiting, but also their sense of urgency to communicate this with remote audiences.

Pics or it didn’t happen

Participants Mandy and Amy were among those instructed to refrain from posting pictures to social media while at the zoo. They described having to refrain from social media use as a disappointment, even though it seemed to further their engagement.

Interviewer: Did you look at your social media throughout your stay or did you refrain?

Mandy: A bit yeah. But even then, probably not reading it as much as I often would. I don’t think I commented on anything yeah.

Amy: Even today when we put something up [after staying at the Zoo] about the things we’d done today and only a few people had liked it, there was that little bit of disappointment that ‘Oh more people haven’t liked my post.’ Where we didn’t have that for the previous 24 hours [because of the experiment] … because nobody knew about it.

The desire for social media recognition resumed after leaving the zoo. For Michelle, posting after the experience presented new concerns:

Interviewer: How did you feel about not being able to post?

Michelle: Spanner in the works! For me personally not being able to post was a negative experience because I wanted to show people what we’re doing, when we’re doing it.

And I also feel, like a couple of people knew we were going to the zoo, right, and knew that we couldn’t use social media. So, when I eventually post it, they’re going to go, ‘She’s been hanging on to those and now she’s posting them and that’s just a bit weird.’ Like, to post it after the event. Everyone normally posts it in real time.

Later, Michelle commented that withholding content from posting to social media also diminished a part of the experience itself:

I sort of feel like if we don’t share the photos it’s like a tree fell down in the forest and no one heard it, like, we’ve had this amazing experience and if I don’t share them, then no one’s going to know that we had this experience, you know, apart from us.

Centre Stage

Digital photography and social media transform the relationship between the travelling self and its audience, as individuals have an expanded — and potentially diversified — audience.

Selfies in tourist contexts reflect the tourist gaze back at the tourist, rather than outward.

The perfect digital postcard now incorporates the self centrestage. As one participant suggested:

Shannon: It almost feels like it’s kind of an expected behaviour when you are doing something touristy … We’ve actually had tour guides before … kind of a bit disappointed if you don’t take a photograph.

The purpose of photography has shifted from a memory aid to a way of sharing experience in the moment. There is tension now between the need to capture tourist experiences for digital sharing and individual engagement in the tourist activity. Decrying the desire to use photography as a way of communicating experience will not constructively address this tension.

To ensure tourism sustainability, and engagement with their target market, tourism providers need to explore better ways to manage travellers’ face-to-face and digital engagement.

Digital engagements have become a defining part of travel, and organisations should be encouraged to promote online sharing of experiences — phone charging stations and photo competitions were two suggestions offered by our interviewees.

In contrast, device-free days or activities could be another way to encourage face-to-face engagement and prompt tourists to be more considered with their online sharing.

By Michael James Walsh, Assistant Professor Social Science, University of Canberra; Naomi F Dale, Associate Professor of Management, University of Canberra, and Raechel Johns, Head of the Canberra Business School and Professor of Marketing and Service Management, University of Canberra.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The post #travelgram: live tourist snaps have turned solo adventures into social occasions appeared first on Australian Times News.

National Geographic’s Best Trips to Take in 2020 list was curated by editors and explorers at National Geographic, who were tasked with picking the planet’s 25 most exciting destinations for the coming year. 

The editorial teams of National Geographic Traveler’s 17 international editions and their globe-trotting experts came up with the essential and sustainable sites to see in 2020.

Our editors and explorers have put together an itinerary of the most essential—and more importantly, sustainable—sites to see in the new year. So, where to first? #TravelTuesday https://t.co/fZ9wQYW971

— Nat Geo Travel (@NatGeoTravel) November 19, 2019

Some are no-brainers, while others will come as some surprise. For Australia, it’s Tasmania that gets a guernsey!

National Geographic’s best trips to take in 2020

• Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Join in the celebrations marking 25 years of peace
• Guizhou Province, China: Step into villages seemingly untouched by time
• Tohoku, Japan: A chance to escape the Olympic crowds 
• National Blue Trail, Hungary: Hike along the lesser known routes of Europe
• Telč, Czechia: Be charmed by the fairytale-style setting
• Kalahari Desert, Southern Africa: One of the darkest spots you can visit on the planet, perfect for star gazing
• Magdalen Islands, Canada: See a beautiful, diminishing world of ice and the harp seals that depend on it
• Wales Way, United Kingdom: Follow far-reaching routes that get the blood pumping
• Abu Simbel, Egypt: Enjoy a private audience with Ramses II
• Fort Kochi, India: Track artistry trends in creative Kerala
• Zakouma National Park, Chad: Help out at an African elephant haven
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Rediscover an American classic
• Puebla, Mexico: Find out why baroque is back
• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: See a geological wonderland eons in the making
• Maldives: Explore the islands that are on the front lines of conservation efforts regarding climate change
• Tasmania, Australia: Venture to an epic isle that’s wild and beautiful, faraway yet familiar
• Asturias, Spain: Relish an Iberian province capped with snowy summits and steeped in tradition
• Göbekli Tepe, Turkey: Feel your paradigms shift at the world’s oldest known temple complex
• Mendoza Province, Argentina: Drink a mighty Malbec and delve into the roots of its flavour
• Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia: Where you can jump through the Ring of Fire
• Guatemala: Meet the Maya, both past and present
• Parma, Italy: Salivate and savour over a multi-sensory feast
• Canary Islands, Spain: Reach an end of the world
• Białowieża Forest, Belarus/Poland: Discover one of Europe’s last true wild places
• Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria: Drive to views that were once only accessible to mountaineers

The post Surprises on National Geographic’s 2020 top travel list appeared first on Australian Times News.

Tamil Nadu smells of Jasmine. It’s a lovely, sweet and tropical smell wafted about by the fresh flowers worn in the hair of the women there, and one that will forever transport me back to the state.

Challenging Chennai

Though my lasting impression is fragrant, my first impression was unfortunately Chennai. Chennai (formerly Madras) is a hard city to love. Busy, smelly, dirty, confusing — it‘s all the horrible things an Indian city can be. Being that it’s the state capital and a major transport hub, most visitors can’t avoid it.

And since you’re going to be there you may as well be in the Pod hotel. It’s a stylish design hotel in the coolest part of the city — in striking distance of decent coffee and shopping — and in walking distance of the Government Museum, the city’s only real attraction. Go to the museum, see the incredible archeological artifacts, and then get the hell out.

To the seaside

The logical next stop is Mamallapuram — a seaside town that is in theory just one and a half hours south of Chennai by bus. I say in theory, because in reality it took a good three hours, four different bus stops, two taxi rides and a lot of bad information to find where the bus left from. Lesson number 1 about India: Indians don’t like to say “I don’t know”.

Mamallapuram is a World Heritage listed for the amazing 7th and 8th century carved temples dotted throughout the small town centre — most iconic being the shore temple that sits on the beach. It also has a pleasant low-key beach resort feel, and plenty of seafood restaurants. Staying at the massive Ideal resort up the road meant that bicycle was the perfect way to get around, and passing a day or two here is one of the more chilled out options in India.

A spiritual quest

Pondicherry, by contrast, is a deceivingly large city. It’s known for being the French pocket of India, where a semblance of the culture, the food, the language survives from when the French ruled this region. While altogether too much is made of the French connection, there is a novelty of seeing French street names and architecture, as well as the odd croissant in self conscious cafes. While Pondicherry is mostly good for mooching around in shops and drinking café au lait on the sea front, it is also something of a New Age hub.

Many are drawn by the city ashram founded by famed spiritual leaders Sri Aurobindo and a Frenchwoman known as The Mother, both of whom died decades ago. Yet more are drawn by the bizarre city of Auroville, an experimental ‘universal township’ founded by The Mother in the late 1960s, located less than 20km from Pondicherry. Over 2000 people from around the world live here, in servitude of the ‘Divine Consciousness’. A daytrip will suffice for the merely curious; time for a visit to the information centre, a glimpse of the giant golden ball statue known as the ‘Matrimander’, a browse of the (many!) onsite shops, and lunch at the really quite wonderful vegetarian cafe. While Auroville was formed as a place without religion it more than makes up for this with spiritual mumbo jumbo, and though the vision of a better world – one without paper money – is a beautiful one, I rather prefer the real world. It’s certainly less boring.

My hotel near Pondicherry, The Dune Eco Village, is something of an experiment in itself as a sprawling complex incorporating the ideas of harmony with nature (organic farm) and engagement with the community (onsite artists workshop), but also incredibly stylish. My ginormous detached room is actually more of a loft apartment, complete with tasteful art and my own personal pool — a proper ‘pinch me coz I’m dreaming’ kind of place.

Off the beaten track

Reluctantly moving on, my next stop is well off the beaten track Chettinad — an area famed for a former community of wealthy bankers who have left behind a legacy of spectacular mansions and elaborate, world influenced food. The idea that the owners of the Bangala hotel had in turning an abandoned mansion into a hotel was a brilliant one. They inspired others in the area to follow suit, singlehandedly created a tourism industry.

The Bangala is located in Karaikudi — a small village that, thanks to the pillaging of the mansions which fell into decline following WW1, boasts an array of astonishingly cheap antique shops to put Paris to shame. During a fascinating day trip of the area I visit local tile and sculpture craftsmen, a plethora of opulent abandoned mansions and a temple where women shave the heads of their children to show their devotion. The highlight is, of course, the food which is prepared in a traditional way and served on a banana leaf. The cuisine here is more subtly flavored than in other parts of the south, more meat-centric and incredibly rich — truly food to have a heart attack to and die happy.

Back in the city

As I continue eastbound towards Kerala, I make a stop off in Madurai. Another horribly congested and unpleasant city, it is worth enduring to visit the moving Ghandi museum (housing the blood stained dhoti he was killed in) and of course the beautiful Meenakshi Amman Temple complex.

Here is a quintessential Indian spectacle, where the heady mix of spirituality mixed with commercialism (all sorts of trinkets and edible offerings are onsale inside) and the sheer numbers of devotees cannot fail to overwhelm.

Relax and regroup

A world away in spirit, but just 2 hours away by car is another one of India’s hidden gems — the Cardamom House. Owned by a British doctor, the lodge is an idyllic and homely escape from civilization – next to a lake with a mountain backdrop in an area called Dindigul, there’s not a lot to do besides enjoy the views, good company and the wonderful food. And that’s the way it should be. Waking up for a prolonged breakfast with a view on my personal outdoor dining table is one of my calmest moments in India; an essential regrouping pause for anyone traveling in the country for a length of time.

In touch with nature

There’s a dramatic shift in scenery and temperature as my bus climbs into the hills for my final stop in Tamil Nadu — Kodaikanal. The town itself is an incredibly touristy mountain hub — not without its charms — but the Elephant Valley lodge where I am staying is a good 25 minutes out of town and into the mountains. The lodge is remarkably well integrated in the environment, both in aesthetic and with its eco ethos and sprawling organic farm. Nature appreciation is the focus here, with guided nature walks or horse riding the main activities, with touches like the campfire and the treehouse room, as well as the passionate staff, making the lodge memorable and special.

With belly full, bank balance still healthy, and the faint scent of Jasmine upon me it’s time to take my leave of Tamil Nadu and head over the hills for Kerala.

Useful Information:

TAMIL NADU

Located in the south-easternmost corner of India, next to Kerala, Tamil Nadu may not be one of the better known states but it is one of the most frequently visited — in particular by domestic tourists who travel there to see the famous temples. Over 72 million people live in the state; the national language is Tamil and the predominant religion is Hindu.

TRANSPORT

I traveled using public transport; a combination of bus, train and rickshaw, to keep costs down. While it’s safe and dirt cheap to travel this way in Tamil Nadu, it can be a headache at times with changes and connections, so the majority of foreign visitors hire a car and driver for ease and convenience.

HOTELS

The Park Pod, Chennai

Ideal Resort, Mamallapuram

The Dune Eco Village, Resort and Spa

The Bangala, Chettinad

Cardamom House, Arthoor, Dindigul

Elephant Valley, Kodaikanal

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Perhaps we have to think like the French to see Paris in a different light. There’s recently been a revival of a French philosopher called Guy Debord, who warns of ‘The Society of the Spectacle’. In essence, Debord says we become so obsessed with living a life that looks like what we’re told we need, that we forget to engage in real human experience. (ie All we need to be happy, is that next: sofa/computer/Sky Box” – we all do it). If ever there was an example of ‘The Spectacle’ it’s certainly the idea of the romantic weekend in Paris.

So what does Debord suggest as a solution?

One of his strategies was the derive, (which means ‘a stroll’ – but with a difference); a way of being ‘constructively playful’ in a city. Instead of following a map or must-do-list for the day, rather make up a random set of rules to follow. For example, when you see a woman with a dog, turn right; a man in a red coat, turn left. If you see a baguette in a window, find some stairs to climb. The idea is that by embracing random events you have real experiences rather than pre-imagined versions.

‘Oh a-Deriving we will go’

On our first day we sat outside the Louvre having fun mapping out our rules, aware that the sheer weight of the museum’s reputation should have drawn us in. To the woman and the dog and man in red coat rules, we added the wildcard that if we got too hungry all bets would be off.

In truth, is Paris is a very logically laid out city, so if you stay within the confines of the centre (i.e. Paris St-Germain and up towards Sacre Ceur in Montmartre), no matter what the rules, you’re not likely to stumble across a modern-day Rimbaud setting fire to his own chest, or be stabbed in one of the dire residential ghettoes on the outskirts of Paris.

We chose the Seine and Notre Dame as a starting point, as it really is the heart of tourist Paris. Our clues came hard and fast and within an hour we had obeyed five separate commands. It is tougher than you might think. Sometimes the rules take you places that are bland and decidedly un-fun but that’s the good part; these now are ‘your’ places.

In truth, we had to stop following rules after dark and followed our stomachs instead. However, the game had done its job. We were released from the belief that our next guidebook destination would make us happy.  Over the course of the weekend, we ended up in a shop that sold antique Indian masks, at an exhibition where we felt what it must be like to be inside a large book, playing pool in a football supporters’ bar and eating at the best Tapas Bar in the world. But not once did we stress about where was next.

Conclusion: Find your own Paris

Instead of penning the sort of travel feature where we lovingly describe places and experiences for the reader to replicate, on this occasion we prefer advocating a ‘derive.’ Find your own Paris; by your own rules!

Not ‘must sees’ but ‘maybe sees’

We did visit two things that were cool enough to share… just saying.

Centquatre (www.104.fr) Is a literal ‘creative centre’, where you’re as likely to see hiphop crews learning their skills as cutting edge art shows or street level French food. It’s all very youthful French, democratic and laid back.

Tape Bar ) This graffiti saturated bar is in an area that has just enough grime to take the edge off all that Parisian perfection. 21 Rue de la Roquette, 75011.

Beginners Guide to Deriving

Derive v. (literally: to drift”) A playful-constructive journey that turns the city into a playground of the mind, enriching your experience in unforeseen ways.

1. Invent a game that introduces not just’ random’ motives for moving (i.e. turn left when you see a child crying) but rules that challenge your idea of your place in that city. For example, when you see a seagull, find the highest point you can see within 300m and climb it. Or when you hear a siren, walk for the next three blocks with your ears blocked.

2. Be conscious of how these moves enhance your understanding of your place in the city, or simply how they make you feel.

3. Have fun, be playful and don’t take yourself too seriously.

The post Deriving Paris: breaking through the barricades with a guy named Guy appeared first on Australian Times News.

Just a few years ago, your cellphone was only used to send and receive text messages and calls. Today, it’s a mini-computer capable of navigating you around the globe, while taking high-quality photos and keeping in touch with your friends.

There are many ways mobile technology can enhance your travels. Here are a few suggestions.

How to use mobile technology during your travels

Browse, research, book

From finding the best flight deals to booking accommodation and learning about the best tourist attractions, you can be sure that there’s an app for everything.

You can monitor your bookings, make amendments or cancellations online and on the go. In addition, many hotels and airlines now offer messaging options and chatbots, making communication so much easier.

AI ChatBots can answer the most commonly-asked questions without a hitch, and can assist travellers in checking rates and managing their bookings easily.

Language and translation apps

From language and translation app to Google Translate’s new point-and-translate service, making your way around the globe has never been this easy.

The apps are easy to use, and you don’t have to carry a heavy phrase book with the common tourist phrases around anymore. Simply use the app, or even easier, point your phone’s camera at the text and wait for the magic to happen.

Watch: How Augmented Reality (AR) and mobile technology is revolutionising translating

Navigation and wayfinding apps

You can use Google Maps to navigate, well, pretty much everywhere on Earth. There are apps to help you around malls, parking lot and airports as well. Additionally, share your live location with a friend as a safety precaution.

Furthermore, Google Maps allows you to save any location to a list for future reference. It’s the ideal way to keep track of all the places you want to visit at some point.

Simply click on the location and save it. You’ll be able to see the saved locations (green flags) on your map. If you’re ever in the area, you’d be able to spot it easily as you navigate around.

This is a screenshot of my personal Google Maps account. I’ve saved all the places I want to visit to the ‘Want to go’ list, and have other lists too: favourite places, friends to visit, etc.

Priority Pass’ in-app airport maps, for example, assist travellers to easily locate available lounges and other airport amenities, taking the guess work out of navigating around a strange airport. Never miss a flight again!

Also read – Google Maps rolls out AR walking directions on Android and iOS

Save on packing space

Gone are the days when you had to fill your suitcase with unnecessary junk. Now you can listen to thousands of hours of music on an iPod, Spotify, Google Music or iTunes.

If you’re a lover of books, you can now carry an entire library with you on a Kindle or your e-reader of choice, and save a ton of space in your luggage.

If you want to snap a few holiday photos, your phone doubles as a camera and video recorder. Remote worker? Sure, just pack your tablet or laptop. Or, as I like to refer to it, ‘my entire office.’

Boarding passes and loyalty passes

Mobile boarding passes have revolutionised the way travel. It has cut down on the amount of paper used by airlines, as well as the time it takes travellers to get through the check-in process.

“Tech-savvy travellers can simply breeze through boarding gates with a turn of the wrist. Advances in technology mean that biometrics could soon do away with the traditional boarding pass entirely, with passengers’ faces becoming their ticket to travel. In fact, the Department of Homeland Security says it expects to use facial recognition technology on 97% of departing passengers within the next four years.”

 Phil Seward, Destination CRM.

Electronic payments

Gone are the days when travellers needed to do an electronic transfer (EFT) or swipe your credit card. While there’s nothing wrong with those methods, we now have many more options.

From Apple Pay and Samsung Pay and Google Wallet, to PayPal Here (thanks, Elon Musk!), ROAM Pay and GlobalVCard, going cashless has never been easier.

Not also does it ensure your safety – not having to carry cash your person – but it saves you time. No more standing in ATM queues or carrying a bulky wallet. And then there are also currency apps.

Exchange rates constantly fluctuate and working our foreign currency can often just lead to a nasty headache. With currency apps like XE Currency or CalConvert, you’d be able to calculate the cost of the coffee in a jiffy.

Watch: Autonomous travel will rely on people and computers working together

With TSA

The post Here’s how mobile technology can enhance your travel experience appeared first on Australian Times News.

What began as a night out for the locals – on 12 October 1810 – has become an international lager frenzy set inside the Theresienwiese — an enormous exhibition ground with carnival rides, souvenirs, food stalls and huge beer halls. If dancing on seats and tables while singing along to a brass band and swigging litre steins of beer sounds like your idea of a good time, then Oktoberfest is the place to be.

In the beerginning

Oktoberfest all started with the mother of engagement parties: Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen’s betrothal to Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig (later Ludwig I). Then attended by almost the entire Munich population, it was such a success it became an annual affair. Little has changed, although the event was moved to the end of September for the better weather and to make sure a lot more people show up for the party.

Now, get there early

Oktoberfest each year now attracts more than six million people who guzzle some seven million litres of beer over 16 days. The festival always begins on the second last Saturday in September and ends on the first Sunday of October — so it’s on right now, kicking off last weekend and finishing up this year on 06 October.

Each year the festival kicks off at noon on the first day in the Schottenhamel Tent where the lord mayor of Munich cracks open, or ‘taps’ the first barrel with a cry of “O’zapft is!” (“It is tapped!”).

Also see: Tips for surviving Oktoberfest: the ultimate beer indulgence

There is no entrance fee to the festival grounds or beer halls, but it is a good idea to arrive early in the day to get a table inside a beer hall or, if the weather is good, outside in the beer gardens.

You can only be served if you have a seat (whether sitting or standing on it). Arriving early has obvious repercussions when one litre steins are in hand, so it is advisable to take turns with your table mates to man the table or seats while the others look around the festival grounds.

Asides from thrilling rides and shoddy Bierfest souvenirs you can also buy your own (empty) steins, and a giant pretzel or bratwurst to line your stomach. The bratwursts are highly recommended for something approaching an authentic German experience — over 850,000 are sold during the festival!

A great big tent to swig in

The beer tents, set up by a number of different Munich breweries, heave and pulsate with dancers on seats chanting along with the big brass bands as they belt out Bavarian folk songs all the way through to classic beer tanking choons from the likes of Bon Jovi.

There are some 14 beer tents on die ‘Wiesen (‘the meadow’), each seating around 10,000 punters at any one time and each with its own unique crowd, food specialities, and characteristics. The Hofbrau-Festzelt is the self-proclaimed “largest Wiesn tent in the entire world”. Generally considered the rowdiest, it happens to have the most tourists (and Antipodeans), particularly during the first week. The Hippodrom is said to be for the local VIPs, but seems to have more local and travelling singles than the other halls.

Most tents close at 11:30pm with last drinks at 10:30, but one or two stay open until 2am for those hard drinking souls. If you haven’t got a tent reservation, aim to be at the fest by 10am on the weekend and 3pm during the week to score an oh-so precious spot.

Traditional Bavarian food and the splendid dress are a big part of the festival, as is the live music that is performed in the beer tents along with the mass beer-infused singalongs.

The legendary serving wenches carry up to ten steins at a time in their ample arms, and when you consider that each stein is thick glass with one litre of the amber liquid you understand why their wrists are so heavily bandaged.

The post Oktoberfest: beginner’s guide to the greatest beer show on Earth appeared first on Australian Times News.

As I scramble downhill and leap from rock to rock, I often imagine myself chasing down a buck or running from a predator. 

And to be honest, trail running certainly beats the monotony of pounding the same pavement for kilometres on end.

The added focus required to navigate the unfamiliar and unpredictable rugged terrain also keeps you mentally stimulated in a way that road running does not.

If you are an avid trail runner and are looking for an adventure that may require some travel then you need to add these five trail races to your bucket list.

Atjan Wild Islands, Faroe Islands

A trail running, music and adventure festival with the backdrop of the wild and rugged Faroe islands.

Atwan Islands

Run along one of the most beautiful trails in the world, then recover with a beer on the dance floor?

That sounds pretty good to us.

The Faroe Islands comprise of 18 islands between Iceland and Norway. They are a part of the Kingdom of Denmark.

The islands are home to puffins, sheep and breathtaking waterfalls. The routes offer participants the chance to enjoy some of the most breathtaking scenery the world has to offer.

Tickets to this four-day adventure festival in the Faroe Islands include entry into one of the four mountain races:

• Ultra-Trail Faroe islands 60 kilometres
• Mountain Marathon
• Mountain Half Marathon
• Trail 10 kilometres

Only 500 runners across each of the four races will be permitted to run the race. This due to the fragility of the environment and the focus on conservation and responsible tourism.

A word of caution though – this race isn’t for the fainthearted and experience is needed.

Date: 4 September to 8 September 2019 

Patagonian International Marathon, Chile

The Patagonian International Marathon takes place within the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.

This race takes its runners through what can be described as one of the most pristine places on earth. 

The big marathons have you nestled in an urban environment with impressive towers of concrete and glass. In Patagonia, we do not have large buildings here, our towers are of granite and ice, and rise over 2,500m above the racecourse…

Patagonian International Marathon

There are three races you can enter: 42 kilometres, 21 kilometres, and 10 kilometres and according to the website both elite runners and enthusiasts are welcome.

Date: 7 September 2019

Two Oceans Marathon

A South African favourite that is considered one of the most beautiful road races and trail runs.

This year the Two Oceans Marathon celebrated its 50th year and is one of South Africa’s premier races. The event constantly attracts a strong field of participants – both local and international.

The event attracts close to 26 000 participants who have the choice between the 56-kilometre ultra-marathon or popular 21 kilometre half marathon and the five-kilometre or two and a half kilometre fun runs.

The trails run options are 24 kilometres and 12 kilometres.

The trail starts at the University of Cape Town. The race takes runners through Newlands Forest to the lower slopes of Devil’s Peak and beyond. 

Date: 10 April 2020

Bagan Temple Marathon

Run between ancient temples and transport yourself through villages and ruins. The Bagan Temple Marathon takes place along the Ayeyarwaddy River in Myanmar. The area is home to over 2000 Buddhist temples.

Participants can enter the marathon, half marathon or 10-kilometre races.

The route is hot and sandy but the environment offers a welcome distraction. The terrain is mostly flat with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees.

Runners will traverse through the countryside passing villages that seem to have stopped in time. As you travel along the route, you can expect to see monks, ox laden carts and farmers tending to their fields.

Date: 23 November 2019

X-Terra Trail Run World Championship, Hawaii

The X-Terra Trail Run World Championship takes place in Kualoa Ranch in Hawaii. The ranch has been dubbed Jurassic Valley as it is was the location where the famous dinosaur movies were filmed.

The trails of the X-Terra Trail Run World Championship are usually closed off to the public thus the race provides a rare opportunity for the runners to experience the beauty of this area.

The terrain is diverse and breathtaking.

Participants will run along cliffs and white sand beaches. They will also have to make their way through dense rainforest.

No qualification is needed to enter the 21-kilometre championship course. The event, which also has a 10 kilometre, a five-kilometre, and an “adventure walk” is open to runners of all ages. The skill levels required range from elite to beginner. 

If it all seems too familiar, it is probably because you may have seen the same views in some blockbuster movies.

Jumanji, Kong Skull Island, Jurassic World, Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom, Jurassic Park, Windtalkers, Pearl Harbor, Godzilla, Tears of the Sun, and 50 First Dates have all been filmed at Kualoa. 

Date: 24 November 2019

The post The world’s most beautiful trail runs appeared first on Australian Times News.

Popular with the rich during the Georgian period of the 18^th and early 19^th centuries, Brighton drew the working classes with the advent of the railways in 1841.

Sometimes called `London by the sea` due to its popularity with day-trippers from the capital, it has two piers – the Palace Pier and the now ruined West Pier. The beach is pebbly but always draws crowds wishing to cool off on a hot day.

The main pier is a third of a mile long and contains restaurants, funfairs, fortune tellers, bars and is lit at night by 67,000 bulbs. Because of its size it requires constant repainting which takes about 3 months every year.

The pier has been the location of many a film including the 1947 classic British gangster film `Brighton Rock` starring Richard Attenborough, the 1972 comedy `Carry on at Your Convenience` with Sid James, and the 1979 drama based on The Who’s 1973 rock opera of the same name, `Quadrophenia`.

Watch out for the seagulls

Huge seagulls abound on Brighton Palace Pier. I saw a huge gull swoop down and snatch a man’s ice cream cone right out of his hand. Standing a little to the back of them I felt a bit like Australian actor Rod Taylor in the classic Alfred Hitchcock horror film `The Birds` when flocks of birds make unexplained attacks on local people.

Speaking of seagulls, the local football team, Brighton and Hove Albion, are in the English Premier division with a modern ground at Falmer in north east Brighton. Football trivia: Nicknamed the Seagulls, they reached the FA Cup final of 1983 where they came close to winning in the first match which was a 2-2 draw, but then lost heavily to Manchester United in the replay. Ironically, they were relegated from the old first division in the same year.

In George’s honour

After the pleasures of the Palace Pier a visit to the nearby Royal Pavilion is an interesting trip back through the ages. Derided by some as`bizarre`or `grandiose` it is a large, imposing structure built for George, Prince of Wales who went on to become Prince Regent and then King George IV.  

The building, designed in Indo-Gothic style, was completed in 1823. It has a huge banqueting hall near the entrance with a chandelier weighing a whole ton. There George would dine with his rich guests on 10-course dinners which went on all night. The exotic menu had a choice of eight soups, eight removes of fish, forty entrees served around the fish, eight roasts, 32 desserts and savoury entremets. All washed down with buckets of the finest wines of course. Enough to give George a spot of indigestion and indeed he grew immensely fat in his later years.

Next to eating and fornicating, George’s great love was music and in the Music Room the king’s own band entertained guests with Handel or Italian opera. The Italian composer Rossini performed there in 1823.

The fabulously opulent saloon was where George as King would entertain heads of state and guest of high rank during his reign of 1820 – 1830.

Many other sumptuous features include the long gallery which linked all the main state rooms including the Banqueting Room and the Music Room.

George’s apartments were moved to the ground floor as he became increasing obese and immobile in his later years. Like Tudor King Henry VIII he had to be hoisted in to bed due to his gout, poor health and huge girth.

Queen Victoria who ascended the throne in 1837 did not like the Royal Pavilion as she thought it small, lacking in privacy and too close to the centre of Brighton where she would be constantly mobbed by crowds.

From December 1914 to February 1916, the Royal Pavilion was offered for use as a hospital for troops from the Indian Corps wounded on the Western Front in France and Flanders during World War I.

The pavilion was purchased from Queen Victoria by the town of Brighton which marked the beginnings of its use today as a tourist attraction.

Proudly modern and progressive

Contemporary Brighton boasts fine shopping, a racecourse, two universities and a dynamic nightlife. The famous `lanes` are a maze of narrow streets which used to be the fishing village of Brighthelmstone. They are packed with tea rooms, coffee shops, jewellers and high-class antique shops.

Modern day Brighton is proud of its liberal attitude to transgender and gay people. The third weekend in July saw the UK’s biggest ever Trans Pride event. As a wave of colour and glitter swept through the town, the local MP Caroline Lucas of the Green Party said, “I am so proud that our city was home to the first ever Trans Pride in the UK seven whole years ago.”

At the 2019 Green Pride event in the city the same week, medicinal and recreational cannabis user fans openly smoked joints in front of the police. PCSOs (Police Community Support Officers) did approach the many users handing out leaflets warning that cannabis is illegal and would not be tolerated at the event. The large gathering drew people from all over the UK and in the event only two arrests were made.

Just a mile or so to the east of Brighton is the famous naturist beach. Officially known as the Cliff Bathing Beach it is walking distance from the town centre. Many prominent people like local councillors get an all over tan when the sun shines.

With its excellent transport connections (London an hour and Gatwick Airport just 30 minutes away by train) and liberal values Brighton is an attractive town to visit, especially on a scorching summer’s day.

Beyond Brighton

Just 11 miles west of Brighton is the sizeable town of Worthing. Once known as a retirement centre for old people it now has a large financial sector and three theatres as well as one of Britain’s oldest cinemas – the Dome. Famous writers Oscar Wilde and Harold Pinter once lived here.

The post Brighton: a Londoner’s great escape by the sea appeared first on Australian Times News.

Unfortunately, there isn’t really much we can do about it this point, other than staying at home and never setting foot out of our front door ever again. The same study explained:

“The further melting of glaciers cannot be prevented in the current century – even if all emissions were stopped now. However, due to the slow reaction of glaciers to climate change, our behaviour has a massive impact beyond the 21st century.”

That said, there are ways we can reduce our carbon footprint while travelling. Paloma Zapata, CEO of Sustainable Travel International, explains that it’s not about “closing ourselves in and building a wall”. Zapata adds:

“We need to create bridges, and we need people to find solutions for the issues that we’re creating. Just because you’re sitting at home does not mean that you’re not producing carbon emissions.”

So what to do? For starters, change your habits and make practical choices to promote sustainability. It’s all about the mindset. Let’s look a few ways to reduce your carbon footprint while travelling.

Ways to reduce your carbon footprint while travelling

Choose your mode of transport carefully

Transport generates the most greenhouse gas. When you have the option of travelling by plane, car, train or bus, choose wisely.

The International Council on Clean Transportation has calculated the passenger miles per gallon (pmpg) of planes and trains at a consistent 45 pmpg and 51 pmpg, respectively. Greyhounds and other inter-urban busses clock in at 152 pmpg.

If you have no other option other than travelling by plane – the worst offender of them all – there are still a few ways you could minimise your carbon footprint.

Choose direct flights where possible and skip the layovers. By buying carbon offsets through Climate Action Reserve, you can ensure that a tree is planted or a stretch of ocean is cleaned up.

Once you’ve reached your destination, limit the amount of time you travel by car as much as possible. When travelling, hire a bicycle instead or explore on foot.

Pack light, fly light

By carrying lightweight equipment and supplies, you exert less force, especially when travelling by vehicle. The lighter, the better.

Also see: 10 essential travel safety tips you need to know

When on an airplane – or any other mode of transport – carries heavy luggage, it uses more fuel. If you can travel with only a carry-on, do consider it. Not only will it save you time at the check-in counter, but it’s also easier to move around once you get to your destination.

Yours truly is a firm believer in the one-bag-travel mantra, and I’m constantly looking for ways to travel even lighter. I can fit two weeks worth of supplies into a 30L duffle backpack with room to spare.

A few suggestions for travelling light:

• Don’t pack an outfit for every day and don’t be lazy. Pack 2 or 3 shirts, 2 or 3 pants and wash as you need. Polyester dries a lot faster than cotton and should be dry again by morning.
• Downscale your gadgets. Why travel with a 15 or 17″ laptop when you can get the same amount of work done a 10″ tablet with keyboard? It’s lighter, smaller and easier to haul around.
• Collapsible and compact. Buy soap and shampoo sheets, they’re tiny and 50 x 2 cm sheets will last you quite a while. Get a travel towel. It’s under a R100 at most places and folds to the size of your fist.

Reduce your carbon footprint by generating less trash

If you haven’t heard about the Great Pacific garbage patch, prepare to be shocked. The mass of waste floating around the Pacific gyre spans about 1.6m square kilometres. It’s three times the size of France. No jokes.

We have no other option but to refrain from using single-use plastics such as straws, takeaway coffee cups and plastic bags. Transitioning to a zero waste lifestyle takes some work but it’s easy enough to get the hang of.

Also see: 10 must have in your backpack items for Europe travel

When travelling, carry your own water bottle; a collapsible water bottle if you’re a one-bagger with limited space. Carry your own reusable shopping bag; they can usually be folded into a tiny ball and won’t take up too much space.

Carrying a small cutlery set with you will reduce the amount of plastic cutlery when ordering takeout. There’s a nifty little thing called a spork – spoon, knife and fork all in one – which is the perfect option for travelling foodies.

And, you know, when you’re out on your travels and you see a plastic bottle or a plastic bag lying around, it’s not going to kill you to pick up and recycle it properly. Most cities have recycling bins, we’re just too lazy to use it.

Save energy throughout your trip

Regardless of where you’re staying, don’t leave the lights and air conditioning on. Don’t think because you’re staying at a fancy hotel, it’s in order to leave the air conditioning on.

Central air conditioning units use 3.5 kilowatts per hour. If you were to turn it off for eight hours while you were out exploring, you would save 28 kilowatts. That’s the equivalent of more than 7.5 litres of fuel or charging 2 525 smartphones.

If you can, book through eco-friendly hotels as they save massive amounts of energy on everything from lighting to doing the laundry. Laundry accounts for 16% of an average hotel’s water usage.

By cutting down on the laundry load, you’ll save water and other resources. Many big-chain hotels are switching to eco-friendly alternatives such as LED lights and high-efficiency thermal insulation.

You can also practice eco-friendly habits by limiting the amount of towels you use and how often you need the sheets washed.

Watch: How to carbon offset your travel

The post How to reduce your carbon footprint while travelling appeared first on Australian Times News.

The goggle-wearing crimson-tinged mass had begun their ascent out of the fleshy red pit of food warfare. I lingered in the pulpy red river with strangers of another tongue. All of us giggled, relishing the glorious freedom that comes with going completely feral and bonding over a unique grittiness that comes with having tomato seeds in your bum crack.

Tomato battle-ready

Reality had been suspended as soon as I stepped onto the packed train carriage headed for Tomatina in the early hours of that Valencia morning. Groups sculled and shared sangria while discussing food fighting tactics. Friends helped each other get ‘battle-ready’ by tying up loose white shirts from charity shops and adjusting each other’s giant tomato and doctor costumes. It felt like we were on school camp and had just left without the teachers.

Also see: La Tomatina: trigger happy tomato throwers

We arrived into sleepy Buñol tipsy and full of jumpy excitement. As we got off the train I blended into the mass of food fighting enthusiasts and we burst into the town’s tarpaulin covered streets like the Lost Boys from Never Never Land — if the Lost Boys ever discovered alcohol and went on a buck’s night. I chatted to fellow food fighters and skipped as we all spiralled down Buñol’s steep streets. I skipped past waving locals with a knowing twinkle in their eye, and chairs on their plastic covered balconies. They were ready to watch the spectacle. I skipped past a church handing out free sangria and bread through steel bars. Then we came to a sudden halt; we were finally in Plaza del Pueblo — Tomatina’s hallowed ground.

It was a few hours before the official food fight was to begin, but having scored prime spots in the centre of the plaza, myself and my Tomatina accomplice decided to stay put and let the billowing mass of white shirted tourists surround us. We felt like the prized toy buried deep in a skill-tester machine as thousands rumbled down into the plaza and squashed up against us — an impressive force that increased the town’s population from 9000 to around 40,000 in a matter of hours.

The elusive prize

As we waited for the 11am water cannon to mark the official start of Tomatina, the excitement around and in-between squished bodies transpired into a rumble of screams, chants, cheers and claps. A massive wall of sound eventually directed at a thin two story ‘palo jabon’ (basically a greasy pole) in the centre of the plaza. One by one, intense and focused men approached the pole and let a mass of sweaty hairy men at the bottom thrust them skyward towards an elusive prize — a massive ham balancing at the top.

Also see: CHUCK THIS: La Tomatina – seeing red

One by one, they fell short of a victorious meaty embrace and the crowd oohed and ahhed at their bravery and failure. Eventually a Buñol native did reach the ham. The locals went wild. The winner had defeated the tourists and with that, defended the honour of their town.  Now that was done, it was game on. The water cannon fired.

Chaos personified

The first truck, filled with its share of 150,000 tomatoes, crawled through the 40,000 strong hyped-up, tipsy, sweaty crowd, none of whom seemed to mind enduring a moment of terror as the vehicle passed, squashing people into brick walls and strangers armpits. These trucks were delivering tomatoes, and they could do whatever they God damn liked.

The next hour was chaos personified, as tonnes of tomatoes were unleashed on the screaming, manic mass. I dived into tomato puddles and let tomato flesh flow into my ears. I pelted. I squashed. I rammed and mashed tomatoes into stranger’s heads and anywhere else my squishy red ammo managed to hit. People shrieked with laughter and shock as they rolled into each other, relishing the freedom and absurd excitement that comes with being in the personal space of a stranger and allowed to throw food in their face.

When the water cannon went off 60 minutes later, it was time for the carnage to stop.  The street now resembled a Venetian canal filled with scarlet slush and I collapsed into its ankle deep, pulpy goodness to catch my breath. I then joined fellow war-weary and wounded tomato warriors at the bank of the clear Buñol River. Fresh water soothed the eyes of the goggle-less and cleansed crimson-tinged skin.

The manic had calmed but the chaos had not been forgotten as strangers shared knowing smiles, acknowledging a bond we all now had. A bond not based on similarities in culture, gender or religion, but a simple bond based on the fact that we had all just broken the first rule most learn in life  — don’t throw your food.

When is La Tomatina?

La Tomatina takes place on the last Wednesday of August each year. The next one is 28 August 2019, followed by 26 August 2020 and 25 August 2021. So start planning now!

_______________________________________

TOP IMAGE: By flydime (La Tomatina / Spain, Buñol) [CC BY-SA 2.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

The post Chaos, a greasy pole and 150,000 tomatoes…that’s La Tomatina appeared first on Australian Times News.

The reasons for this explosion in tourism are numerous. Some include low-cost airlines with competitive ticket prices, the expanding cruise-ship industry in Europe which grew by 49% in the eight years to 2016, and Airbnb which made accommodation less expensive. Importantly, the middle classes in China and India became avid travellers.

The other side of the coin is under-visited regions and sites where tourism could be transformational. These areas could benefit from employment and economic activities which tourists would generate. The question is “How do we persuade tourists to visit these places rather than those that are more well-known?”.

Social media

Many once thought that social media would provide the answer. The theory was that if unknown areas could put photographs and posts on Instagram and Facebook, people would see these places and would want to visit. In a few instances this has proved correct. Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in the south-western USA are two places that were virtually unknown 15 years ago but are now very popular tourist spots.

But Facebook and Instagram have also had the reverse effect. The selfie craze of the past few years has created a desperate need in some travellers to be photographed in a place that is readily recognised by their friends. This has coincided with many travellers making a ‘bucket list’ of places that must be visited. The result is that thousands crowd into a few places at the same time to photograph themselves. Many come away disappointed.

What about the locals?

It can even be worse for locals. Having lived in a tourist area at one time I have had personal experience of some of the problems. Noise pollution, crowded streets and public areas, increased shopping prices and rents, and more petty crime are just some of the things experienced by locals.

But it can even be worse than this. In some places, locals are being priced out of their homes by increased demand for tourist accommodation, in particular Airbnb. Smart investors buy up residential properties in desirable locations and convert them into tourist apartments, provoking housing shortages and pushing up prices.

Venice, for instance, has lost two-thirds of its residents in the past 50 years. As residents leave and tourist numbers increase its historic houses become tourist accommodation and its hardware shops, doctors and dentists are replaced by souvenir stalls and restaurants catering for visitors. The same cycle threatens Barcelona and Florence amongst other places.

Some cities have taken action. Copenhagen has limited the number of days per year that owners can rent out their residences. Barcelona has forced Airbnb to share data about owners and remove listings for unlicensed apartments. In Iceland, locals can only rent out their apartments for up to 90 days per year before needing a hospitality licence.

Where there is huge seasonal demand, visitors are causing overloading to sewerage systems and electricity supplies which were originally built for local demands. This affects locals more than visitors

We are seeing residents reacting to this. Anti-tourism street marches have been held in Italy and Spain. Tourist buses have been attacked in Spain and signs erected saying, “Tourists go home” and “Tourism kills Mallorca”. Clearly the physical and cultural disruption for local people is reaching a critical level.

Governments react

Pollution and environmental damage are also problems. Thailand closed to the public the very popular Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh for a major clean-up and to allow the environment to recover. The Philippines did the same to Boracay after complaints from both tourists and locals. Komodo Island in Indonesia will be closed to tourists for a year.

In Australia, tourist permits are strictly limited for the Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island and the same thing applies to Peru’s Inca Trail. Dubrovnik has limited the number of visitors allowed per day and restricts cruise ships to two at any one time. Amsterdam has banned the construction of new hotels in the city centre. Santorini, Greece has limited cruise visitors to 8,000 daily. The Cinque Terre on the Italian coast is capping the number of visitors to 1.5 million per year.

At least 42 countries charge visitors a tourist tax and a few local authorities are moving towards additional financial charges for visitors as well. Bhutan charges a tourist tax of around $250 a day which covers accommodation, transportation in the country, a guide, food, and entry fees but only a certain number of permits are issued to ensure the country is never crowded.

Venice has just introduced a daily tax for all tourists. Amsterdam charges cruise passengers ‎€8 a day to visit. Amsterdam, Paris and Berlin have all recently increased their local tourist tax. These are in addition to any country tourist tax.

You can help

There are ways to beat ‘overtourism’ and enjoy your travelling more. Travel out of Peak Season and avoid peak times during the day. Don’t view the world’s attractions as a checklist you must visit and try alternatives such as Veronarather than Venice. Forget Instagram and leave the selfie stick at home. Be wary of large-scale packaged tourism and use local operators instead.

No-one wants to hear what I overheard recently as a visitor struck a pose and took their Instagram image.

“It’s beautiful, but I would never come back. There are too many tourists.”

Also visit LenRutledge.com

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Lying within the rolling green hills of the Basque countryside in Northern Spain is Pamplona. The sleepy capital of the Navarra region explodes from a modest population of 180,000 to over 500,000 during Spain’s most notorious festival, San Fermin; more affectionately known as The Running of the Bulls.

Ernest and Ferminus

The festival in this fortress town first gained notoriety in Ernest Hemingway’s novel ‘The Sun Also Rises’. Following his famous account of the bull runs, San Fermin has been a magnet for young revellers from around the world, eager to put prove their bravery in against the bovine rampage.

Bullfights and sangria aside, San Fermin is a celebration in honour of Saint Ferminus, one of the town’s patron saints. Each year from July 6th – July 14th the town transforms into a playground for locals and foreigners alike, where litres upon litres of sangria, cava (Spanish champagne), and cerveza (beer) are consumed.

The cannon and scarves

At midday on July 6th, the opening ceremony is held in the main square of Pamplona, ‘Plaza de Castillo’, where the Pamplonés dress in white outfits and waving red bandanas over their heads.

White is probably not the best colour to be wearing when the ceremony involves showering everyone around you with champagne, sangria and eggs. Following the firing of a cannon, revellers tie the red bandanas around their necks, signifying the festival has officially begun.

Run for your life!

The highlight of the event is the Encierro. Translated to English, encierro means ‘enclosure’, or ‘shutting in’ and refers to the streets being enclosed for the running of the bulls.

Traditionally, the Encierro began at 7am to coincide with the 7th day of the 7th month for a 7 day fiesta. These days it commences around 8am, marked by the roar of a cannon.

Six feisty toros are released from the Parque de Santo Domingo and sent charging after the brave (read: crazy/stupid) participants. The course runs through the Plaza Consistorial, along the Calle de Estefeta finishing at the Plaza del Toros.

The best vantage point is from Parque de Santo Domingo. People start finding places along the track from 5am, so if you don’t want to miss the action, you need to be there early. Alternatively, you can just stay out all night and walk there straight from the bars to a spot track-side.

There is an ‘art’ involved in the running. It might seem simple but by watching the local pros you will see there is definitely a skill involved, if you’ve got the nerve.

In addition to the Encierro, bullfights are held nightly at 6:30pm.

Cava-ing it up

The fiesta is likely to provide the best street parties you’ll ever attend, with revellers drinking throughout the day and night. Twenty-four hours of sun, sangria and fun – but don’t forget to siesta or you won’t last the distance.

The bar that seems to attract the most foreign visitors is La Mejillonera (the Mussel bar). For 51 weeks of the year, this is a tranquil bar situated in a small Basque square with the tall St. Cecilia statue as the centrepiece. Then comes San Fermin week, when the square transforms into a mosh pit full of wild revellers!

The festival of San Fermin finishes at midnight on the 14th July, marked by a gathering in the Plaza de Castillo with candles and Basque songs.

Ole’!

And just remember – anything and everything is possible at the Fiesta de San Fermin!

The post Pamplona’s festival of San Fermin is more fun than just running with the bulls appeared first on Australian Times News.

Undara

The wildlife, the vegetation, the lava tubes and the railway carriage accommodation would all be considered very different elsewhere but here they are part of the amazing Undara Experience.

I am in North Queensland, Australia revisiting one of the most fascinating Outback destinations easily accessible from the coastal cities. I first visited Undara with cattleman Gerry Collins back in the late 1980s when he had a dream to develop this unique area into a tourist attraction. At the time he was battling the Queensland Government for approvals and was trying to save his land from compulsory acquisition.

In the end he succeeded with his dream and Queensland has a unique top quality experience for both local and international visitors. It is a wonderful destination from either Townsville or Cairns.

It takes awhile to sort out the Undara Experience. The whole package consists of accommodation, meals and facilities, tours and activities. You can cherry-pick bits and pieces but you will find that more is always better because this experience is very special.

For accommodation, we choose the beautifully restored one-hundred-year-old railway carriages. These are set along the original Cobb & Co. coach road and are shaded by tall trees and a canopy roof. The rooms contain a very comfortable double bed, old railway seats, ceiling fans, and a bathroom.

The carriages are unique, comfortable and romantic. We love them. Other options are the permanent swag tents, some of which have their own kitchen, the caravan park and camp ground, and self-contained air-conditioned Pioneers Huts.

After settling in we go exploring. We find the free tea and coffee that is always available and then relax in the deck chairs by the lagoon pool. This is perfect after the drive from Townsville. After recharging, we go on a self-guided bush walk. There are nine tracks ranging from 1.5km to 12km return. We climb a nearby knoll and gaze over the plateau towards some of the 164 old volcanoes in the province. There is no sign of human occupation as far as we can see.

We enquire about tours and are told about the Wildlife at Sunset trip that departs each day at around 5.30pm. Naturally we go on it. We watch the sunset while enjoying sparkling wine and cheese and then are taken to the entrance of a lava tube at dusk to see pythons and tree snakes capturing a meal of micro bats as they emerge from the darkness in their thousands.

Dinner at night is at the Iron Pot Bistro. The a-la-carte menu has beef, Georgetown sausages, chicken, fish, and vegetarian noodle stir fry dishes. Meals are large, delicious and filling. We linger over several glasses of wine and then share a ‘chocolate volcano’ dessert. After dinner, we relax around the campfire, enjoy the brilliant starry sky then wander back through the Australian bush to our railway carriage ‘home’ for a good night’s sleep.

It’s morning. The kangaroos have woken me so I watch nature’s world through the window. There are wallabies, wallaroos, parrots, kookaburras, currawongs and magpies all happily going about the business of eating. I guess it is time for our breakfast.

We wander off into the bush along a well-defined track and soon come upon the Ringers Camp. The fire is burning, the billy tea is boiling and the freshly brewed coffee spreads its aroma throughout the camp.

Cereal, fruit, sausages, baked beans, eggs, sautéed vegetables, bacon and a variety of juices make for a great breakfast. We toast bread over the coals of the fire and spread it with honey and jam. Why do I eat so much more when in a setting like this?

It’s 8am and we gather for the Archway Explorer tour. There are ten of us in the minibus as we drive to a lava tube. Lava tubes are the result of volcanic lava flowing down depressions. Eventually the surface cooled and formed a crust but underneath the lava continued to flow.

The eruption eventually stopped and lava flowed out of the far end of the tubes, leaving tunnels beneath the land. Eventually holes appeared when the roof collapsed on the tubes and rainforest sprang up in these dark, moist hollows.

We enter one of these depressions and are surrounded by life. The dry savannah has given way to lush vegetation. Dozens of butterflies flit around our heads. We are in a different world. The huge entrance to a lava tube is straight ahead.

Entering the tube is a wonderful experience. We come face to face with 190,000 years of history. Timber walkways lead deep into the darkness. Our Savannah Guide gives us environmental, geological and historical information on the region.

We visit two other tubes. A long wet season has raised the water table and some tubes are part-filled with water. At one, we strip to our swimwear and bathe in the clear water. We’re told that this is a very rare experience, happening on average, once every twenty years!

While it is possible to experience the highlights of Undara by staying one night, a two-night stay is clearly better. This gives you time to take a second tour to a different section of the tubes, explore more of the walking trails and visit some of the other attractions in the area.

To get there

Flights to both Townsville and Cairns are available from the major hubs in Australia.

Also see: LenRutledge.com

The post Travel to the Australian Outback and fascinating Lava Tubes at Undara appeared first on Australian Times News.

The importance of securing your data

The need to be aware of cybersecurity threats have become quite significant in recent years according to VPNRanks. Due to Net Neutrality rules being repealed, increasing cybersecurity threats, strict internet censorship, and geo-restriction laws, the online world is no longer a safe space to be. 

Data security has become critically important for individuals but more so for corporates. It’s now more important than ever to read up on a few travel safety tips.

The constant threat of hackers trying to get hold of your banking and other account information is probably enough to make you want to work from home until you get invited to come in for your retirement party.

According to Locomote, identity theft amongst business travellers was two to four times more likely. Rest assured, there are a few relatively easy steps you can take to reduce the risk to the data you carry around on your devices.

Secure your device

While making your way through airports, coffee shops and hotels your phone is probably the device you’re most likely to lose. If your phone is running Android or iOS, switch on the Find My Phone feature.

Whether it’s forgetting it on your seat in the plane or setting it down while retrieving your travel documents, your phone is going to be the number one candidate for loss or theft.

But the find your phone feature will give you a chance to recover your device, as long as it’s switched on. Some operating systems and third party software will even allow you to wipe your phone if necessary.

Keep track of your devices

You’ll want to keep your devices with you all the time. Don’t let your phone, tablet or laptop leave your sight. And apart from the obvious risk of theft, it’s not impossible that someone could hack your machine and install malware on it.

In the same vein, don’t leave your devices in your hotel room. If you really have to, consider using the safe. However, first prize would still be to keep your devices on or around your person at all times.

Secure your hard drives

Your hard drive should be encrypted. If it’s encrypted already, run as fast as you can and go encrypt it. Now.

You have a password on your laptop, phone and tablet. But in reality, if you haven’t encrypted your data then nothing really stops someone from taking your hard drive or SD card out of your machine and plugging it into theirs.

They will then be able to view the contents of your drive quite easily. Encryption ensures that your data is only accessible when you or your operating system gives it the correct security key.

Secured over public networks

Secure public Wi-Fi doesn’t exist, as simply as that. Treat every public Wi-Fi hotspot like a firearm and proceed with extreme caution. Always assume it’s loaded and able to do you severe damage.

Hackers will commonly try and intercept your data between your devices and the hotspot. If you absolutely have to connect to a public Wi-Fi hotspot, then you need to use a virtual private network (VPN).

This will encrypt everything you send or receive from your machine. You can also set up a VPN on your phone, tablet and laptop.

Be alert, think ahead

The easiest way to mitigate your risk when it comes to data security is to make sure that you never have to carry any sensitive information you don’t need on your devices.

If your work involves sensitive data, get in the habit of only keeping information that you need for your trip on your machines while travelling.

This will limit the risk, should your computer be lost, stolen or your security breached.

With TheSouthAfrican.com

The post Tech travel safety tips: How to protect your devices and data while on the go appeared first on Australian Times News.

Cannes and get it

Cannes is a rich city on the French Riviera. A haunt of the rich and famous it is perhaps best known as the venue for the Cannes Film Festival held each May.

The 2019 Cannes Film Festival runs from 14 May till 25 May. Big names attending this year include French legend Alain Delon as well as British director Ken Loach. Mexican film directorAlejandro González Iñárritu will serve as jury president.

Last year’s 71st annual Cannes Film Festival boasted Oscar winning Australian actress Cate Blanchett as President of the Jury. The Japanese film ‘Shoplifters’, directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, won the Palme d’Or, one of the most prestigious awards in the film industry.

Luxury hotels such as the famous Martinez and designer shops abound. The large harbour is full of expensive looking yachts. Situated about 20 miles west of Nice it has an equable all year-round Mediterranean climate.

In the 20th century luxury hotels like the Carlton, Martinez and Majestic were built. Then in 1946 the world-famous film festival commenced.

If you’re thinking of going the May temperature in Cannes is a spring like 21°C, almost exactly the same as Sydney and a touch warmer than Melbourne at this time of year.

Count your millions in Monte Carlo

About forty miles down the coast from Cannes lies Monte Carlo, literal meaning Mount Charles, which is world famous for gambling, tax minimalising, and a Formula 1 race.

The tiny princedom of Monaco, to which Monte Carlo belongs, is the second smallest state in the world after the Vatican. The minuscule principality is surrounded on three sides by France and on one side by the Mediterranean.  It is built on solid rock and is full of road tunnels.

Like Cannes it is home to the affluent. Monte Carlo is estimated to be full of the super-rich: 30% of the officially resident population are millionaires including many famous tennis stars like Novak Djokovic and Victoria Azarenka and a few F1 drivers as well.

You can chance your luck on the roulette wheels but must show your passport as identification. The minimum stake is a surprisingly low 17 Euros but of course that’s their come-on price to get you hooked. There is no limit to what you could lose on those tables.

As well as gambling, Monaco is famous for its annual grand prix at which as many as 100,000 people are spectators.

If you fancy a meal at the luxury restaurants you could try the caviar at 150 Euros a spoonful.

At the super deluxe 5-star Hotel Negresco in Nice I saw a bottle of wine on offer at a staggering 4,800 Euros. A cold bottle of Fosters might go down better to drown your sorrows if you miss the Palme d’or!

Yes, Cannes and the Riviera are a rich part of the world. Unless you `Break the bank at Monte Carlo` as in the old music hall song made famous by Charles Coborn, it might be better to move on to less expensive surroundings!

Nice place to be

If you want to come to Nice in the winter, you can enjoy the world-famous carnival in February when hotel rooms are not too expensive. January and February daytime temperatures average about 13°C (55°F) and snow and frost are almost unknown. Nice does get rather warm in the Mediterranean summer, but the sea provides cooling relief for bathers.

It’s a fascinating apart of the world even if you don’t break the bank.

The post Cannes Film Festival is a great excuse to enjoy the French Riviera appeared first on Australian Times News.

Luxor has suffered badly in recent times because tourism almost collapsed, but now there are signs of a pick-up. Direct flights from many European cities ceased and the once-thriving river services to and from Aswan virtually stopped. Some of the 300 or so riverboats that took tourists in relative luxury along the Nile are back in business but most are still tied to the banks and many are rotting away.

This means it is a great time to visit. Hotels have cut prices, tour guides are readily available, crowds are nowhere to be seen and everyone is going out of their way to be friendly, helpful and courteous. Safety is on everyone’s minds and I must say my wife and I felt completely at ease everywhere we went.

The city has a nice riverside promenade, a flotilla of ferries crossing the river, huge hotels facing the Nile, and restaurants and markets competing for the relatively few tourists. The streets jingle with the sounds of bells on horse carriages, which we initially took to be for tourists, but actually they are part of the local transport scene.

The Temple of Amun (Karnak Temple)

This complex of three temples built over a 2000-year period is probably the biggest temple on earth. Our expectations were high and as we wandered the site we became more and more impressed. The stillness of the whole place with its stone columns soaring against the brilliant blue sky was breathtaking.

The surfaces of the grand courtyards are all covered by fine carvings. The scale and detail is staggering. I thought of the vision, the work and the investment that went into this huge structure and then was told that all this could not even be seen at the time by the public. It was only for priests, royals, and the gods.

A millennium later the public entered. We saw marks on the columns where Roman soldiers sharpened their swords, and early Christian images of Mary and Jesus are carved on the ancient pillars like graffiti. Many of the statues have had their noses cut off by the Romans to destroy the Pharaohs rebirth system, because Egyptians then believed that the soul needed to re-enter the body via the nose.

The Luxor Temple

The Luxor Temple is all about the great warrior pharaoh, Ramses II even though it was started 100 years or more (around 1380BC) before his reign. Two 25m pink granite obelisk built by Ramses once stood before the entrance gateway but today only one remains; the other stands in the Place De La Concorde in Paris.

The temple has been in almost continuous use as a place of worship. During the Christian era, the temple’s hypostyle hall was used as a Christian church. Then for many centuries the temple was buried and a mosque was eventually built over it. This mosque was carefully preserved when the temple was uncovered and forms an integral part of the site today.

Originally an avenue lined with sphinxes ran the entire 3 kilometres between the Luxor and Karnak Temples. This avenue is currently under excavation and reconstruction and you see a short completed section near Luxor Temple.

The Valley of the Kings

In about 1600 B.C. there was a big change in the style of royal tombs. Until then, kings were buried in pyramids, but these were consistently being robbed, which meant kings were waking up in the afterlife without their precious earthly possessions. So, rather than mark their tombs with big pyramids, the kings started hiding their tombs underground in the valleys on the west side of the Nile.

Each buried king was provided with all the necessary things that would provide a comfortable existence in the afterlife, however, most of this has been looted over the centuries so most tombs were empty when they were rediscovered in modern times. The condition of the 63 tombs that have been discovered and the details on their walls, however, is incredible after all these centuries. Most are decorated with scenes from Egyptian mythology.

Most of the tombs are not open to the public. The entry ticket to the valley allows you to visit three tombs out of several that are open but some require additional payment. The cost is reasonable and the visitor arrangements are good, however, be aware that in summer the temperature can be stifling. Photography is not allowed in the tombs.

The Hatshepsut Temple

This is perhaps the most spectacular structure on the west bank. The mortuary temple was only discovered about 150 years ago and there is still some on-going restoration work underway. The temple rises out of the desert in a series of terraces that from a distance merge with the sheer limestone cliffs behind.

This temple was built by Queen Hatshepsut, the first known female monarch, who ruled for about two decades. Her reign was one of the most prosperous and peaceful in Egypt’s history. When Thutmose III followed her as pharaoh, he had all evidence of her reign destroyed by erasing her name and having her image cut from all public monuments, even within this temple.

Although unknown for most of history, in the past 100 years her accomplishments have achieved global recognition and her stunning mortuary temple has become one of the most visited structures on the West Bank.

Need to Know

There are few facilities for visitors on the West Bank. Most stay in Luxor and travel to the West Bank by bus or on a tour. Hotels and restaurants in Luxor are good and prices are very reasonable at present. You need a minimum of two days to see the major attractions.

Air access from the United Kingdom is via Cairo.

www.LenRutledge.com

The post The glory of the Egyptian civilization in Luxor appeared first on Australian Times News.

What to do in Amsterdam

A long weekend in Amsterdam is as good as a holiday. Built on a network of canals lined with gorgeous, narrow 17^thcentury houses with amazing gables, there are more than 1,000 bridges spanning canals, 200 coffee shops (where you can often get weed) many on lovely squares and endless rumbling trams snaking through town, clanging.

Downtown Amsterdam is a crazy blend of buildings, classical architecture, neo-romantic, domes, gables, steeples and towers. And shops that sell cannabis, Dutch beer and the GIN, Jenever, Holland’s national spirit since around the 17^th century.

The obvious first thing to do in Amsterdam is take a boat trip around the canals. There are 165 canals that flow like ribbons, covering about 31 miles. A one hour guided trip will set you up to master this complex city riddled with tiny streets.  

Museums, boat rides and very old buildings

Most people who visit Amsterdam go to the fabulous Rijks Museum to see Rembrandt’s famous Nightwatch and Vermeer’s Milk Maid. The Museum has been recently renovated and is packed with great stuff but it’s hell to queue for a ticket (€20) and their signage is, at best, mediocre. (If it’s Rembrandt you’re after, why not visit his house where he lived and worked for nearly two decades. It’s in Jodenbreestraat and entrance is €14.)

The Rijks Museum is massive and could take the best part of the day. Conveniently, there’s a gorgeous park right next to it where you can loll and watch dancing fountains before you set off for the nearby Van Gogh Museum with the largest collection of his paintings in the world.

But of course, it’s the Red Light District we all want to see, The Windows where the prostitutes display themselves. It’s Amsterdam’s oldest neighbourhood and is easy to find as it’s called exactly that, Red Light, on the maps. There are tours of the area if you feel a bit squeeky about tramping there alone.

As the book says, there are sex shops, women for sale, lots of leather, fetish stores and sex theatres. It seems odd to find this in such a pretty, innocent-looking city but it’s been there for about 500 years. We went on a Sunday midday and most of the Windows were empty because, we were told, the girls had gone to church. Foolishly, I tried to photograph a window that did have a girl in it and she kicked the doorframe, screamed at me and pulled the curtain. I did not know (at that stage of the visit) that you may NOT photograph the girls.

The book, Midwinter Break by Bernard MacLaverty is about a Scottish couple who go to Amsterdam for a long weekend and the wife unexpectedly finds the oldest house in Amsterdam, Houten Huis built in the 1420s. It’s a narrow black wooden house just off a magnificent square opposite the English Reformed Church in the centre of town and hidden behind a small door on Begijnhof 34 and is well worth finding. 

As is the Anne Frank Huis in Prinsengracht 263-267, where the young Jewish wartime diarist wrote. Tickets only available online (annafrank.org). (Tickets tend to be cheaper online generally.)

Transport

As there are hardly any cars in Amsterdam – just trams and taxis – everyone walks. Or rides cycles at speed along cycle routes. As a pedestrian you could fall under a tram but Amsterdammers are very polite and gracious and it’s highly unlikely you’d be struck down by a cyclist! If you were, you’d need to relax in the nearest cafe in a sunny square and have a Dutch coffee and a jenever gin, or several! Maybe even a puff of the old green stuff. 

Amsterdam is not cheap. If you buy a City Pass some museums are free. A multi-day Tram Ticket can be bought on the tram which has a helpful conductor behind a desk onboard. And ask hotels for maps with discounts marked on them.

Amsterdam Tourist Office

TOP IMAGE: Amsterdam night-life (Via Pixabay)

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Once done, you pull out your notebook and tick off each of your English bucket list attractions.  

Granted, London is an absolute gem of a city with an abundance of iconic landmarks and activities on offer. Yet, it merely scratches the surface of what England is all about.

It’s like having a taste of the brim of the fabulous Yorkshire pudding. This small bite leaves you salivating, wanting more. You wonder what the gravy in the centre tastes like.

For such a small country, you would be surprised at how many other spectacular places you can visit. It is filled to the brim with historical sites, dramatic landscapes and quaint towns.

To illustrate, today we will be exploring one such place – The Jurassic Coast. A little over 200kms from the mother city, this 154km coastline will keep you in awe.

The Jurassic Coast

Discover Earth’s most ancient past by exploring the dramatic Jurassic Coast. This 154km coastline stretches from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset.

It is this part of Southern England that attracts millions of visitors each year. And rightfully so.

Not only is it England’s first UNESCO world heritage site, but also offers insight into Earth’s geological history.  Its rocks, cliffs and fossils tell a detailed story from 185 million years ago. A time when humans didn’t exist.

There is an abundance of fascinating landscapes to take in. Captivating arches and pinnacles protruding into the sea can be found along this stretch of coast. Each of them carved out by the forces of nature, eroding over time.

What’s more, this landscape has evolved dramatically over three occasions. Firstly, it was a desert during the Triassic period. Secondly, geological evidence suggests that it was part of a tropical sea during the Jurassic period. And thirdly, during the Cretaceous period, it was once covered by swamps. Fascinating right?

Feeling up to a little fossil treasure hunt? This is the place for it. Dinosaurs once roamed here and trace fossils (dinosaur footprints) can still be seen here.  Specifically, in the Purbeck limestone along the coast between Swanage and Lulworth and the edge of briny lagoons.

Lulworth

Lulworth makes a great base for exploring this part of the south coast.  This quaint little village draws thousands of travellers wanting to explore its beautiful bays, coves and landscapes.

It is the perfect place to visit in just about any season. More so, it is a nature-lovers paradise.

There are 100s of km worth of scenic walking trails waiting for you to explore it.

When you are finished, head to one of the villages many cafes. While you are there, try out the traditional Dorset ice cream unique to the area.

The visitor centre is also worth a visit. It offers all kinds of information about the coastline.

Specifically, check out the megalosaurus dinosaur footprint that is on display at the Visitor Centre. This 147 million-year-old meat-eating dinosaur was found near Swanage.

Durdle Door and Man O’ War Bay

If you were to ask a local where the best spot along the coast is, almost always they will tell you it is Durdle Door. It’s a favourite in Dorset. Visit Britain even rated it as one of the top 10 natural wonders in the UK.

This world-famous rock arch is a geological masterpiece. It was formed 10 000 years ago by constant erosion and resembles the shape of a door. Interestingly, these millions of years ago it lay down horizontally on the seabed. The movement of the earth’s crust has pushed it into its near vertical position, today majestically standing in the sea. Its constant erosion contributes to its prettiness and uniqueness.

It separates the two shingle beaches of Durdle Door and the Man O’war beach.

These beaches can be reached by a short walk down a steep cliff that can be accessed just in front of the Durdle Door Holiday Park.

If you would like a more scenic walk start at Lulworth Cove and follow the aquamarine coastline. It is best to do it at low tide so you can appreciate the breathtaking vertical drops of the undulating cliffs.

Keep your eyes peeled for The Cow and the Bull. These semi-submerged rocks along the coast show the line of the reef that was once there.

Lulworth Cove

Similarly,  Lulworth Cove has been formed 10 000 years ago. This pretty horseshoe-shaped cove with a white pebble beach is extremely important for its geology.

Low tide reveals wonderful rock pools teeming with sea creatures. 

The smooth pebbles on the beach were once part of larger pieces of rock that have fallen from the cliff and become eroded and worn down by the sea. There are 5 different rock types but most of the pebbles are grey limestones and flint or white chalk. The best rock strata in Europe can be found here.

If you are visiting in the summer take a boat trip. You can enjoy the views of the coastline from a completely different perspective.

Fossil Forest

Have you ever visited a fossilised forest?

Now is your chance. The area around Lulworth Cove contains a fossilised forest that houses 71 different rock strata.

Fossilised ripple marks and desiccation cracks can be seen in the Purbeck Limestone. These show you where the ancient sea floor used to be.

Trees once grew here too, giving the name to the fossilised forest.

It disappeared 147 million years ago when it got swamped by an influx of water as the sea levels rose. Algae gathered around the rotting tree stumps which later became fossilised.

The fossilised remains of animals and plants living in this era are well preserved and provide a wealth of knowledge.

Love the images you see? They are all for sale as art pieces on the 51 Countries and Counting Travel platform. Click here for more information. Get me a shout out on Instagram.

The post Explore the southern coast of England to gain insight into earth’s ancient past: Jurassic Coast appeared first on Australian Times News.

Fondues, scenic train rides, unparalleled landscapes, chocolates, and ski trips of a lifetime are just some of the reasons why you must visit Switzerland.

We will be exploring the top 15 reasons why this, not so over-commercialised tourist mecca is an attractive destination for every traveller.

As for the question on everyone’s minds, yes, it is mighty expensive but hey, you get what you pay for!

Whether it is the spectacular scenery, or the safety and security, Switzerland is a country that will leave you wanting more.

1. Safety

Contrary to a large part of Europe, notorious for its hoard of snatch thieves, pickpockets and gypsies, Switzerland ranks 2nd globally as per the Global Finance’s safety index factors.

2. A melting pot of cultures and languages

Switzerland is a country that is characterized by its cultural diversity. Geneva, for example, is home to 190 different nationalities that live and work in its city. And that’s just Geneva. The country borders Germany, France, Austria and Italy which adds to its diversity.

The German region of the country can be found in the central and eastern parts of Switzerland and includes cities such as Zurich, Bern, Fribourg, Valais and Basel.

The western part of Switzerland is French and includes cities such as Lausanne and Geneva.

And the southern region – well Italian! Lugano and Ticino both boast rich architecture, culture and even the food is different.

That said, travelling from one region of Switzerland to the other feels like you are country hopping.

3. Peaceful, calm nation

Switzerland is a relative sea of calm, which could possibly be attributed to its stable democracy you see in action.

As a result, it is a country that you can quite easily disconnect in, and free yourself from any political nonsense you normally have to deal with daily.

4. Its climate(s)

Switzerland has an incredibally varying climate which is heavily influenced by the Alps as well as by the Atlantic Ocean. And whilst you may think that it is covered in snow all year round, or thoughtout the entire winter season, think again.

Don’t be surprised by the fact that you can spend a morning ploughing down the snowy Alps, then the afternoon soaking up the sun around one of the country’s lakes.

Winters in the northern plateau are mild and damp, whereas higher altitudes experience arctic temperatures. At altitudes above 1200-1500 metres or so, precipitation in the winter falls mainly as snow.

The south side of the Alps is strongly affected by the Mediterranean Sea, and so winters there are mild and the summers warm and humid, and sometimes hot.

The mountains also add an extra dimension to the ‘mild’ Swiss climate, as the elevation is an important factor for the temperature at a specific location.

Also, mountains can stop clouds, resulting in a moist cool climate on one side of a mountain, and a dry sunny climate on the other side.

5. Snap postcard-worthy pictures

“Every picture I took in Switzerland looked like it’s from a postcard,” said every person we know who has visited the country.

Be wowed by nature’s astonishing beauty, where lush green pastures, skies in stunning hues of blue and the magnificent Alps come together to form a picture that truly represents the Instagram catchphrase #nofilterneeded.

Almost anywhere you end up in the country, you’re likely to have a view of something spectacular, whether it be crystal clear lakes, rolling hills, snow capped mountains, or waterfalls.

Lakes

Switzerland stands unique in boasting about its array of astonishing lakes, some of which are among Europe’s largest and most beautiful.

From the vast expanse of Lake Geneva to the tranquil isolation of the Seebergsee, Switzerland’s lakes offer stunning views, peace and tranquility.

Waterfalls

If mountains, lakes and scenic landscapes weren’t enough to convince you to visit, then Switzerland’s abundance of waterfalls might just. It is home to Europe’s largest plain waterfall, the impressive Rhine Falls. The sheer size and power of this fall will just take your breath away.

It also has its fair share of falls that are among the highest in Europe.

In the Lauterbrunnen Valley, you can find 72 spectacular falls cascading down the mountains. These falls have inspired worldwide poets and painters and have arguably become recognisable landmarks for the country.

Some notable falls of the region are the Staubbach Falls and mysterious Trümelbach Falls, which can be found inside the mountain.

Mountains

You’ve seen it on boxes of chocolates like Toblerone, adorning calendars and on Paramount Pictures movie intros.

The Matterhorn mountain is recognized around the globe as the proud symbol of Switzerland.

Its lonely peak, resembling that of a jagged tooth juts up into the sky, challenging mountaineers worldwide and welcomes less energetic visitors looking to enjoy its tranquil beauty.

But this is not the only mountain that will get you excited. 20% of the Alps are in Switzerland which means that there are still approximately 100 peaks waiting to be marvelled at.

Each being close to or higher than 4000meters above sea level and can be easily reached by aerial cable cars, cog railways or gondolas.

6. An outdoor playground

As mentioned above, Switzerland has no shortage of natural scenes, which makes it an outdoor playground for adventure lovers.

Not only can you go skiing and snowboarding in the winter, but in summer, you can take advantage of more than 60 000kms of uniformly marked hiking trails that criss-cross the country.

Here is another fact that you can appreciate:  There are almost as many marked hiking trails as there are roads for motorized traffic. Can you agree that the Swiss are serious about getting outdoors?

There are a few other outdoor activities that you can take part in, like snow-shoe trekking, tobogganing, sleighing.

The countries extensive cable car and gondola system makes it so easy to hop from one mountain to the next.

7. Switzerland for breakfast, Italy for lunch

If you are like me, you love country hopping. And what better place to do that in Switzerland.

It does after all neighbour four other countries. Germany, France, Italy, Austria and the tiny state of Liechtenstein are all easily accessible with Switzerland’s incredible and punctual railway network. I am not even kidding when I say that Swiss trains are on time down to the second.

The best part of this is, you can wake up in Switzerland, have lunch in Munich (which is 4hours away by train), and be back in Switzerland for a late dinner.

Looking for another destination? Milan can be reached in 1h40 from Lugano.

8. Cheese and chocolate

Now is not the time to diet. The Swiss are famed for both their cheeses and chocolates.

Cheese

Love cheese? There are over 400 cheeses resident to Switzerland, with some having received “protected” status and not produced anywhere else in the world.

You should just check out the cheese sections in the stores.

One traditional cheese dish to enjoy is the traditional Swiss fondue. Emmental and Gruyère are melted in a huge pot and mixed with dry white wine, then you can dip pieces of rustic bread in it. Delicious!

Raclette is also a noteworthy kind of cheese and dish. Pieces of Raclette cheese are poured over potatoes or meat and placed in mini grills.

Chocolate

Chocolate in Switzerland has been dubbed as “dark gold” and for good reason.

Many of the world’s famous chocolate brands all started out in Switzerland. Lindt, Toblerone and Nestlé hailed from here.

Although Lindt & Sprüngli officially started in 1899, the owners started making chocolate as early as 1845. They where the first to invent the conche, a revolutionary manufacturing technique that led to “melting chocolate” as we know and love today.

9. The public bathrooms

Public bathrooms would not usually make the “Top 15 reasons why lists” for any country. But in Switzerland, the bathrooms you will find in train stations are incredibly clean. Almost as clean as the one you find in your hotel room.

In fact, almost everything in Switzerland is incredibly clean.

10.Health conscious food

Cheese and chocolates aside, the Swiss eat incredibally healthy. It is one of the only countries in the world where you are less likely to find preservatives and unnatural ingredients in their food.

So much so that, according to the global health rankings, the average life expectancy of the Swiss is 83 years.

Swiss food is fresh, and you can definitely taste the difference. Although eating out can be very expensive, it sure is worth it.

11. Work-life-balance

Switzerland’s citizens regularly rank among the world’s happiest, so what makes them so cheerful during their working hours?

That is because they have a really healthy and strict work-life-balance.

According to the OECD world happiness rankings, the average Swiss citizen works 1,632 hours a year, 144 less than the world average.

In addition, employees must have a minimum of 11 hours off between shifts/days, according to the Swiss economics secretariat.

In addition, lunch breaks are sacred. If you eat a sandwich at your desk, people will scold you. If it is summer, going for a swim in a nearby lake is an acceptable way to spend your lunch hour.

Swiss companies also offer fairly generous policies for vacation leave, parental leave, and childcare benefits, making it easy for working parents to manage their family lives as well.

What’s more, is that the Swiss nation is reletivally quiet, introverted and polite, all whilist being mindful of people’s privacy and need for “quiet time.”

As a result of all of the above, don’t travel to Switzerland expecting that everything will be open on a Sunday. Everything, in almost every city is on lockdown.

It can be a little bit frustrating at first, having to plan around the Swiss strict working hours but once you consider the reasons why this happens, you can appreciate the rest day given to you, even if it is your vacation.

12. Soak in the best quality thermal waters

So what do the Swiss do as part of their work-life-balance routines?

They rejuvenate their stressed out minds and souls in one of Switzerland’s many thermal baths that serve a long-standing history of 2000 years.

Thermal water, in general, is rightly considered a natural source of health, youth and beauty and beneficial to the human body. They are widely used in the treatment of respiratory diseases and muscular disorders especially that of rheumatism.

You will appreciate the restorative retreats that are on offer in luxurious indoor spas around the country.  Better yet, some of these thermal spas can be found outdoors among the Alps. These thermal baths never look more beautiful than in winter when the snow is heavily falling.

A few thermal baths you can consider is the Les Bains De Lavey that boasts the hottest thermal water in the country, the Leukerbad Therme, being the largest thermal spa in all of Europe, and the fairy-tale setting of the Alps as provided for by the Mineraldbad and Spa.

13. Nightlife

There’s no better place than Lausanne and Zurich to party and there is a club for every age and every taste, some with well-known

DJ’s that have the grooves down. The variety of bars, cafes and music clubs is astounding – and the cities itself isn’t exactly forgettable.

14. Luxury watches, say what?

Almost everything in Switzerland is of ultimate luxury, and the unique watches that come from this country are no different.

In the St. Imier Valley, you will find one of the three major Swiss watchmaking centres. This factory still uses original equipment, including an antiquated rose engine, to perform age-old techniques such as guillochage, a process that creates precise decorative patterns. And the workers still labour by hand to produce dials for a coterie of Switzerland’s leading watch brands, including Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and Chopard.

Today, Swiss watches, particularly the handcrafted mechanical variety, lauded for their precision and pedigree, are synonymous with luxury.

A Swiss airlines advertisement at Zurich Airport coudn’t have summed it up better: “Like shopping for a Swiss watch. Hard to make a mistake.”

15. For the festivals

Switzerland has no shortage of magnificent festivals that you can attend.

One such event is the colourful nine-day International Hot Air Balloon Festival held every January by the Château-d’Oex in the Vaudois Alps.

You will love this festival for its aerial displays, the night show, and all the balloon rides.

Switzerland is also famous for its wine especially in Geneva where Switzerland’s oldest and largest festival takes place. The Fête des Vignerons (Winegrower’s Festival) in Vevey on Lake Geneva is only held five times a century and is also a Unesco-recognised event too. Last held in 1999, it will run from July 18th to August 11th in 2019.

The fête’s origins date back to the 17th century when the Wine Guild held a yearly pageant in Vevey, at the foot of The Lavaux – one of Switzerland’s oldest wine-growing regions.

If you love sport then you can attend Switzerland’s largest traditional sporting event called the Federal Swiss Wrestling and Alpine Festival.

It is a fantastic celebration of Swiss wrestling, seeing the country’s best wrestlers, resembling that of a half sumo-wrestler, competing in a circular area filled with dust.

It only happens once every three years and the 2019 outing takes place in Zug from August 23rd to August 25th.

These are just a few of the many festivals happening each year in this diverse country. Be sure to check out our most recent piece on the Lucern Carnival here.

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TOP IMAGE: Lake Lucerne | Image by Chantelle Flores | www.51countriesandcounting.com

The post 15 stunning reasons why you should visit Switzerland at least once [PHOTOS] appeared first on Australian Times News.

The south coast city of Cork on the banks of the River Lee with a metro population of several hundred thousand is the island of Ireland’s third city after Dublin and Belfast.

It was known historically as the`Rebel City`because of its support for the Yorkist cause during the wars of the roses (1455-1487).

A strongly nationalist city, Cork was burned down in 1920 by the notorious `Black and Tans` during the Irish war of independence (1919-1921).

Despite Ireland becoming more secular in recent years, churches are still well attended and my taxi driver blessed himself every time he drove past a Catholic church.

Cork Harbour rivals Sydney Harbour as the world’s finest natural water front.  It’s a beautiful, impressive and fascinating area, full of history and natural beauty.  The land area in the centre is Great island, home to the town of Cobh and connected to the mainland by two bridges, one road, one rail. Less than two kilometres separate the headlands as it meets the sea, making it by any reckoning, a fine, strategically important natural harbour. Its considerable depth in many places allows large ocean-going vessels – tankers, container ships and liners – to enter and depart with ease.

The port of Cobh (pronounced `Cove`), formerly known as Queenstown, was an embarcation point for over a million Irish emigrants in the 19^th and early 20^th centuries. There is a pier by the old White Star building called `Heartbreak Pier` where many starving, desperate people took to the seas in the hope of escaping grinding poverty by immigration to the new world.  Many thousands of them went to Australia.

Heartbreak of the Titanic

Heartbreak Pier was also the departure point for the 123 passengers who boarded the ill-fated Titanic in 1912. This gigantic ship was too large to come in to the harbour and the passengers had to be carried out by two tenders called PS Ireland and PS America.

The Titanic Exhibition is in the original White Star Line Ticket Office, a building steeped in history dating back to the early 19^th century and the departure point for many thousands of White Star Line passengers. When you arrive at the check-in you check in at reception and are told the story of those 123 passengers.

Upon check-in you are given your boarding card. Your boarding card will have the details of one of the 123 passengers who came to the White Star Line Ticket Office on Thursday April 11^th, 1912.

These were the final passengers to join Titanic at her last port of call in Queenstown, Ireland. Titanic sailed from Southampton, England via Cherbourg, France to Queenstown, Ireland. (Cobh was renamed Queenstown from the period of 1849-1921 in honour of Queen Victoria’s visit to Cobh and so is referred to Cobh as Queenstown for much of the story).

The pier, which is believed to be about 150 years old, earned its nickname from the poignant scenes it witnessed.

As many emigrants did not have the means to return home to visit once they left Ireland, it became known as Heartbreak Pier, representing the heartache of a final goodbye to family and home.

I was given the ticket of William Docherty a 22-year-old local man who sailed off to America to seek a new life. I had to wait until the end of the tour to find out his fate.

The tour takes you through reconstructions of the third-class cabins which while modest by today’s standards had features like electricity and running water which many rural folk in Ireland would not have had at the time.

The first-class cabins were plush and the dinner menus exotic. The rich passengers had access to Turkish baths, libraries, fitness suites, first class restaurants and were able to send messages long distance by the ship’s state of the art wireless transmitter.

There was a 3D hologram of an actor acting out the part of a victim which was poignant.

The tour ended with the list of all the passengers who had embarked at Cork. Of 123 just 44 survived, the two women first-class passengers were saved but William Docherty my steerage (third class) passenger perished along with 79 others.

Cork Gaol

Cork has many museums and art galleries but the one attraction I wanted to see was the historic Cork Gaol. 

A tour of this this 19^th century prison is an arresting experience. The dreadful conditions inside don’t bear thinking about with flogging, overcrowding and insanitary conditions.

Escape attempts resulted in the prisoners’ clothes and blankets being confiscated which meant they froze in their cells lying on straw as there were no beds.

The work was demeaning and laborious with prisoners having to pick oakum which meant pulling apart old ropes to make new ones. The strain on the fingers led to many bleeding fingers and blisters. There was a treadmill on which unfortunates had to trundle all day.

Sent to prison for petty offences like stealing food, those who were sentenced to five years or more were deported to a life of penal servitude in Australia in ghastly `coffin ships` as this was cheaper than keeping them in prison.

One of the most famous inmates in October 1919, was Constance Markievicz. An Irish nationalist and suffragette, she was the first woman to be elected to the British Parliament, and was imprisoned at Cork Gaol for making a seditious speech.

The gaol was finally closed in 1923 and the building was then used as a radio station until the late 1950s. The building was then left derelict for decades until it was opened in 1993 as the current historic tourist attraction.

Casinos, art, fish and butter

One of Cork’s best-known attractions is the large English market which is principally a food hall. The strong smell of raw fish may be off putting for some though.

Other attractions include the butter museum, the Cork public museum and the Crawford art gallery. Horse racing and gambling are popular pastimes in Ireland and Cork has a trio of Gold Rush casinos.

The city’s main railway station Cork Kent is named after Thomas Kent who was an Irish nationalist leader who was executed by the British in 1916 in the aftermath of the Easter Rising in Dublin in Cork on 9 May 1916, the only person outside of Dublin to be shot for his role in the events surrounding Easter Week (Roger Casement was hanged for treason in London later that same year).

Enough of history, how about going out?

Cork is a byword for great food, and there’s a good reason why: the quality here is incredible. Step into the English Market and you’re right in the middle of a locavore’s paradise with artisan cheese, sublime smoked fish and creamy chocolate among the buzzing food stalls. Flavour, quality and innovation drive a vibrant restaurant scene that sees favorites such as Café Paradiso and Farmgate Café sit alongside buzzing new hotspots of Electric, Salt, Miyazaki and Elbow Lane.

And if craft beers are your thing, you’re in no better place. As well as the local stouts of Murphy’s and Beamish, Cork’s local brews are big right now, with Eight Degrees Brewing, Rising Sons and Elbow Lane among the names to look out for. For a great craft beer experience, step into the brewpub at the Franciscan Well Brewery and have a glass of Blarney Blonde, Rebel Red or Shandon Stout. Tasty.

Getting to Cork

With its strong Oz links, Cork is an ideal and fascinating holiday destination for an Aussie.

Travelling from Britain by rail and sail is time consuming with for example a trip by train and ferry from Edinburgh to Cork taking 14 hours by train, ferry and train again. Aer Lingus does the same distance with a direct flight which covers the 354-mile distance in one and a half hours on their ATR 78-seater turboprop. You’ll love the colleens in their bright green uniforms and friendly manner.

Cork, the friendly rebel city by the River Lee is well worth a visit.

TOP IMAGE: Cork, Ireland.Image by rmac8oppo on Pixabay (other images, by the author)

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Additionally, it’s easier to navigate around a new place if you only have a carry-on bag — no long queues at baggage claim and no heavy luggage to lug around.

My bag of choice is a 33L duffle backpack: Carry it as a duffle bag over your shoulder or flip it sideways and it’s a backpack. Depending on how you carry it, either the sling or the backpack straps can be tucked away when not in use.

It has a laptop sleeve on the inside and there’s enough space for two packing cubes, a 15″ laptop, toiletry bag and the maroon gadget bag you seen in the image above.

However, the bag is a bit heavy with the 15″ laptop. I’ve now invested in a 10″ tablet for travelling. The tablet is also nice for this load shedding dilemma we find ourself in, because it can be charged with a powerbank.

Fitting everything you need into one small bag sounds daunting, I know, but it’s really not that hard. Sure, I get that minimalism travel isn’t for everyone. Not everyone wants to live out of a bag and handwash their clothes every second day.

I had this very discussion with my best friend while we were wandering around Swaziland for nine glorious days. It was before I bought my duffle backpack, and I took two bags on that trip: a sports bag and a backpack, mainly because we rented a car and didn’t fly.

My friend, who had taken a nice sturdy suitcase, told me while unpacking her gown that she prefers comfort. I didn’t have space to pack a gown, you see. I, who took only three t-shirts, a pair of jeans and two track pants, had to wash my clothes frequently.

The point is that minimalist travel might not be for you and that is okay. But if you think it could be and are looking for some pointers on how to actually go about it, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we’ll look at a generic minimalistic travel list.

You’ll need a sturdy bag

Oh, there are so many options, and we’ll go into detail about this at a later stage. Before you go out and buy a bag that is way too big (or small), you need first to assess what you want to take.

I’ve managed to get my travelling items down to nine clothing items. Disclaimer, I get to save extra space because I only travel with one pair of shoes, my trusty Salomons. Other sites out there will advise you to take one pair for walking and one “fancy” pair.

Yeah, if my Salomon’s aren’t good enough for a fancy establishment, the establishment is not good enough for me. That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.

It also helps that I pretty much wear the same type of clothes and I’m not really bothered about fashion. Personally I go for a cross between Jessica Jones and Dean Winchester.

Therefore, my list includes:

• Three black t-shirts
• One pair of jeans
• Two pairs of track pants
• Two long sleeve check shirts (actually, exactly like the image above)
• One jacket
• Pyjama top and bottoms
• Underwear
• One pair of shoes

That’s it. The t-shirts are polyester, so they dry out overnight. I love cotton, but it’s not really ideal for travelling. Unless you plan to take one shirt for every day, you’ll need to scale down on the clothes to save space.

Toiletries

I bought a microfibre towel – it’s quick-drying too and folds into a little ball smaller than my fist. Look, you won’t be able to wrap it around your body like a floofy big towel, but it gets the job done.

My toiletry bag is pretty much minimalist too.

• Toothbrush and tiny toothpaste
• Strange handglove thingy for washing
• Shampoo sheets (50 small sheets in a tiny container, just add water)
• Liquid soap sheets
• Laundry wash sheets
• Mitchum roll on
• First aid kit
• Earbuds
• Mosquito repellent.

That’s it. Honestly, I didn’t think I’d be able to cope with just that, but I have no complaints so far. It also helps that I’m not a make-up wearing person.

On occasions that I do need to take makeup, I get by with one black eyeliner, and an eyeshadow compact in shades of black, grey and green. And it’s easy enough to squeeze those two items in anywhere.

If you need more space, try packing smaller items in bulky shoes – think socks, power cables, toiletries – and wear your heaviest clothes, like jackets, jeans, etc, while in transit.

A waist belt or under-the-shoulder bag is ideal for holding passports, cash, your phone, etc. while on the move. If you’re still not convinced, try a 65L bag and see how that works out. You can always downscale later.

With TheSouthAfrican.com

TOP IMAGE: Via Pixabay.com

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The relatively small city has a glorious setting, an iconic image of all that is picturesque about Austria and the Alps, and one that was indelibly re-enforced by The Sound of Music.

From the end of the 14th century the city was the seat of the Archbishopric of Salzburg, a prince-bishopric of the Holy Roman Empire. The controlling Prince Archbishops lavished their wealth on a fortress above the town, and the city palaces and the churches, while the prosperous local merchants built imposing five-storey residences beside the Salzach River.

Set against a backdrop of the snow-capped Alps, Salzburg, radiates Old World charm. The Old Town”, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, is chocked full of cobblestone streets, Medieval and Baroque buildings, palaces, concert halls, monasteries and more. Check out the Austria Visa Requirements here.

Also see: Happily ever Vienna

This is a city with a burgeoning arts scene, wonderful food, manicured parks, and concert halls that uphold musical tradition 365 days a year.

Old Town

Salzburg’s most visible landmark is the 900-year-old cliff-top fortress Festung Hohensalzburg, one of the biggest and best preserved medieval castles in Europe. It was built in 1077, and offers magnificent views over the city’s spires, the Salzach River and the mountains. It’s a steep 15-minute walk from the centre, or take the glass Festungsbahn funicular. Don’t miss the Golden Hall with its gold-studded ceiling imitating a starry night sky. Concerts are often held here.

Much of Salzburg’s grandeur, including the cathedral, is due to Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau. Arriving from Rome in 1587, he set out to create a Baroque city north of the Alps as splendid as Rome. The cathedral is a masterpiece of baroque art. In the nave, the intricate stucco and ceiling frescoes depicting the Passion of Christ guide the eye to the polychrome dome. For two years Mozart served as organist here.

Handsome St. Peter’s Church dates back to the 12th Century, although the layout and decor were updated during the Baroque era. The graveyard next to the church is also worth a visit, and hourly Catacombs tours are scheduled from May through September.

The prince-archbishops lived in the Residenz after they moved from Hohensalzburg fortress. You can visit the art gallery, take a guided tour of the State Rooms (in German), or buy a combination ticket for both.

Culture and Museums

Art lovers and museum-fiends will also find plenty of ways to keep themselves entertained, since Salzburg prides itself on being a destination for culture. Perhaps the city’s most enduring cultural celebration is its annual Summer Festival. Founded by Max Reinhardt and Richard Strauss in the nineteen twenties, it has blossomed into one of the world’s greatest musical gatherings.

Salzburg was the birthplace of 18th-century composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. There’s a Mozart College for musicians, and plenty of opportunities to hear his music. Mozart was born in 1756 and lived in the city until age 25, when he left after a falling out with the reigning archbishop.

Mozart’s birthplace is in the Old Town where his family lived until he was 17. Memorabilia on display include his first violin, given to him at the age of six. The much grander Mozart’s Residence, where the family lived from 1773 to 1787, is used to display exhibitions about the composer.

The Mirabell Gardens, just across the river from the Old Town was where the end of the Do-Re-Mi sequence in The Sound of Music was filmed. There is a great view back to the Old Town from here. Another film location is found if you walk down the path around the back of the castle. Nonnberg Abbey was where Maria was a novice and where the opening convent scenes of the movie were filmed.

At the Salzburg Panorama Museum there is a huge panorama painted by Johann Michael Sattler in 1829. The scene shows what the city looked like from the top of the Salzburg castle at the time

An elevator inside the steep cliff of the Mönchsberg takes you to the Museum der Moderne. Some say the view and the cafe are more impressive than the museum. The Salzburg Museum, however, provides an excellent history lesson about the city and its past and present citizens.

Some way out of town, the 17th-century Hellbrunn Palace and gardens was built as the Archbishop’s summer day residence, and there are some fine painted interiors.

Useful visitor information

There are many food options in Salzburg. One favourite is the Augustiner beer garden, a huge 1,000-seat place within a brewery that is usually packed with people enjoying traditional food and beer drawn from old-time wooden kegs.

The city’s best nightlife is in Steingasse, a medieval street with a number of lively bars.

The Salzburg Card costs around A$53 for 48 hours and allows entry to all the top sights and free public transport. It is excellent value.

www.LenRutledge.com

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Airbnb

With Airbnb, you can either rent individual rooms in someone’s house or an entire apartment. The platform puts you in touch with locals who rent out rooms, apartments – even couches – and you can get amazing deals and hidden gems if you tweak the search filters a little bit.

The app handles everything pertaining to the transaction for you, from finding the host, to paying for your stay. Protip: When you connect your Gmail account to Airbnb, they will get access to your contact list. If you don’t want that to happen, sign up with an email specifically set aside for newsletters and junk mail.

Hostelworld

Much like Airbnb, Hostelworld sorts out your accommodation crises for you. Search for accommodation using an interactive map, get all the information you need and read reviews from other travellers.

With Hostelworld you’ll save on accommodation costs, and it will also suggest activities and tourist attractions in the area which might be of interest. Add different filters to your searches to find the perfect accommodation for you.

Trail Wallet

When you set out on your travels, money might be the last thing you want to worry about. We know, you just want to enjoy your time away from away, chase adventures and experience new things. But the entire trips could go very sour very quickly if you’re not clever with your financials.

With Trail Wallet, you can keep track of your expenses. It allows you to organise by trip or by or by month. Set a daily budget to ensure you don’t overspend and it is straightforward to update the app and add new transactions.

Skyscanner

The easiest way, by far, to find cheap flights. The app collects data from more than 1,200 sources to ensure you get the best options available. It will also compare flights for the most affordable and most accessible routes.

A particularly useful feature is the chart that allows you to see which days of the months to get the best deals. Fly to anywhere in the world and use Skyscanner to get your say. More than 60 million people use Skyscanner.

Roadtrippers

Last but not least, Roadtrippers. It lets you build custom travel itineraries. You can plot your route directly from the app, or via their website. The app will then show you exciting attractions along the way, scenic locations and where to get a meal.

You can set up your interests in advance so that the app will show you what you want to see. Then, share the route with your friends or travel buddies. It’s flexible to use, and you can change or add more stops as you go.

TOP IMAGE: Pixabay/FunkyFocus

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Indonesia is home to three of the world’s seven pink beaches.

Serai Beach

Far from civilisation and reached only by boat, Serai Island’s beach blushes a rich shade of pink. The boat anchors a few metres from the shoreline to protect its spectacular coral reef, leaving you to swim to shore.

Whilst, the more famous pink beach just off Komodo National Park, colour can only be seen at a certain time of the day; this one flaunts its colours for 12 hours of the day.

Why is it pink?

This incredible natural wonder gets its striking colour from thousands of broken coral pieces, shells, and calcium carbonate materials left behind by red microscopic animals called Foraminifera. These live in the coral reefs that surround the beach.

Shades of the rainbow

Pink is not the only colour you will see. The island is a marvel of all the colours of a rainbow. The sandstone cliff overlooking the beach boasts a shade of yellow and the trees that surround the beach are lush green. Whats more, these colours are contrasted with its lapping clear blue touriqous waves and blue skies.

The underworld

The underwater world is no less fascinating. Snorkelling here will reveal a beautiful panorama and a healthy and colourful underwater garden. Various kinds of amazing sea biota can be found here, including thousands of different kinds of fish and 70 kinds of sponges.

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Love the images you see? They are all for sale as art pieces on the 51 Countries and Counting Travel platform. 

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Getting away from your comfort zone can do wonders for that “stuck-in-a-rut” feeling, so get those travel plans ready.

We’ve lined up six of the best budget travel destinations for 2019 to add to your must-do list. From relaxing in Zanzibar, to a bucket-list favourite in India, to amazing cuisine in Malaysia, the world is yours for the taking this year.

Puebla, Mexico

A UNESCO heritage site, the city of Puebla, has a historical centre and a network of churches that will leave any history buff fascinated. It’s one of those quiet, underrated travel gems and the streets won’t be packed with tourists.

The accommodation is cheap. For example, a week’s stay for two adults at Hotel Sofia would cost around AUD$250, while a double room at Hotel Senorial for a week would work out to AUD$280.

Agra, India

Agra is situated in India’s northern Uttar Pradesh state and is home to the Taj Mahal. The mausoleum was built for the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631.

While November is the ideal time to visit India – due to the sightseeing tours and festivals taking place – there’s no reason why you cannot book a holiday now.

Book into the Sai Palace for under AUD$100– for five nights stay! Hotel Bhoomi charges approximately AUD$230 for six nights stay, while backpackers save even more: only AUD$75 for six nights at Rhine Hostel; or AUD$63 at Hotel Safari.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

A popular travel destination. The streets of Buenos Aires are lined with cafes and parks to guarantee hours of peaceful exploration. Enjoy the local cuisine: steak, wine, empanadas and ice cream.

Buenos Aires has luxury accommodation if that’s what you’re after. However, travellers can consider a week’s budget accommodation at Merit San Telmo for under AUD$400. Alternatively, backpackers can look at splurging AUD$130 for a week’s stay at Adventure Hostel.

Zanzibar

A trip to the “Spice Island” certainly won’t be wasted. Just off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is any budget traveller’s dream. Enjoy the islands street food snacks for as little as AUD$3 and book into budget accommodation in Stone Town.

Also read – Barcelona: 14 pictures that will make you want to visit right now

And when we say budget destination, we mean less than AUD$200 for six nights’ stay at Malindi Guest House with breakfast included or AUD$250 at the Kilimanjaro Lodge on Nungwi Beach.

Transylvania, Romania

There is more to Transylvania that just talks of Dracula. Hike through limestone gorges, visit the magnificent castles and enjoy the cuisine. The Libearty Bear Sanctuary is also a must-see.

At AUD$460 for six nights, the 5-star Denisa Boutique Hotel is a steal. Check in advance because rooms here sell fast. If you’re looking for something cheaper still, check out the Pensiunea Piatra Mandrutului. It’s in high demand and will only cost about AUD$140 for a week’s stay.

Penang, Malaysia

Head to George Town in Penang and forget about your cares and stress for a while. George Town is any foodie’s paradise, from cosy restaurants to street food vendors. The Red Garden as a wide selection of food stands for any budget.

Also read – Zambia: 12 pictures that will make you want to visit right now

The Sanguine Avenue Light Blue House is top-rated and won’t break the bank. Stay comfortably for six nights while only spending AUD$170 on accommodation. Alternatively, book into the Windy Sea View House for only AUD$340.

TOP IMAGE: Pixabay/igorovsyannykov

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Down Under topped the survey, beating out the likes of more exotic locations like the Maldives, Indonesia and South Africa in the social media photo popularity stakes.

Most Instagrammable Travel Destinations – Big 7

1. Australia
2. Hong Kong
3. Canada
4. Indonesia
5. South Africa
6. Maldives
7. India
8. United States of America
9. Dubai, U.A.E.
10. Singapore

The rankings were compiled using the amount of hashtags used on Instagram, survey results of travel publication Big 7’s readers and votes from a panel of travel experts.

“With its golden beaches, hip architecture and natural beauty, it’s clear to see why Oz was such a favourite with both our readers and judges,” the head of Big 7 content, Sarah Clayton-Lea, said.

Australia received an overall score of 89.98% to claim top spot. Next was Hong Kong with 86.99% followed by Canada on 82.84%, Indonesia at 81.10% and South Africa with 80.94%.

Just out of the top 10, the UK came in at 11 with 79.41%. Perhaps most surprisingly, despite its renowned natural ‘Middle Earth’ beauty, New Zealand only managed 75.84% to rank at 45th.

Interestingly, and to show the influencing pulling power of social media, the survey also revealed that some 67% of people visited a new destination after seeing it on Instagram.

The post Australia tops list as most ‘Instragrammable’ place in the world appeared first on Australian Times News.

One notable feature of Aberdeenshire for the visitor is that it has more castles per acre than anywhere else in the UK. Which leads me nicely to my first stop.

Craigievar Castle

The very first thing that hits you about this striking building is that it’s pink! Built in the Scottish Baronial style in the early 1600s, and set in beautiful wooded grounds in the county’s rolling hills, it is truly a fairytale castle – said to be the inspiration for the Disney Castle itself in Florida, as well as the Disney motif.

Not just striking on the outside, it retains an historic character within with a well preserved period interior, flaunting Jacobean woodwork in the Great Hall and an impressive array of old armour.

If the weather’s clement, a stroll around the parkland grounds surrounding the castle is equally beguiling.

Aberdeenshire Highland Beef

Keeping with the Scottish countryside theme, my next stop is a farm on the hills of the Cairn O’ Mount, where I meet a herd of pedigree Highland Cattle – one of Scotland’s most iconic native breeds.

Their owner, Grace Noble, welcomes visitors for weekly tours of her beef farm, introducing you to the noble cows (there’s more than 100 of them, sourced from all over the country, including a few from the Queen’s Balmoral Estate) before allowing you to sample some of the high-quality meat the farm produces. The cows are more than happy to pose to photos.

Ballater Village

Speaking of the Queen, one Aberdeenshire village with longstanding royal connections is Ballater, located in the heart of ‘Royal Deeside’ in Cairngorms National Park. It’s the nearest town to Balmoral (only seven miles away) which explains the many ‘By Royal Appointment’ signs on shops and businesses around town.

Dating back to the 1800s, the village was a favourite of Queen Victoria herself, and today remains one of the region’s top tourist spots.

Undoubtedly Ballater’s centrepiece, amid all its speciality shops and guesthouses, is the prominent wooden building­ that was formerly the Royal Railway Station where the Deeside railway line once terminated (the final stop for the Royal Fam when heading to Balmoral). Destroyed by fire in 2015, the station has recently re-opened following a £3 million restoration, in which its historical character has been devotedly retained, using old plans and photographs as guides.

If visiting Ballater station, make sure to duck in to Dee Valley Confectioners next door, where in the back room you can observe the mesmerising process of boiled sugar being stretched and fashioned into the twists of candy that will be sold on the shop’s shelves and beyond.

Hotel: Douneside House

For my first night’s stay I check in to an AA Hotel of the Year, set within 17 acres of beautiful grounds on the edge of Cairngorms National Park, with views over the Howe of Cromar. There’s a classic baronial family home vibe here, with painted portraits on panelled walls, comfy armchairs by a grand piano and a library with an open fire.

The restaurant has a three AA rosette rating for its contemporary Scottish cuisine, making the most of the fresh herbs and vegetables grown in the adjacent kitchen garden, around which I have a late afternoon tour with the head gardener before dinner. There’s also a well-equipped health club here, with swimming pool, fitness suite, sauna and jacuzzi, which I regrettably don’t have time to make us of on this occasion, although walking the grounds itself more than makes up for it.

Aberdeen City

The next day it’s time to explore the Granite City itself. It’s the third largest in Scotland, where a large number of its old buildings are constructed from the sparkling silvery-grey rock, making it unique among British cities.

I start in Old Aberdeen, with 700 years of history on display in the form of St Machar’s Cathedral and King’s College, the forerunner to today’s Aberdeen University, encircled by a network of cobbled roads. Further into the city lies the 16^th-century Marischal College, which is actually the second largest granite building in the world (the largest being Spain’s Escorial) – one of the more photogenic edifices I’ve seen in the UK.

Having built up an appetite and thirst exploring these historical quarters, I duck into the city’s nationally famous ice cream HQ – Mackie’s 19.2 – so called because it’s exactly 19.2 miles from their farm at where 300+ cows produce more than 10m litres of ice cream a year. There’s over 20 different flavours on offer in the parlour, including some special handmade varieties only available in store like seasonal mince pie or toffee popcorn. Chocoholics will love the two chocolate taps on the counter streaming an endless flow of melted chocolate to top your ice cream. It would certainly be perilous for the waistline living or working near this place.

For a beverage I swing by the nearby Orchid Bar off Union Street: winner of Scotland’s Best Cocktail Bar 2017, and housing downstairs one of the country’s most innovative micro-distilleries, where I check out the venue’s own ‘Porter’s Gin’ distilled onsite. Three young entrepreneurs from Aberdeen have spent as many years experimenting with imported botanicals to create what has now joined an increased market as the tipple enjoys a renaissance, with 70% of all gin produced in Britain now coming from north of the border. One day we may see Porter’s rubbing shoulders on bar shelves with the other Scottish heavyweights Tanqueray, Gordons and Hendricks.

Next it’s off to see the sea – the city’s coastline occupying a small stretch of Aberdeenshire’s rugged coast, which is dotted along its expanse with craggy cliffs, sandy bays and pretty seaside towns.

One such community is a quirky old coastal settlement at the east end of Aberdeen’s harbour, called Footdee – or ‘Fittie’ as it’s locally known. This charming erstwhile fishing village was designed by Balmoral Castle architect John Smith, with its cute little granite cottages all facing inwards with their backs to the sea to protect from the fierce coastal storms which rage to this day. It really feels like stepping back in time as you wander its streets, with the smell and sound of the sea in the air and seabirds swooping above you.

The Aberdeenshire coast is actually one of the best places in Scotland to spot dolphins, and I’m fortunate enough to have a panoramic view of the harbour and some of them playing within it over lunch in the former customs house on the seafront, now called ‘The Silver Darling’ restaurant. You won’t find many better places for fresh fish in Aberdeen, prepared under the plaudit of an AA Rosette for 2017-18. I opt for the Silver Darling Platter which incorporates grilled langoustines, smoked Loch Fyne salmon, mussels mariniere and a pair of oysters – say no more if you’re a fan of seafood.

Hotel: Meldrum House

For my final night I’m staying in the 4-star Meldrum House: a 13th-century baronial estate nestled in 240 acres of Aberdeenshire countryside about 20 miles north of Aberdeen.

The hotel, which has won many awards over the years (most notably AA Scottish Hotel of the Year), benefited from a £4.5 million development in 2016, adding 28 new bedrooms with floor to ceiling views across their impressive golf course. Meanwhile whisky aficionados have more than 120 malts and blends to choose from in the 800-year-old Cave Bar, so if you’re a lover of both history and a wee dram of the best, you’ve got it made here.

Brewdog and Glen Garioch

My final day in Aberdeenshire is all about the best of local Scottish food and drink, with more of an emphasis on the latter. First up is the global beer sensation Brewdog, which is showing no signs of slowing in snaking its way into bars and bellies all over the world from its brewery HQ (in Ellon on the River Ythan).

Quite partial to a blue-labelled Punk IPA, I enjoy a comprehensive ‘DogWalk’ tour of the premises in a hard hat and high-vis vest, and particularly the concluding tasting session in the house bar, sampling most of its current range of hoppy brews (‘Elvis Juice’ my new fave!).

But for the more refined whisky drinker, a visit to the iconic Oldmeldrum distillery of Glen Garioch (pronounced Geery in the ancient Doric dialect still spoken in these parts) will be even more up your street, especially if you’re a history buff also, because it’s one of the oldest operating distilleries in Scotland, dating back to the late 1700s.

Its whisky, produced only in small, precious batches, is a rare find for those partial to a hearty Highland malt with a honeyed sweetness. It’s made the same way today as it’s always been, so it’s fascinating to observe on a guided tour the time-honoured skills and apparatus involved in its making, with the final tasting in the distillery shop a satisfying reward. It’s definitely true what they say: you can’t quite fully enjoy a dram until you’ve seen how and where it’s made.

Eat on the Green

A day immersed in beer and wine sets one up nicely for a fitting final meal, with this venue in the quaint village of Udny Green, not far from Ellon. The ‘Kilted Chef’ Craig Wilson opened Eat on the Green in 2004, transforming what was once the village post office into a fine-dining restaurant now celebrated as one of the best in the county, welcoming a stream of high-profile dignitaries and celebrities, not least Sirs Sean Connery and Alex Ferguson.

I’m honoured to be able to sample the menu’s highlights while sat with Wilson himself narrating the journey, culminating in a superlative sticky toffee pudding which was apparently invented right here in Aberdeenshire!

And so ends my odyssey through this underrated region of Scotland, where it’s safe to say I’ve tasted the best of the county’s food and drink, and seen some of the more captivating snapshots of its rich history.

It’s no surprise that its epic landscapes and architecture have compelled the Royal Family to plant and maintain such deep roots here, but it really is for everyone to visit, if only they’re willing to come up and give it a go.

For more info on visiting Aberdeenshire go to www.visitabdn.com

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After a swift and painless journey on the S-Bahn from Schoenefeld Airport I arrive at Oriana, Berlin in the edgy east Kreuzberg district. It’s a stately boutique hotel housed in an art nouveau-style building, capturing inside the exclusive atmosphere of the jazz-age Oranienpalast Café which the venue famously once was, more than 100 years previously.

Back then it attracted the local cognoscenti for refined food, music and cabaret, and this bohemian spirit is revived today in its bookish furnishings and classical and jazz concerts by Berlin-based musicians in the salon lounge, with free entry for hotel guests.

My room – Suite #50 – is one of the most spacious I’ve ever stayed in, with a memorable view over the Kreuzberg square through panoramic windows – perfect for people-watching, morning or night.

Culture vultures will love it here.

Historical Attractions

As Berlin is a city with such a troubled past I decide to spend my first day physically exploring that darker side of its history.

I first head straight to Brandenburg Gate, undoubtedly Berlin’s most famous landmark: a symbol of both the division of Germany into East and West during the Cold War and its ultimate reunification after the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Standing at the western end of the avenue Unter den Linden, the 200-year-old neoclassical building once attracted visitors to its observation platform in order to catch a glimpse of the world behind the Iron Curtain. Today you can find street entertainers among the throngs of tourists taking obligatory selfies (same as at ‘Checkpoint Charlie’ – the best-known Berlin Wall crossing point on Friedrichstraße.)

A short stroll away, a more sombre scene is set by the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, dedicated to the Jewish victims of the Nazi genocide of World War II. This monument comprises 2711 concrete blocks of different heights, which presents a striking yet sobering tableau on a large scale, evoking a graveyard for the unnamed masses.

If you’d like to take a closer look at the wicked ideology of the regime behind the Holocaust, the Topography of Terror museum near Potsdamer Platz is actually sited at what was once Hitler’s command centre between 1933 and 1945. It provides a grimly absorbing experience in a significant location.

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe (c) Kris Griffiths

Artistic Attractions

For those more inclined towards art than political history, you would be hard pushed to find a city anywhere in the world that better caters to this scene, with artists from every sphere long attracted to Berlin’s creative hub.

From classics in the Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery) on Museum Island to more contemporary works at the Hamburger Bahnhof, it would require a whole week to spread yourself around the best of the city’s main galleries – I for one had time only to visit a couple of them during my fleeting few days.

First up, and close to the aforementioned historical attractions, is the Dali Museum on Potsdamer Platz which houses an assemblage of around 2,000 works by the surrealist artist, drawn from private collections around the world. These originals include paintings, sketches, sculptures and even film scenes.

To mix things up I then visited C/O Berlin: a mecca for new and classic photography, sited in a modernist building close to the Zoo Station complex. There I saw an engrossing exhibition by Nicholas Nixon: a series of black-and-white photos of his girlfriend and three sisters taken annually since 1975, charting the ladies’ physical maturity. I look forward to returning for another exhibition on next visit to the city if this is the standard.

Dinner: Restaurant ALvis

For my first evening dining option I decide to stick with a cultural theme and head to this restaurant located in the middle of the East End theatre district in Berlin Mitte (Albrechtstraße 8). Housed at the 100-year-old Hotel Albrechtshof, it has a quirky décor which blends traditional with contemporary, and a menu of creative dishes which combines local specialities with international influences. Importantly also it has a wine list which contains German wines, from the Brandenburg region surrounding the capital.

Our affable waiter explains how the restaurant is popular with the pre- and post- theatre crowd, and points out the venue’s courtyard hofgarden which provides an oasis of calm during Berlin’s more hot and hectic summertime. Again, I look forward to returning to re-experience the place in warmer temperatures.

Fernsehturm (TV Tower)

The next day I ascend the most visible landmark in Berlin, what is actually the highest building (386m) in Europe open to the general public.

The Fernsehturm was constructed in 1965-69 by the German Democratic Republic (GDR) government, intended to be both a symbol of Communist power and evidence that the GDR was building a ‘better future’.

Its lofty viewing platform gives you a spectacular 360-degree panorama across the entire city and beyond, while its popular revolving restaurant spins once around its axis every 60 minutes. After having my fill of the views I enjoy a traditional Berlin Boulette with potato salad in its highest bar, Bar 203, washed down with a Berliner Kindl beer. The highest non-aeroplane meal I’ve ever had.

Incidentally, back down on Alexanderplatz where the tower is located, I discover a huge protest taking place – tens of thousands of Berlinners marching against the rise of the far right. It is heartwarming to see such a peaceful and peace-promoting demonstration on this scale, especially after observing the country’s darker history in such detail the day before. (Tweeted this video)

TV Tower (c) Kris Griffiths

Live Music

While I’m happy to have the option of classical and jazz performances in my hotel district, my preferred genre of music actually lies at the heavier end of the rock spectrum, so I’m delighted to discover a small festival called Headz Up Fest taking place in Friedrichshain – East Berlin’s edgier, punkier district.

The venue (‘Cassiopeia’) fittingly turns out to be a former industrial complex of dilapidated factory buildings, where stages are set for a showcase of alternative guitar bands from around the world. A few German bottled beers later (extremely cheap compared to London club prices!) and I’m enthusiastically rocking out to a Canadian metal outfit called Dead Quiet, a Danish psychedelic act named Red Lama, and finishing up with German stoner rock purveyors Kalamata. We could certainly do with more events of this kind back home.

Kalamata at Headz Up Fest (c) Kris Griffiths

Radisson Blu Berlin

It’s time to check in to a new hotel, and they don’t come much more centrally located than the Radisson Blu in Berlin Mitte, directly on the bank of the River Spree between Alexanderplatz and Museum Island.

Not only are many of the city centre’s top attractions just a stroll away, including the TV Tower and DDR Museum pretty much on your doorstep, there is also an unexpected one right in the middle of the hotel lobby: the AquaDom, currently the world’s largest free-standing cylindrical aquarium. The towering centrepiece contains one million litres of seawater teeming with a variety of sea life, and certainly makes checking in a much more diverting experience than usual.

There are 427 rooms and suites here, and I’m lucky enough to have one directly overlooking the Berlin Cathedral on the other side of the Spree. Spa and fitness lovers are well served, with a 24-hour fitness room, pool, Finnish sauna, and a range of treatments on offer. It’s also a proper business hub, with an impressive 2,740 square metres of event space.

You certainly never get bored of gazing at that giant aquarium whenever you walk through the lobby or use the glass elevator; checking out was particularly bittersweet.

DDR Museum

When I said that the DDR Museum is on the doorstep, I wasn’t lying. You literally just step out of the hotel’s revolving doors and it’s there. And for anyone interested in what daily life was like in the communist German Democratic Republic, this place certainly pulls back the iron curtain on it.

You can sit down in a 1970s East German living room replete with retro wallpaper, get behind the wheel of the iconic Trabi car for a simulated drive through East Berlin, and learn all about how Stasi surveillance techniques helped the Soviet state spy on millions of ordinary citizens.

Writer Kris Griffiths at DDR Museum

Mauerpark

For my final afternoon I head to the Prenzlauer Berg district for what has evolved to become one of the city’s biggest tourist draws.

What was once known as the ‘death strip’ separating East Berlin from West is now an 800m-long wall of urban art where graffiti artists come to spray-paint new designs, while the adjacent park contains the city’s largest flea market selling all manner of East German kitsch (I found and purchased a pair of retro spectacle frames for a few euros); plus an amphitheatre that has become home to the weekly ‘Bearpit Karaoke’ spectacle – the most courageous of public performers singing to the spectating masses. Next time I promise to man up and put my name down to sing ‘Wind of Change’ by the Scorpions…

Afterwards I seek out another famous local institution to keep the good vibes rolling. Pratergarten on Kastanienallee is a seasonal self-service beer garden with 600 seats under the cover of chestnut trees, purveying locally brewed beers and an outdoor ambience that is very Berlin. I can only imagine what the place is like in high summer.

Mauerpark graffiti wall (c) Kris Griffiths

Dinner: Golden Phoenix

For my farewell dinner I find this hidden gem of a restaurant at the boutique hotel Provocateur, off Kurfürstendamm shopping street in the Charlottenburg district. Its interior blends 1920s Paris with the urban Berlin of today, with plush velvet curtains, towering palm plants, soft lighting and a sophisticated colour scheme of reds and blacks. There is also an open kitchen, whose innovative French-Chinese culinary creations ensure the restaurant is regularly packed at weekends (the name Golden Phoenix a tribute to the classic Chinese restaurants of the 1970s and 80s).

I feel gratified to have secured a table here (for one!) at which I enjoy a shrimp wonton starter, a tenderloin with foie gras main, and a crispy banana fritter dessert, accompanied by a zesty whisky-based concoction from the adjoining cocktail bar. Soundtracked throughout by ambient electronica background music, the urbane dining experience here is a fitting one to conclude my Berlin visit, and has me already plotting my return by the time I’ve grabbed my coat.

Golden Phoenix (c) Kris Griffiths

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While the two main languages are Spanish and Catalan, English travellers will get by just fine. It’s a safe travel destination, as safe as a large city can be anyway.

Barcelona (Top image: Pexels/Aleksandar Pasaric) boasts two of the best-known parks in the world: Parc de la Ciutadella with walking paths and the Cascada fountain, and Parc Guell with landscaped gardens and the great Banc de Trencadis bench.

It is also home to La Rambla, one of the most popular streets in the world and it dates back to mid-1840s. It has a bustling nightlife, so go after dark. This is where you’ll find street performers and artists, and the famous La Boqueria market. And the beach is just 15 minutes away. It is definitely worth a visit!

What to do in Barcelona and when to go

Explore the neighbourhoods

Barcelona has a smorgasbord of charming neighbourhoods with beautiful streets and hidden alleys to explore. Head over to the Barri Gotic, the city’s old town, where you can get lost daydreaming, or explore Garcia if you are looking for some peace and quiet away from all the touristy hustle and bustle.

Visit the Sagrada Familia

The impressive basilica took longer to build than the Pyramid of Giza. It stands a whopping 984 meters tall and combines several architectural styles such as Catalan Modernism, Spanish Late Gothic and Art Nouveau. Get your tickets here.

Visit Park Güell

The garden complex on Carmel Hill is the stuff of postcards and a definite must-visit for your to-do list. Get lost between the sculptures, colonnades and fountains and drop by the Gaudi House Museum too.

Also read: Travel safety: Keep your data safe whilst abroad

The architecture is simply beyond compare! Antoni Gaudí is responsible for most of it. He received his architectural degree in 1878. From the start of his career, his work stood out from his contemporaries. He was influenced by nature and many of his designs incorporate curved construction stones, as can be seen from image above. Read more about him here.

Best time to visit Barcelona

If a budget trip is what you’re after, book now. November to early March is low season, meaning prices will drop exponentially, from flights to accommodation to tourist attractions. You won’t wait in queues, and you’ll have enough space to move around.

High season is from May to September and is the hottest and most crowded time of the year. But if it’s the beautiful Barcelona beaches and renowned festivals you’re after, then May to September would be the perfect time for you.

Holiday accommodation in Barcelona

Accommodation rates drop significantly this time of the year. Staying at the Travelodge Barcelona Pablenou can cost less than 400 euros for two adults for six nights.

If luxury is what you’re after, indulge yourself with a week’s stay at the Casa Gracia for under 650 euros, or a week at the Grand Hotel Central for 1,500 euros. It’s pricey, yes, but this is your view from the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool…

With TSA

The post Barcelona: everything you need to know about a quick city break and 14 pictures that will make you want to visit right now appeared first on Australian Times News.

With youthful resilience on my side, however, the nausea dissipated within minutes of disembarking and I went on to have one of the more memorable days of my youth, not just in the rest of Dreamland but on the sand beach, in the sea, at the fish ‘n’ chips shop (not the healthiest day diet-wise) and inside countless amusement arcades, each one a video-game Valhalla of flashing lights and electronic bleeps. The whole town was to me just pulsating fun on a level I’d not yet experienced, and thankfully my parents seemed to like it too because the following year we were back for a whole weekend of it at Butlins’ Grand Hotel on the seafront.

Sadly though, those giddy years at the turn of the 1990s were the beginning of the end of an era for Margate dating back to early Victorian times, when Londoners were first drawn to the restorative air of its beaches and gardens. The rise of the cheap package holiday in the 1980s saw traditional seaside towns like Margate fall out of favour, a decline that steepened in the 90s as its attractions deteriorated and eventually closed due to a lack of visitors. The noughties saw the demolition of Butlins’ Grand Hotel and closure of Dreamland, which had welcomed 2.5m annual visitors in its heyday. Every ride was stripped from the site save the listed scenic railway, which was later partially destroyed by fire anyway.

That was then; this is now. A much happier tale has been playing out here since the turn of this decade. Green shoots of recovery have bloomed throughout the town, bringing a smile back to its most downcast quarters. While Dreamland reopened in 2015 as the world’s first heritage theme park, other areas have regenerated themselves to welcome back visitors whose numbers were restimulated by the ‘staycation’ trend brought on by the lengthy recession.

The opening in 2011 of the £17.5m Turner Contemporary, championed by local girl Tracy Emin, heralded not so much a comeback as a cultural renaissance, attracting a more art-loving demographic to what is now one of Britain’s most visited galleries outside London. Inside are progressive modern art installations alongside pieces by Turner himself, famously inspired by this coastline’s epic sunsets and seascapes.

This duality pervades the rest of new Margate. While it retains its traditional seaside charm, there’s more of an artistic edginess about the place, from its new indie galleries to the Banksy-style murals in the Old Town, giving rise to its latest moniker ‘Shoreditch-on-Sea’. It’s little wonder that Margate suddenly found itself on must-see international destination lists – ranked 7th in Rough Guides’ annual Hotlist in 2014, the only UK destination on there.

To this day it’s all a world away from the innocent town I remember, but I would much rather it was as it is now than the crumbling, forlorn place it had become when visitor numbers dried up. Make no mistake, there’s still a lot of work to be done, as certain areas remain run-down and awaiting their facelifts; the brutalist tower block near the station still crying out for a paint-job.

My most recent visit though has been rewarded with new sights and attractions I never knew existed before, like the fascinating subterranean passages of the Shell Grotto, painstakingly lined with literally millions of seashells – how they got there nobody knows.

History lovers will be captivated by the town’s extant Tudor House – at 500 years old the oldest building in old ‘Meergate’ and one of the oldest of its kind in the whole of Kent. I was lucky enough to have a private tour around the listed building with volunteer Barry Shepherd, hearing all about the sustained efforts and difficulties in preserving this vital piece of local heritage.

I think my most memorable experience though from this particular visit to the town has to be cycling the famous Viking Coastal Trail from Margate Harbour: a leisurely sea path of traffic-free promenades and country lanes, taking in the striking chalk cliff stacks of Botany Bay, Charles Dicken’s beloved holiday town of Broadstairs, and finishing up in Ramsgate Harbour where I enjoyed a rewarding seafood meal at Little Ships restaurant overlooking the marina. (Big thanks to The Bike Shed on Canterbury Road for supplying their new range of electric bicycle for the trail, which truly came into its own on the uphill stretches into Broadstairs!).

Back in Margate, the food and drink options naturally reflect the resort’s renaissance, with restaurants encompassing the superlative Ambrette offering unique Anglo-Indian cuisine, to the independent Great British Pizza Co, whose hip upcycled-décor venue overlooks the harbour, perfect for a sunset pizza meal. Beer aficionados can choose from several nearby micropubs serving real ales as they ought to be served, while cocktail lovers should check out The Glass Jar, whose shabby-chic barroom also exhibits art and photography from local artists.

Perhaps most importantly is where to lay your head after such a full day of leisure and cultural pursuits, and again Margate does not disappoint on this front. I stayed at what is regarded as the best hotel in town: the boutique Sands Hotel, completely renovated a few years ago from the shell of what was once the Victorian Terrace Hotel in the 1880s.

Occupying a prime spot on the golden beach, its charming seaview rooms are westward facing, and thus receive the full glory of the sunsets that disappear over this stretch of coast, the same ones that so inspired JMW Turner 200 years previously. Dinner or late afternoon tea here in the colder months comes with an unobstructed view of them through the first-floor restaurant’s tall windows, while breakfast in the same room gives you as inspiring a start to the day as you could hope to receive.

Finally, I also discovered Cliftonville’s Walpole Bay Hotel along the Viking Coastal Trail, stopping for a cup of tea and a wander around its ‘living museum’ which offers a fascinating snapshot of the Edwardian era from which the building dates. It still uses its original trellis gated lift to this day.

So, whether it’s the country’s history you’re interested in, or a more personal history of childhood visits like my own, resurrected Margate is truly a place that rewards return visits. I personally look forward to taking my kids to Dreamland one day to recreate my first youth-defining experience of it, and probably to the Turner Gallery afterwards. The seaside town of my younger years may look a lot different these days, but there’s still just as much fun to be had, no matter the time of year.

For further information on visiting Margate go to www.visitthanet.co.uk

Photography by Kris Griffiths & Thanet District Council

The post Love letter to Margate: a slice of English seaside history appeared first on Australian Times News.

The thunderous waterfall is also the largest curtain of water in the world, spanning more than 1,700 meters wide and dropping over 90 meters into the Zambezi Gorge at a rate of about 550 000 cubic meters every minute.

Just look at all that water!

It truly is a sight to behold and now is a good time to pack your bags and go on an adventure.

Need an itinerary? Don’t worry, we have your back.

What to do in Livingstone, Zambia

Victoria Falls

A visit to the Falls has to be the first thing on your agenda, for all the wonderful reasons discussed above. The ‘smoke’ from the waterfalls can be seen up to 50 kilometres away, and the ‘thunder’ of the water can be heard from the surrounding areas.

Book a 30-min helicopter flight to take you over the Victoria Falls, and you might even be able to spot a few elephants and giraffes from up there too.

High Tea at the Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel

You know you want to. The 5-star resort offers the ultimate luxury experience, and the views from the deck overlooking the Zambezi will leave you speechless. Keep an eye out for zebras and giraffes; they roam around the gardens at times.

Swim in the Devil’s Pool

Guides are available for a trip to the pool, located right at the edge of the Victoria Falls. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and safety are the guides’ number one priority. Access to the Devil’s Pool is seasonal and can only be done when the water level of the Zambezi River is low enough. But fear not! From late August to early January is the perfect time for a visit.

Zambezi River sunset cruise

Take an hour or two out of our day to meander around the islands from the safety of your cruise deck. Keep an eye out for all the wildlife along the river banks like elephants, hippos and crocodiles.

Couple that with sipping traditional cocktails out on the deck during the fading twilight hours (from around 18:00) and you’ll be in paradise. This sunset, though!

Best time to visit Livingstone

Well, now. It’s rain season from November to April, transforming the surrounding areas into a thick green bush.

The Zambezi river is at its lowest levels during November, perfect for a visit to Devil’s pool, and the temperatures aren’t as high in November and December is it is during August and October.

Holiday accommodation in Livingstone and Kitwe

Backpackers on the hunt for holiday accommodation can stay at the Fawlty Towers dormitory for as little as GBP 45 / AUD 80 per week, but if luxury and privacy is more your thing, then the AVANI Victoria Falls Resort Lodge is for you, and breakfast included.

Campers looking for a break away from the bustling city life can head over to the Simoonga Thandizani Volunteers Camping Site. There are bungalows available with spectacular views, too. And free WiFi!

And if you wanted to head out to Kitwe, you might want to take a look at some of the holiday accommodation over there. Breakfast is included at Cuppoccinos Lodge, and they have a risk-free cancellation policy. The Sherbourne Guest House and Roadview Park Hotel are both in high demand.

With TheSouthAfrican.com

The post Zambia: 12 pictures that will make you want to visit right now appeared first on Australian Times News.

The many times I have come back to Helsinki since and at all times of the year, the Finns and Finland are anything but grey. Underneath what can be viewed as a rather cold exterior is a bubbling, thriving and forward thinking Helsinki that is firmly establishing itself as a city on the rise amongst Europe and the Baltic heavyweights.

The changing faces of Helsinki

My latest visit was my first in six years and this time Helsinki was bathed in an early morning sunrise haze, the tips of the two torch bearers and the clock tower on Helsinki’s central station basking in brilliant orange. I was on an unusual assignment, which was to report on the Finnish rugby finals; a sport which, like Finland, is coming out of the shadows from their more recognised rivals.

Helsinki is a city that can often surprise the unsuspecting visitor with its six-degrees of nightlife, historic attractions and for a plethora of unique architecture.

Given my six-year absence I was behind the times and therefore requested help from a Finnish friend of mine, Laura Gattiker, whose mother hails from Salo. Laura presented me with two pages of recommendations, one for culinary requirements and the other for places to visit. Most of these suggestions I had never heard of; clearly a good sign on how Helsinki is constantly evolving and adding new identities to its growing reputation.

Löyly Sauna an example of Helsinki’s renowned design prowess

Take Löyly Sauna near to Hernesaari on Helsinki’s southern peninsular as an example. There are roughly 3.3 million saunas that operate in Finland; a fair ratio for the 5.4 million Finnish population. Having a sauna in Finland is one of the nation’s most common pastimes, rather like having a surf before work in Australia, so the sauna business is a serious undertaking.

After two failed attempts with investors, the team finally got the green light to go ahead with their project, the result being that Löyly is now one of the coolest places in Helsinki to hang out at. The two architects, Ville Hara and Anu Puustinen, wanted to create a sauna that was sustainable all year round. The complex is entirely constructed of wood and would not look out of place in Miami or St Tropez. Having a glass of champagne on the outside wooden decks between sauna sessions and freezing dips in the Baltic Sea (for the brave, I should add) is a must, especially when the sun is out and with an appropriate front seat to views over the Baltic Sea.

Helsinki’s past and present

Visitors have much to explore in and around the city. Previously unheralded suburbs like Kallio are now the cool spots to go to and complement Helsinki’s more familiar sites. The imperious Tuomiokirkko Cathedral still stands as the beacon of Helsinki’s present and past.

Now thankfully free of scaffolding, which always seemed to be present on my past trips, it is not hard to understand why people compare the Cathedral and this area of the city as a little like St Petersburg. Having a lazy wander along Helsinki’s harbor is a good place to start. One can peruse the markets that sell anything from the delicious local fish delicacy, Muikku, through to a set of reindeer horns.

Helsinki’s harbor is the gateway to the Baltics and the fortress at Suomenlina, which is accessible by an admittedly costly ferry ride, is well worth a visit on a decent day. Suomenlina Fortress was built to try and counter any threat from sea invasion. Finland has only had its independence from Sweden since 1917 and has spent most of that time trying to keep out the marauding Russians who were keen to exploit any opportunity to bolster their influence on the Baltic nations.

Back in the city there are still the subtle hints to a once complicated but history-laced Russian past as illustrated by the statue of Alexander the Second, the Tsar of Russia and the Grand Duke of Finland, in the centre of the square in front of Tuomiokirkko Cathedral.

Helsinki’s burgeoning culinary and design scene

Helsinki is now firmly established as one of Europe’s most prominent design innovators including the prestigious honour of being the design world capital in 2012. The city’s cultural and culinary scene has taken off in the last 10 years with new and fashionable cafes, bars and restaurants sprouting up all over the place. Helsinki has a maze of enticing side streets and alleyways if one is willing to put the walking yards in.

Even the most particular of pallets is provided for and I had a particularly agreeable dinner at the Karl Johan restaurant tucked cozily away on Yrjönkatu Street, an elegant back street just a stone’s throw away from Helsinki’s more lively city centre. As a recommendation, try the grilled pork neck with black garlic washed down with a glass or two of Spanish Hito Tinto Red.

Helsinki’s atmosphere and appeal has changed considerably since the 1990s. This transformation has put Helsinki firmly in the forefront as a leading European weekend destination to visit. These days Helsinki is an attractive city that is home to a mix of regal neo-classical, contemporary and modern buildings and churches. Each year it seems that Helsinki is adding different strings to its bow as a design powerhouse, a European getaway and a city with strong cultural and historical bonds. Helsinki is equally welcoming in the autumn as it is in the 24-hour sunshine that it enjoys in the summer.

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I had two answers to that question. Firstly, I was born in Baltimore, and my family moved when I was a very little. I have always wanted to get to know my place of birth, as an adult.

Secondly, I always suspected Baltimore was awesome. Turns out, I was right.  

Even geographically, Baltimore is a grey area. In David Amsen’s recent feature for Travel and Leisure, he asks, “Is Baltimore the northernmost Southern city? The southernmost Northern city? The easternmost Rust Belt city?” His conclusion is that Baltimore is on its own, unclassifiable, and just fine with that.

For many people the TV show The Wire is the primary cultural reference for Baltimore. Though widely considered one of the best TV shows ever made, its focus on crime, corruption and urban decay hardly increased the city’s appeal as a tourist destination. Yes, Baltimore does have problems, but there is of course more to the story.

For music obsessives like me, Baltimore has long been on my radar as a place with a robust music scene: Beach House, Dan Deacon, Lower Dens, Lungfish, Dope Body – all bands I love that hail from there. Frank Zappa was born in Baltimore; Tori Amos, David Byrne and Billie Holiday spent their formative years there. And for counter-culture types like me, Baltimore is perhaps most significantly the hometown and muse of the inimitable filmmaker John Waters.

That alone was a draw, but, as I found out, it has much more. I found a warm, weird – and yes, charming – place that I could really imagine spending some serious time in. If you’re the kind of person who thinks the measure of a city can be taken by the arts scene there and what it’s like to hang out in its independent shops, cafes and bars, then you will love it too.

IT’S HAMPDEN, HON

The neighbourhood of Hampden (top image) is the alternative and independent hub of Baltimore and a place that felt instantly like home. It’s not without some of the tell-tale signs of gentrification, however, as empty shopfronts rubbed shoulders with high-end homewares stores and long-standing barely-scraping-by businesses. But overall, it’s a still vibey neighbourhood that feels small, friendly and accessibly cool.

Hampden is also the home of ‘hon’ culture, something I’d never heard of before this visit. The classic ‘hon’ look (short for honey, as in the term of endearment) is that which John Waters exaggerated and immortalised in his film Pink Flamingos – big hair, big skirts, cat eye glasses and a broad ‘Balmerese’ accent. It’s a nod to a specific group and culture and way of speaking, of a particular white working class group from the 60s and 70s, and it remains a loved/hated cultural archetype. There is the Hon Cafe and the Hon souvenir shop on ‘The Avenue’, Hampden’s main drag, not to mention the annual 2-day Honfest.

Hon’s aside, The Avenue was one of my favourite stops in the city. A day wandering the Avenue will reward you with vintage shops, record stores, junk stores, friendly shop assistants, street art and one of the coolest bookstores in the world – Atomic Books. Atomic is home of a lovingly curated selection of books, zines, and comics and also features events; it even turns into a bar sometimes. And yes, it’s also the place where John Waters picks up his fan mail.

FELL’S POINT: HISTORY, POE AND NATTY BO

This area is often referred to as ‘Historic Fell’s Point’, and though this struck me as redundant (everything has a history, no?), it does admittedly have a charming old-timey cobblestone vibe. Especially around the waterfront the brick frontages, quirky ale houses and knick-knack stores have the feel of a quaint seaside village in England or Wales – but one populated by young good-looking American people with dogs. One shop in particular, Emporium Collagia, stood out as such a wonderfully idiosyncratic and whimsical reflection of one particular person – collage artist Launa Kaufmann – that I couldn’t help but marvel that it even exists.

Just up the road at the Natty Boh merch shop I learned something new about the city: the connection between Edgar Allan Poe and Baltimore. Natty Boh (National Bohemian) is Baltimore’s beer, and when I noticed a lot of Poe references in the t-shirts, bumper stickers and other Natty Boh paraphernalia onsale I asked the shopkeeper why. He looked at me like I was crazy. “He lived here for awhile, he even died here! Had his last drink at the bar next door! Our football team (The Ravens) are named after his poem! You didn’t know that?” Well, no. But it’s pretty awesome. I tell him that I’m planning to go next door to The Horse You Came In On Saloon, AKA Poe’s Last Stop, to finally try a National Bohemian for myself. My new friend, paid employee of the Natty Boh merch store, tells me that I should definitely check out the saloon but warns me, “I don’t know if you want a Natty Boh, it actually doesn’t taste very good.”  

INNER HARBOR: CRAB DECKS AND GLUTTONY

Telling you to go to the Inner Harbor in Baltimore is a bit like telling you to go to Times Square in NYC, Leicester Square in London, or Darling Harbour in Sydney. It’s shiny, it’s soulless and it’s strictly for tourists. And you know what? Sometimes you’ve just gotta see what all the fuss is about.

When the kind people from the Baltimore tourist board organise a crab lunch on the crab deck of Phillips Seafood in the Inner Harbor you do NOT miss this opportunity.

Maryland is famous for crab, and a place with an entire deck dedicated to eating it is an ideal place to do just that. The server sets us up with plastic bibs and small wooden mallets, and starts to bring out piles of food. There’s fried chicken. There’s crab cakes. There’s corn on the cob and potato salad. And then, and then, there’s the crab. Piles of it, to be crushed and destroyed and chewed and sucked into oblivion.

Luckily, I had YouTubed how to do that, so I didn’t make a fool of myself. I recommend you do the same. It was, of course, delicious. And more than that, a visceral and unmissable experience.

Just as I was thinking that I felt fuller than I ever had before, I found myself ordering the Smith Island Cake, with the excuse that it is the official cake of Maryland.

Consisting of countless thin layers of cake and fudge icing, it was up there with the richest desserts I’ve tried and really tipped me over to level comatose. I couldn’t remember having ever been so stuffed since New Orleans. In terms of food at least, I’d say Baltimore feels like a Southern city.

LOCAVORES AND MORE

The Baltimore food scene is not, of course, all about crab cakes and potato salad. In fact the farm-to-table movement has truly made it to the city, and the much-recommended and thoroughly local Woodberry Kitchen seems to be at the forefront. Though we didn’t have time to dine there, we did poke our heads around the thoroughly impressive converted factory and garden. We did, however, have time for a coffee at the utterly charming Artifact Coffee, owned by some of the same people and located in a different gorgeous converted building. I can report that the flat white easily passed the fussy Australian test.

Though there are a few surviving old-school food markets, such as the Lexington Market which could use some TLC, there are also a couple of new kids on the block including R-House in Remington which is the sort of modern-day food court that seems to be popping up everywhere. I’m still not entirely convinced on this model, but it’s hard to argue about a bustling Wednesday night crowd, 12 choices of cuisine (I opted for Venezuelan arepas, excellent) and a well stocked cocktail bar.

Not far away is the Mexican taco and mezcal joint Clavel, which is extraordinarily pretty and delicious, and is the sister restaurant to the much-recommended speakeasy WC Harlan. Owner of both locales, Lane Harlan, has been given credit for kickstarting the Remington revival as well as bringing mezcal, that smokey Mexican agave spirit – which happens to be a personal obsession – to Baltimore.

So many cool people, so many great and delicious things and we haven’t even gotten to my highlight of Baltimore yet.

The American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM)

It’s not like I have anything against trained artists and the art that they create, it’s that somehow this museum of outsider art – the first one I’d ever seen – somehow felt more human and intimate than your traditional museum. Perhaps it’s the story-focused curation of the sprawling building and grounds, but I felt fully engaged and engrossed with almost all of the art in a way I rarely do.

No such thing as museum fatigue here – from the larger-than-life Divine statue (John Waters reference), to the pez collection, to the paintings by a guy called Reverend Albert Lee Wagner who had an epiphany over a bit of spilled house paint on his 50th birthday, I was gripped. It’s a Willy-Wonka kind of place I could imagine returning to frequently, with so much quirkiness to take in and so much inspiration to be found. Not to mention the unbelievably eclectic treasure-chest of a gift shop which is a destination in itself. It also doesn’t hurt that the grilled cheese sandwich in the fantastic museum restaurant Encantada was truly memorable.

Later on I found out there are a handful of similar museums in the world, including one in Chicago called Intuit. On the website for Intuit I found this wonderful description of outsider art which, if you replaced the word ‘artist’ for ‘people’ and removed the word ‘art’, could be a life motto and mission statement for myself and all of my kindred outsiders:

“The work of artists who demonstrate little influence from the mainstream art world and who instead are motivated by their unique personal visions.”

I love the fact that the AVAM exists in Baltimore, a place that seems to exist happily on the fringes and embraces those who choose to do the same. I know I have no real claim to the city, seeing as I was a baby when I lived here, but screw it – I’m gonna claim it anyway.

Baltimore might not be my place exactly, but it’s definitely my kinda place.  

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DAY TRIP: Washington DC

While most people would daytrip or short-break to Baltimore from DC, I would recommend the opposite. Baltimore’s more fun. Here’s what you should do while in the capital:

Do: Museums! The Smithsonian Institution is the collective name for the 17 museums and galleries that you can visit for FREE in D.C. And considering there are many more apart from the Smithsonian as well, you will be overwhelmed by choice. Hot tip: do not try to be too ambitious, pick a couple you really want to see and enjoy them properly. We went for Air and Space, as well the American Art Museum but no matter what you choose you will have to learn to live with some serious museum FOMO.

The other non-negotiable is a trip to the National Mall, the 3km stretch of green where you’ll find the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial and the reflecting pool in between (which you’ll recognise from Forrest Gump).

Eat: You might not know it, but DC is considered one of the country’s hottest and most cosmopolitan food scenes. We went straight-up American diner for breakfast at the famous downtown Lincoln’s Waffle Shop. If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, head to 14th Street near Logan Circle and you will be drowning in options. French bistro Le Diplomate was the perfect choice for what we wanted – buzzy, brisk, good for people watching. Oh, and delicious. Black Whisky just up the road is a perfect after-drink spot but you definitely won’t be going thirsty in this part of town.

Stay: The W Hotel’s claim to fame is that it’s the closest hotel to the White House, take that as you will. Either way the view from the stylish rooftop bar POV is a must-stop in the evening.

Get there: The AMTRAK and the slightly slower but cheaper MARC train both offer frequent service Baltimore-Washington and take less than an hour.

The post Baltimore: rich in offbeat charm outsider travellers crave appeared first on Australian Times News.

The Top of Europe is 3454 meters above sea level in the Swiss Alps above the town of Interlaken. With a majestic backdrop of ice, snow and rock, the exhilaration of being there is palpable yet all you have to do is sit back as three separate trains take you progressively higher and higher.

The trains

The first train starts at Interlaken East station. We chose to board one stop along the line at the cute village of Wilderswil where accommodation was cheaper, parking was easier and people were friendlier than in the city.

The Bernese Oberland Railway travels from Wilderswil into the Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald valleys. In fact, our train split a few stations later with the front half going to Lauterbrunnen and the back half going to Grindelwald. If you are going to the Top of Europe it doesn’t matter which way you go.

We choose to travel via Grindelwald, a dreamlike mountain resort under the infamous North Face of the Eiger. The surrounding alpine pastures are achingly idyllic and cable-cars make it easy to reach scenic mountain lookouts, the Grindelwald Glacier, and lakes. It is no wonder that this landscape has been a filming location for Star Wars and James Bond movies.

From Grindelwald we catch the narrow-gauge rack railway to Kleine Scheidegg. This is where the trains from Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen meet and from where the train direct to Jungfraujoch departs. The scenery is dramatic as we enter the snow zone and everything turns to white.

Cable cars head in all directions from remote stations and even in May some skiers are out chasing the last runs for the year. Kleine Scheidegg is the starting point for scenic hikes in summer and it is a significant winter sports centre.

The final leg of the train journey to the Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe) through the rock of the Eiger and Mönch is an incredible experience. The majority of this section is in a tunnel but you get to enjoy stunning views from Eismeer (Sea of Ice). The cogwheel railway track to Jungfraujoch, on gradients up to 25%, was completed in 1912 and has been in continuous use ever since.

At the top

Arriving at the top brings new levels of anticipation and it is not long before we have icy air streams across our faces, snow crunching under our feet, and a view which nearly takes our breath away even with the cloud and fog we are coping with today.

When we visited here some 25 years ago there were limited things to do at the top. Not anymore. Over the next few hours, we were absorbed by the 360 degree cinematic Jungfrau Panorama, intrigued by the lights and music of the Alpine Sensation, and fascinated by the huge Ice Palace where enormous caverns and passageways have been carved into the ice displaying crystal-like sculptures of eagles, bears, penguins and so forth.

The high-point of any visit is the Sphinx Terrace attached to the Observatory and Research Station (top image). We ride Switzerland’s fastest lift to the terrace and are rewarded with spectacular views across the Aletech Glacier which is over 22 kilometres long and nearly a kilometre thick. Sadly, the views into France, Italy and Germany are masked by low-cloud and fog.

Now we brave the cold and venture out on to the Glacier Plateau. It is briefly majestic but then it turns bleak, freezing cold, and merciless. In better weather you can skim down the slope on snow tubes, skis or snowboards, but not today. The 250 metre-long zipline is not providing an adrenalin rush to anyone either We quickly retreat inside.

Mountain air makes you hungry and thirsty so fortunately there are several restaurants and cafes. Top of the line is Restaurant Crystal but we opted for the self-service Aletsch. For those who brought their own food, the Cafe Bar provided drinks.

There are a few shops here with souvenirs, clothing and other items but the Lindt Swiss Chocolate Heaven seems by far the most popular. This advertises itself as the highest Lindt Chocolate Shop in the World and there are six interactive exhibits and a few products only available here.

Down again

The time has come to leave so we retrace our journey back to Kleine Scheidegg then take the next train this time to Lauterbrunnen before making one more change before we reach Wilderswil. It has been a great day despite less than ideal weather and we would do it again in a heartbeat.

If you go

The standard return fare from Interlaken Ost to Jungfraujoch-Top of Europe station is around a staggering SAR 3200 (European summer), and SAR 2850 for the rest of the year. Consideration should be given to buying one of the Swiss travel cards to reduce this price. I strongly advise taking an early train to avoid the worst of the crowd.

PHOTOS: By Phensri Rutledge

For more of Len’s adventures, visit LenRutledge.com

The post Reaching high for Jungfraujoch – the roof of Europe appeared first on Australian Times News.

Topping the countries list is Sri Lanka with the notable entry of Zimbabwe at third – on the comeback trail following years of despair and turmoil before the recent removal of Robert Mugabe.

Denmark’s Copenhagen is the must visit city, topping that list, next year while Shenzen in China and Dakar in Senegal are apparently worthy options you may never have before considered.

Australia’s outback gets a mention, coming in at fourth among the regions where Italy’s Piedmont came on top.

The travel bible’s report is based on the nominations of editors, researchers, locals, and influencers. Nominations are then run down into top 10 lists by a panel of judges, who are trying to find the best places that are unique, compelling and timely.

Lonely Planet’s top 10 countries for 2019

1. Sri Lanka
2. Germany
3. Zimbabwe
4. Panama
5. Kyrgyzstan
6. Jordan
7. Indonesia
8. Belarus
9. Sao Tome and Principe
10. Belize

Lonely Planet’s best cities for 2019

1. Copenhagen, Denmark
2. Shenzhen, China
3. Novi Sad, Serbia
4. Miami, FL, USA
5. Kathmandu, Nepal
6. Mexico City, Mexico
7. Dakar, Senegal
8. Seattle, WA, USA
9. Zadar, Croatia
10. Meknes, Morocco

Lonely Planet’s best regions for 2019

1. Piedmont, Italy
2. The Catskills, USA
3. Northern Peru
4. The Red Centre, Australia
5. Scotland’s Highlands and islands
6. Russian Far East
7. Gujarat, India
8. Manitoba, Canada
9. Normandy, France
10. Elqui Valley, Chile

By Cameron Jenkins with Erene Oberholzer.

TOP IMAGE: Sri Lanka (Lonely Planet/Youtube)

The post Lonely Planet’s must visit lists for 2019. Where will you be going? appeared first on Australian Times News.

And like the Kiwis, you can’t really fault them for it, as their homeland really is pretty spectacular. Lush and tropical with brochure-friendly beaches, the state is known for having the highest literacy and life expectancy in India. This is the India of honeymoons, yoga retreats and houseboat cruises, far from the pollution, chaos and masses.

There is a palpable change crossing over from neighbouring state Tamil Nadu as the landscape becomes greener, denser and cleaner. The air is thicker, the roadside tea stronger. On the bus three schoolboys make conversation in good English, buy me a bag of candy floss from a hawker in the seat in front, and wish me a nice stay in Kerala.

Nature embrace

I am traveling with the help of Hotels Under 100, who have arranged a selection of their bargain boutique hotels across the state taking in many highlights and culminating in the city of Cochin. The first stop is Shalimar Spice Garden, located just inside the Keralan border in Thekaddy, at the edges of the Periyar National Park. There’s a tropical, Bali-esque feel here as the tasteful cabins fight against the ever encroaching spice gardens that make up the resort grounds. Over my first of many coconut-rich Keralan meals I make plans to visit the National Park the following morning.

The Periyar National Park is a Tiger Reserve with strictly controlled entry but my guide Saresh tells me that at most if I’m lucky I will see bison, deer or elephant. As it turns out I have to make do with warthogs, a mongoose and lots of leeches, which we combat with knee — high leech guards and tobacco powder. Tigers or not, however, it is a stunning park and when I spot boisterous (human) families disembarking one of the boat wildlife tours I congratulate myself for opting for the much quieter walking tour option.

Venice of the East

From here it’s a half-day journey to the famed Kerala ‘backwater’ system of canals and rivers, passing through gorgeous tea country and culminating in a short boat ride to my next stay — The Emerald Isle villa near the town of Allepey. The family owned property is a beautifully converted mill with just five rooms, and with (incredible) home cooked meals and personal service it has a home stay feel. While the owners can arrange for activities — including a sunset paddle boat ride and a performance from local singers (a must) — one of the highlights is exploring the area by foot and witnessing everyday life on the waterways.  On one of my strolls on the maze-like connection of walkways and bridge I start chatting to 12 year old Elizabeth and her younger brother, who are fishing, and they invite me into their home for sliced banana and a chat.

I need to get to Allepey to catch a train to the coast, and I decide to combine transport with sightseeing by taking a boat ride to town. For about £1 I enjoy the serene domestic scenes of the lush region from the ferry, a trip that would cost at least 20 times as much on a private boat organized through one of the Allepey travel agents. From here it’s a scenic 2 hour rail journey to the popular clifftop beach town of Varkala.

Rewarding retreat

Arriving at the cusp of the rainy and tourist seasons I am treated to diminished crowds and overall favorable weather, staying at boutique B&B Kaiya House. The 5-room property is run by American Debra, who has an impeccable eye for design and style (each room is carefully decorated to a different country theme) and treats guests like a visiting friend. With her help I enjoy an insider view of Varkala, a unique mix of small town meets sun-seeking hippies, where you can witness traditional life AND enjoy a decent espresso. Kaiya House is the ideal base and retreat for Varkala, and highlights of my visit include a pre-dawn beachside walk, followed by a rooftop breakfast of my choosing, a clandestine visit to the temple elephant to feed her bananas, and a memorable salad at a clifftop restaurant (after 2 months in India you truly appreciate a good salad).

Cooking in Kollam

I’m even further from the madding crowds at my next stop just a 15 minute rickshaw drive away, the Fragrant Nature resort in the backwater area of Kollam. This hotel is fully blown tropical resort luxury, complete with idyllic lakeside location.  Enjoying a complimentary boat tour of the serenely gorgeous lake I am joined by the only two other guests on the property (thank you, low season!), a pair of Aussie ladies who can’t believe their luck.

“We organised our trip through an internet deal and never imagined it would be so amazing!”

Besides enjoying the benefits of being on secluded privately property by soaking up the rays in a bathers (a luxury you quickly realize is rare in conservative India), the extra-curricular activity that catches my eye is the Keralan cooking course, which I sign up for.

Being a fancy kind of place, I am pleasantly surprised at the authenticity of the course which is led by the Fragrant Nature chef but held at the simple home of one of the grounds staff. While everyone who’s had Indian take away will be familiar with the dahls, jalfrezis and biryanis of the North, in the South – and particularly in Kerala – pretty much every meal involves a new experience for your tastebuds. The day began with a trip to the local market, the expected cornucopia of colorful fruit and veg, where we pick up fresh supplies and fish — a staple of the Kerala diet. My Chef tells me: “A Keralan woman doesn’t consider it a real meal unless there is fish”, sharply contrasting to the largely vegetarian North.

Back in the very local kitchen of the gardener, his wife and the chef start whipping up a storm as I take notes and try to keep up. Within about half an hour the pair have transformed our ingredients into a Keralan feast — including fish curry, spiced yam, a shredded coconut and veg dish called thoran and even a chutney made from scratch.  Time will tell if my versions will taste the same back at home.

Getting used to gluttony

The gluttony continues at Beach Symphony, my resort located at an isolated spot called Marari Beach, one hour south of the city of Cochin. I arrive at night after a long journey, and against the faint sound of waves I am led to my romantically lit, spectacularly furnished bungalow. There’s a personal espresso machine in the room, a private pool out the back, and I can tell just by looking at it that the statue on my bedside table is worth more than my life savings.  Chef Beepu comes round to say hello, asks me how I’d like my fish, and gestures to the prepared table on my personal veranda. All meals are to be served to my room and eaten al fresco, and there’s not another soul in site. This, I think to myself, is how the other half live.

The next day in daylight I discover that the property — comprising 4 very private bungalows, an outdoor pool and no reception area — back onto a beautiful stretch of beach used by sunbathers and fisherman alike. Although activities can be arranged here — renting a bike proves a very pleasant way to explore the area and kill an afternoon — the whole point of the place is to relax, and in style. The European couple behind the property, Christell and Jan, are clearly perfectionists, and Jan enthusiastically showed me two more exquisite properties they are developing in the region. A Beach Symphony is the clear winner in the ‘Honeymoon’ category, however restless souls beware: there’s little in the way of things to do.

The way of Walden

Reluctantly leaving behind the idyll, things get a bit Walden as I head to a cabin in the woods called Periyar River Lodge.  The lodge has just two rooms, no TV and no internet; entertainment options involve swimming in the river, a wildlife-spotting canoe trip and a visit to the nearby Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. Still, the best activity here is sitting on the swing bench on the porch and watching the sunset over the stunning scene, while enjoying the abundant hospitality of the host Luigi. Be warned that even if you are on your own there will be enough food for 6, and he will make sure you eat it all. The mango curry here remains a culinary highlight of Kerala.

One last rickety bus ride takes me to my last destination, and a completely different world. Cochin is a sprawling port city with a colorful past — having been historically settled by the Portuguese, Dutch, French and Brits, a distinct cosmopolitan streak remains to this day. As far as cities is India go, this is great one to hang out in, and staying at the immaculate Tissa’s Inn hotel, located in the best part of what can seem a bafflingly spread out city, is the best way to enjoy it.  The joys of Cochin are very modern — fantastic antique and clothes shopping, great fusion food, arty cafés — but as a way of easing myself back into urban life I find it the perfect ending place.

Just as I’m gearing to leave the tourists are starting to arrive — in a week’s time the hotel prices will be doubled and the café’s full.  But I’m grateful to have had God’s Own Country as my own country.

Useful Information:

ABOUT

A long thin sliver on the south western coast of the sub continent, Kerala is bordered by Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Over 32 million people live in the state and the national language is Malayalam. I visited early to mid September.

TRANSPORT

I traveled using public transport; a combination of bus, train and rickshaw, to keep costs down. While it’s safe and dirt cheap to travel this way in Kerala, it can be a headache at times with changes and connections, so the majority of foreign visitors hire a car and driver for ease and convenience.

HOTELS

My accommodation was organised by Hotels Under 100, who offer a selection of unique luxury properties, many well under £100 for 2 sharing.

In Kerala I stayed in:

Shalimar Spice Garden, Periyar
Emerald Isle, Backwaters near Allepey
Kaiya House, Varkala
Fragrant Nature, Kollam
A Beach Symphony, Marari Beach
Periyar River Lodge, Anakkayam
Tissa’s Inn, Cochin

TOP IMAGE: Traditional Kerala makeup (Ambadysasi/Pixabay)

The post God’s own country: India’s captivating Kerala appeared first on Australian Times News.

Imagine returning home to Australia or New Zealand after a long-haul flight, exhausted and red-eyed. You’ve just reclaimed your baggage after getting through immigration when you’re stopped by a customs officer who demands you hand over your smartphone and the password. Do you know your rights?

Both Australian and New Zealand customs officers are legally allowed to search not only your personal baggage, but also the contents of your smartphone, tablet or laptop. It doesn’t matter whether you are a citizen or visitor, or whether you’re crossing a border by air, land or sea.

New laws that came into effect in New Zealand on October 1 give border agents:

…the power to make a full search of a stored value instrument (including power to require a user of the instrument to provide access information and other information or assistance that is reasonable and necessary to allow a person to access the instrument).

Those who don’t comply could face prosecution and NZ$5,000 in fines. Border agents have similar powers in Australia and elsewhere. In Canada, for example, hindering or obstructing a border guard could cost you up to C$50,000 or five years in prison.

A growing trend

Australia and New Zealand don’t currently publish data on these kinds of searches, but there is a growing trend of device search and seizure at US borders. There was a more than fivefold increase in the number of electronic device inspections between 2015 and 2016 – bringing the total number to 23,000 per year. In the first six months of 2017, the number of searches was already almost 15,000.

In some of these instances, people have been threatened with arrest if they didn’t hand over passwords. Others have been charged. In cases where they did comply, people have lost sight of their device for a short period, or devices were confiscated and returned days or weeks later.

On top of device searches, there is also canvassing of social media accounts. In 2016, the United States introduced an additional question on online visa application forms, asking people to divulge social media usernames. As this form is usually filled out after the flights have been booked, travellers might feel they have no choice but to part with this information rather than risk being denied a visa, despite the question being optional.

There is little oversight

Border agents may have a legitimate reason to search an incoming passenger – for instance, if a passenger is suspected of carrying illicit goods, banned items, or agricultural products from abroad.

But searching a smartphone is different from searching luggage. Our smartphones carry our innermost thoughts, intimate pictures, sensitive workplace documents, and private messages.

The practice of searching electronic devices at borders could be compared to police having the right to intercept private communications. But in such cases in Australia, police require a warrant to conduct the intercept. That means there is oversight, and a mechanism in place to guard against abuse. And the suspected crime must be proportionate to the action taken by law enforcement.

What to do if it happens to you

If you’re stopped at a border and asked to hand over your devices and passwords, make sure you have educated yourself in advance about your rights in the country you’re entering.

Find out whether what you are being asked is optional or not. Just because someone in a uniform asks you to do something, it does not necessarily mean you have to comply. If you’re not sure about your rights, ask to speak to a lawyer and don’t say anything that might incriminate you. Keep your cool and don’t argue with the customs officer.

You should also be smart about how you manage your data generally. You may wish to switch on two-factor authentication, which requires a password on top of your passcode. And store sensitive information in the cloud on a secure European server while you are travelling, accessing it only on a needs basis. Data protection is taken more seriously in the European Union as a result of the recently enacted General Data Protection Regulation.

Microsoft, Apple and Google all indicate that handing over a password to one of their apps or devices is in breach of their services agreement, privacy management, and safety practices. That doesn’t mean it’s wise to refuse to comply with border force officials, but it does raise questions about the position governments are putting travellers in when they ask for this kind of information.

______________________________________________________

By Katina Michael, Professor, School for the Future of Innovation in Society & School of Computing, Informatics and Decision Systems Engineering, Arizona State University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

TOP IMAGE: New laws enacted in New Zealand give customs agents the right to search your phone. (Shutterstock/The Conversation)

The post Travelling overseas? What to do if a border agent demands access to your digital device appeared first on Australian Times News.

Having been hit by a motorcycle a few months earlier, I am quite jumpy in traffic but I feel safe on the roads here. After driving in mainland Greece where the norm is to go at least 40 mph over the speed limit, the relatively sensible drivers in Santorini are a welcome change.

This is the last leg of a month-long journey in south east Europe and our wallets are getting increasingly thin, so our challenge is to experience Santorini on a budget without missing out on anything.

Also see: Top 10 must have in your backpack items for travel around Europe

Coming in on the ferry, the first thing I see is the caldera; cliffs almost one thousand feet high made of black, solidified lava. On the top is the capital Fira, overlooking the cliffs and the lagoon that is left after an enormous volcanic eruption. The traditional white houses with the blue roof tops create a stark contrast to the black lava.

Getting on the ferry in Piraeus, I knew we were in for a challenge. Looking at our options before the trip, I realised that if we wanted the Santorini of the brochures and glossy photographs, a hotel with a sea view and dinner on the caldera while we watch the sunset, we would blow our budget after the first day. I quickly realised, however, that by giving up a few small luxuries we could make our money go surprisingly far.

Inland living

By opting for accommodation a few hundred feet inland we get a room at a four-star hotel surprisingly cheaply. Santorini Palace in Fira is a typical resort hotel and a bit lacking in character, but clean and comfortable and after spending the last month sleeping in tents and on boat decks, our double bedroom with a large terrace feels like the ultimate luxury.

Harmonious haggling

On the first day of our stay we go to one of the shops renting out scooters and quads. There are more of these shops than tourists on the island, giving us plenty of room to haggle and we end up hiring a quad for three days for 35 euro. We head to the village of Perissa, a favourite amongst backpackers because of its many hostels and mile-long beach.

Lounging in style

Once there I decide to jump in for my first swim. Walking to the water I suddenly realise that the sand is scalding hot. I look around for something to stand on, even a bit of shade to give my burning feet some respite, but the only thing I can do is a mix of running and hopping to get to the water before my feet start to blister. Many of the beaches in Santorini consist of black sand that absorbs the heat, making it impossible to walk on them without some kind of footwear. An investment that even a budget traveller should make is renting a sun lounger for a few euro a day, as lying on a beach towel on the scorching sand can be quite painful.

Traditional dining

We walk past the expensive restaurants on the caldera and before long we stumble on Triana, a traditional-looking tavern with a large terrace on the main street. Sitting above the busy road, we order a bottle of retsina, baked feta cheese steaming in its foil parcel, crispy calamari and Greek salad followed by traditional moussaka. The owner tells us that normally people are queuing for a table there at this time of the year. Tonight, there is just the two of us in the restaurant. The fact that the turnover has gone down has clearly not had an impact on the freshness or quality of the food, and the bill is on the right side of very affordable.

Sitting on a roof top by the parking lot of my hotel, overlooking the caldera with a glass of chilled retsina in my hand, I watch the sky change colours as the sun slowly sets. Looking past the white and blue houses I see a boat hitting the exact spot where the sun is reflected in the water, turning the sea orange. Next time I come here I might do so with a bigger budget and try the Santorini of the glossy photographs, but for now I feel like I have experienced the island without missing out or emptying my wallet too much.

TOP IMAGE: Via Pixabay

The post Loving fabled Santorini does not have to ruin your wallet appeared first on Australian Times News.

So, if you need to travel light and are low on space, here is a list of ten essential and super handy items which should be at the top of your backpack when planning your trip of a lifetime around Europe.

1. Pen and notepad

Yeah yeah, everyone has smartphones, tablets and other devices to write details down these days, but what happens when they die and you’ve got no access to a power point to charge them up?

Having a small notepad and a pen so you can scribble down the address of your next hostel, someone’s phone number or email address can be a lifesaver when you’re away from a wi-fi hotspot or suddenly out of battery. It can also be handy for drawing, scribbling or playing games of hangman or tic-tac-toe if you’re on a long bus ride, as I discovered via the lovely material left behind by two friends when I lent them my pad during a tour.

2. Photocopies of essential documents and cards

A no-brainer! These will help you if you are in the mega-stressful and unfortunate situation of losing your passport, bank cards or any licences you’ve brought over with you. Having a photocopy will also allow you to remember some of the details needed to close your accounts in the interim before your new documents are issued.

3. Combination locks

If you haven’t got a locker in your room, where are you going to stash your stuff without the risk of some or all of it getting stolen?

Locks are also handy when you’re out carrying your bags in a busy street and there’s some shady pickpocketers nearby. A couple of small ones should be able to get around your zips without looking too dubious to onlookers.

4. Earplugs

The editor was incensed when I initially forgot to include this one in the list, and I was a bit ashamed at my oversight as well.

If you’ve spent nights on end in a hostel room with a huge guy snoring his head off, you know exactly why earplugs are essential. They also come in handy when there’s a bit of noise coming from the bar downstairs or some loud traffic outside your window.

However, be prepared to go on a hunt in your bed and under your pillow in the morning, because they’re likely to fall out overnight.

5. A good camera

Let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to capture memories of their travel adventures.

You can use your camera on your phone or splash out on a huge SLR and lenses, but from my perspective, both of those have drawbacks in terms of image quality and bulkiness respectively. Get a nice, compact DSLR with some high megapixels and a decent zoom, and it should fit nicely in your pocket and take up barely any room in your backpack as well.

Most compact cameras these days also come with wi-fi connectability, which is great if you want to wirelessly transfer your happy snaps for backing up onto other devices or for sharing on social media to make everyone back home jealous of your antics.

6. Pillow slip

Have you ever arrived at a cabin or hostel without a pillow included? If you haven’t got room for a bulky travel pillow, just bring along a pillow slip from home. Provided you’ve got a lot of thick (and clean) clothes, whack them inside the slip, and you’ve got yourself a makeshift pillow to rest your head on at night.

7. Powerboard (or multi-usb charger)

That dreaded situation arrives when your batteries are dead for your phone, camera, iPod, tablet and/or netbook… and there’s only one power point available. Get around this by carrying a small-ish powerboard with multiple outlets, and then you can charge all of them at once.

And if you have a few spare powerpoints it’s a great tool to help a brother out and get some serious kudos from your room or tour mates if they desperately need to charge their devices too. Better still, as most devices charge off USB cables these days, getting a multi-USB charger/adaptor can eliminate the need for individual chargers. Just make sure you have a European adaptor to plug into the main powerpoint.

8. Wet-wipes

Need we say more? If you’re camping, stuck in a port-a-loo and the toilet paper has run out, or you’ve taken an emergency dash to a hole-in-the-ground-like cubicle somewhere in Europe, what are you gonna use to help you clean up and stay fresh?!

9. Water bottle

Whether it’s a hot day, or you’re dehydrated after a few too many drinks the night before, having some water (and some panadol and multi-vitamins for the latter scenario) is essential to get you through your day of sightseeing and travelling.

Having a sturdy water bottle means you can re-fill easily whenever you find a clean source (hint: go ask the barman at your hostel), and save you a few euros buying bottled water everywhere.

10. Spray jacket or poncho

Having a spray jacket or poncho with you is always mega handy in case a random shower or a freak storm hits. It also has plenty of other uses – if you’ve got a rain jacket already, the poncho can be used to put over your backpack and keep the rain off it. Or, if it’s a sunny day at the park or beach and you’ve forgotten your picnic rug, it acts as a great temporary seat to keep your bum dry!

The post Top 10 must have in your backpack items for travel around Europe appeared first on Australian Times News.

Passports and the freedom to travel

One of the overriding concerns about a “no deal” scenario is the potential impact on the status of the UK passport. Following the referendum and concerns over future citizenship status, thousands of eligible people – both EU migrants in the UK and British migrants living elsewhere in the EU – applied for a second passport through dual nationality.

After Brexit, British passport holders will become what’s called “third country nationals” because the UK will no longer be inside the single market. British passport holders (including those from Crown Dependencies and Gibraltar) travelling to countries within the Schengen area of free movement should get prepared. Passports that are older than nine years and six months on the date of travel, will need to be renewed (at a current cost of £75.50) otherwise entry could be denied.

Perhaps one of the most symbolic changes will be that UK citizens will see their burgundy-coloured passports revert back to blue from October 2019. Some may like this nostalgic move, but it is rather short-sighted and could mean UK travellers face longer queues at customs, passport control and security. The same is likely to be true for EU citizens seeking to enter Britain.

International driving permits

If you do manage to enter the EU, then you might want to drive there. This will also become more complicated in the event of a “no deal” Brexit. After March 2019, the UK driving licence may no longer be sufficient to drive in the EU. Without a deal, British drivers will need International Driving Permits (IDPs) to accompany their UK licence to drive and to hire a car.

The National Audit Office estimates that if a no Brexit deal is reached then between 100,000 and 7m IDPs may need to be issued in 2019-20. To confuse matters further, there are two different types of IDPs in the EU, a driver would need both if travelling through France into Spain. The current cost to obtain an IDP is £5.50.

Roaming charges

When you are abroad, you might want to call home. Unfortunately, this might also come at an additional cost as a “no deal” scenario could affect mobile phone and data roaming. Since June 2017, Britons abroad have enjoyed the “Roam Like from Home” agreement secured by EU legislation, which means roaming within the EU comes at no extra cost. Under a “no deal” scenario, EU mobile operators would be able to charge UK operators and surcharge-free roaming will no longer be guaranteed. It will depend on your mobile operator. Future tariff arrangements negotiated by the UK’s major phone providers are likely to be inconsistent.

Impact on tourism

In the months after the EU referendum in 2016, the British tourism industry enjoyed record tourism numbers, partly because a weak pound has made the UK an attractive tourism destination. By March 2018, overseas visitors had spent a record £24.6 billion in 12 months, which was 6% up from the previous year.

Unfortunately, exchange rates have meant more expensive holidays for UK citizens travelling to the EU. It’s likely that a “no deal” will trigger a further currency collapse and see travel to EU countries become even more expensive. On top of this, Britons might find they need to start paying for emergency health care if a “no deal” means loss of the European Health Insurance scheme.

A “no deal” is also likely to have a damaging economic impact on many EU countries. Three quarters of all overseas trips made by Britons are to the EU. Research by the Association of British Travel Agents found that UK tourists are worth €37.4 billion a year to EU member states. The most popular destination for British tourists in 2017 was Spain with 19m Britons visiting the country, with France in second place.

The airport and aviation sector are also assessing the consequences of a no deal scenario. European aviation rules and certification could cease overnight. Without an aviation agreement, flights would cease and 35,000 EU aviation licenses would have to be reissued. Preparation for a worse case scenario needs to consider the impact on customs handling, security, safety regulations and passenger rights. With the removal of the EU’s Open Sky Policy and single aviation area, negotiations between airlines are bound to increase airfares for the customer.

All this means that a “no deal” exit would likely have far reaching and costly implications on travel and tourism. Over time, we may gain some clarity about these issues, but perhaps British tourists will need to consider more “staycations” because travelling to Europe may become a more expensive, confusing and complicated experience.

_____________________________________________

By Sally Everett, Deputy Dean (Business School), Anglia Ruskin University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

TOP IMAGE: alice-photo/Shutterstoc

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The criteria for me and my wife was simple; we had managed to bribe my sister to look after our daughter for a weekend and therefore give us are first break away as a couple since she was born. Soon we would have a glorious chance to catch up on a half normal sleeping pattern and have at least a couple of drinks safe in the knowledge of no wake up calls the following morning.

I had always wanted to go to Lake Como. To be fair to George Clooney and his Oceans 11 buddies, they had sold the concept of Como very well to me in the past by cavorting with scantily clad beauties at his luxury mansion amidst stunning Como scenery.  We found the Villa Relais Vittoria in Laglio courtesy of Mr. Google, having been immediately taken in by the photos of a grand, traditional Italian villa with prices that wouldn’t terminally break our wallets.

Despite a weekend’s peace and quiet, my wife understandably felt sad leaving our daughter for a first weekend in two years. As did I, of course, but these thoughts on the drive down from Zug were soon to disappear when faced with the terror that is Italian drivers. Taking the road into Italy from the Swiss border we had little time to admire the beautiful views of the lake. This was due to concentrating on surviving the main road before turning off into Laglio’s impossibly thin side streets to find the Vittoria. Patience, negotiating roundabouts (we were later to witness a lorry parking in the middle of one in Cernobbio), speed limits and the Highway Code are not on the list of priorities for an Italian driver.

First impressions of the Villa Vittoria were everything we hoped it would be. This stunning country house has uninhibited views of Lake Como and is built in a classical Italian manner. A subtle, rustic interior is complemented by an intimate but well-groomed garden complete with a luxurious infinity swimming pool.

The principal appeal of Vittoria is that there are only 13 suites, meaning that however busy it maybe outside the hotel walls you will always have space and tranquility inside. Crucially, you can get a sun lounger close to the pool without being barged out of the way by a German and you can switch off very happily within the comfy confines of Vittoria’s gardens.

As happy as we were in our hotel, Lake Como is far too attractive for you to be stuck indoors, particularly in soothing mid-twenties temperatures, which kindly stayed with us until we left. The Vittoria ,in keeping with  Italian time’, provided breakfast no earlier than 8.30 am which left us gnawing at the bed frame given our internal parental alarm clocks going off without fail at 6.30 am.

That said, slipping into Italian time’ did us no harm at all as we lazily sauntered onto the ferry from Cadenabbia to Bellagio upon request of my wife wanting to sample the shopping around these parts.  This was daunting, given that Bellagio is the kind of place George (known as the l’effetto George around these parts) and his mates will go to with plenty of designer labels in residence. Bellagio is a headland of grand hotels on the waterfront at exorbitant prices catering primarily for Americans and Russians, judging by the accents. However, don’t put be put off, there are plenty of delightful cobbled walkways which are home to an assortment of enticing wine shops, silk outlets and, of course, delicious restaurants.

You cannot go to Italy without having some kind of interest in food, especially if you are keen on pasta or pizza. Sample the ravioli at the Bilacus restaurant in Bellagio and you will not be disappointed. Clinking with bottles of Lombardian reds from a delightful wine shop called the Entoeca Principessa, and with my wife being equally happy with her garment haul, we left Bellagio behind just in time before the temptation of splashing out further became too great.

Cernobbio, close by Laglio as you drive towards Como, is attractive although don’t go on a late Sunday afternoon when evening mass is on – the entire town and most of Italy seemed to be looking for a car space. There are some delightful shops selling traditional Italian produce including popular silk attire, dozens of different types of pasta as well as wine. The town is laid back to say the least (well, on a Monday) judging by the local polizia who stood by their cars in the hazy sunshine, unshaven, smoking Marlboro Reds whilst nodding in approval to the local female talent passing by on the waterfront. You have got to love Italy.

The Vittoria more than made up the rest of our weekend. Unashamedly, we made use of the deserted sun loungers, slumped very contently with an appropriate drop of red whilst snoozing to the gentle sounds of Lake Como lapping against the villa gates.

Occasionally we did venture out of our slumber to explore options for lunches and dinners. We found two gems close to Laglio. If you want a good pizza, head to nearby La Piazzetta in Argegno. You will leave richly fulfilled and wishing that you had never eaten at Pizza Express. However, the absolute winner was the Crotto dei Platani, idyllically located on the lake’s edge five minutes drive from the Vittoria. At very reasonable prices you get wonderful service including a welcome glass of Prosecco and a wide variety of classical Italian dishes including home made pasta and porcini. Mix it in with a breathtaking view, a cracking wine cellar and you have a truly, wonderful culinary experience.

Lake Como and the Vittoria combined marvelously well for a perfect weekend getaway. We mercifully did not run into Mr. Clooney (well, perhaps my wife wouldn’t have minded). Credit to George though, he has put Laglio on the map and clearly has very good taste in choosing summer villas.

TOP IMAGE: One of the many stunning mansions you glide past on the waters of Lake Como (Via EzPzPics/Pixabay)

The post Lake Como: Italy’s northern jewel abounds with accessible riches appeared first on Australian Times News.

Also fondly known by rowdy expats as ‘Beerfest’, it’s a must-attend event, whether you’re a beer aficionado or just enjoy fancy dress. Planning your trip is one thing, planning how you’ll survive it is entirely another. These tips will get you through, however nothing will save you from the heinous hangover that will follow.

Also see: How NOT to handle Oktoberfest

Get in to character

Nothing says you’re serious about drinking beer than a rocking up to Oktoberfest in a traditional Bavarian costume. Buy a dirndl (dress) or lederhosen (pants) in advance from an array of online stores. The complete outfit will cost you upwards of 100 euros but the investment guarantees you will feel part of the action and be made welcome by the locals. Buy a cheap nasty costume off eBay and you’ll be laughed out of the festival. They’re tacky and scream ‘tourist’. If you can’t afford the duds then opt for jeans and a checkered shirt.

Arrive early

With six million people expected to converge on Munich, you should prepare for big crowds, long lines, and plenty of waiting.

Also see: Oktoberfest in Munich: a guide to the world’s ultimate beer festival

If you haven’t pre-booked a table in a beer tent then make sure you get on the queue bright and early in the morning if you plan to spend the day drinking, or arrive mid afternoon if you want to join the rowdy evening festivities.

IMAGE: Oktoberfest tent. (By Schlaier [Public domain], from Wikimedia Commons)

When a space opens up it’s every man for himself, as you must be seated to be served. No seat means no beer and no beer at Oktoberfest would be a travesty. Once you are planted on a bench, hold on to it for dear life.

Prepare to spend and tip at Oktoberfest

At around 10 euros, a stein is not cheap and though they are huge, a very long day of drinking quickly adds up. Failing to tip your waitress will make it very hard for you to be served again. Pretzels are a cheap way to balance out the booze but it will be hard to resist the delicious traditional fare on offer. It’s a meat lover’s paradise. Bring enough money to avoid having to leave your seat to find a cash machine, but make sure you’re watchful of your purse or pockets.

Pace yourself

Whether you’re a beer beginner or a seasoned drinker, chances are you’ve never drunk quite like you will at Oktoberfest. Settle in for the long haul and take your time drinking while you enjoy all the action going on around you. Ladies might prefer to try a Radler, a mix of beer and lemonade, while blokes will heed no advice and end up face down in the gutter outside.

Also see: The infamous 100 Club at Oktoberfest

Make up or break up

Attending Oktoberfest with your significant other is more than likely to end in tears, and vomit. If there are niggling issues between you, sort them out beforehand or risk being at each other’s throats several steins later, then drowning your sorrows in even more beer. The spectacle will provide great entertainment for those around you but it will make the ensuing hangover all the worse.

Mix with the locals

You’ve arrived dressed to impress and, if you’ve taken the previous advice, single — so mingle! Bench seating at most of the tents allows you to get up close and personal with the neighbouring Bavarian lasses and lads. Just don’t forget; you’ll have your beer goggles on!

Respect the tradition

Though the busty Bavarian waitresses may seem flirtatious, keep in mind they’re working for tips. Get a souvenir photo that will be the envy of your mates back home but keep your hands off — the ladies truly are not interested. As for aggressive or overly boisterous behaviour, it will guarantee you a quick departure from the seat you have carefully guarded for hours. Whether you’re on the way out by choice or force, ensure a stein isn’t still hooked on your arm. Thieves can be fined up to heavily for each glass they’re caught with. If you’re mad enough to want to re-live the beer drinking experience at home, buy a stein from one of the many souvenir stands.

Do more than drink

Oktoberfest isn’t just about beer, though let’s be honest, hard drinking is what we’re all going for. Outside the tents you’ll find plenty of entertainment, stalls and rides — venture onboard at risk of disembarking covered in beery vomit (yours or that of fellow passengers).

As a city, Munich has plenty more to offer. Take a walking tour to learn about local history or venture further afield to witness the Dachau Concentration Camp or Neuschwanstein Castle.

And finally – Don’t arrive in October!

Oktoberfest is not, as the name suggests, entirely in October. Each year it runs for the 16 days leading up to the first Sunday in October, which makes it more like ‘Septemberfest’ — hey, it’s the one time when the Germans get their timing a little bit off.

Prost!

TOP AND BOTTOM IMAGES: Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. (Via Pixabay)

The post Top tips for surviving Oktoberfest – the ultimate beer indulgence appeared first on Australian Times News.

Rhine Falls

The Rhine Falls in Switzerland is claimed to be Europe’s largest waterfall, however, it’s definitely minuscule compared to Niagara or Victoria Falls. The falls is an impressive 150 m wide but only fall about 23 m. Because we had seen some photographs, my wife and I were not expecting anything great but we were wowed by the power and majesty of the rushing water and were amazed at how close we could get to the flow.

Rhine Falls offers the full range of facilities expected by visitors. Various restaurants and souvenir shops with endless trinkets are available on either side of the river. The railway bridge which crosses the river just upstream of the falls has pedestrian access so it is possible to make a roundtrip by using a boat, the bridge, and the connecting paths that link the two.

For most of the year the falls are illuminated after dusk and visiting then has an extra dimension. It is surprisingly different from the day-experience.

We chose to approach from the south side and after parking, we paid our CHF5 (70ZAR) to enter the grounds of Schloss Laufen which towers on a rocky spur high above the falls. We, like most visitors, strolled through the inner courtyard of the castle then descended on a paved path to the “Känzeli”, a viewing platform directly over the thundering water.

From here and from the glass panoramic elevator you get great views of this imposing natural spectacle. In summer, the best views of all are probably from daredevil boats which scurry about in the spray immediately below the falls. Several boat trips are available. You can simply cross the Rhine River to the other side, cruise on the river close to the waterfalls, or most spectacularly land on a small rocky outcrop right in the middle of the falls.

We walked down to river level in pouring rain but this didn’t lessen the thrill of being so close to the thundering water. The rain was joined by dense spray as we visited several viewing points before we decided we were wet enough.

After using the elevator to return to the top of the cliff we took a look around the castle and found out more about its 1000-year-old history at the “Historama” exhibition. This is included in the entrance fee. The castle was first mentioned in the year 858, so the ancient walls have seen much history.

Stein am Rhein

For a completely different experience, I suggest you then visit Stein am Rhein, a very picturesque town about 20km away to the east. This is an historic place with a well-preserved medieval centre situated in beautiful countryside along the lower end of Lake Constance, where the lake becomes the Rhine River again.

Stein am Rhein was just a small fishing village until 1007, when St. George’s Abbey was moved here. Now the town has a population of a little over 3000 and is a popular tourist destination.

It is a lively and very charming small town. Among the sights are the Monastery of St. Georgen a well-preserved Medieval monastery complex, the Lindwurm Museum depicting 19th century bourgeois and agricultural life, and the Hohenklingen Castle on a hill partially covered with vineyards, which was built high above the town in 1225.

It is here that we found the oldest church in the Canton. Burg Church dedicated to St. John the Baptist is surrounded by wall remnants of a Roman fortress which was built in the 3rd century.

Our favourite place though is the Rathausplatz – the square of the City Hall – which is lined by old houses with magnificently painted façades. We stood and stared for ages as we took the vista in. It was one of the best urban scenes we had seen in Switzerland.

Then we explored the meandering alleys where there is prettiness everywhere. There are facades with delightful timber decoration, inviting al fresco cafés and restaurants, and unexpected scenes of everyday life. Finally, we reached the river where there are many restaurants and cafés with outdoor seating and a lovely view.

In summer, passenger boats link Stein am Rhein with Schaffhausen near the Rhine Falls. This is a lovely relaxing trip with great views of life along the river.

Both the Rhine Falls and Stein am Rhein are within an hour of Zurich. Tours are available or you can visit by train or rental car.

TOP IMAGE: Rhine Falls (hpgruesen via Pixabay)

OTHER IMAGES: Len Rutledge

Check out more of Len’s adventures at LenRutledge.com

The post The power of Rhine Falls and medieval delights of Stein am Rhein appeared first on Australian Times News.

1) Get your bearings with a free walking tour

These free walking tours take place three times a day. A passionate local takes you on a guided tour so you can experience the lifestyle and culture of Sydney. Find out the secrets, stories and history of the area.

The CBD tour is ideal to help you familiarise yourself with the city. You’ll cover the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Pitt St Shopping Mall, the oldest cemetery, and so much more!

2) See a show at the iconic Sydney Opera House

When the Sydney Opera House was built, it was the result of an international design competition that attracted 233 entries. The Danish-designed winner was daring and controversial. It ended up being finished 10 years late, and a whopping 1,457% over budget… but it became the jewel in Sydney’s crown and is still lauded as a contemporary masterpiece.

With over 40 performances presented each week, there is always something to see. Whether you like classical or contemporary music and theatre, there is a wide variety to keep adults and children happy. Check out what’s on and enjoy a spot of culture in this astounding world-heritage building.

3) Discover Darling Harbour

A stunning part of Sydney, you could easily spend an entire day here. Take a cruise on the harbour or investigate the Australian National Maritime Museum. For the kids, there is plenty to do, with the famous carousel, an incredible playground, the aquarium, Madam Tussauds, and a 9D action cinema. Finish the day with a gentle stroll through the peaceful Chinese Garden of Friendship. Then meander along the waterfront, find a nice spot for some seafood and beer, and watch the harbour come alive for the night!

4) Pick up a memento at Paddy’s Markets

This iconic market has been here for 150 years, making it a Sydney institution. It started life opposite a circus ground, and in the 1860’s, attractions included trick riding and other fairground-inspired classics. It’s moved around since then but it found its current home in 1975 and it’s remained there since. You’ll find delicious food, jewellery, clothing, crafts, cosmetics and so much more.

There is a free shuttle bus that runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday, or you can catch the train or bus. The busiest days are Saturday and Sunday, so enjoy the hustle and hunt for the perfect ‘something’ to take home with you!

5) Get bronzed at Bondi Beach

A favourite with locals and tourists alike, this golden stretch of beach is a popular place to chill, exercise, or people-watch. Soak up the sun, take a cooling dip or maybe even invest in surfing lessons. Walk along the promenade, watching the human flotsam and jetsam. Bondi also has a great dining scene with loads of hipster cafes and restaurants, or you can simply get some classic fish and chips to eat on the beach (just watch out for persistent seagulls!).

Catch the train from Central Station to Bondi Junction, and then take the 380, 381, 382, or 333 bus to the beach. Enjoy your relaxation and keep an eye out for amazing street art.

6) Scale the Sydney Harbour Bridge

If you like a bit of adrenaline, then climbing up the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a great way to view the iconic structure from another angle, 134m above the water. With incredible views of the city and the Opera House, this is a unique way to see the city and get your days exercise!

There are choices of day and night tours, as well as the option of catching a suspended sunrise or sunset too. All tours are conducted by trained professionals, and you will be fully prepared and harnessed with safety equipment.

7) Chew over the options at Circular Quay

What do you feel like for dinner tonight? Japanese? Vietnamese? Seafood? Spanish? Or maybe a classic Aussie burger and fries? Whatever you want, Circular Quay has a huge range of cuisines and a meal to suit every budget. Whatever you eat, the sparkling views over Sydney Harbour make this experience an unforgettable highlight.

Because Circular Quay is in the heart of the city, you might end up eating here more than once…. In fact, it’s advised!

If you are travelling to Australia from an international destination, make sure you include travel insurance in your travel planning. For more on travel cover checkout https://insurance.airnewzealand.co.nz/

The post Seven amazing things to do in Sydney to make it your best holiday ever appeared first on Australian Times News.

Do you buy cloudy or clear lemonade? Head for the beach or the pool? And most importantly, do you have the kids at home or send them off to live with the grandparents just to get some peace and quiet? Turns out it’s been getting hotter and hotter recently – so hot that you might not even need a traditional ‘holiday.’

When the weather’s this nice, your front doorstep is just as pleasant as Madrid after all. So we pose a fourth choice: to stay or to go? A traditional summer gander abroad, or a local romp during your time off work? A staycation could very well be on the cards for some of us this year.

Sun’s Out, Shirts Off: The Benefits

The idea of a staycation tends to make a whole lot of sense when you think about it: rather than paying for expensive flights, hotels and foreign experiences, you take the car out around your own country and enjoy the sites and scenes previously ignored. When you have been living in the UK for a while it come become rare that you get to see it as a tourist, minus work and outside commitments on your mind, but with a visit anywhere in the summer holidays – be it Brighton, Liverpool, or the Whitby shore – it gets infinitely better because of the time of year. You save money (always important), you are familiar with the area, the food, and best of all the language, and if anything goes wrong your living room is just an hour or two away. Your homemade ultimate Jamie Oliver bacon sarnie could even be for breakfast if you’re willing to drive back and forth.

A staycation could be a few days off and a trip to the local zoo. It could be a trip to Edinburgh or even a house swap with friends from one city to another. The important thing is that it gets you to relax in your local environment, seeing it in a new light.

Summer Health

Regardless of where you find yourself in the summer months, however, you should always take precautions for your health. Just because you’re downtown in your adopted country rather than the Florida Keys doesn’t mean the UV rays go away. Never underestimate the sun. Words for all Aussies to live by.

Fear mongering aside, there are plenty of easy ways to protect yourself. Regular applications of sunscreen on your face and body for all family members is a great place to start (some Paula’s Choice products even come with joint moisturiser), just make sure that if you’re taking a dip in the water that you reapply afterwards. Sunglasses can shield your eyes too, and quality contact lens technology can keep them in top condition, maintaining eye health and sight in the brightest of weathers. Daily contact lenses are available from Vision Direct with ease for example– bear in mind that you’ll have to pre-plan if you want them available, but not to worry, buying lenses online of all types is quick and easy so long as you have your prescription handy. Combo them with glasses, a big floppy hat and you’ll be safe as can be for your commute down to the local coast/historical town/spa.

A Short Commute

Remember, a staycation doesn’t mean staying in your back garden (unless that’s what you want!) It means getting out, adventuring, and taking the day in your stride! Your hunt for relaxation could be closer than you think this summer. In fact, it could be right under your nose, safe from airport queues, highway traffic and the dreaded pocket French dictionary.

Images source: Pexels 

The post Should you book a summer staycation? appeared first on Australian Times News.

Joining more than 30,000 red faced, rouge bodied, cherry clothed and rojo haired revellers watching a procession of trucks filled with tomatoes may not appeal to most as an ideal way to spend a late summer Wednesday morning.

But throwing tomatoes across a street packed with strangers and splashing tomato juice over your friends until the scene resembles a B-grade horror movie is absolutely as fun as it sounds. And, if you feel like you are still too clean for the occasion you can simply take a seat in the pool of tomato juice that slowly flows down the streets of Buñol for two hours.

Also see: CHUCK THIS! La Tomatina: throwing tomatoes and seeing red

Before the smell of 125,000 kilograms of ripe fruit is even in the air, the excitement begins with the crowd gathering around a 20 metre pole covered in soap. As residents throw water from the balconies above, determined individuals attempt to climb the slippery pole or group together to create a pyramid until someone finally reaches and releases the trophy at the top — a leg of ham.

This person is idolised until a fire truck arrives to soak everyone who has managed to squeeze into the packed street. Any male wearing a t-shirt, which should be white, has it ripped from his body and these drenched t-shirts provide the first objects to be sent soaring, with anticipation of what’s to come just as high.

Off with a bang

When the first banger – or gun – sounds, a collective cheer is released even though it is several more minutes before the tomato trucks appear. For the uninitiated, the adrenaline is flowing because of the fear of the unknown, soon to be replaced by the fear of flying fruit.

Six trucks filled with ripe tomatoes and juice make their way down the main street, slow enough to enable the more adventurous to climb into the trailer for a constant source of ammunition. With the trucks tipping their contents onto the street every 100 metres or so, those on the ground have just as much firepower and it is not long until the scene is a red blur of exhilaration.

By European standards, La Tomatina is relatively new

It is easy to assume that an event such as La Tomatina is steeped in historical significance but unlike most European festivals, this one is relatively new. It does however have a foundation as unusual as could be expected, with it starting in 1945 when some young locals got carried away during a carnival and a food fight ensued. When they attempted to repeat the fun on the last Wednesday of August in the following year the police broke up the crowd, but not before a tradition had been built.

As well as being a memorable couple of hours, this is an event that stays with you – and not just in your hair and on your skin. The clothes you wear during La Tomatina will smell like La Tomatina for many months to come, with washing them or even swimming in them doing little to change this. Those who have tomatoes as a staple part of their diet can expect to be reminded of the overwhelming smell of tomatoes each time it is prominent in a meal.

La Tomatina rules:

* squish tomatoes in your hand before throwing them to ensure they are soft — the fun is in covering others in the juice, not in bruises

* do not bring glass or plastic bottles to the event, let alone throw them

* any male should not wear a t-shirt, or should ensure it is an expendable one as it will inevitably be ripped off before the first tomato is thrown in amusement

* at least try to resist the temptation to ‘tomato’ those only spectating

* tomato throwing must cease when the second banger sounds, and the immaculate and ridiculously fast clean up begins

TOP IMAGE: By flydime (La Tomatina / Spain, Buñol) [CC BY-SA 2.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

Also see:

That’s La Tomatina

Running of the Bulls in Pamplona

Oktoberfest guide

The post La Tomatina: trigger happy tomato throwers in the world’s greatest food fight appeared first on Australian Times News.

These destinations are suffering from what people in the travel industry call “overtourism.” The numbers speak for themselves. Europe was the most frequently visited region in the world in 2016, accounting for close to half of the 1.24 billion international tourist arrivals. Spain, a nation of 46.5 million people, welcomed a remarkable 75.3 million visitors in 2016. Croatia, population 4.2 million, saw more than triple the number of tourist arrivals.

Australia hasn’t yet experienced visitor numbers quite this large – there were just 8.24 million tourist arrivals in 2016 – but overtourism is becoming a concern here, as well.

What exactly is overtourism?

The awkward term overtourism describes a situation in which a tourism destination exceeds its carrying capacity – in physical and/or psychological terms. It results in a deterioration of the tourism experience for either visitors or locals, or both. If allowed to continue unchecked, overtourism can lead to serious consequences for popular destinations.

The situation has gotten so bad in certain locales in recent years, media outlets have started publishing lists of the “travel destinations you should avoid” and new terms like “anti-tourism” and “tourismphobia” are entering the travel industry lexicon. Tourist sites have even occasionally been targeted with violence, such as the string of attacks that took place in Spain last year.

The causes of overtourism vary according to the destination. Recently, the disruptive agents of the sharing economy, like Airbnb, have been blamed for bringing more tourists into the heart of communities instead of just tourist sites. Cheap travel and package holidays are enabling more people to take short city breaks and cruises, particularly in Europe. Social media also plays a role in popularising places like Myanmar, which go from being off-the-grid to “must-see” destinations overnight.

The shifting focus of governmental tourism agencies play a role in overtourism, as well. Many agencies are now almost exclusively marketing-focused and their singular goal is promoting growth. For instance, Tourism Australia’s “Tourism 2020” strategy is clearly growth-focused. Its goal is stated simply on the website – to achieve more than AU$115 billion in overnight spending by 2020 (up from AU$70 billion in 2009).

Sustainable tourism strategies, once heavily promoted in the 1990s and early 2000s, no longer seem to be as high a priority.

Is Australia really in danger of overtourism?

Australian tourism sites like Kangaroo Island aren’t seeing visitor numbers anywhere close to Venice and Barcelona just yet. However, poor tourism policies may still lead to a form of overtourism if locals perceive their quality of life is being damaged by tourists.

For instance, the 2011 Kangaroo Island Pro-Surf and Music Festival faced considerable community opposition for its proposal to bring 5,000 visitors to the small hamlet of Vivonne Bay (population 400). Recently published research examining the policy process indicated it was a push by tourism authorities to boost tourism on the island that led to the event being imposed on the community. The backlash was so severe, organisers abandoned plans to host the event again in subsequent years.

However, this hasn’t stopped other tourism development schemes from being proposed. And the state Economic Development Board has recommended doubling the numbers of tourists on the island by 2020.

Tasmania, too, has experienced a tourist backlash in recent years. Most recently, thousands came out to protest a proposed cable car for Mount Wellington near Hobart. With claims by critics that the cable car would draw upwards of 1 million tourists per year, one can readily see the seeds for overtourism.

Another site that could be in danger is the Great Barrier Reef. Agricultural run-off, climate change and a crown-of-thorns starfish outbreak are currently posing grave threats to the reef, which could spark a phenomenon known as “last-chance tourism”, – a rush to experience a place before it’s gone for good.

What can be done?

Most experts agree government regulations are key to addressing the threats from overtourism. Many cities, for instance, are following Barcelona’s lead to tighten restrictions on Airbnb. The Thai government is closing popular Maya Beach on Phi Phi Island for four months every year to allow the sea life to recover. Creatively, Copenhagen is promoting a tourism policy based on “localhood”:

A long-term vision that supports the inclusive co-creation of our future destination. A future destination where human relations are the focal point. Where locals and visitors not only co-exist, but interact around shared experiences of localhood. Where our global competitiveness is underpinned by our very own localhood. And where tourism growth is co-created responsibly across industries and geographies, between new and existing stakeholders, with localhood as our shared identity and common starting point.

And in New Zealand, the tourism board is actively promoting tourism visits outside of peak season. This is a good example of how government agencies can use “demarketing” strategies, or deflecting interest in places, to address rising tensions over tourism. Similarly, Majorca’s authorities have tried to rebrand it as a winter destination in an effort to reduce overcrowding in the peak season.

With its “Tourism 2020” strategy, Australia is focused instead on growing its visitor numbers. The national and local tourism bodies should take a more sustainable and holistic approach to their tourism planning to reflect the values and desires of local communities. That will ensure visitor numbers remain in check and tourism remains an enjoyable experience – for tourists and residents alike.

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By Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, Senior Lecturer in Tourism Management, University of South Australia

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.

TOP IMAGE: Alberto Morante/EPA/The Conversation

The post Why Australia might be at risk of ‘overtourism’ appeared first on Australian Times News.

Thai Airways operates state-of-the-art Airbus A380 and the Boeing 777-300ER on its twice daily service from London Heathrow to Bangkok. The onwards flights to Australia are served with the latest aircraft – the Airbus A350 to Melbourne, the Boeing 787 ‘Dreamliner’ to Brisbane and Perth, as well as retrofitted Boeing 747s to Sydney.

Fares start at Sydney from £717pp, Melbourne from £708pp, Perth from £701pp and Brisbane from £717pp.

For full details, visit Brightsun.co.uk

THAI operates the following frequencies onwards from its hub in Bangkok

o   Brisbane – 7 weekly flights (8.5 hours flying time)

o   Melbourne – 7 weekly flights ( 8.5 hours flying time)

o   Sydney – 11 weekly flights (9 hours flying time)

o   Perth – 7 weekly flights (6.5 hours flying time)

Passengers can sit back and relax in an award winning economy cabin with comfortable ergonomically designed seats, where all of their needs are anticipated and the service comes with a smile, from boarding to the final destination.

Thai Airways Economy Class meals are crafted using the best produce to ensure freshness and quality, and it’s on board catering was awarded the best in the world by Skytrax in 2017. Entertainment is on demand with hundreds of hours of movies, games, music and TV shows.  Passengers in Economy Class are also entitled to a generous 30kg baggage allowance.

Royal Silk Class is Thai Airways’ Business Cabin. The Royal Silk experience begins before take-off, where passengers receive fast tracked prioritised check in and baggage handling and access to wonderful lounges. The Royal Orchid Spa in Bangkok Suvarnabhumi airport is award winning and Thai Airways Royal First and Royal Silk Class passengers can enjoy complimentary massages whilst waiting for their connecting flight – what a great way to unwind after a long flight!

Passengers flying in Royal Silk enjoy a fully flat bed, fantastic cuisine, using local Thai produce from the Royal Projects organic farms and a vast array of on demand entertainment; you might not even want go get off the plane!

Frequent travellers can earn points with the Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus frequent fliers programme, and also on its Star Alliance partners – THAI is a founding member of the world’s largest airline alliance.

Stop-over with Brightsun Travel

If you are looking for a stop-over in Thailand, Brightsun Travel has some exclusive hotels rates and can put a fantastic package together for you!

Brightsun Travel has been in the travel industry for over 30 years, are ABTA/ATOL registered and can help you get some of the best air fares on the market. They sell holidays, flights, travel insurance, can arrange your transfers and car hire and are open 24/7.

For full details, visit Brightsun.co.uk

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Where: Pamplona, Spain

When: July 6 — July 14

What: The Running of the Bulls is only one part of the festivities for the town’s patron saint, San Fermin, including sports events, bullfights, fireworks, a giant-heads parade and a whole lot of wine and sangria. It is easily one of the wildest and craziest festivals in Europe and almost a rite of passage for Aussie travellers.

The daily ‘run with the bulls’ (encierro) is kind of like anti-bullfighting where men (and women, although this is frowned upon by the locals) run from rather than at the animal. The running of the bulls is the biggest of many events of its kind that take place in Pamplona and the surrounding region of Spain.

An abridged history of Pamplona’s Running of the Bulls

There’s no great story for the origin of the loony pastime that is the Running of the Bulls, but it’s basically developed from the foolhardy games of bored cattle drovers. The San Fermin festival was brought to the attention of the wider world largely by writer Ernest Hemingway, who was quite taken with the event.

Following his writings about the bull runs, young men have travelled from across the globe to prove their bravery on the streets of Pamplona, with the festival and its bovine dodging daredevils taking on ever greater proportions and notoriety.

How the Running of the Bulls all works

The kick off for the San Fermin festival in Pamplona is midday 6 July each year, when a rocket is fired to signal the end of sobriety and the start of unrelenting drinking and merriment. Not for the faint hearted, and that’s not just because of the bull running — there is some serious partying to be had. The opening day is often regarded as one the best days of the entire festival, with wine fights galore (don’t wear your good whites!) and a lot of friendly interaction between the tourists and the locals.

For the bull runners, from 7 July onwards at 8am every day the bulls are released for their 848 metre sprint, which takes around four minutes to complete. It’s best to get ready for the run nice and early, with people usually gathering in the narrow cobbled stoned streets from around 6am.

Another major part of the festival is the bullfight that happens every evening, and those who oppose the bloodthirsty charade want to make sure they’re up early each morning to see the bull’s get their own back on humans.

The primary colours of the festival are white and red — with most runners/revelers wearing white t-shirts and white shorts/pants, with red hankies, scarves, belts and bandannas completing the San Fermin look.

How to get to Pamplona for the Running of the Bulls

There is an airport in Pamplona but it is only accessible via domestic transfer. Other airports in the vicinity that are accessible from the UK are Bilbao – 170km away, Zaragoza – 172km away, and Biarritz (in France) which is 128km away.

Staying in Pamplona

Pamplona is a decent sized city with a population of around 200,000 so there is plenty of accommodation but, naturally, you will have to plan way, way ahead to have any options for Pamps (over 350,000 visitors enjoy Pamplona over the festival period!). You probably are looking at 2019 now to get in on the action, but some of the popular youth travel companies like Top Deck and Contiki may still have some availability and are worth hitting up.

TOP IMAGE: Pamplona, San Fermin Festival – Running of the Bulls. (By Asier Solana Bermejo – Montón, CC BY-SA 2.0)

MIDDLE IMAGE: Pamplona, San Fermin Festival (By A. www.viajar24h.com – Flickr, CC BY 2.0, Link)

BOTTOM IMAGE: Pamplona, San Fermin Festival – Running of the Bulls. (By Carreras_por_Iruña_(14610396362).jpg: Iñaki Larrea derivative work: Stegop , CC BY-SA 2.0, Link)

The post Pamplona’s Running of the Bulls: what happens and how did it come about? appeared first on Australian Times News.

I’m at Elephant Eye lodge in Hwange national park – Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve, covering a vast area of approximately 15,000 sq km, and home to more than 100 species of mammal and 400 species of bird. After your daytime safari spotting giraffe, zebra and wildebeest here from the comfort of an open jeep, the creatures are never far from you at night either, with elephants trudging past your tented lodge after dark and feeding from nearby acacia trees while you sleep.

It’s a wonderful feeling to be ensconced in their world like this, safe at all times with trained and armed park rangers always on hand. It makes you appreciate that these expanses of untouched wilderness are thankfully one aspect of Zimbabwe which wasn’t so affected by the country’s erstwhile troubles. Today it offers some of the best game-viewing spots in Southern Africa, with far fewer other jeeps driving around, giving you a much starker sense of seclusion.

Earlier in my 10-day trip I had enjoyed another kind of safari – a walking one – looking for black or white rhino in Matobo National Park, whose population of both has greatly increased in recent years due to diligent conservation efforts.

My walking party, led by local experts Norman and Norman (‘Norman Squared’ as they call themselves) and an armed ranger, eventually come within 20 yards of a small herd of young whites – three males and a female – who allow us to quietly take photos while they stand cautiously beneath a tree. Unfortunately a sudden movement from one of us spooks them and off they trundle, back into the enveloping foliage, however those previous minutes of standing in each other’s presence make for a truly special moment. And there are plenty more to follow throughout the trip.

The next arrives in the same national park: in the Matopos Hills, an epic landscape of smooth granite peaks that rise from the verdant terrain like giant thumbs. It is the final resting place of Cecil Rhodes, the contentious figure after whom the country was originally named (Rhodesia), and whose grave lies high up on a hill overlooking the park he cherished. As my party make our way up to the summit and gaze out over the dramatic panorama, it is immediately clear why.

Elsewhere in the park, on the subject of national history, are unspoiled examples of ancient rock art dating back at least two thousand years – the highest concentration of its kind in southern Africa. After encountering the rhinos and Rhodes’ grave, seeing some of these primeval daubings up close is another arresting moment. You really do get value for money in this particular national park.

Arguably the greatest historical jewel in the country’s crown, however, is the UNESCO World Heritage Site after which the country was named: the ruined city of Great Zimbabwe in Masvingo, 300km east of Matobo. Built and inhabited by the Bantu civilisation between the 11th and 15th centuries, the extraordinary extant site covers an area of almost 1,800 acres to meander around. With relatively few other tourists around you can wander in peace up its steep acropolis and around the ‘Great Enclosure’ with its enigmatic tower monument, as the resident baboons frolic alongside you.

The Great Zimbabwe experience continues on the accommodation front at the nearby Lodge at the Ancient City, which is actually built into the rock to mimic its constructional style. With large thatched lodges as your room for the night, and an outdoor pool overlooking the fertile surrounding parkland, the Ancient City is a truly atmospheric place to stay.

Away from the countryside, there are a couple of impressive higher-end hotels in bustling capital Harare which will surprise many first-time visitors, not least the 5-star Meikles which towers over the gardens of Africa Unity Square. A member of the prestigious ‘Leading Hotels of the World’ consortium, it is a big draw for international dignitaries, business executives and celebrities – funnily enough the Irish national cricket team were staying there during my visit, although checked out unhappily after being beaten in the World Cup by hosts Zimbabwe!

The final days of my journey in this underrated African country take place in what many visitors justifiably regard as one of the most spectacular natural sights they ever will see. Rightfully one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World along with Mt Everest and the Grand Canyon, Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River is the planet’s largest sheet of falling water, whose mist clouds and thunderous rumble can be seen and heard from miles away (it is fittingly known by locals as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘the Smoke that Thunders’).

At closer quarters the sight and sound of the falls are breathtaking – you can gaze upon it from the spray-clouded ‘rainforest’ on the opposite bank, or even inch along the girders beneath the famous Victoria Falls bridge which links Zimbabwe with neighbouring country Zambia, for some momentous river gorge views while safely harnessed. Other thrill-seeking options here include ziplining or bungee-jumping off the 130m-high bridge – certainly not for the fainthearted – or hovering over it all in a ‘Flight of Angels’ chopper ride operated by Zambezi Helicopters.

Victoria Falls unsurprisingly has been popular with tourists ever since the late nineteenth century when explorer David Livingstone was smitten by it, and the surrounding resort town accordingly offers a diverse range of accommodation options, from the charming mid-range Zambezi River Lodge situated on the river’s edge (watch out for the resident hippo ‘Sebastian’) to the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge overlooking an expanse of national park complete with a watering hole where you can watch elephants drink from your own bedroom balcony.

For a luxury experience of grand proportions, however, you won’t surpass the Victoria Falls Hotel – an icon of the Edwardian era and one of the oldest hotels on the continent. It is resplendant inside with painted portraits and framed photos from the age of empire, while outside its tropical gardens – regularly crossed by wild warthogs – lead down to Zambezi gorge, with Victoria Falls Bridge in the background enshrouded by mists from the falls. You won’t find many more dramatic views to gaze upon over a post-prandial drink or nightcap.

My final 24 hours here were spent gently cruising down the river on a two-tier boat in time for sunset, spotting hippos and crocs on the banks over a G&T from its free bar (operator Shearwater Cruises), and later dining at the high-spirited destination restaurant ‘Boma’ where you’re obliged to participate in a mass-bongo session between courses before a dance-off on the central floor after dessert. You also receive a certificate here for eating the national delicacy mopani caterpillar which, and while many fellow westerners typically recoil from chomping on the chewy black grubs I found them absolutely delicious!

The cumulative experience in Zimbabwe is culturally rewarding from start to finish, as you progressively discover what the rest of the world has been missing out on for too long. The people are amongst the most welcoming you’ll ever meet, their smiles a happy constant. And the hotels and lodges are of an extremely high standard, always giving you something to look forward to after you’ve had your daily fill of the natural and historical wonders on offer throughout the land. You would realistically need at least ten days here to see and feel the best of it (handily the cross-country roads are easy to navigate and not particularly busy).

On this evidence it is only a matter of time until the country returns to its 1990s boom years, so you will do well to be one of the first back through its doors before the stream becomes a deluge again. Zimbabwe is back, and well and truly open for business.

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Words and photography by Kris Griffiths.

Trip organised by Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA).

Return flights to Harare via Kigali start from £576 on RwandAir, with cheaper deals to be found in low season. Wild Frontiers offers 10- and 12-day tours taking in all destinations covered in article. Prices from £2,675 per person incl accommodation, some if not all meals, guided excursions and private transfers.

The post Rebirth of a nation: Zimbabwe open for tourism again appeared first on Australian Times News.

Technology continues to evolve with advances in artificial intelligence, automation, biometrics and a rapidly expanding Internet of Things. With this comes an increasing and potentially catastrophic risk of malicious actors bringing digital infrastructure and the societal services that rely on it to a grinding halt.

Even if we’re not quite there yet, there are several worrying trends highlighted in the report that show what cyber security professionals are already confronting.

DDoS for hire

The first concern relates to an increasing frequency and volume of Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks – up 16% in the last year. These attacks bombard computers with huge amounts of data. They are used by malicious actors to disrupt and delay networks and make them unavailable to their users.

The most famous DDoS attacks were against Estonia in 2007, shutting down banks, media organisations and government ministries.

Fast forward a decade and the volume of data harnessed in such attacks has increased exponentially. According to the Akamai report, the largest DDoS attack in history was recorded in February this year against a software development company. It involved a data flow of 1.35 terabytes (1,350 gigabytes) per second.

The Southern Cross Cable connecting Australia and New Zealand’s internet has an estimated overall capacity of greater than 22 Tbps – due in large part to recent upgrades. Such a high-volume attack directed at a single choke point could have a big impact on transcontinental and national internet speeds.

Perhaps even more concerning is that DDoS technologies are being commercialised and sold to cyber criminals on “DDoS-for-hire” websites.

They’re also becoming more sophisticated. Previously seen as a fairly simple way of exploiting internet traffic, the latest DDoS attacks exhibit more novel ways of creating “botnets” (networks of compromised computers) to redirect data flows against a target. According to the Akamai report, attackers have been paying attention to mitigation efforts and changing the nature of their attacks as they unfold.

Hacking holidays

Cyber criminals will invariably look for the weakest links. This might be individuals who never update their passwords and use unidentified wifi networks without due diligence. Or it could be particular commercial sectors that are lagging behind in cyber security standards.

The Akamai report highlights that in the last year organised cyber criminals are increasingly targeting the tourism market. A staggering 3.9 billion malicious login attempts occurred during the last year against sites belonging to airlines, cruise lines, hotels, online travel, automotive rental and transport organisations.

Finding out who is responsible is a trickier problem. Evidence suggests that exploitation of hotel and travel sites is mostly emanating from Russia and China, and it’s possibly the work of organised cyber criminals targeting tourists for easy gain. But more work needs to be done to map cyber crime and understand the complex criminal networks that underpin it.

It’s not all doom and gloom

While the report warns of larger more destructive DDoS attacks before the end of 2018, it’s not all doom and gloom. The potential for cooperation is also evident.

In April 2018, the Dutch National High Tech Crime Unit and the UK National Crime Agency ran the appropriately named “Operation Power Off”. This targeted a DDoS-for-hire site that was responsible for somewhere between four and six million DDoS attack over its lifetime. The successful operation led to arrests and likely criminal prosecutions.

These sorts of high level cyber crime collaborations are growing in frequency and strength. Our own national Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) in New Zealand, for example, is working with its Australian counterpart – and CERTs all around the Asia Pacific – region to identify and counter cyber crime.

The New Zealand government is currently consulting on a “refreshed” national cyber security strategy, and new powers have been invested in the Australian Signals Directorate to combat, prevent and disrupt cybercrime committed outside of Australia. So it appears Trans-Tasman responses to these problems are growing teeth too.

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By Joe Burton, Senior Lecturer, New Zealand Institute for Security and Crime Science, University of Waikato

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.

TOP IMAGE: Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks are up 16% in the last year. (Shutterstock/The Conversation)

The post Hacking your holiday: how cyber criminals are increasingly targeting the tourism market appeared first on Australian Times News.

“Good taste,” they muttered.

Not too many people go to Eritrea to visit. Bordered by Sudan, Ethiopia and Djibouti, Eritrea occupies a strategic area in the Horn of Africa with more than 1000 km of coast on the Red Sea. It’s remote.

When asked, I said was going there to see the architecture. Many of the buildings are centrepieces for the Italian modernist movement in the 1930s when Mussolini’s ambition was to establish a new Roman empire in Africa. To do this he sent his best architects to build a model city full of Art Deco and Futurist design and called it Piccola Roma.

The visa people looked non-plussed but eventually gave me the visa for £50, cash. I took a lot of planes to get there and was to have a really rewarding and happy time in Asmara, one of the most striking and unusual towns in the world, and one of the least known.

Eritrea (pop 5mil+) is a difficult country to write about. There’s so much good about it but also so much bad. Its history is tangled and its one-party state is secretive. It had a 30-year war with Ethiopia before it won its independence in 1993. It is the sixth newest country in the world and the capital, Asmara, was recently named by Unesco as a world heritage site because of its extraordinary modernist architecture.

It is reportedly one of the worst countries in Africa for press freedom (only North Korea ranks lower) and human rights. It’s second only to Niger for poverty and the GDP was estimated at $740 recently. Eritreans are the biggest group of asylum seekers in Africa, about 6% of the population A UN report found that up to 400 000 people were ‘enslaved’ in the Eritrean military. In 2016 the UN called for the government to be brought before the international criminal court for continued crimes against humanity.

The president, Isaias Afewerki, was elected in 1993 and is still there 25 years later with no opposition party. Amnesty International believes that the government of Afewerki has imprisoned at least 10,000 political prisoners and claims that torture — for punishment, interrogation and coercion — is widespread. I was told that there were seven or eight prisons in or around Asmara but nobody could volunteer any information. Free speech is a luxury the locals do not have.

Asmara, the elegantly faded capital, (pop 800,800), came under Italian control in the 1880s when they conquered the territory of Italian Eritrea. The Italian background there has visibly endured – the railway station 16km in the mountains is still called Seidici (16 in Italian), the churches, the road through the mountains to the coast is Italian-built, the menus include pasta and pizza and some people I talked to still spoke Italian.

In Bar Zilli on Beirut St with its Art Deco radio-style curved façade, I spoke to young local men in both English and Italian as we sipped macchiato and drank local Melotti beer. I thanked goodness for CNN aiding their English as the Eritrean language, Tigrinya, is unnavigable and I don’t speak Arabic.

Education is free in Eritrea as is health. Every village has a clinic now and the education seems good with many going on to university studying useful subjects like accounting. Some of the boys I met working in the Metal Market, worked in the mornings and studied in the afternoons. They spoke English and wanted to give me one of their coffee burners, made, literally, from old bits of prams and cans. They all wanted to go to America.

I was struck by the friendliness of the locals, mostly long-legged and slim-build men. (Women keep a lower profile.) They say it’s their excellent home-grown, healthy diet – and the cycling. Eritreans are Africa’s champs. But their footballers, nicknamed the Red Sea Boys, haven’t yet qualified for FIFA finals or Africa Cup of Nations.

They’d all heard of Russian writer Alexander Pushkin, whose mother was the granddaughter of Ibrahim Gannibal who was allegedly taken as a slave from (then) Abyssinia and presented to Tsar Peter in Russia. There’s a fine statue of Pushkin, with his dark curly hair, in Memorial Park. Both Russian and Eritrea dignitaries opened it with aplomb, forging close cultural ties.

Close business ties have clearly been forged between Eritrea and China, currently building an Expo business park, near an Italian and a German development.

Driving out of town, ageing concrete Mussolini-built suspension bridges have been replaced by new ones donated by South Korea for the trucks and (Libyan) oil tankers that traverse them night and day. The minerals mined from the mountains, by workers including Zambians, Zimbabweans and South Africans, are managed by Canadian and Australian companies.

Eritrea is developing with growing international help but poverty and food insecurity is widespread. Their white marble might sell well to Italy and modern colonists like China might feature prominently – – the government gave them land to build their embassy – – but it needs so much more input into the key natural resources that include natural gas, gold, copper, oil, zinc and potash.

Almost 70% of the country is covered by the greenstone belt of Eritrea that has deposits of precious metals and volcanic massive sulfide (VMS).

Eritrea is courting tourism although you need a Travel Permit for Foreigners from The Tourism Service Center (next to the Sweet Asmara Cafe in Harnet Avenue) if you want to go outside Asmara. (You’ll need to show them at checkpoints.)

There is plenty to exploit for tourists: archaeology, mountaineering, diving for wrecks on the Red Sea, trekking, interesting hotels, wild camels riding in the desert, watching lazy monkeys sunbathing on the hot tar of mountain roads, great seafood, spicy honey, livestock markets in small roadside villages, unusual outposts.

Asmara is an easily manageable small city for visitors. There are interesting markets to visit, mosques, churches (religion is roughly 50/50 Christian and Islamic), mellow coffee shops, the outdoor Tank Graveyard of rusting war tanks, aircraft and vehicles from various Ethiopian/Eritrean wars, piled up in a field where sheep and goats graze.

There’s an elaborate theatre and opera house built in 1918, the extraordinary 1938 stadium Bahti-Meskerem where the president addresses his people for hours, and music shows and football fill in. And other architectural gems, including eight cinemas, preserved in the sun but now on a permanent interval.

I had a guide referred to me by my London greengrocer, who is from Asmara, to take me around, and felt that I was very welcome. Everybody smiled at me and was keen to talk.

As he drove me to the airport to fly home on the ridiculously early 4am flight to Dubai, the airport road was packed with people walking back to town at 2am. They’d all gone to watch the Arsenal/Chelsea game LIVE on the airport café’s television. Seems that certain things are the same worldwide.

The post Travelogue: A trip to the highly unusual destination of Eritrea appeared first on Australian Times News.

Count Dracula, a fictional character in the Dracula novel, was inspired by one of the best-known figures of Romanian history, Vlad Dracula, nicknamed Vlad the Impaler, who was the ruler of the Romanian province of Walachia at various times from 1456 to 1462. We are here now because we want to visit some sites associated with Dracula and try to sort legend from truth.

Bran Castle

Perched on top of an 80-metre-high rock, Bran Castle has imposing towers and turrets but it owes its fame for being the castle Stoker used in his book.

Also see: Transylvania’s Dracula: Myth versus history

Although Stoker never visited Transylvania, his book has encouraged persistent myths that this was once the home of Vlad Dracula. While the association with Dracula is dubious, the castle continues to hold a strong attraction for all fans of Count Dracula so naturally, we have to visit.

Narrow winding stairways and torturous passages lead through some 60 rooms which house collections of furniture, weapons and armour. You can tour the castle on your own, but expect to spend several hours doing so and in the summer and on weekends there are always crowds.

Poenari Fortress

While Bran Castle is the place that inspired Stoker’s tale, it’s really Poenari Fortress about two hours west that is considered to be the real Dracula’s Castle. Poenari Castle was erected around the beginning of the 13th century then later was abandoned and left in ruins. In the 15th century, Vlad the Impaler repaired and consolidated the structure perched high on a steep precipice of rock, making it one of his main fortresses.

The ruins of Poienari Fortress are all that are left today. If you decide to climb the 1,462 stairs, you’ll be able to touch pieces of the walls and towers that are still standing.

Sighisoara

This is at the heart of the Count Dracula legends. Sighisoara was founded in the 12th century by Transylvanian Saxons, but it’s Dracula that has put the town on the map with today’s visitors. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the town is full of cobbled streets and ornate churches. We climb the 175-step wooden staircase leading up to the Church on the Hill. It has been used by Saxon churchgoers and students at the adjacent high school, as well as current Sighisoara residents and visitors since it was built in 1642.

Also see: Trying Transylvania, Romania

Sighisoara is the birthplace of Vlad Dracula. You can still visit his birth home, although today it is a restaurant and museum. The house is in Citadel Square, close to the Clock Tower, and it is well worth visiting. As we climbed the narrow stairs in almost complete darkness, something fell on my neck causing goose bumps all over my body. Emerging into a darkened room we came face to face with a live vampire in a coffin.

Not too many people can call vampire acting their full-time occupation!

Brașov

Fringed by the Southern Carpathian Mountains and resplendent with glorious architecture and historical attractions, Brașov is one of the most visited places in Romania. It was founded by Teutonic Knights in 1211 on an ancient site and was settled by the Saxons as one of their seven walled citadels.

We stroll around the old Town Hall Square where we admire colourfully painted and ornately trimmed baroque structures. We go inside the Black Church, the largest gothic church in Romania, named for damage caused by the Great Brașov Fire of 1689, when flames and smoke blackened its walls. The interior is impressive and it houses one of the largest pipe organs in Eastern Europe.

Part of the city’s defensive wall, once 13-metres-high, two-metres- thick and over three-kilometres-long, can still be seen today. So too can Rope Street, the narrowest street in Europe, at just 1.3 metres wide.

The relationship between Vlad Dracula and Brașov was problematic over a number of years. In 1560 he invaded southern Transylvania and destroyed the suburbs of Brașov, ordering the impalement of all men and women who had been captured. It is said that Brașov has the distinction of seeing more stakes bearing Dracula’s victims than any other place. Fortunately, there is no evidence of this today, however.

Sibiu

The heart of the city is its medieval centre complete with open squares, stone wall defences, towers, and centuries-old buildings and churches. Staircases link the Lower Town, where historically the Romanian peasants lived in small, colourful houses, and Upper Town where the wealthier Saxons lived in the city centre. The Council Tower dates back to the late 1500s and sits in the passageway between the Big Square and Small Square. We climb the stairs for fantastic views overlooking the city.

We notice the houses with eyes. They’re actually ventilation windows, however, throughout periods of political strife, locals believed they were being watched by the “eyes” to ensure they were not causing trouble.

From 1451 to 1456 Vlad Dracula lived in Sibiu yet just four years later he mercilessly raided this region and killed, impaled and tortured 10,000 of his former fellow citizens and neighbours.

Did we find Dracula?

We saw a make-believe vampire and learned much about Vlad Dracula and his exploits. And while vampires may not be real, there is no doubt that Stoker’s Dracula has become a powerful reminder of the rich and authentic Romanian folklore, and a great tourist attraction for the country today.

Read more of Len’s adventures at LenRutledge.com

TOP IMAGE: By Geralt via Pixabay

OTHER IMAGES: By Phensri Rutledge

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