December 15, 2017

World’s Most Famous Landmarks

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Landmarks that have played a significant role in history and that are instantly recognizable symbols naturally pique our travel interest. Here are the world’s most famous landmarks:

The Great Wall of China

world's most famous landmarks

China is one of the world’s most famous landmarks because of its architectural grandeur and historical significance. The Great Wall was originally built as a defensive fortification by the three states: Yan, Zhao, and Qin. It began as independent walls for different states and only became the “Great” wall during the Qin Dynasty as a means of preventing incursions from barbarian nomads into the Chinese Empire. The Great Wall carries a considerable part of Chinese culture and has long been incorporated into Chinese mythology and symbolism. In addition, the Wall has become the largest military structure in the world. The best-known section of the Great Wall of China–Badaling, located 43 miles northwest of Beijing–was rebuilt in the late 1950s, and attracts thousands of national and foreign tourists every day. It was listed as a World Heritage by UNESCO in 1987.

Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

taj mahal

The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum which encompasses nearly 17 hectares of land located on the south bank of the Yamuna River in the Indian city of Agra. It is one of the world’s famous landmarks not only for its striking beauty but for its romantic story as well. In 1631, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan got this monument constructed in the memory of his beloved wife, a Persian princess who died after giving birth to their 14th child. The name “Taj Mahal” was derived from the name of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal and means “crown palace”. It is the love behind this outstanding monument that has given it a life. This is why Taj Mahal is considered as the epitome of love and a monument of immeasurable beauty. The mausoleum is considered to be the greatest architectural achievement in the whole range of Indo-Islamic architecture. The Taj Mahal is also regarded by many as the best example of Mughal architecture and a symbol of India’s rich history.

Pyramids, Giza, Egypt

pyraminds of egypt

All three of Giza’s famed pyramids and their elaborate burial complexes were built during a frenetic period of construction, from roughly 2550 to 2490 B.C. The pyramids were built by Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. The majestic ancient monuments mark the glory of Ancient Egypt. The monumental tombs are relics of Egypt’s Old Kingdom era and were constructed some 4,500 years ago. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza pyramid complex bordering what is now El Giza, Egypt. It is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one to remain largely intact.

Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

eiffel-tower-lights

There is no doubt that the Eiffel Tower is one of the world’s most famous landmarks. It is a wrought iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel, whose company designed and built the tower. The Eiffel tower is a symbol of Paris, the icon of the cityscape and the best place to view the capital. It is the tallest structure in Paris which is 324 meters tall, about the same height as an 81-story building. The Eiffel Tower is the most-visited paid monument in the world. Since opening in 1889, the Tower has welcomed over 250 million people and still welcomes almost seven million visitors a year.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire, England

stonehenge

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England and is one of the world’s most famous landmarks. Archaeologists believe it was constructed from 3000 BC to 2000 BC. The stones are set within earthworks in the middle of the densest complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in England, including several hundred burial mounds. Stonehenge is regarded as a British cultural icon and is owned by the Crown and managed by English Heritage.

August 17, 2017

Traveling Solo Tips You Need To Know

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Traveling solo can seem daunting from the comfort of home. But going solo means you have a chance to embrace the freedom you don’t enjoy when you travel with a group. Traveling alone gives you the chance to indulge yourself fully. You can choose when and where to go without taking into consideration your travel buddies’ preferences. You can rest when you want, and you can go when you’re ready. Your mistakes are your own, and your triumphs all the more exciting.

Traveling solo is a chance to really take in your surroundings and meet locals and travelers alike along the way. You will be faced with decisions you need to make, fears you need to overcome and discover your true self and how much you are capable of. It is a chance to be content to be by yourself and find that confidence within you because the world is yours for the taking. Here are some important tips on traveling solo:

Do Your Research

Before you travel solo, research about the place, about the people, the food, the cost of living and the things you can do to maximize the fun and adventure. Also take note of the laws of the place, including the culture and tradition being observed so you won’t end up with trouble while traveling solo.

Pack Smart

Make sure all of your essentials are in your carry-on in case your luggage gets lost. Your carry-on should contain you IDs, travel documents such as passport and visa, travel itinerary, money and credit cards, essential personal belongings, medications, essential devices like your smartphone and camera. You may also put a complete change of clothes.

Know Your Strengths

If you travel solo, you must rely on yourself at all times especially in difficult situations. It is important to know not just your strengths but also your weaknesses because you might face various problems along the way, make decisions and even take some risk on your own. Traveling solo will challenge your ability and stretch your limits to cope with travel obstacles and in turn, this will make you a stronger, braver, and a more self-reliant person.

Learn A Little About the Local Language

Making the effort to learn a few words and phrases before you travel solo can be a game changer. Locals love to know you’re making an effort and doing your best to interact. Knowing how to say hello, or say thank you or ask for directions, or just knowing how to introduce yourself and start a basic conversation using the local language will make a great difference to your trip.

Stay Safe When Traveling Solo

Traveling solo can be very rewarding, but you must always be mindful of safety concerns. Without a companion to watch your back, you are more vulnerable to criminals and scam artists. Take care in large cities especially at night, be aware of any local scams, keep a close eye on your valuables, and watch your food and drinks. Also, a solo traveler can blend in more easily than a group. Not drawing attention to yourself as a tourist is one way to stay secure. Don’t walk around with your face in a guidebook and don’t wear touristy shirts. Don’t wear flashy clothes or jewelry. And when asking directions, don’t let on that you are alone.

Stay On Budget

When you travel on your own it is easier to keep up with your budget because you are the one who decides where and what to eat, where to shop and etc. Don’t go overboard with buying souvenirs and extra non-essential things. Always have some emergency cash on you. Remember that you are on your own and running out of cash with no one to rely on can change your fun trip into a devastating one. Split up your cash and credit cards into different spots so if you lose one set, you still have another.

Stay Connected

Stay in touch regularly via phone, text, video chat or email and leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home. Regularly connect with loved ones about your whereabouts and ongoing itinerary. This way, you can be sure that if something happens, they know where to find you because they know where you’ve been and what you’ve been up to.

Be Adventurous

One of the most common reasons why some people choose to travel alone is to experience adventure. You can do the things you always wanted to try and learn new things you thought never existed. Be bold and courageous. As the saying goes, “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”

Meet People

Traveling solo does not mean being alone all the time. The essence of your solo travel is that you can get outside of your comfort zone and gain enough confidence to meet and discover about new people that you will come across along the way. You will be surprised to build a friendship with other people around the world who has various stories to tell and experiences to share.

Take Photos

Photos are the best souvenirs from a trip. You can share it with friends and family from home so they also get to see your experiences and adventures. Also, you take pictures, you have something to look back to when you feel like being sentimental about life and growing up. Photos are the best containers of memories.

January 10, 2017

Unique Tourist Spots to Consider On Your Next Trip To Cape Town

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Whether you happen to be a local or tourist, Cape Town is a city that offers a variety of world class tourist attractions that will keep you coming back for more. However, Cape Town also offers a few fascinating and unusual attractions that you may want to add to your list of places to see.

The Haunted House

Situated at 99 Milner Road in Rondebosch, this has to be one of the most suspicious type buildings in Cape Town. The Edwardian structure house features ornate turrets and an earth colored façade has been named “The Spook House” by the locals. The rumor involves that a cult lived in the home in the 1970’s and this resulted in a weird aura that is particularly disturbing to the surrounding residents. People who live in the area have witnessed strange sightings such as flashing lights and slamming doors. This particular house has made it into the news on several occasions.

Castle Of Good Hope

Constructed in the 1600’s by what was known as the Dutch East India Company, this structure is the most ancient colonial building in this country. The distinctive structure features 5 bastions along with a moat. The building was built by slaves, sailors and soldiers and was first used with the intention of a military and civilian post until such stage that the settlements grew in the Cape and functions had spread to other surrounding regions. Today, this building is used for military involvement and is home to the Iziko Museums and Castle Military Museum of Cape Town.

AmaZink Live

If you are in search of a unique and cultural experience with the locals you will want to attend the AmaZink Live show which is a truly authentic South African dining and musical experience. The waiters at this establishment are the performers that encourage the diners to “sing for your supper”. You are provided with a traditional three course South African meal. This tourist attraction allows you to experience the sounds, energy and sights of a unique show held in Stellenbosch at AmaZink.

The Malay Quarter

Bo Kaap is definitely the most colorful area you will find in Cape Town and is originally known as the Cape Malay Quarter. The area features tiny homes in various colors along with cobbled quaint streets. This particular attraction is found hidden away in the slope of the Signal Hill. These tiny houses were established in the 17th century along with the very first Muslim Mosque in the country of South Africa. These colorful and small homes contrast with the city buildings and make Bo Kaap a truly unique city treasure.

Irma Stern Museum

This museum celebrates Irma Stern’s life an artist that painted impasto-style landscapes and portraits based on African subject matter. Her works combine Asian, European and African art and the Irma Stern Museum celebrated everything antique that Stern adored. This artist achieved international and national recognition and when you visit this attraction you can view works that feature an exotic nature along with various collectables that she attained from her travels through Africa and Europe.

Long Street

This particular location in Cape Town is culturally rich and there are number of sights and attractions to see. Long Street features quirky and cultural restaurants such as The Purple Turtle, Zulu Bar, Mama Africa, Masala Dosa and Mesoptamia. These restaurants are themed and ideal if you are the type of tourist who enjoys experiencing different cultures. Other attractions to Long Street include quaint shops where you can find crafts, music stores and vintage clothing.

For more unique tourist spots in Cape Town check our secretcapetown.co.za

January 10, 2017

The Top 3 Backpacking Countries

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Backpacking has gone mainstream as the majority of tourists who seek a truly authentic experience of the local destination turn to it. There seemingly is no better way to experience the local cultures, attraction, and cuisines than to indulge in the everyday activities that the local people engage in.

However, not all destinations a suited for the backpacking culture, especially when you consider matters of security. Additionally, even the destinations that are suitable for backpacking, they are not all equal. Some offer better backpacking experiences than others do.

When you take the fundamental aspects of the backpacking culture such as having access to inexpensive accommodation options, efficient public transport system, and a plethora of attractions, some destinations come out better than others.

In this regard, we will delve into three top destinations for backpackers. These destinations are conducive for backpacking taking into account the fundamental elements that make backpacking a success.

#1. New Zealand

The land of the Kiwis is particularly well-placed to offer an exciting backpacking adventure. You can tour New Zealand as a stand-alone destination or as part of a wider Australian tour.

Attractions – There are plenty of attraction to keep you busy as you tour New Zealand. Ideally, you should keep off your tour in the city of Wellington, which is the capital city of New Zealand. Wellington is known for the festivals it host on a monthly basis, which gives tourist an in-depth understanding of the culture of the Kiwis. Additionally, tourist can always visit the museums and art galleries to further their understanding of New Zealand’s past. The plethora of bohemian restaurants around the city are a good place to enjoy the local cuisines.

Auckland is naturally the next destination for many backpackers. Among the attractions there include the volcanic mountain ranges of Waitakere which has a 250 km trekking trial. The Auckland Museum is also a good facility to learn more about New Zealand. There is also a plethora of pristine beaches such as the Mission Bay, where tourist can relax and enjoy the beach life.

The Northland peninsula is also a good destination, as it offers an unprecedented look into the Maori culture. Additionally, the sub-tropical weather is always inviting.

What Makes New Zealand Perfect For Backpacking – For one, the culture and people of New Zealand are welcoming. In this regard, it is important to note that New Zealand offers restricted visas allowing them to work to support their backpacking adventure. There is a wide array of accommodation facilities that suit any budget. Finally, whilst in New Zealand, you have access to inexpensive transportation through road and railway.

#2. Malaysia

For backpackers on the look for pristine natural beauty, Malaysia is their ideal destination.

Attractions – A tour of Malaysia should set off in Kuala Lumpur. Whilst there, you should make a point to visit the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the city’s various skyscrapers such as the Petronas Towers, Islamic Museum, Chinatown, and Little India back streets. Thereafter backpacker usually take to the Cameron Highlands for trekking. Alternatively/additionally, one can visit Taman Negara wilderness.

What Makes Malaysia Perfect For Backpacking – For starters, it is very diverse. As such, you get to enjoy a wide array of attraction in one trip. Additionally, the country has well-developed transport and accommodation system/facilities features inexpensive option.

#3. Greece

Greece has played a great role in the evolution of human civilization. Backpacking through Greece is essentially a historical tour that see backpackers learn more about human development.

Attractions – Ideally, a tour of Greece should begin in Athens, where you can visit Acropolis, which has a temple built for Athena, Pantheon. Thereafter, a trip to Delphi is popular among backpackers. You can also visit the Oracle of Apollo ruins. A trip to the Island of Crete is also popular.

What makes Greece Perfect For Backpacking – The attraction around Greece are unique to Greece as there are few countries that have such longstanding history. The travel and accommodation facilities are diverse and suitable for backpacking as there inexpensive options.

January 10, 2017

Backpacking Through South Africa

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Backpacking through South Africa is something that a lot of people consider, but many deem to be hard to accomplish. South Africa has a lot to offer backpackers from mountain ranges to wine land to blue flag beaches. If you are considering backpacking through South Africa there is some information that you should consider.

Accommodation

Accommodation in South Africa can range of very expensive to budget permitting. There are a lot of backpacker lodges and other accommodation geared toward backpackers. This accommodation will offer shared rooms and single rooms. You will also have access to facilities like the kitchen and recreation areas.

There are also budget hotels and B&B’s all over the country to choose from. Of course, these types of accommodation will cost more than the backpacker lodge.

Getting Around

South Africa is a fairly large country and there are 4 primary methods of getting around that backpackers can enjoy. These are through air flights, car rentals, long-distance buses and long-distance trains. Each of these methods of transport has their benefits.

Major airlines fly into Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban daily. Internal flights are also available and are cheaper if you book them a week in advance. There are no last minute stand-by offers for internal flights.

There are a lot of companies that offer car rentals in the country and many of them have cheap offers. There are some companies that target backpackers with their rentals.

Long-distance bus travel is offered by a number of reputable companies. You can get these buses from most major cities. The companies running the buses include Greyhound, Intercape and Translux.

South Africa and Southern Africa in general does not have the best railroad infrastructure. This means that it is not easy to get long-distance trains as the routes are fairly restricted. However, it is worthwhile considering the Blue Train and the Rovos Rail. These train journeys will generally be more expensive than other forms of transport.

Eating

There are a lot of restaurants in South Africa from fine-dining to fast food such as McDonalds. Most backpackers do not actually go to restaurants as they usually have the western price tag attached. It is recommended that you buy groceries and use the facilities in the backpacker’s lodge to make meals. The price of groceries is cheaper when compared to more western countries.

The National Parks

Most people travelling to South Africa want to go to the popular Kruger National Park. This national park offers safaris and a chance to spot the wildlife in the comfort of your own car. However, there are a lot of people at the park almost all year round. If you want to see the wildlife without the people you should consider national parks such as Addo, Umfolozi and the St Lucia Wetlands.

One of the best ways to see South Africa’s national parks is with Ecotraining. Ecotraining offers immersive environmental training courses for field guide and week long courses called “EcoQuests”. They are certified with both FGASA and CATHSETA and guaranteed to give you an unforgettable African experience.

Destinations

South Africa has 9 provinces that you can explore and each offers a rich history of all the people who have lived there. Cape Town is often considered to be the crown jewel for tourists as the city hugs the coast and offers views of Table Mountain. There are also markets and nightlife in the city to rival any other urban area.

If you want to try out the wines that the country has to offer then a trip to Stellenbosch and the wine lands is a must. There are a number of wine tours which can be taken.

For those who love the coast then the Wild Coast is a must see. When travelling the Wild Coast be sure to stop and Coffee Bay and Port St John’s.

Backpackers who are interested in history will be able to get their fill anywhere in the country. Kimberly is a good stop for the mining history and further north is rich in archaeological finds.

January 10, 2017

Tips For Backpacking Through Thailand

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Backpacking in Thailand can be an extremely fun, exciting, and rewarding experience. It can also mean being in extremely uncomfortable situations if you do not know what you are doing. Below, we will be going over some of the top tips for backpacking through Thailand.

Tips For Backpacking Through Thailand:

1. Be Respectful.

One of the most important things that you can learn and adhere to when you are traveling in any country is to be as respectful as possible. You want to not only be respectful to other people but also their beliefs, way of life, and their culture. By understanding their culture and respecting it, you should be able to really gain the respect of fellow Thai.

2. Street Food.

When it comes to Thailand and saving money, nothing is going to help you do it more than learning how to eat street food. One of the best things about traveling to Thailand is the food that you will find at the street stalls. These are the cheapest and best meals that you will be able to get perhaps in the entire world. Be brave and follow the locals when it comes to dinning. They will know the best places to eat and they will really be able to point you in the right direction when it comes to choosing the best stalls. Follow the crowd in this instance and you shall be rewarded with delicious, affordable, and safe food.

3. Use Public Transportation.

When it comes to saving money in Thailand, another key point that you are going to want to take with you is having no qualms about traveling on public transportation. While the Tuk Tuk is an experience that you are not going to want to miss, you will want to become extremely familiar with the Thai bus service that will be able to get you from major city to major city as that is likely going to be a route that you need to take regularly if you plan on traveling and backpacking through the entire country. Because it is Government run, you should be able to find a bus station in literally every town. You will be able to book your tickets a day in advance for when you want to travel and even take the First Class accommodation which runs overnight if you want to double down and not have to spend on a hotel that night.

4. Timing.

When it comes to saving money and getting the most from your trip, timing is everything. Not only is the best time to visit Thailand going to be anywhere between November and February when the monsoons are finished for the year and the temperatures are at their very coolest, it is also important to think about saving money and peak season. This is going to be the peak season because the temperature and everything else is so perfect. Thus, you might want to simply wait for May to October in order to travel to Thailand for an affordable rate. Because you are going to be able to get a much better rate, you should be able to get more done and see much more than you would if you traveled during the absolute peak of the season.

In the end, traveling to any foreign country is going to take some know how and some prior knowledge. By arming yourself with the tips above, not only should you be able to save a significant amount of money on your next trip to Thailand, but you should also be able to get the most out of it.