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2023-01-13

7 Incredible Places To Visit in Nottingham

John Stevens travel Discover England, England, Nottinghamshire 0 Comments

Famous for the legend of Robin Hood, as well as being the former home of Lord Byron, Nottingham is a city that is proud of its rich heritage. Historical and cultural credentials include a 17th-century castle and a medieval labyrinth of caves. A pair of stone lions watch over the 1920s Council House in the Old Market Square, while a statue of Robin Hood stands proudly below the castle.

Nottingham is proud of its connection to Robin Hood, and Sherwood Forest sits to the north of the city. However, this ancient woodland has so much more to it than legendary men in tights; it was a former royal hunting ground and is home to the 1000-year-old tree, the Major Oak, the Sherwood Forest Golf Club, which is one of England’s best courses, and some great Nottingham hotels.

Here are some other great things to see in this lovely city:

1. Attenborough Nature Reserve

Yes, this nature reserve is named after our beloved Sir David Attenborough. This automatically makes it one of the best places to visit in Nottingham, right? In fact, he opened the park himself in 1966! Best known for being home to a number of bird species, Attenborough Nature Reserve provides many rarely sighted birds with a home. The reserve covers an enormous 350 acres and is located on the site of what was once a former gravel pit. It has since been converted into a hub for flora and fauna.

The reserve is run by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust which does fantastic work to help preserve the wonderful wildlife in Nottinghamshire. Located less than 4.5 miles away from Nottingham’s city center, it’s one of the best places to visit in Nottingham for those able to travel a little bit out.

2. Wollaton Hall & Deer Park

Wollaton Hall is a spectacular Elizabethan mansion set on extensive grounds where deer can be found roaming freely. The Hall was the setting for Wayne Manor in the Batman film The Dark Knight Rises. And with all its grandeur it’s not hard to see why.

The Hall is also home to Nottingham’s Natural History Museum, which has been located here since 1926. It also houses the Nottingham Industrial Museum, meaning there’s plenty of history to explore inside the walls of this stunning building!

Daily tours of the Hall are available to visitors, and while wandering through the rooms of the Hall, you’ll feel like you’re living in your very own period drama. Trust me! Wollaton Hall also has its very own walled botanical garden, which is situated by the stable block and is maintained by volunteers.

3. The Lace Market

The Lace Market area of Nottingham was once the center of the lace industry in Britain. These days, it is one of Nottingham’s most important heritage zones, and the beautiful red-brick buildings are home to some of the city’s best shops and restaurants. As well as lace-makers, of course!

Along with Hockley, the Lace Market is the oldest area of Nottingham city, having over one thousand years of history coursing through its streets. You can book a walking tour of the streets at the Tourism Centre if you so wish. But it’s equally fun to roam the pretty district of your own accord, keeping an eye out for one of the many hidden gems.

4. Hockley

Hockley is Nottingham’s bohemian hotspot, and its Victorian buildings house everything from tattoo parlors and record stores to second-hand bookstores and vintage clothing stores. Some of the most amazing places to visit in Nottingham are tucked away in the streets of Hockley.

So it should certainly be on your list of places to visit while you’re in Nottingham. One such gem can be found in the shape of Broadway Cinema, which is a cultural leader for independent cinema, arts, and technology in the Midlands.

Hockley hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the popular multi-venue music festival Hockley Hustle. The district is also brought to life during the city’s Pride event each year.

5. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

No trip to Nottingham would be complete without paying a visit to the oldest inn in Britain, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem. One of the best indoor activities in Nottingham, you can tie it in with a trip to Nottingham Castle, as it’s nestled below the castle, tucked into the towering sandstone cliffs.

There are loads of cozy nooks and crannies in this lovely little venue that take you back in time. When you visit, you really feel as though you can feel the history of the place seeping out of the walls. It’s quite fun to think you could be sat in the same seat as a famous knight once sat before heading off to battle!

History aside, it’s just an all-around nice pub. So if you’re craving a good pint after a long day of seeing the sights, then make your way down here and relax.

6. Nottingham Castle

The striking Nottingham Castle sits atop Castle Rock and has 40-meter-high cliffs to its eastern and western sides. It has been around in some format or another since 1067, so if you want to walk through a piece of living history, then this is the place to do it.

The castle has staged many a historical event in its time, including the final showdown in the legends of Robin Hood. Fine art from across Europe can be seen in the Long Gallery of the Castle, and the display includes some fantastic works created by artists from Nottinghamshire itself.

The castle has also been used as a royal residence from time to time in the past. So if you want to follow in the footsteps of royalty, then make your way to Nottingham Castle for a dose of royal life.

7. The Arboretum

This beautiful Victorian park was opened by the Sheriff of Nottingham in 1852, and it has a certain magical quality about it. It is Nottingham’s oldest public park and has remained largely unchanged since it was designed over a century and a half ago.

The park is home to over 800 trees from sixty different species. And as you wander through the trees you will come across small lagoons and cannons from times gone by. There’s also a stunning pagoda-style war memorial in the park’s center which houses a bell, said to be looted from a Cantonese temple.

J.M. Barrie, the author of Peter Pan, lived and worked in Nottingham in the 1880s, and it’s widely believed that the beautiful Arboretum inspired Barrie’s fictional setting of Neverland. What could be closer to a real-life fairy tale than that?

As you can see, there are so many fantastic places to visit in Nottingham. Whether you’re a tourist spending the weekend there or you’ve lived there all your life but haven’t got out to explore much of the city and its surroundings, I hope this list prompts you to go and see what else this lovely city has to offer!

2023-01-12

Top 3 Things To Do In Chiang Mai (Part One)

John Stevens Slow Travel, Tourism, travel, Travel and Restaurant Asia, chiang mai, Thailand 0 Comments

You will never run out of things to do in Chiang Mai. With over 300 temples to explore, this northern Thai cultural hub has so much to offer; the temples are just a taste. Don’t forget that there are plenty of other things to keep you busy in this city, from museums to markets, and the nature immediately surrounding the city is of abundant natural beauty. If you need extra inspiration, here’s our list of Chiang Mai‘s top 3 attractions.

1. Wat Phra That Doi Kham

The first of the Chiang Mai attractions on our list of the top 10 things to do in this city is still a temple. Wat Phra That Doi Kham is particularly known for the representation of Buddha it houses. This Buddha is over 16 meters tall, which makes it so impressive. The temple is located on a hill just outside the city of Chiang Mai and was built during the 7th century.

Its oldest building is the chedi, or pagoda, which was built in 687. The chedi is similar to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a much better-known temple, but not as peaceful to visit as the temple Wat Phra That Doi Kham. In addition to the reduced number of visitors to this temple, making it more enjoyable to visit, there is also a lot to see.

You can admire the snakes (nāgas) that guard the steps of the pagoda or stroll around the splendid green pillars that are the courtyard of the temple. While you are in the courtyard, you might have the opportunity to ring one of the large bells or one of the gongs. This is a very fun part of a temple visit. There is no doubt that Wat Phra That Doi Kham is one of the finest of all Chiang Mai attractions.

2. Warorot Market (Kad Luang)

We’ve featured one market before in our list of the best things to do in Chiang Mai, but this one is a must for any foodie. The market is also extremely popular among locals, so it’s a great place to go if you want to try out some representative examples of the Thai lifestyle. You will be able to see what the Warorot market is so popular for; there is a whole range of small ready-to-eat things, as well as many fresh products.

Food isn’t the only thing you can buy in this market, but that’s the attraction for tourists. As we mentioned, this market is very popular with Chiang Mai locals and hosts a large portion of them. It is for this reason that the other things on sale are mainly everyday items and not souvenirs for tourists. You have two reasons to visit the Warorot market: to discover the delicious food that is offered there and to spend time with the local population.

3. Walking Street Saturday Night Market

After you’ve spent some time exploring Chiang Mai’s temples and museums, you could visit the Saturday Night Market on Walking Street — Wua Lai Road to experience something a little different. It’s a fun experience, starting late in the afternoon and going until 10:30 p.m. in the evening. The market isn’t too crowded, which is nice.

The busiest time of day is usually around sunset, so avoid that time if you want more room to hang out. You can buy many traditional handicrafts, and of course, a host of less traditional souvenirs are also sold here. You will also likely be tempted by all the little things to eat that you can choose and taste.

Eating a few of these will give you enough energy to keep walking around and exploring the stalls that are available to you. If you want to visit this market, you can quickly be dropped off by a tuk-tuk since its location is close to the old city walls. Wandering around this market should only take you an hour or two, but you can stay as long as you like, soaking up the atmosphere.

Sound off in the comments section below, and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about Chiang Mai.

2023-01-05

Ways You Can Monetize Your Travels

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant 0 Comments

Going on a trip can be an enjoyable and challenging experience. Some people prefer to spend, while others, a little more savvy, are looking to make a financial profit while enjoying the trip.

There are many ideas to make money while traveling, yes, this is one of the best kept secrets by travel influencers: they monetize content with posts for their target audience interested in knowing about places.

Although it may surprise you, many content creators are making money from travel, they have even published best-selling books about magical places. There is a wide range of business opportunities when you travel and take advantage of all that cities have to offer.

In this article, you’ll discover ideas for making money while traveling like you never imagined. What are you waiting for? Get started now.

Before You Start Your Trip, Research Business Opportunities in Your Destination

It’s important to research business opportunities in the destination before you travel. This will give you a better idea of what products and services are available and whether there is a demand for them.

You will also be able to familiarize yourself with the local market and potential competitors in order to find out what the market needs so that you can put together a solid plan that will make you a lot of money while enjoying life.

Travel Blogging

If you like to write and share your travel experiences, why not make a blog of it? You can earn money through sponsored ads, affiliations and donations, and if you’re good, you might even get paid for your articles.

But it’s not just about making money: running a travel blog is also a great marketing tool for your own travel agency or tour guide. You can use it to promote your services and build relationships with other industry professionals.

Keep in mind that to create a blog, it is important to hire a professional web designer and programmer. In addition, you must have a domain.

Start a Travel Podcast

Yes, it is possible to make money with a podcast. If you are good at storytelling and have a great story to tell, then this could be the perfect option for you.

To get started, you’ll need to record a few episodes and upload them to a podcast hosting service, like iTunes or SoundCloud. You can then promote your podcast and get it heard by as many people as possible.

Once you have a solid base of listeners, you can start monetizing your podcast in different ways. For example, through sponsorships, donations or merchandise sales. If you can create a successful podcast, you’ll be able to generate a nice income while traveling the world.

Offer Your Services as a Tour Guide or Travel Consultant

If you love to travel and discover new places, why not offer your services as a tour guide or travel consultant? You could offer your services to small groups and even individual tourists, and help them plan the perfect itinerary for their needs and budget.

After all, who better to show someone your favorite destination than you? Plus, you could earn some extra money if you decide to make it a business.

Sell Products Typical of the Place You Are in or Photos of the Destination

You can sell products typical of the place you are in to earn money while you are traveling. These types of products are usually handicrafts, jewelry, typical food or drinks, and other items that represent the culture of the place. You can also sell photos of the destination, as many people are looking for images of exotic places for their own projects.

If you are good at selling products and photography, this can be a great way to make money while traveling. Of course, do this if you feel comfortable.

Upload Videos of Your Destinations to YouTube

If you like shooting videos and editing them, you can upload them to YouTube and make money with them. Many people search for videos about tourist destinations to plan their trips, and if your content is good, you could get a lot of views and, therefore, profits.

Look For Temporary Jobs in a Travel-Related Industry

A temporary job in a travel-related industry will allow you to be in direct contact with tourists and learn their needs firsthand. You can take advantage of this opportunity to offer your services as a tour guide or travel consultant, and thus generate additional income.

In addition, if you work at a hotel or travel agency, you will be able to receive discounts on the services they offer, saving you money on your own travel.

Create and Sell Educational Materials About Your Destination, Such as a Travel Guide or Map

One way to monetize your travels is to create and sell educational materials about the place you are visiting. This can be a travel guide, a map and even a mobile app. If you are creative and have good ideas, you can become an information entrepreneur and profit from your favorite tourist destinations.

You have many options to profit from your travels and make a lot of money, remember it’s not just about spending and spending, but making a profit. Think about each of these ideas and start charging now. And, don’t forget to let us know, in the comments below, which one you chose.

2023-01-05

10 Best Hiking Spots in North America

John Stevens Tourism Exploring, hiking, mountains 0 Comments

As the leaves are beginning to change colours and just before it gets way too cold to be outside, the fall season is one of the most perfect times of the year to go hiking in almost any place in North America. If you, your family, or travel buddies love the outdoors and enjoy spending time embarking on adventures in thrilling new places, a hiking trip to one of North America’s most beautiful hiking locations might be the perfect pre-holiday season escape for you.

From Yellowstone National Park to New Hampshire’s secret nature pathways, these are the 10 most breath-taking hiking trails in North America.

Yosemite National Park, California

Hiking in Yosemite can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Open all year round, hikers can come to Yosemite during the springtime where you’ll be able to see some of the prettiest wildflowers blooming in the country. During December and through the rest of the winter season, you can hike snow-shoe trails that are perfect for an outdoor holiday trip with the family.

Banff, Canada

Banff is one of Canada’s most popular National Parks with a variety of hiking trails that outdoor lovers can experience. Those who have travelled and hiked through Banff have said these hikes are not for the faint of heart. Some require serious strength and cardio, however, the views you get at the end of your hike are always absolutely worth it.

Yellowstone, Wyoming

Whether you’re interested in walking alongside mountain wildlife or hoping to see hot springs erupt in person, there is something at Yellowstone for every adventurer. One of the best hikes that the park offers is called the North Rim Trail which follows the perimeter of the Grand Canyon where you’ll see where the Yellowstone River turns into a breath-taking waterfall.

Lost Coast Trail, California

There’s a hiking trail in California that many locals don’t even know about. It’s called The Lost Coast Trail, and it’s the area of rugged land that lines the coast of Northern California where not even roads have crossed through. If you’re someone who loves a good ocean view, this hike might be perfect for you.

Mount Katahdin, Maine

With evergreen trees and a breezy climate to guide you along the way, Mount Katahdin is also home to Darcy Pond, a quiet body of water that’s perfect for sitting next to and taking in all the nature around you. If you’re looking for a great natural escape, this is definitely the hike to take.

Telluride, Colorado

Hiking in Telluride is usually a short, fun, and satisfying journey. Trails like the Cornet Creek Falls Hike or the Bear Creek Trail are perfect for families hiking together or people who aren’t looking for hard and taxing trails to take. While the weather might be super chilly, a winter hike in Colorado will bring you some of the most beautiful snowy mountain views you’ll ever see.

Red River Gorge Loop, Kentucky

Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest of the state of Kentucky, the Red River Gorge is a canyon system that hikers love to travel through. The Red River Gorge is known to have more challenging hikes and are for more experienced travellers and hikers, but they do almost always result in beautiful views, including crystal white waterfalls and stunning treescapes.

John Muir Trail, California

Cutting through Yosemite and California’s Sequoia National Park, the John Muir Trail is 211 miles long, but it ends on what many travellers say is the prettiest mountain scenery on the entire U.S. west coast. If you think you’ve got what it takes, grab your backpack and book your trip to California today.

Black Angel Trail, New Hampshire

Some of the natural landscapes that are located in New Hampshire are many times overlooked and forgotten. In the state’s White Mountain National Forest, the Black Angel Trail is known for being one of the most challenging hikes in the East Coast but produces some of the most wonderful views of wildflowers in the right season.

The Jewels Route, Arizona

The famous pictures of so many beautiful red rock formations come from Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. The Grand Canyon is also home to The Jewels Route, a hiking trail that is said to be the same route that the first European explorers walked when they first discovered the Grand Canyon.

On a quest to find all the best hiking spots in the world? Be sure to check out our post on the 10 best trails in Asia here. In the mean time, let us know about some hikes you’ve been on in the comments below.

2023-01-04

Top 7 Countries To Visit As Ice Cream Lovers

John Stevens Fun things to do, Tourism, travel, Travel and Restaurant dessert, food, fun, Ice Cream, restaurant, travel 0 Comments

Need to cool off? Taste the world with our list of popular ice cream treats from around the globe. Due to the growing popularity of some of these treats, you may already find some of them in a restaurant or café near you. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the countries you need to visit as ice cream lovers.

1. Malaysia- Cendol

This sweet, icy, popular dessert is made with coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, crushed ice, and rice noodles. The noodles get their green colour from a food colouring made from the leaves of the pandan, a common plant in the country. In Malaysia, sweetened red beans are sometimes added to the cendol. Cendol is usually served in a bowl, while in Indonesia and Thailand, it is served in a large glass. Whatever the container, it’s a great way to escape the summer heat for a while.

2. Philippines- Halo-halo

Halo-halo is one of the most iconic desserts in the Philippines. It is made of crushed ice, condensed milk and a variety of other ingredients, including sweet beans, macapuno coconut, seaweed gelatin, tapioca balls, ube jam (purple potato jam), sliced fruit, mashed rice and a scoop of ice cream. Halo-halo, which means “mix-mix” in Tagalog, is so tasty that it now appears on menus in cities around the world, from London to Toronto.

3. Italy- semifreddo

Yes, you can enjoy other delicious frozen treats in Italy, such as gelato or granita. But nothing beats a semifreddo on a hot day. This creamy yet light dessert is made by gently mixing egg yolks, sugar and cream until a frosty mousse texture is achieved. Chilled until it sets, the dessert is served semi-cold: this is the origin of its name. It is available in various flavours. We recommend chocolate, nut, fruit or nougat.

4. India- Kulfi

This traditional dairy-based ice cream delicacy dates back to the 16th century in India. It is now popular all over the world: you can probably find it near you, no matter where you live. Kulfi is even denser and creamier than North American or European ice cream (which means it melts more slowly). With classic flavours like mango, saffron, cardamom, rose, and pistachio, the hardest part of all is choosing the first one you try.

5. Mexico- Raspado

Opt for this crushed ice drink to cool you down when the temperature rises. Taking its name from the Spanish word “raspar,” which means “to scrape”, raspado can be sweet, spicy and sometimes a bit of both. Raspado is available in shops and street stalls throughout Mexico and the southwestern United States. Try one of the traditional flavours, such as leche (sweet milk and cinnamon), tamarind, pistachio, picosito (lemon and chilli) or chamoyada (a fruit, usually mango, with a chilli sauce called chamoy). The best part? You can make your own raspado at home with just a few ingredients.

6. Germany- Spaghettieis

Created in the 1960s by Dario Fontanella, this fancy dessert really does look like a small bowl of spaghetti. To achieve this effect, vanilla ice cream is pressed into a device that gives it the appearance of spaghetti noodles. It is then layered with whipped cream and topped with strawberry sauce (to imitate tomato sauce) and grated almonds, coconut or white chocolate (to imitate Parmesan cheese).

7. Thailand- I-Tim-Pad

An ice cream roll? That’s right! Also known as ice cream stir fry, the I-Tim-Pad was first popularised as street food. It has since become a major ice cream trend around the world. Made by pouring an ice cream base and your choice of flavours onto a frozen plate, the mixture quickly freezes into a thin layer which is then scraped into rolls served vertically in a bowl. An Instagram-worthy dish and, most importantly, delicious.

Looking for good ice cream?

Founded in 1967, Food Specialties is a privately owned Canadian company dedicated to developing the best-tasting ice cream ingredients, stabilizers, fruit preparations and other products for local and international markets. They are proud to have served their customers for over 50 years in developing the best-tasting ice cream ingredients, stabilizers, fruit preparations and other products for local and international markets. If you’re looking for that special something to guarantee your ice cream’s success. So, what are you waiting for? Give them today for samples, or visit their website for more information!

2022-12-29

Top 10 Best Hiking Spots Across Asia

John Stevens Tourism Asia, hiking, Trekking 1 Comment

The Asian continent is an adventure traveller’s paradise—boasting boundless trekking, hiking, and climbing pursuits. The dramatic topographic range, diversity of flora and fauna, and rich cultural and traditional heritage engender unrivalled experiences. From the famed Himalayas to Mount Fuji and Mount Kinabalu, this mountainous oasis beckons seasoned hikers and intrepid spirits to explore.

Both mentally and physically taxing, trekking is one of the greatest and most rewarding accomplishments for those who love the outdoors, and we hope you can find your next big adventure below. Happy hiking!

1. Mount Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal

This trek is found at the top of many bucket lists. The Mount Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC) is a world-famous adventure that attracts nearly 40,000 people per year. Departing from the Lukla Airport, this scenic trek travels 130.0 km out and back surrounded by the highest mountains in the world. This sublime hike in the Himalayas zigzags through the Sagarmatha National Park, exploring woodlands and glaciers, passing through charming villages where you can indulge in local cuisine and tour around monasteries. Steeped in tradition and culture, this arduous ascent to EBC is a once-in-a lifetime experience.

2. Mount Fuji, Japan

With over 200,000 annual climbers, the Mount Fuji Trek is one of the most popular multi-day hikes on the continent. While the volcano stands at an elevation of 3,776 m, this trek is widely considered to be a novice-friendly adventure—perfect for dipping your toes into the high-altitude hiking waters. There are four routes up to the summit, the most favoured climbing route, and coincidentally easiest, is the Yoshida Trail. The Yoshida Trail is the ideal overnight adventure as it faces the sunrise—offering an otherworldly way to start your morning.

3. Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Nepal

Hike up the slopes of the 10th highest peak on the globe on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC). This well-revered adventure beckons intrepid spirits, who will travel through rhododendron forests, meadows, terraced fields, and magical villages hidden amongst the soaring crests of the Himalayan range. Setting out from the city of Pokhara, the ABC Trek is approximately 115.0 km out-and-back, demanding about a two-week commitment—but it’s worth it, and anyone who has hiked this incredible route will agree. Providing ample time for self-reflection and re-connection, this climb is a life-altering experience.

4. Mount Rinjani Summit Trek, Indonesia

Well-loved amongst the peak bagger community, the Mount Rinjani Trek is technically a trekking route and does not require any climbing, rope-assisted ascents, or scrambling. This multi-day hike ascends the flanks of the active volcano on the island of Lombok, exploring lush tropical forests abundant with a diversity of flora and fauna, including the rare black ebony leaf monkey. Being an active volcano, it is worth noting that the trails are subject to spontaneous closure. There are two departure points for the Mount Rinjani Summit Trek: from either the village of Sembalun or from Senaru. Whichever starting point you chose, you will descend down to the other—though most suggest setting out from Sembalun and finishing in Senaru due to the configuration of the trails.

5. Mount Kinabalu Trek, Malaysia

Mount Kinabalu Trek is a historically significant and environmentally rich area in Malaysian Borneo. Mount Kinabalu is one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia, standing at an elevation of 4,100 m. While this summit is a sacred place amongst the Malay people, the mountain is renowned for its trekking opportunities. This demanding 2–4-day hike travels over 18.0 km from Timpohon Gate through tropical forests, over boulder fields and subalpine to the summit and back down the mountainside.

6. Ak-Suu Transverse Trek, Kyrgyzstan

Explore central Asia’s unspoiled wilderness on the Ak-Suu Transverse Trek. Boasting solitude and scenery, this 110.0 km thru-hike in Kyrgyzstan has somehow remained relatively undiscovered amongst the trekking community—so we thought we would share it with you, our favourite adventurers. Explore soaring crests, ascend high mountain passes, wander through dramatic valleys, navigate glaciers, take a swim in crystalline alpine lakes, and hike amongst wild horses. This route is unrivalled in its natural beauty and deserves to be added to your adventure bucket list.

7. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, India

The serenity and seclusion on the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is unparalleled. Follow an ancient trade route used by nomadic shepherds and indulge in the majesty of the Pir Panjal Mountains. This magical multi-day hike showcases seven idyllic Himalayan lakes– Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangabal, Nandkol, and Dal Lake. The undisputed beauty of this route is not limited to the glacial pools, but it includes sweeping mountain views, montane meadows blossoming with wildflowers, meandering streams, alpine valleys, and grasslands abundant with grazing cattle.

8. Limi Valley Trek, Nepal

Hidden behind the Himalayas in the district of Humla is the Limi Valley Trek. This scenic circuit through Limi Valley starts and ends in Simikot, following an ancient salt trading and pilgrimage route to the Nepal-China border. Immerse yourself in the Humla and Tibetan cultures as you explore welcoming villages and monasteries and indulge in local cuisine before escaping into the preserved wilderness. Featuring arrow gorges, scenic rivers, high mountain passes, dramatic valleys, hot springs, lush meadows, rhododendron forest, and much more—there is no shortage of scenery, or wildlife for that matter, along this route.

9. Chadar Trek, India

Hiking the Chadar Trek is an unforgettable experience. This epic adventure spends 5-10days navigating the frozen river Zanskar. Immerse yourself in the remote Ladakh region as you wander over the icefield past caves and glaciers, making your way through the scenic river valley framed by the famed Himalayas. While this trek is manageable for most, it is best suited for determined enthusiasts with a good fitness level and experience trekking. This life-altering adventure is one of the few treks that is ventured in the Himalayas’ high winter.

10. Laya Gasa Trek, Bhutan

The Laya Gasa Trek, otherwise known as the Half Snowman, is perhaps the most scenic trek this country has to offer. Travelling approximately 220.0 km from Drugyel in Paro to Damji in Tashithang, this epic expedition exhibits the beauty and diversity of Bhutan. Tracing the Tibetan border, this trek explores the unspoiled wilderness—ascending high mountain passes, wandering through montane meadows and subalpine jungles. Along the way, you will be rewarded with sights of Mount Jumolhari, Jichu Drake, Tsherim Gang, and a diversity of flora and fauna.

Can’t get enough of the best treks in Asia? If you want to explore the most epic trekking adventures from around the globe, be sure to check out more of these articles. We look forward to your suggestions in the comments below.

2022-12-28

Which Countries Are Not Worth Visiting?

John Stevens travel Dangerous Countries, Madagascar, North Korea, Pakistan 0 Comments

Before I list the countries I think should be avoided, let me just say that I think every country is worth visiting, because every country is different, and visiting them means a chance to experience something unique that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. That being said, safety is essential when traveling and no matter how appealing a country can be, it’s not worth the risk to your life. So, here’s my list of countries to avoid.

North Korea

It is a nation that has been completely separated from the planet on all levels. The Hermit Kingdom, or rather its mentally unstable leader, has always threatened world peace and has stated over and over again that its ultimate goal is to have a nuclear weapon that can reach the United States. His propaganda is literally broadcasted 24/7 across the nation and it’s even rumored that he didn’t spare his own father and uncle. Overall, he was universally declared as an evil dick.

Try laughing in front of him and you’ll get lifetime imprisonment. Try laughing in front of his father’s statue, again lifetime imprisonment. Try laughing in front of a propaganda poster and you’ll get ten years in the prison camps. Oh and that applies to foreign visitors too! So, I think we can all agree that he is indeed a crazy and evil dick.

However, if you still want to travel to North Korea (and put your life on the line), all I can tell you is that you won’t have a “normal” tourist experience. The rules are straight – you always have to listen to what “they” say (they as in Kim Jong-Un and his minions) and keep your mouth shut. Spies will be everywhere you go and almost everything you do will be tightly controlled. And, at no point on the entire visit will you be allowed to wander freely or have an unsupervised conversation.

So, yeah, North Korea is not a holiday destination!

Pakistan

Pakistan is a country known for its Islamic history, tradition and culture. Everything they do is governed and coordinated by the principles of Islam. Even their constitution is an Islamic constitution based on the religion’s values and on the Quran. In terms of food, Pakistani dishes are very rich, always packed with spices and ultimately satisfying. The country is also gifted in terms of nature and scenery. And, the people are known for their good morals and for being friendly. However, I’ve included Pakistan in this list because there are some harsh truths you need to know about this country –truths that make it a dangerous tourist destination.

No matter how much people may defend the country, the truth is that there’ll always be a high threat of terrorist attacks and according to some, Westerners are often targeted. For example, nothing usually prevents Americans from visiting the country, but the locals did not care when they killed many of these Americans.

And, if you are a woman, you might need to reconsider your wish to travel to Pakistan as the country is said to be particularly unsafe for women travelers. And, I’m sure there’s no need to mention how many women travelers have left the country as rape victims.

Madagascar

Madagascar is a rather large island (roughly the size of Texas if I’m not mistaken) and each area offers a different experience, landscape, and even culture—since there are many tribes around the island. The country is home to some of the world’s most unique flora and fauna and is well-known for its colorful chameleons, lemurs, stunning orchids, and towering baobab trees.

Whether you get into the country by sea or by air, it’s very cheap to travel to Madagascar. However, there are several reasons why you should not visit this country.

Dirtiness in the country is completely on another level. Sometimes, you can even find people peeing on the side of the road.
The country is full of pick-pockets, cheats and violent muggers and many of them like to target Westerners.
The streets can flood pretty heavily during the rainy season and your holiday can turn into a nightmare.
If you are a picky eater, I don’t suggest traveling to Madagascar as most restaurants would have a more limited menu.
There’s always the risk of catching malaria and dengue fever.

2022-12-28

Top 4 Things To Do In New York

John Stevens Fun things to do, Tourism, travel, Travel and Restaurant New York, queer, queer culture, travel 0 Comments

Often referred to as the most exciting city in the world, New York is a place to visit at least once in your life. It is home to one of the biggest and best gay scenes in the world. You’ll find endless iconic locations. So many movies take place in New York- you feel like you’ve been there before you get there.

New York is the most densely populated city in America. If New York were an independent country, it would be among the ten richest countries in the world. It is a cultural, media, and financial powerhouse, and beautiful people flock to its streets in search of that Big Apple dream. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the places to visit in New York.

1. Gay bars and clubs in New York

New York has a world-class gay scene. LGBT+ Americans have long considered New York a safe haven. Before social attitudes became more liberal, New York was the place to be if you were gay. It is still home to one of the largest LGBT+ communities in the world.

The New York gay scene used to be centered around Greenwich Village, along with the New York bohemian scene. The biggest gay scene in New York today is in Hell’s Kitchen. Some of our favorite Hell’s Kitchen gay bars include Secteur and Selles Flamboyantes. All are popular with tourists. If you are planning a big gay night out in New York, Hell’s Kitchen is the place to be.

The East Village is also home to a great gay scene. One of the best gay bars in the East Village is Club Cumming. It’s named after the actor Alan Cumming, in case you were wondering! Right next to the East Village, you will find Greenwich Village, home to New York’s most famous gay bar: The Stonewall Inn. Stonewall is, of course, the birthplace of the gay liberation movement.

2. Popular gay hotels in New York

New York doesn’t have gay hotels, as Berlin or Palm Springs do. As one of the most gay-friendly cities in the world, gay travelers can expect to feel welcome in all New York hotels. One of the best areas in New York for hotels in Greenwich Village / Chelsea. Here you will find some of our most booked hotels in New York. The high-standard line is particularly popular with gay travelers.

It hosts a notable party during pride and has an excellent rooftop bar. It is also a fifteen minute walk from the iconic Stonewall Inn. St. James New York is also one of our most booked hotels. It is located in SoHo, near the Brooklyn Bridge. Greenwich Village and Chelsea are within easy walking distance. A stylish and reliable choice for your stay in New York. Many tourists will stay in Times Square, but we wouldn’t recommend it unless you are dazzled by the bright lights.

3. Gay culture in New York

New York has a legendary gay cultural scene. All gay travelers to New York should visit the Leslie-Lohan Museum. It is located in SoHo and is one of the only LGBT+ history and culture museums in the world. You’ll see famous works of art by major LGBT+ artists, such as Andy Warhol.

You’ll also see strange curiosities by unknown New Yorkers. One of the most exciting museums in New York is the Museum of Sex. It is, quite simply, a museum dedicated to sex. The iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art is also a must-visit- it’s home to some of the world’s most famous artists and the legendary Met Gala every year.

New York’s theatre scene is arguably the best in the world. Naturally, many theatre practitioners are LGBT+. The Duplex is an iconic theatre in Greenwich Village. Some great gay icons have performed here, including Barbra Streisand and Joan Rivers. Check out our full guide to New York’s gay culture here. Be sure to expand your mind bet.

4. Bathhouses in New York

New York’s gay bathhouse and sauna scene were legendary, but that was a long time ago. At the height of the HIV pandemic, the bathhouses were closed. Although some gay bathhouses reopened, they never quite recovered. New York’s gay bathhouses and saunas are not a patch of what you will find in Berlin or London. That said, we have a guide to the remaining gay bathhouses in the Big Apple.

Sound off in the comments section below, and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about visiting New York.

2022-12-28

Pueblos Magicos: The 6 Magical Villages in Mexico

John Stevens travel Atrixco, Chiguahuapan, Cholula, Mexico, San Cristobal de las Casas, Taxco, Tequila 0 Comments

It began as a government-sponsored promotion to promote Mexico’s rich and diverse cultural heritage to lesser-known areas of the country by calling Mexican villages “Pueblos Magicos. Without this program, most tourists would miss out on these places, which would be a shame. Below are some reasons you should at least consider visiting these six magical villages if you are backpacking in Mexico. Ready to expand your backpacking itinerary?

1) Taxco

If you love beautiful jewelry, especially silver, you should visit Taxco in Guerrero. Taxco was a place where a lot of silver was mined, which is why it became a silver city. As evidence of this, there are endless rows of stalls and stores selling silver. This is a place where you can walk around for hours looking for souvenirs. These are the cheapest at the stalls, and you can only find better quality in the stores. In addition to admiring the jewelry, the city itself is beautiful, with its cozy and lively streets, numerous churches, and historical buildings.

2) Tequila

Yes, there’s a place called Tequila in Mexico. It is the center of tequila production, and the drink is named after this place. A visit to Tequila is completely dedicated to this and includes a tour of an agave plantation (the plant from which tequila is made), a look at how tequila is made, and of course lots of tequila tasting. If you think there is only one species, you are wrong. Tequila comes in many different varieties and flavors, and different types of liquors are also made from agave.

3) Chiguahuapan

Chignahupan is the place to be for Christmas. According to the official description, they specialize in handicrafts, especially Christmas decorations. This is because when you get off the bus, you will be amazed to see Christmas decorations everywhere. From Christmas baubles to nativity scenes, from wreaths for the tree to stalls with Christmas bubble earrings. And they do it all year round. Why exactly? That’s not clear. That’s just the way it is here.

4) Atlixco

Another Christmas-friendly store has arrived on the scene. That’s because, in anticipation of the festive season, Atlixco has decorated the streets with life-size, luminous inflatable figures that can be admired as you walk by. You can feel like you are walking on a merry-go-round, but you can also easily spend the evening sipping mulled wine or Mexican beer. Outside of the Christmas period, it is a lovely place to visit, with beautiful colorful streets decorated with flowers (Atrixco is the most famous) and rich cultural history.

5) San Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristobal is one of the most famous pueblos magicos in Mexico, it would be hard to leave it off this list. The city has a unique atmosphere because a large portion of the population belongs to the Mayan culture. San Cristobal is also a beautiful and colorful city, with bars and cafes serving the region’s hot drinks: coffee and hot chocolate. Also not to be missed is San Cristóbal’s surroundings filled with beautiful mountains.

6) Cholula

Cholula is home to the second-largest pyramid in the world. It cannot be seen from the outside and is marked by the church built on top of the pyramid, but it is possible to visit the inside and be told of Cholula’s important place in the Aztec Empire. In addition to this history, Cholula also has a modern side. This is because it is a real student town with trendy cafes and restaurants, and there is plenty of street art to be discovered on a bicycle ride.

Have you ever been to any of these places? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

2022-12-18

Everything You Should Know Before Visiting Costa Dorada

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant 0 Comments

In the south of Catalonia, the Mediterranean Sea fills the province of Tarragona with magic. In this paradise, known as the Costa Dorada, you will find the most beautiful cities, extraordinary beaches and coves, as well as towns with an exceptional atmosphere. It is cultural experiences, enchanting landscapes and a lot of fun that accompany all those who want to visit.

Definitely, the destination has a lot to offer… Can you imagine spending a season in this paradise, whether in apartments, houses or villas on the Costa Dorada? We are convinced that you will not regret choosing this destination. But, so that you don’t miss out on its best treasures, we explain in this article how to make the most of it, with recommendations on vacation rentals, the best days to go, essential places to visit, among others.

Let’s get to know the Costa Dorada!

Look for Comfortable Accommodation, Close to the Tourist Areas and Easily Accessible

Although in the Costa Dorada you will find many accommodation options, the growth of vacation rentals in front of the hotel coast is increasingly important. For this reason, think about renting or leasing apartments is one of the most economical and comfortable options for all tourists.

Now you can rent in all areas of the Costa Dorada, but, without a doubt, we recommend you to know the best apartments in Miami Paltja. It is a tourist landmark, with the most tranquil beaches. The best thing is that you will be able to enjoy them to the fullest, as they are not the ones that remain the most crowded.

Always Consider the Climate of the Area

Yes, any weather can offer amazing experiences. Even so, it’s important that you keep in mind the type of weather you’ll be facing.

On the Costa Dorada, you’ll find warm temperatures throughout the summer. But towards the end of the year, the temperatures moderate. However, in summer the weather can be quite strong, so we recommend that you visit the area on the last days of the season. In this way, you will travel quietly and very comfortably, without losing the delicious heat.

Mobility is Essential

Another thing to consider when visiting the Costa Dorada is to decide how you will visit it. You have to take into account that in many cases public transport can be almost non-existent. For this reason, it is always best to consider using a car, motorcycle or even a camper.

In addition, by using one of these means of transportation, you will have the opportunity to plan the routes that best suit you and use your time as you wish.

Essential Sites to Visit

To make the most of your trip to the Costa Dorada, there are some places you absolutely cannot miss. For example, you can’t miss the Calas de L’Ametlla de Mar, located 40 minutes from the city of Tarragona. You will discover three really spectacular virgin coves.

On the other hand, it is essential that you visit the city of Tarragona. This city is a world heritage site. You will have the opportunity to discover one of the largest archaeological sites in Roman Hispania. In addition, Tarragona is a city with a great artistic heritage.

Another point of reference to visit in Tarragona is Port Aventura. It is one of the main theme parks and one of the best in Spain.

The Costa Dorada is Synonymous with Comfort: Here Is How Your Outfits Should Be

As you already know, when you travel to the Costa Dorada, you will visit many beaches and you will have to travel long distances. That’s why one of the great recommendations to enjoy this place is to use comfortable clothes.

On a trip as wonderful as the one you are going to make, nothing should bother you. For this reason, it is not superfluous to wear good pairs of tennis shoes, comfortable pants and shirts. In this way, walking along the beaches and strolling through the streets of the cities will be the best experiences and, later, the best memories.

Do you have any other recommendations that you would like to share with us? Do you have another idea of where to visit? Remember that to make the most of a trip, the first thing that should accompany you is optimism, tranquility and joy. With these three companions, no trip can go wrong, and even less so if it is accompanied by the Mediterranean. Before you leave, don’t hesitate to leave us your opinions and comments. We look forward to reading from you!

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