Category: Family Travel

Best Time To Visit Itacare

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If you want to experience conditions like what you see in this picture, then April to November is the best time to visit Itacare, Brazil

Knowing the best time to visit Itacare can help you make the most of your vacation in this known vacation located in Northeast Brazil.  This famous tourist haunt in Bahia is popular for its amazing beaches, capoeira and a whole lot of culture.

But certain weather conditions and high hotel accommodation prices can put off the savviest traveller.  So it’s best to be prepared early on.  Knowing the best time to visit Itacare can spare you from the hassles associated with travelling to a city or country without prior research.

Here are some pieces of information which could come in handy, should you plan to spend your holidays here.

Weather.  Itacare, just like the rest of Bahia, enjoys a tropical climate with an annual average temperature of 24 degrees Celsius.  But things get even warmer from February to March with an average temperature of 26 degrees Celsius.  But things get cooler starting July with a temperature averaging 22 degrees Celsius.

Rainy season is from December to March.

Surf Season.  If you’re here to learn how to surf, or to indulge in the sport, the best time to visit Itacare would be Anytime between May to September.  But on some beaches in Itacare such as Corais and Tiririca offer great waves anytime of the year.

How long can I stay?  Locals would definitely recommend spending a week in Itacare, especially during Carnaval season as there are so many activities you can enjoy with your loved ones, family and friends when you’re there.  There’s just so many things you need to experience in Itacare, such as witnessing Capoeira practices, or maybe having a crash-course on the said martial arts.  In addition, you can enjoy surfing, tasting local delicacies and enjoying the sun, sea and surf.  So there’s no reason not to stay longer in Itacare.

Top Tourist Attractions in Barbados

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Barbados is an island nation found close to the Caribbean Sea in the Lesser Antilles. The top tourist attractions in Barbados represent the “little Britain” of the coast. Bridgetown is the capital and biggest metropolitan of Barbados and can be accessed through Grantley Adams International Airport. There is a wealth of great accommodation options for every budget to make a stay for almost anyone accessible. Check out the Colony Club Barbados for the best of both worlds. Here are some of the top attractions in Barbados not to miss.

St. Nicholas Abbey found in Cherry Tree Hill belongs is one of the top tourist attractions in Barbados. St. Nicholas Abbey is actually a sugar agricultural estate with an authentic Jacobean Mansion built within it. An educational tour in St. Nicholas Abbey which is one of the historical heritage sites in Barbados allows you to view antique furnishings, structural designs and photographs of its previous landlord and workers. From here you can learn various narratives and legends of the olden times. Also a documentary film is presented along the tour which portrays the life of the plantation around the year 1930s. The total experience here is quite fulfilling and interesting. St. Nicholas Abbey is definitely a must-see when in Barbados.

Situated in the hamlet of Saint Peter occupying 4 acres of mahogany jungle close to the summit of Farley Hill lies the Barbados Wildlife Reserve. The wildlife sanctuary was at first built as a research center for primates in 1982 to safeguard Green Monkeys. In the year 1985, the research center was transformed into a wildlife reserve which was financially supported by the Canadian International Development Agency and is now one of the top tourist attractions in Barbados. At present, aside from displaying Green Monkeys, the Barbados Wildlife Reserve is also home to many other animals which wander with freedom within the vicinity such as Red Brockets, Patagonian Maras, Red-Footed Tortoises, Cuban Rock Iguanas and several varieties of exotic birds.

Being renowned as the most historic town in Barbados, Holetown was formerly named as Jamestown after King James I of England. This town takes pride in showcasing one of the most private resorts of the island featuring astonishing natural and artificial panoramas which are definitely included among the top tourist attractions in Barbados. Among its famous attractions include Paynes Bay, Sandy Lane, Pratts Rock, Sandy Lane Bay and Alleynes Bay which are also ideal for varied aquatic sports. The Holetown celebration is also a broadly distinguished occasion in Barbados which celebrates every year the 1st settlement of Barbados at Holetown in February 1627. The merrymaking usually lasts for about a week showcasing the indigenous artefacts, crafts and the rich history and tradition of Barbados.

Top Things To Do In Maldives

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It is essential that you have some idea of the top things to do in Maldives before you buy a ticket. That way, you can hit the ground running the second you land, as there are a wealth of amazing activities to enjoy.

An island nation found in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives receives as many as 900,000 tourists per year. And with its rich culture and amazing sceneries, it’s no hard to find a number of fun activities to do when you are in this magical place. Now, just a quick primer for first timers. The majority of the Malidives’ history has been a hodge podge of different occupations, with short colonization intervals in the 15th (Portuguese), 17th (Dutch) and 19th (British) centuries. As such, much of its heritage has been preserved. If you are wondering what this might come off as, neighbors like Sri Lanka and India should give you some idea.

Of course, with the prospect of making the country a summer destination, it is important to first establish what the top things to do in Maldives are that is coordinated with the season. The Maldives is famous for its natural beauty, blue oceans and white sand beaches. So you can expect to engage in all sorts of water sports from swimming to fishing, snorkeling, water-skiing, windsurfng, kite boarding, and scuba diving. Kanuhura Beach provides a luxurious setting for tourists who would like to enjoy all of these without any compromises on the sights they get to see. There are lagoons that could be perfectly enjoyed by kids and offshore, adults can pursue more challenging activities. As a bonus, dolphins and pilot whales also frequent this spot and the nearby Llaviyani Atoll. Reethi Beach has a more laid-back atmosphere, with badminton courts, gyms and different facilities all the way around, while Filitheyo boasts more budget-friendly options.

Male serves is the capital of the Maldives and has the most number of full-service resorts. So if you have to start anywhere, it would probably be here. But don’t be surprised if its beaches are not as stunning as other parts of the country, like at the Adaaran Club Rannalhi, since it is also the most densely populated and overly developed. But this does serve a tourism advantage given that guests enjoy a different pursuit during their stay. Another one of the top things to do in Maldives, especially Male, is to tour the Friday Mosque, Republic Square, and Maldives Naional Defense Force Headquarters. Then, add the Sultan Park and National Museum and you’d have some historical and cultural references crossed of your list. Just so you know though, the Friday Mosque does not admit non-Muslim guests. So your only choice is to admire its intricate and gorgeous designs from outside. If you have the budget, you might want to go for a helicopter ride around the area to enjoy the Maldives from another perspective.

Top Tourist Attractions In Thailand

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Deemed as one of the most famous travel destinations in Asia, the top tourist attractions in Thailand keep on flourishing through the years. In Thailand you can experience everything that you could ever imagine to make your holidays as fun as can be. It has pristine clear blue waters, lush tropical rainforests, affordable seaside accommodations and one of the tastiest cuisines in the entire world. Thailand has something great in store even for travellers with the tightest budgets and that’s why it has been considered as one of the most frequented travel destinations in South East Asia just like the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia. Thailand has done a great job of preserving its unique history and culture even in the midst of a massive influx of tourism. Here some of the top tourist attractions in Thailand not to miss.

Belonging to one of the 51 atolls of Tarutato National Marine Park in southern Thailand, Ko Tarutao has made its name in the tourism industry. One of Ko Tarutao’s utmost appeal lies in its beautiful wildlife such as whales, lizards, sea turtles and a whole lot more of fauna and biodiversity. When matched up with the other Andaman Islands, the waters in Ko Tarutao aren’t as ideal for snorkelling but at large, the virgin beaches, waterfalls, awesome trekking routes and picturesque sceneries set it apart in the end.

Situated in close proximity with the boundaries of Cambodia, Ko Chang is the 2nd biggest island in the country and the largest in the Ko Chang Marine Park group of islands. Ko Chang is composed of fine-looking islands with a great number of waterfalls, pristine  corals, forests and extensive white sand coasts which are one of the top tourist attractions in Thailand. The island also houses many unique animals including snakes, deer, birds and elephants.

The creation of the Grand Palace commenced in 1782 when the capital of the country was transferred from Thonburi to Bangkok. Primarily, the palace functioned as the abode of the Royalties of the country until King Ananda Mahidol died puzzlingly. The King’s brother who was the successor relocated lastingly to the Chitralada Palace. At present, the Grand Palace is highly-regarded as one of the top tourist attractions in Thailand with its extraordinary architectural designs such as that of the genuine Ayutthayan style with a great fusion of Western and Thai contemporary architecture. Furthermore, the Grand Palace also comprises the Wat Phra Kaew which is the dwelling of the Emerald Buddha and considered among the most ancient and widely renowned Buddha structures in the entire globe.

There is still so much to see and explore in Thailand and among which are the Similan Islands, Railay Beach, Phang Nga Bay in Phuket and Koh Tao. Wheither your staying in the lap of luxury at the Centara Karon Phuket hotel or spending  a few bucks a night at a hostel in Bangkok, Thailand offers a never-ending array of fun things to do for every budget.

Top Tourist Attractions in Mauritius

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The top tourist attraction in Mauritius mostly visited by outsiders could signify that “size does not always matter”. Mauritius is a relatively small island nation located off the southeast coast of Africa, beside Madagascar and along the fringes of the Indian Ocean. This island nation is one of the atolls that comprise the Mascarene Archipelago. This island nation underwent five historical colonization eras consecutively – the Arabs in early Medieval Era, the Portuguese and Dutch in the Age of Exploration, then the French and British during the length of the Napoleonic Wars. Mauritius remains to be a melting pot of foreign cultures and the continuous influx of tourists will retain its cosmopolitan environment for the succeeding generations to come.

1. Port Louis City

Port Louis City is the capital of the resplendent island nation and the most popular among the top tourist attractions in Mauritius. This is the best place to be for a wider range of traveler types. Well-to-do tourists can always have a memorable time in Port Louis with countless first class hotels, beach resorts, casinos and the sophisticated food and drink scene. Visitors can take part in the awesome nightlife, especially at the popular Le Caudan Waterfront.

2. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

This grand theme park is one of the most celebrated attractions in Mauritius and the perfect place to have a quiet relaxing stroll surrounded by craftily manicured flora. Aside from being one of the most popular top tourist attractions for taking off heavy vibes of the jaded city people, this place was also a historic retreat venue for world leaders like Indira Gandhi of India, Francois Mitterrand of France and Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe. The Long Beach Mauritius hotel is a great place to stay not too far from the garden.

3. Pere Laval’s Shrine

The Pere Laval’s Shrine is proof of the cosmopolitan spirit of Mauritius. This venue is the seat of the Jummah Masjid, built by the Arab pioneers and home to many Muslims in the island nation. But also in this deeply cultural place lies the noteworthy Fort Adelaide, named after the Queen of England in the 1800’s and a testament of British supremacy in the country

4. Black River Gorges National Park

This national park is the center of ecological preservation in the entire island nation. The Black River Gorges National Park is the most interesting venue for eco tourists. This is one of the only places in Mauritius that is hardly touched by civilization. Only information centers and picnic areas are manicured to sufficiently accommodate visitors, everything is pristine and how Mother Nature created it.

5. Seven Colored Earths of Charmarel

Charmarel Village is one of the top tourist attractions of Mauritius for its peculiar phenomenon of “seven colored earths” around the outlying barren sand dunes. This area stands out starkly against the encircling wilderness; with spectrum shades of red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow. Scholarly tourists with a strong inclination to geology cannot help but buy test tubes and get samples.

Top Reasons To Visit Cabo San Lucas

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It may not be Cancun, but the top reasons to visit Cabo San Lucas will surely leave you wanting to spend your spring break, honeymoon, or family holidays in this laid back paradise.  Located at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is best known for its iconic El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, a distinctive rock formation found at the very tip of the city.  In addition, this holiday destination is a great place to go whale watching, scuba diving or maybe lounging by the beach.

Here are some of the top reasons to visit Cabo San Lucas.

Cabo, Mexico

Winter?  What winter?  One of the top reasons to visit Cabo San Lucas is its perpetually sunny weather.  Here, you get 365 days of summer.  Now if you’re looking forward to warming your toes in winter, then burying them on the warm sands of Cabo San Lucas may be the most perfect solution.

Romantic getaway.  Honeymooners will get the best week of their lives walking on the fine, golden sands of Cabo San Lucas’s beaches, Admiring the beach scenery from the comforts of their own rented luxury villa, or watching the sun set at the El Arco de Cabo San Lucas.  Eitherway, the sun, sea, surf (and probably the tequila body shots) will leave you and your significant other smiling and glowing when you come back to the real world.

Under the sea.  Cabo San Lucas is one of the best diving destinations in the world, with its long stretches of coral reefs and hiding places of some of the world’s most exotic marine life.  You can approach your hotel front desk to make arrangements for your scuba diving sessions with a qualified guide or instructor.

If scuba diving scares you,  you can always opt for snorkelling.

Nightlife.  Come night time and the city of Cabo de San Lucas comes alive with pubs, clubs, restaurants and bars filling in with locals and gringos alike.  If you are a big rock fan, the Cabo Wabo Cantina is the best place to go especially on October 13 when the owner (none other than rock musician Sammy Hagar of Van Halen) celebrates his birthday and performs with his band, the Wabos.  The show often include famous guests from the music scene.

Top Destinations In Croatia

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The top destinations in Croatia are often overshadowed by its more popular neighbor, Italy.  But this is very good for one main reason:  less popular, less touristy.  With its temperate climate, breathtaking landscapes and the sheer number of fantastic things to see, Croatia is one, underrated tourist destination in Europe that’s worth adding to your bucket list.

travel to Croatia

Here are some of the top destinations in Croatia:

Plitvice Lakes.  Considered one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the continent, the Plitvice Lakes are one of the must-see destinations in Croatia.  This group of interlinked lakes within a large, protected forest are known for their different colored waters, ranging from azure to grey.  The surrounding forests are abundant in unique animal and plant life.  Meet some of the area’s famous residents, such as the European Brown Bear, Lynx and Eagles, or go bird watching as the area around the lakes are home to a great variety of bird species.

Hvar.  From olive groves to a picturesque yacht port, Hvar Island is in itself, is a romantic destination not to miss.  Tour around the island, and see the olive groves, the lavender fields and the fruit orchards which make up the dreamy agricultural landscape of the island’s interior, and enjoy an evening stroll along Hvar Town’s yacht port and the surrounding pedestrian-only roads.  The old villages also add charm to the island and they’re all worth a visit.

Dubrovnik.  Also called Ragusa, this city in the Adriatic Sea is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in the country.  The walled city is known to be the only city-state to rival Venice when it comes to a remarkable development during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Historical infrastructures, from churches to fountains dot the cityscape of Dubrovnik.  The beaches, too, are absolutely exquisite.  The city beach, Banje is a child-friendly destination in Dubrovnik, where they could have fun on the sandy or sometimes pebbly beach, or the clear Adriatic Sea. Dubrovnik is also famous these days as it is the set for Game of Thrones.