the Travel Enthusiast
- 29 Decitachan in Amazing Places | NO COMMENTS
5 Bolivian attractions to see before you die
It might sound like a well worn cliche, but Bolivia truly is the land of extremes and contradictions, and this is not just a fanciful metaphor. Bolivia really has some of the highest and lowest points on the planet, the hottest and coldest climates, the driest and swampiest spots and the most abject poverty surrounded by the richest natural beauty.
Bolivia is also ethnically and culturally diverse, and therefore one of those countries where you can’t just stop at looking at the sights – you actually want to get to know the people, to learn about the history and the culture. But looking at the sights is definitely a huge part of the Bolivian experience, because these tend to be the sort of sights you can’t help but look at. Here are our picks for the 5 Bolivian attractions to see before you die. …
- evike14 in Travel tips and tricks | NO COMMENTS
5 essential tips for the Rio carnival
In Brazil, the carnival before Lent is probably the single most important event of the year, and it is celebrated throughout the ‘s the country, but it’s Rio carnival that became famous all over the world.
Each day of the carnival, over two million people flood the streets of Rio de Janeiro, putting on the biggest party on the planet. The Rio carnival is a tradition that goes back to over two centuries ago, and each year it’s getting more and more resplendent.
The main parade is made up by floats and people from the city’s many samba schools, which use the carnival as an opportunity to showcase their talents and compete with each other. If you want to make sure that you don’t get lost in the sea of colors, beads, feathers and music that is the parade, here are 5 essential tips for the Rio carnival for those who attend it for the first time. …
- 28 Decandra88 in Fun and Travel | NO COMMENTS
The world’s most famous cruise ships
For a long time, cruise ships have been a sign of pure and unadulterated luxury, and although nowadays cruises have become available to people who are not necessarily filthy rich or famous, there still are some ships around that like to preserve some measure of elitism.
Often, these are the most famous ships in the world, the ones that budget-conscious travelers can only dream of. Cruise ships that shower you with every possible amenity and comfort are the ones that are most talked about, and some are so well known that they’ve become the stuff of legends.
If you are intent on splurging and spoiling yourself or if you are simply keeping an eye out for some deals that will allow you to taste luxury for a small price, take a look at this list of the world’s most famous cruise ships. …
- lizzy_a in Amazing Places | NO COMMENTS
The Mayan ruins of Guatemala
Mayan ruins have always been surrounded by an aura of mystery and have never failed to attract the curious and the adventurous, but this yea (what with the end of the Mayan calendar and the presumed upcoming apocalypse), Mayan ruins are going to be especially popular.
So if you want to take advantage of the last chance to see the ruins, or (most likely) have something to brag about in 2012, then why not take a look at the Mayan ruins of Guatemala?
Tikal, the most famous one, is one of the largest pre-Columbian sites in the world and a tourist hotspot, but the smaller Mayan ruins of Guatemala that get less attention can still give you the feeling that you are the first person to step foot there in centuries. …
- 27 Decandra88 in Travel Planning | NO COMMENTS
Top 5 backpacking destinations for 2012
Even if you managed to backpack your way through 2011, there are surely lots of places left for 2012. The impending apocalypse still leaves us some time to travel yet, so better take advantage of it! In any case, it looks like 2012 will be a great year for backpacking according to several travel magazines, so if you are yearning to see the world on the cheap you will have lots of chances to do so.
Don’t put off deciding on some destinations if you want enough time to seek out all the best travel deals – and if you don’t have have anything in mind yet, here are some suggestions: top 5 backpacking destinations for 2012. …
- kachou_n in Travel Planning | 1 COMMENT
The longest train trips in the world
In the age of jet travel, fewer and fewer people take the train when traveling, and the reasons are obvious: it takes a fraction of the time needed for a train trip, it is more comfortable and you can travel greater distances without minding the obstacles, across mountains and oceans.
But those travelers who feel some measure of nostalgia for the long-gone days when traveling was not quite as widespread as today will probably still look fondly at trains and railway stations.
A train trip is far from being a waste of time even today, even if it takes as much time as a whole holiday would last. You get to meet interesting people, you rush past wonderful scenery and do some introspection on your way to some great destination. For railway fans, here are the longest train trips in the world. …
- 23 Decandra88 in Travel Planning | NO COMMENTS
The most romantic Valentine’s Day destinations for 2012
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you want to surprise your other half with something truly special, then it’s about time you started planning. As Valentine’s Day has become really popular even in countries and cultures where the holiday doesn’t actually exist, more and more people will be on the lookout for some romantic spots where they can celebrate.
Chocolate and flowers are nice gestures of affection, but nothing is better at showing that you can then a trip out of town. Whether you’re thinking of a short weekend getaway or maybe a week-long holiday, here are some of the most romantic Valentine’s Day destinations for 2012. …
- lizzy_a in Fun and Travel | 2 COMMENTS
5 surprising destinations to celebrate St Patrick’s Day
St Patrick’s Day is the most famous Irish celebration in the world, and the Emerald Isle is not the only place where people celebrate it. Irish communities all over the world organize parades and festivities on March 17, complete with green clothes, shamrocks and Irish beer.
Dublin and other major Irish cities, and American cities with many Irish-American inhabitants are common destinations for St. Patrick’s day parades.
But if you want to celebrate the green holiday in a really unusual setting in 2012, we have some suggestions for you. Here’s a list of 5 surprising destinations to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! …
- 22 Decitachan in Food Experiences | NO COMMENTS
Top 5 foodie experiences in 2012
Traveling is all about new places and experiences, and for many travelers that includes food as well. If you’ve been known to appreciate a good dish and even to seek out foods that may sound a bit out of the ordinary for many palates, then you probably wouldn’t scoff at the idea of traveling somewhere with the sole purpose of eating your way through your destination.
There are a lot of places on the planet where it’s worth traveling for the food alone, despite the fact that ethnic restaurants can now be found in most major cities in the world. For some authentic culinary experiences, here are our picks for the top 5 foodie experiences in 2012 – food for thought for your next trip! …
- tylerd in Amazing Places | 1 COMMENT
The most unforgettable travel destinations in Sri Lanka
Since the Since the time of explorations, Sri Lanka has been a link between East and West – a point of strategic importance as well, which explains why it has been coveted by many, and finally ended up under British rule.
And while Sri Lanka doesn’t enjoy quite as much attention as in the past, it definitely doesn’t go unnoticed, at least not by tourists. The island is a melting pot of Sinhalese, Tamil and Muslim identities which combine into something unique.
The backdrop of lush nature fits the ancient temples like a glove, there are pretty colonial villages as well as vibrant cities spiced up with local culture, and activities that would tempt even a couch potato. Here are some of the most unforgettable travel destinations in Sri Lanka. …