Category: Travel

A Tale of Friendship, Culture, and Discovery

Emma and Charlotte, two spirited friends in their thirties from Wales, shared a passion for travel that was as vast as the oceans they crossed. As digital marketers, their work was as mobile as their adventurous spirits, allowing them the freedom to explore the world while staying connected to their clients. This time, their hearts were set on a journey through the diverse and captivating landscapes of South Africa.

Their adventure began in Cape Town, a city nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the vast Atlantic Ocean. They were immediately taken by the city’s vibrant energy, a melting pot of cultures, colors, and cuisines. Their first day was spent ascending Table Mountain, where the view from the top left them in awe of the city’s beauty. That evening, they dived into the local cuisine, trying bobotie, a traditional South African dish, which was a delightful mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.

The following days were a whirlwind of activities. They explored the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, a visit that deeply moved them and provided a profound perspective on the country’s past. They strolled through the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, snapping photos of the brightly painted houses and chatting with friendly locals who shared stories of the neighborhood’s history.

Their journey took them next to the Cape Winelands, a region of breathtaking beauty and world-renowned vineyards. Emma and Charlotte enjoyed wine tastings, savoring the local Pinotage and Chenin Blanc, and learning about the wine-making process. They stayed in a quaint guesthouse in Stellenbosch, where they were greeted each morning with stunning views of vineyards against the backdrop of craggy mountains.

As they traveled eastward, the Garden Route awaited them with its lush forests, pristine beaches, and serene lagoons. They spent days hiking in Tsitsikamma National Park, kayaking in the tranquil waters of Knysna Lagoon, and marveling at the dramatic coastal cliffs. In a cozy café in Plettenberg Bay, they met other travelers with whom they shared stories and travel tips, a testament to their love for meeting new people and immersing themselves in new cultures.

The highlight of their trip was a safari in Kruger National Park. The thrill of waking up at dawn, driving through the African bush, and witnessing the majesty of wildlife in their natural habitat was unparalleled. They saw elephants, lions, and giraffes, and each sighting was a moment of pure joy and wonder. The nights were spent around the campfire under the starry African sky, listening to the sounds of the wilderness, an experience that was both exhilarating and humbling.

Throughout their journey, Emma and Charlotte embraced every opportunity to connect with the locals. They visited markets where they bought handmade crafts, learned a few words in Xhosa and Zulu, and enjoyed many conversations over cups of Rooibos tea. Each interaction added depth to their understanding of the diverse cultures that make up the tapestry of South Africa.

Their last stop was Durban, a city known for its golden beaches and Indian influences. They indulged in curry dishes that were a testament to the city’s rich cultural fusion and spent lazy afternoons lounging on the beach, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences they had collected.

As their journey came to an end, Emma and Charlotte felt a profound sense of gratitude. South Africa had not just been a destination; it had been a vibrant, life-changing experience filled with beauty, adventure, and human connections. They left with their hearts full of memories, their minds enriched by new perspectives, and their souls invigorated with an unquenchable thirst for more adventures.

Their story was not just about the places they visited; it was about the joy of discovery, the beauty of diverse cultures, and the unbreakable bond of friendship that grew stronger with each new experience. Emma and Charlotte’s journey through South Africa was a testament to the transformative power of travel, a journey that would continue to inspire them long after they returned to Wales.…

The Palate and Palette of Paradise: Emma and Charlotte's Philippine Adventure

Emma and Charlotte were inseparable in their 20s and working in the bustling world of London advertising. They shared a love for travel, new cultures, and especially food. When they managed to align their vacation days, they knew it was time for another adventure. This time, their wanderlust led them to the Philippines—a country of over 7,000 islands, each promising a unique blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy.

Their first stop was Manila, the capital city, where skyscrapers met street markets in a chaotic yet charming dance. Emma was keen on exploring Intramuros, the historic walled city, while Charlotte couldn’t wait to dive into the local food scene. They spent their first day wandering through cobblestone streets, marveling at Spanish-era architecture, and sampling street food like “isaw,” grilled chicken intestines, and “balut,” a fertilized duck egg.

“Are you sure about this?” Emma asked, eyeing the balut.

Charlotte grinned. “When in Rome—or Manila!”

They both took a bite and laughed. It was an acquired taste, but the experience was unforgettable.

Next, they flew to Palawan, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. They took a boat tour of the Underground River, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. As they floated through the dark, illuminated only by the boatman’s flashlight, they felt like explorers discovering an alien world.

But the island-hopping tour in El Nido truly took their breath away. They snorkeled in hidden lagoons, lounged on secret beaches, and even tried cliff diving. Emma captured everything on her camera, imagining how to use these vibrant colors and textures in her next ad campaign.

Charlotte, meanwhile, had found her own piece of paradise—a beachside grill serving freshly caught seafood. As they feasted on grilled fish, squid, and prawns, she said, “This is it, Emma. This is the life.”

Their next destination was Cebu, where they swam with whale sharks in Oslob and canyoneered through the cliffs of Kawasan Falls. It was both exhilarating and exhausting, but the adrenaline rush was like nothing they’d ever felt before.

However, the highlight of Cebu was the food. They tried “lechon,” a whole roasted pig, which Anthony Bourdain had once called the “best pig ever.” Charlotte, ever the foodie, even managed to get the recipe from a local chef.

Their final stop was the island of Boracay, famous for its white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife. They took kitesurfing lessons during the day and danced the night away at beachfront bars. It was the perfect end to an incredible journey.

As they sat on the beach watching the sunset on their last night, Emma turned to Charlotte and said, “You know, we’ve seen and done so much, but it feels like we’ve barely scratched the surface.”

Charlotte nodded. “That’s the beauty of travel, isn’t it? There’s always more to explore, more to taste, and more to learn. And the best part is, we get to do it together.”

As they boarded their flight back to London, their hearts were full but their spirits were restless. The Philippines had given them a taste of its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and delectable cuisine. But more importantly, it had rekindled their love for adventure and their appreciation for the world’s endless possibilities.

In their London office, surrounded by mood boards and marketing plans, Emma and Charlotte couldn’t help but smile at each other. They were back to their routines, but something had changed. They had seen another slice of the world, leaving them hungry for more.

And so, as they dived back into their work, they carried the colors, flavors, and memories of the Philippines—a reminder that life, like travel, is best enjoyed with a curious heart and an open mind.…

Bangkok

Emma and Charlotte, two adventurous friends in their twenties, had always dreamt of exploring the vibrant and exotic lands of Southeast Asia. The bustling streets of London, where they worked tirelessly in the advertising industry, were beginning to feel monotonous. Their longing for adventure finally led them to pack their bags, leave their jobs behind, and embark on the journey of a lifetime.

Their first stop was Bangkok, Thailand, a city where the old seamlessly blended with the new. The bustling streets, ornate temples, and mouthwatering street food filled their days with wonder and excitement. Emma and Charlotte found themselves strolling through the Grand Palace, marvelling at the intricate architecture and the emerald-hued beauty of the Emerald Buddha. They wandered through Chatuchak Weekend Market, sampling exotic fruits and trying on colorful clothing. In the evenings, they dined on fragrant Pad Thai and spicy Tom Yum Goong at local street stalls.

Their next destination was the enchanting city of Siem Reap, Cambodia, home to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat temple complex. As the sun began to rise over the temple’s ancient spires, Emma and Charlotte felt like they were in a mystical world. They explored the hidden chambers and labyrinthine corridors, discovering intricate carvings that told stories of ancient civilizations. In the evenings, they enjoyed traditional Cambodian dance performances and savored delicious Khmer dishes like Amok and Nom Banh Chok.

From Cambodia, they ventured into Vietnam, where the bustling streets of Hanoi welcomed them with the tantalizing aroma of Pho and Banh Mi. Emma and Charlotte explored the chaotic streets of the Old Quarter, riding rickshaws and sampling street food delights like crispy spring rolls and fragrant bun cha. They also cruised along the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, marveling at the limestone karsts and emerald-green waters that stretched out as far as the eye could see.

Their journey took them to the historic city of Luang Prabang in Laos, where they woke up early to witness the daily ritual of Buddhist monks collecting alms from the local people. The city’s serene temples and lush waterfalls offered them a peaceful respite from their fast-paced lives back in London. They also embarked on a slow boat journey down the Mekong River, watching the world go by at a leisurely pace.

In Myanmar, Emma and Charlotte explored the ancient city of Bagan, where thousands of temples dotted the landscape, creating a surreal and mesmerizing panorama. They rode hot air balloons at sunrise, floating above the temples, feeling like they were in a dream. Myanmar’s warm and welcoming people left a lasting impression on them as they savored Burmese curries and explored the bustling markets.

Their final stop was the tropical paradise of Bali, Indonesia. Here, they lounged on pristine beaches, surfed the rolling waves, and indulged in spa treatments that rejuvenated their spirits. They also immersed themselves in Balinese culture, attending traditional dance performances and visiting tranquil temples hidden in lush jungles.

As their journey through Southeast Asia came to an end, Emma and Charlotte realized that the experiences they had shared had not only deepened their friendship but also enriched their lives in ways they could never have imagined. They returned to London with hearts full of memories, photographs, and a renewed sense of wonder for the world beyond their everyday routines. Their adventure had opened their eyes to the beauty of diverse cultures, the warmth of strangers, and the joys of stepping out of their comfort zones. While their careers in advertising awaited them, the spirit of adventure they had discovered in Southeast Asia would forever be a part of their lives, inspiring them to seek new horizons and embrace the world’s infinite possibilities.…

The idea of solo women travellers has been controversial for years, but nowadays, we see more and more women getting out of their comfort zones and taking on trips worldwide. Without the extra baggage of family or someone to take care of, travelling as a woman can be pretty exciting and fulfilling. With the right tips, women travellers can have a much easier and more comfortable time crossing borders and touring various destinations worldwide.

Here are ten pointers for women travellers to make the trip safer and more comfortable.
Thoroughly Research Your Destination Before the Trip

For most travellers, the planning and research are more daunting than the journey. If you want to travel to a new destination, you need to research the city or town for important information such as safety.


Pack Light
The golden rule as a woman traveller is to pack and travel light. Depending on the days you will be travelling, it’s only wise to pack and bring along very little luggage. Take your time before packing to identify what’s necessary to make the load as light as possible. Also, use a backpack instead of a suitcase to make it easy to move around.


Have a Backpack for Valuables
Besides the suitcase, it is imperative to have a travel backpack to carry your valuables. These may include Lotion, lip balm, a laptop, a power bank, a camera, a passport, and extra money. This backpack should always stay with you and allows you to move around easily with all your essentials.


Carry Extra Money
Sticking to a budget can be quite hard when travelling; from spontaneous shopping to additional costs you never anticipated. Carrying extra cash offers you cushioning in case your expenditure gets a little out of hand. This is an essential tip for all travellers but comes in handy for women travellers.
While at it, you may also want to separate your money. Divide your money across different bags and pockets for protection.


Plan for Night Arrivals
When planning your trip, planning your transport means within the new destination is essential. This includes how you will get to the hotel from the airport, bus, or train station. It’s best to arrive before dark, but this may be unavoidable at times. Have a plan for the possibility of night arrival and stick to the plan.


Bring Your Conditioner
Most hotels provide basic soap and shampoo, and only the high-end and expensive ones offer a small bottle of conditioner. Even when it’s provided, it’s not usually the good stuff you use. The best thing is always to bring the conditioner that best suits your hair as a woman traveller. It does come in handy.


Resist the Urge to Overshare
Safety is a priority as a woman traveller, especially if you are travelling solo. As a woman traveller, you will probably have numerous encounters with strangers trying to make small talk or engage you in a conversation. However, do not tell locals or strangers critical information such as where you are staying or your travel schedule.


Keep a Flexible Schedule
Planning your trip is a great idea, but it’s also good to appreciate that trips do not always go as per plan perfectly. Scheduling every minute of the journey is not the best of ideas. Schedule a few crucial things but leave some room for spontaneity. You may bump into a friend or find out about an event you would like to attend last minute.


Blend in as Much as Possible
Women travellers are seen as vulnerable and are easy targets for petty criminals such as pickpockets. As a woman traveller, blending in is much safer and more comfortable than standing out. The essence of blending in as much as possible is to avoid making it obvious that you are new in town. Different continents and countries have different dressing habits, so you must do thorough research on the destination to find out about local dress codes.


Check-in With Friends and Family

Whether travelling with some company or solo, checking in with family and friends every few days is vital. A call or brief text to your parents or a post on social media is an excellent way of letting people know that you are safe and alive.


Conclusion
Relax and enjoy all your trips with these fantastic tips for women travellers. You can also incorporate other safety and comfort aspects you believe come in handy and are not captured in this article.…

travellers looking at app

 Travelling can be challenging, especially if you are new to this lifestyle. Fortunately, nowadays, there are so many travel apps available for both Android and iPhone users. These apps can help you with crucial trip planning activities, from packing to booking flights, finding hotels, trails, toilets, and buying gas. Many travellers use these apps to make their journeys more enjoyable and less stressful. These are the best five apps for travel enthusiasts you need to consider.

1.  Airbnb
Nowadays, most travellers prefer to live in Airbnbs instead of hotels because they offer more privacy, more space, and a kitchen, are more affordable, and have better amenities. You can attest to this if you have been traveling a lot in the last decade. The app is easy to use and my guy at encompasslofts.com is a big advocate of Airbnb. Once you feed in your dates and destination, you can filter your search depending on the amenities, price, and home type you want. You can book straight away via the app when you find something you are interested in. You can also take control of your trips through the app. For instance, you can change your reservation, communicate with the host, and check your reservations, including directions and address.

2.  TripIt
This app is another must-have for a traveller. It helps you organize your documents and itinerary in one app. You may decide to synchronize your reservations so they can automatically be directed to your TripIt app. This way, you can look at driving directions, rental car reservations, hotel and Airbnb booking details, ferry tickets, flight itineraries, travel confirmations, and tickets through the app. It will also allow you to share your travelling arrangements with a person who you would want to collaborate with you during the trip, such as the person picking you up from the airport. You can pay $49 and enjoy more services like flight alerts and baggage claim information.

3.  PackPoint
This app comes in handy when you are packing for your trip. It informs you what items you need to pack depending on the activities you will do on your trip, the weather, and the duration of the journey. All you have to do is download the app, install it, select the city you intend to visit and add your travel information.

4.  GasBuddy
This is the ideal app for you if you are going on a road trip. It will show you the places with the most affordable gas costs. You can narrow your search by amenities, brand, location, and price. It will also give you deals at convenience stores along your route and alert you when prices go up so you can take advantage of the best prices every time.

5.  SkyScanner
This app allows you to research and compare flights with the lowest prices. The first thing you need to do is settle on travel dates. Then you can use the app to look for the best deals. You will need to filter by greener flights, the number of stops, flight length, price etc. If your dates are not fixed, use the color-coded graphs and calendars to choose the best time to take a flight for the highest savings. Ensure you go to the ‘Top Offers’ segment to look for fantastic deals from affordable airlines and get notified when prices are adjusted. This app is also helpful when finding the cheapest car hire and hotels.
Other notable holiday apps worth mentioning include;
·         Google Map
·         Google Translate
·         Flightradar24
·         Waze
·         HEHA! Holidays Extras
·         Trip Advisors
·         XE Currency Converter
·         LuckyTrip
·         Hopper
·         Headout
·         TheFork
·         Zomato
·         FlightAware
·         TimeShifter
·         Wise
·         Flush
·         EatWith
·         HotelTonight
·         RoadTrippers
·         SoundHound
·         Meetup
·         Kayak
·         Yelp
·         App in the Air
·         SOAR
·         AllTrails

Final Thoughts
If you are travelling to a new country as a tourist, you will be happy that you downloaded and installed some of these apps. They are essential, especially those that help you learn about price changes because you can then seize the opportunities and save money on your trips. Don’t hesitate to use the ones that you feel will be most suitable for your trip. Other travellers are satisfied with the apps, so you can also expect to benefit from them. …


There’s no shortage of amazing cities to visit when you’re on holiday. Across the globe, there are thousands of alluring places that beckon for you to come and explore them. But which ones should you go to first? Here are 12 best cities for tourism around the world:

1. London, England

London is one of the most historical cities in the world, and its fascinating history has made it one of the most popular tourist destinations across the globe. There are endless things to do here – from visiting famous landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, to exploring hidden gems such as speakeasies and street art. In addition, London has a vibrant food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for fine dining experiences or want to try out some casual eats with friends, you’ll find great restaurants throughout London.

2. Rome, Italy

Rome is known for being one of Europe’s greatest treasures, thanks to its stunning architecture, mysterious alleyways, delicious food, and bustling nightlife. With so much to see and do, you’ll find that Rome is one of the best cities for tourism in the world. Whether you plan to explore ancient ruins or spend your time eating gelato on every street corner, Rome has everything you need in a holiday destination.

3. Paris, France

There are countless reasons why Paris is known as being one of the most romantic cities in the world – from its iconic love locks bridge to its mouth-watering food scene. If you want to be swept off your feet by incredible views, delicious food, and romantic ambience, then Paris should definitely be at the top of your travel bucket list this year!

4. New York City, USA

The Big Apple has become one of the world’s most sought-after tourist destinations. From its bright lights and fast-paced lifestyle, to its endless attractions and countless gastronomic delights, New York is truly a city that keeps on giving. Whether you’re planning a romantic trip with your partner or want to explore this bustling metropolis with friends, it’s sure to be an unforgettable holiday experience.

5. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is one of the busiest cities in the world – but don’t let that fact stop you from exploring everything it has to offer! This Japanese capital is home to some of the coolest trends in fashion, delicious restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world, and endless shopping opportunities. Whether you’re visiting for a first time or are a return visitor, there is always something new to do in Tokyo.

6. Barcelona, Spain

If you’re looking for beautiful architecture, rich history, amazing food and lively nightlife all rolled into one package – then look no further than Barcelona! This stunning Spanish city is becoming increasingly popular as an ideal travel destination for people of all ages. From discovering Gaudi’s famous works at Park Guell to eating tapas on every corner street, there’s always so much to see and do in this exciting metropolis.

7. Sydney, Australia

As if having the iconic Sydney Opera House wasn’t convincing enough, Sydney is one of the best cities for tourism in Australia simply because it has so much to offer. From its jaw-dropping beaches to exciting nightlife, you’ll never run out of things to see and do when you visit this lovely city. Plus, there are great flight deals that can get you there for a fraction of the price!

8. Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong is another busy metropolis worth exploring – but don’t let that put you off travelling there! This bustling city has something for everyone, from amazing food markets filled with adventurous street eats to beautiful temples and gardens perfect for quiet reflection. Whether you want an action-packed holiday or plan to take it easy, Hong Kong is the perfect destination for a getaway.

9. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin has become a popular destination for everyone from solo travellers to couples and families looking to explore more of Europe. With its friendly people, lovely landscapes, and great food and nightlife scene, you’ll never run out of things to do when visiting this Irish city! If you want to enjoy an Irish-inspired getaway in one of the most beautiful cities in the world – then look no further than Dublin.

10. Las Vegas, USA

If you’re looking for a holiday with a difference, then be sure to include Las Vegas on your travel bucket list! This buzzing American metropolis has become well-known for its glitzy casinos and over-the-top lifestyle. Whether you’re a fan of gambling, live music, or shopping – Vegas has it all! So if you’re ready to experience something new on your next getaway, then Las Vegas should definitely be the destination to visit this year.

11. London, UK

London is one of those cities that really needs no introduction – but we might as well say a few words about why it’s such an incredible place to visit! The capital city of England is home to some of the most famous attractions in the world, from Buckingham Palace to Big Ben and Tower Bridge. Plus, there are countless delicious restaurants where you can try a variety of international cuisines, some of the best theatre productions in the world, and plenty other things to do for everyone. No wonder London is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in town!

12. Paris, France

The City of Lights is an iconic travel destination that all travellers must visit at least once in their lifetime. Whether you want to enjoy a romantic break with your partner or take a holiday with friends – there’s something for everyone in Paris. From discovering amazing architecture and art at museums like The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, to trying delicious French cuisine on every street corner – this city has it all! So why not book your tickets today? You won’t regret it!

I hope you enjoyed this article about the best cities for tourism around the …