Category: Lifestyle

Mexico City is one of the earliest metropolises in North America. It is vibrant and bustling with beautiful attractions celebrating its intricate history and rich culture, drawing enthusiastic tourists from all over the world. 

You might wonder where to start your adventures in this stunning city, so we would like to recommend five unique attractions that reveal the deep and enduring magic of Mexico City that will leave you wanting more.

1. Palacio Nacional 

The Palacio Nacional, or the National Palace, serves as Mexico’s federal branch of government, housing the president’s office and the Federal Treasury. One of the main attractions at this site is the Biblioteca Miguel Lerdo de Tejada, which is one of the most well-known libraries in Mexico. The walls in the library are filled with stunning, colorful murals and include many works by Mexico’s beloved Diego Rivera. 

2. Fuente de Tláloc in Chapultepec Park 

To refer to the Fuente de Tláloc as a mere sculpture is an understatement. The massive tiled fountain is another work by Mexico’s Diego Rivera that encapsulates the essence of the Mexican people’s spirit. Located deep in the Bosque de Chapultepec, or Chapultepec Forest, Rivera was inspired to craft this piece because of his work to improve Mexico City’s infrastructure, starting with the municipal water system. The tiled sculpture is named for the god of rain, Tláloc, and spans a pool that spreads 100 feet wide. 

3. Templo Mayor

The Templo Mayor, or Main Temple in the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, is a must-see attraction. While the original temple was razed and replaced by a cathedral in the 16th century during the Spanish conquest, the haunting and awe-inspiring ruins remain. You can find the Templo Mayor in the Centro Histórico, surrounded by the modern streets and buildings of Mexico City. Fortunately, the site features a well-organized museum to help fill out the details, using the existing ruins as a powerful launch point for your imagination to take over and visualize the ancient Aztec civilization in its full glory.

4. Xochimilco – The Floating Gardens of Mexico City

While it’s wonderful to see the ruins and museums of Mexico City, sometimes you need to indulge in some serious nature, and Xochimilco will hit the spot. In Aztec, Xochimilco translates to “place of the flowers,” but it has become more commonly and lovingly known as the Floating Gardens. Here in this tranquil setting, you can sit back and relax while gently gliding along the water on a trajinera, also called a chalupa, a flower-colored boat similar to a Venetian gondola. You can enjoy the sights and sounds of the Aztec-created canals, small islands, and surrounding forest land. During your trip, you can enjoy island stops, you can buy food, drinks, and hand-crafted trinkets at organic farms and local shops.

5. Chapultepec Castle

If you want to visit a royal castle in North America, this is your only option, and you’ll love Chapultepec Castle. Besides the castle’s beauty, you’ll get to see sweeping views of Mexico City and the surrounding countryside from this hilltop site. Once you focus on the castle, you’ll see the exquisite 18th-century architecture, luxurious castle rooms, black and white tiled floors, and stained-glass windows. 

Hopefully, these unique attractions will help launch your adventures in Mexico City, inspiring many more. 

Germany is magical. The Germans are very nice people who speak English, keep their cities impeccably clean, and work and play very hard. Between northern Germany, southern Germany, and the eastern part of the country, you’ll see some pretty stark cultural differences, but the people will always be welcoming.

Really getting to know Germany is a fantastic experience, and checking out the different cities and areas of the country will be a trip you’ll never forget. There are so many ways to get to know the real Germany, but here are five that will make your experience unforgettable, all from a Germany pro.

Get on the Autobahn

It is famous for a reason, there is no other experience in a car like it. The Autobahn is the smoothest, most technologically advanced roadway in the world. Of course, it also has those famous sections with no speed limit.

It can be a genuinely harrowing experience for many tourists the first time they do 120mph with Porsche’s lights flashing for them to move over. Riding with a German accustomed to it is encouraged. If you do go for it, know that the rules are stringent and the tickets can be very large, so know proper Autobahn etiquette.

Eat German Food Everywhere

German food isn’t common in the U.S., but it is delicious. Just as the culture can be very different by geography, so is the food. Northern German food is tremendously different from Bavarian food, and more of the Polish/Slavic impact can be tasted in the east. It is fresh and tremendous, and there are over 360 types of incredible bread.

Shop on the Fussgangerzone

German cities have walking areas with no cars allowed. They are called Fussgangerzones and are surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes. You’ll see plenty of street performers and small boutiques. These are just fun areas to take a walk on cobblestone streets and take in the sites and sounds of the city.

Go midday for the most action as Germany has strict laws about how late shops can be open. Those laws are in place to protect small merchants from large chains that can afford to run all hours. Also, Germans like their evenings and Sundays reserved for family and entertainment.

Beer!

Germans are famous for beer and drink more than other people. Beer is so important that it is classified as a life staple and therefore not taxable.

German beer doesn’t come in the insane varieties one will find in the U.S. due to ancient purity laws that strictly limit brewing to a few ingredients to ensure this sacred drink is made right. Regardless of the much-limited selection of types, it’s delicious.

These tips aren’t about where to go and the landmarks to visit so much as providing the little things that help you experience the real Germany. A visit to the great German cities and beautiful countryside will be one of the most enjoyable experiences of your life.

Holidays mean time to travel, and that shouldn’t stop just because you have a couple of young kids. Although bringing children along may put an end to the spontaneity you previously enjoyed, there are several things to make the experience better for everyone. 

Top Five Rules to Make Traveling With Young Children Easier and More Fun

Number 5: Let Kids Pack a Fun Bag

Most children have a favorite toy or stuffed animal that makes them feel safe and secure. Leaving these items at home is a surefire way for the vacation to become an instant disaster. Help prevent temper tantrums later by allowing your children to pack a small bag of whatever they want. Once the bag is full, write out a list of what’s in it and bring it with you, so you can be sure you pack everything up when it is time to go home. 

Number 4: Pack Familiar Food 

If your children are picky about what they eat, make sure to bring along their favorite food and snacks just in case they can’t find anything they want to eat. Taking this extra step is particularly important while traveling to your destination since you will most likely find something your kids will enjoy once you arrive. However, if you have an infant, you can make things a lot easier by bringing enough formula and baby food to last the entire time you are away. 

Number 3: Plan Kid-Friendly Activities

Before leaving on vacation, check out what kid-friendly activities your destination offers. If you are visiting a resort or cruise ship that has a kid’s club, you may want to book at least a day or two for your young children to allow you to have some free time. But always save a couple of days to do things as a family to create the memories you will treasure for years to come!

Number 2: Be Early and Flexible

Things always seem to take longer when there is a kid with you. From extra trips to the bathroom to dealing with the inevitable tantrums, you need to schedule extra time for even the most basic tasks. If your travels include a connection, make sure to give yourself a time cushion since it is better to spend an extra hour or two in the airport than to miss your flight for an unexpected delay. 

Number 1: Don’t Disrupt the Schedule

Most people, especially kids, do better when they stick to a daily schedule. Try to ensure that your kids are eating and sleeping at around the same time as they do when they are at home. This can be a big challenge when visiting a new time zone, so you may want to put off international travel until they are a bit older. Arranging a babysitter once you reach your destination is an excellent way for your children to stick to their schedule without you needing to sacrifice your fun. 

Traveling with kids can be a nightmare for even the most close-knit families, but following these tips will improve the likelihood of having a great vacation. 

 

 

 

You might have dreamed of visiting Edinburgh, imagining what it would be like to walk through castles or take a day trip to Loch Ness, but there is so much more to see and experience in Scotland’s hilly capital city. 

Let’s explore five unique attractions to find the magic of Edinburgh in time for your visit. 

1. Royal Mile

Touted as a “Scot’s mile long,” the Royal Mile connects two royal residences, the Castle and the Palace of Holyrood House. It is also a main thoroughfare throughout the city and is the home to old and new parliaments, a cathedral and churches, law courts, and several tourist attractions, such as restaurants, pubs, cafes, and shops. 

2. Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat 

The 640-acre Holyrood Park lies in the heart of Edinburgh, just off the path from the city’s Royal Mile, next to Holyrood Palace. The main attraction of Holryood Park is Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano and the highest point in the park. It sits 823 feet above sea level, offering premier views of Edinburgh. The trip up and down the hill is lovely, too, filled with diverse flora. 

3. Edinburgh Castle 

Edinburgh Castle is probably number one on everyone’s list of places to visit, for a good reason. It stands on Castle Rock, a volcanic plug humans have inhabited since the Iron Age. The castle has served as a military fortress, prison of war, and royal residence over the centuries.

During visits to Edinburgh Castle, you might get the chance to hear the famous One O’Clock Salute from Half Moon Battery, which is the firing of a cannon to remember the tradition of assisting ships to synchronize their clocks. Additional highlights include seeing the Scottish National War Memorial, the Crown Jewels, and the National Work Museum. 

4. Mary King’s Close

Mary King’s Close is Edinburgh’s underground street, buried beneath and running under the famous Royal Mile. This underground street features a series of abandoned homes and alleyways, lying below the bustling city streets since the 17th century. Mary King’s Close is a place frozen in time, and tours reflect that, since there are no actors, placards, or recreations. You see it as it was when it was last inhabited. With all the humidity and organic eeriness, it’s a haunted tour based on ambiance alone. Be careful if you have claustrophobia or fear of dark and unfamiliar spaces. 

5. Camera Obscura

Camera Obscura is an unusual visual arts gallery and Edinburgh’s oldest tourist attraction, established in 1835. Focusing on optical illusions, you can also experience several hands-on activities, such as going through a mirror maze and an Ames room filled with distorting images. Another popular activity is the vortex tunnel, which provokes a sense of imbalance while completely safe and stable. Finally, you can climb to the roof to get a bird’s eye view of the city using free telescopes. 

These are only a few unique and magical things you can see and do in Edinburgh. 

So you’re headed “Down Under” and you want to experience New Zealand like the locals do?  We’ve got you covered with all the must-see things to see and do on your trip.

Read on for a roundup of five authentic activities to add to your New Zealand itinerary.

1. Experience a Haka

Many people see their first haka at an All Blacks rugby game. However, there are many places to witness this ancient Maori war dance ritual, which embodies the passion and power of the vibrant indigenous people of New Zealand.

Depending on the venue, you may even have the chance to participate in one—a true “bucket list” experience.

2. Nosh on New Zealand Lamb

New Zealand is known all over the planet for its tender and succulent lamb. However, this is just one example of the quintessential cuisine awaiting you in New Zealand. Kiwis also love their crayfish, mussels, fish and chips, “barbie,” mince pies, and artisan cheese.

And make sure to wash it down with a local Sauvignon Blanc or other selection from one of New Zealand’s world-class wine regions.

3. Hit the Road

New Zealand boasts some truly spectacular scenery. One of the best ways to take it all in like a local? If you don’t have access to a car, New Zealand is home to a vast intercity bus system stretching from the North to the South Island.

From bustling metropolises like Auckland and Wellington to off-the-beaten destinations like Rotorua and Wanaka, Kiwis know that there’s no adventure quite like a good, old-fashioned road trip.

4. Take the Ferry

While New Zealand’s roadways have abundant allures, your trip to New Zealand won’t be complete without taking the ferry. Many locals travel between the North and South Island via ferry.

While both the Bluebridge and the Interislander ferries will hook you up with everything from free Wi-Fi to refreshments for the 3.5-hour trip, you may not need them. You’ll be too busy taking in the breathtaking views of the Marlborough Sounds islands as you coast through the Cook Straight.

5. Catch Sight of a Kiwi

New Zealand is renowned for its wildlife, and its iconic wild kiwi birds are regarded as a national treasure. They’re also incredibly elusive.

However, there are some places where you’re more likely to see one of these endangered flightless birds for yourself—either in the wild or at a reserve. These include Stewart Island, Kiwi Birdlife Park, and the Franz Josef Wildlife Centre.

You’re in South Africa, a country that offers a landscape that has something for everyone. How you choose to explore the country is up to you. Just know there are many ways to get up close and experience the history, culture, landscape, and oh, yes, the wildlife this country is known for.

1. The Garden Route (Western Cape)

There are plenty of miles to cover in South Africa, and each has its own points of interest and things to do, such as The Garden Route, which covers approximately 124 miles of picturesque landscape.

The route runs from Mossel Bay to Storms River and allows travelers to get off the beaten path, park their rented vehicle, and explore area beaches, lakes, nature reserves, and the Garden Route National Park.

2. Kruger National Park Safari

A sure way to discover and learn about the many species of wildlife inhabiting South Africa is to schedule a safari tour with Kruger National Park for one of their many tours. Led by a knowledgeable guide, who takes visitors through the park and surrounding areas, you’ll experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. 

While immersing yourself in the park’s atmosphere with accommodations to suit personal preferences, from tents and treehouses to luxury lodges, you’ll be in the midst of Kruger National Park and all it has to offer. 

3. The Blue Train

Arguably one of South Africa’s jewels in the crown is The Blue Train, which travels approximately 994 miles from Pretoria to Cape Town with a couple of off-train excursions on the itinerary. Overall, the train is the epitome of luxury on rails. 

While on board for the scenic journey, travelers are wined and dined in style while the train winds its way through open farmlands and semi-desert landscape as well as past Table Mountain and the Cape Winelands. 

4. Tour South Africa’s Wine Region

Something travelers new to South Africa may not know is the country is known for its wine regions situated around the cities of Paarl and Stellenbosch. South Africa has been in the wine business since the 17th century. 

To get the most out of visiting the wine regions, book an exclusive guided tour of the Western Cape region and its prominent wineries to have access to and sample some of the country’s most tasteful vineyards.

5. Cruising the Waterways

South Africa has an expansive coastline that allows for plenty of opportunities to get to know the area with a guide boat trip. Travelers who want to sit back, relax, and revel in the beauty of the moment, can book a sunset Champagne cruise out of Cape Town.

Above water, travelers can enjoy watching the sea life with whale-watching and dolphin-watching cruises or watch the antics of the black and white attired penguins at Penguin Island. There are also shoreline cruises that get you up close to crocodiles and hippos.

If you prefer down-under experiences, South Africa is a world hotspot for exploring the shipwrecks, inland caves, assorted underwater inhabitants, and other mysterious features with a scuba adventure.

 

Beijing, China offers centuries of fascinating history and culture that make the city an intriguing stop on anyone’s vacation itinerary. Known for its historical attractions, such as the Forbidden City and The Great Wall of China, there are also hidden gems to explore. Set aside some time to spend in these interesting areas, which will add an extra dash of spirit and an element of surprise to your trip. 

1. 798 Art Zone (Dashanzi Area)

For art enthusiasts who enjoy creativity off the beaten path, a visit to the 798 Art Zone is a cultural experience, where established and upcoming new artists display their work.

The site was the former 50-year-old compound for military factories. Once decommissioned in the 1990s, the zone became a primary gathering place for local artists and other creatives.

Today, the district is a visually exciting place to visit to absorb the many artistic styles, from photos and street art to expressive murals and outdoor sculptures.

Go on your own or take a tour. Either way, you’ll have access to trendy shops and boutiques to explore, and cafes for relaxing while absorbing the Chinese culture that permeates the zone. 

2. Beijing Botanical Garden

From creative art in the zone to the colorful palette of natural art in the garden, the Beijing Botanical Garden is an oasis to explore when you’re looking for a quiet and serene setting to get away from the crowds. Choose the cherry garden, bamboo garden, Chinese rose garden, magnolia garden, and many more to snap a photo or two. 

3. Ancient Observatory (Guguanxiangtai)

Step back to the Ming and Qing dynasties when visiting this ancient observatory. As one of the oldest in the world, the observatory is home to eight expansive astronomical instruments. Take a moment to ponder what it was the ancients who used these instruments were searching for and what they discovered along the way. A mystery, to be sure. The observatory is currently open to the public Sunday through Saturday. 

4. Beijing Underground City

Under Beijing’s city center lies a network of tunnels covering about 33 square miles. The tunnels were ordered by Chairman Mao in 1969 and completed in the 1970s and were designed as a place of refuge in case of an attack by foreign enemies.

There is an underground complex with shops, schools, doctor’s offices, hospitals, movie theaters, factories, amusement areas, and much more. A true “city” only underground. Only a portion of the tunnels is open to the public. 

5. Ritan Park

Ritan is one of Beijing’s oldest parks. Established in 1530 during the Ming dynasty, the park served as home for the Temple of the Sun. The park offers a scenic ornamental landscape filled with a variety of trees, bushes, plants, assorted flowers, and peach blossoms to enjoy a leisurely walk. Within the park are pavilions, altars, murals, and ornate red and green walls. The park is like a picture postcard that has come to life, displaying a cacophony of color, culture, and creativity. 

 

Tokyo, Japan – the city of culture, history, and intrigue. While it maintains a national presence on the world map, there are plenty of hidden gems within the hustle, bustle, and bright lights that permeate the city landscape. As the main city of The Land of the Rising Sun, a visit to some of its unique attractions is sure to spark your imagination. 

1. Shibuya Sky Observatory

If heights don’t bother you, then Shibuya Sky Observatory is the place to go for panoramic views. The 47-story building resides atop the largest skyscraper, so you can be sure the views are uninterrupted and spectacular. The rooftop platform is the largest for viewing that you’ll find in Japan, and to make it extra special, it is fitted with hammocks for visitors who want to relax at night and gaze at the stars. 

The 46th floor features the Sky Gallery for visitors who might get a little off-balance and experience vertigo on the 47th floor. Either way, the views are unforgettable, as Tokyo’s landmarks are visible on clear days, which includes Mt. Fuji.

2. Gotoku-ji Temple

This unusual temple is dedicated to felines. Legend has it a cat beckoned to a feudal lord with his right paw to come to his shelter during a rainstorm. As the lord approached the shelter, lightning struck the exact spot where the man had sat beneath a tree. This is the reason felines are referred to as “fortune” or “beckoning” cats and why you’ll see cat statues, paintings, jewelry, and trinkets displayed in stores and restaurants. 

The belief is that Gotoku-ji is where the lucky kitties originated from. The “cat temple” is open to the public. 

3. Asakusa-jinja

There are many temples and shrines to visit and learn about while visiting Tokyo. The oldest is the five-story Senjo-ji Buddhist temple. Right next door to the temple is the often-overlooked Asakusa-jinja shrine that has been part of the landscape since the 17th century. 

The shrine was constructed in honor of those who founded Senso-ji. The shrine features a large traditional Japanese torii gated entrance and two unusual dog-lion statues standing beneath a red parasol. The couple supposedly represents those couples in happy marriages. 

4. Hamarikyu Gardens

If you’ve been out and about sightseeing and want to take a break and sit amid a wondrous landscape of greenery, ponds, and serene water moving to its own beat beneath bridges, head to Hamarikyu Gardens, where a 300-year-old pine tree stands as a sentinel. 

While experiencing the beauty of the gardens, take a relaxing break at the Nakajima no Ochaya teahouse. The location of the thatched-roof teahouse is unusual, as it resides on a floating platform. 

5. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

By far, one of the most unique vistas to set your eyes upon is Mount Fuji, standing tall at 12,389 feet. The park offers numerous walking trails that provide views of the mountain. When visiting the park, this is the main attraction. A close second is visiting during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Enjoy the view

 

 

Are you looking forward to your upcoming vacation from work? Do you want to make plans for a special trip? Well, you don’t need to overpay for your next vacation. Keep reading if you want a few tips to avoid overpaying for a vacation this summer!

Avoid Weekend Air Travel

There is no way around the price hike on the weekend when it comes to air travel. Since many travelers book weekend flights, you may find that you are paying a premium to fly on Saturday or Sunday. If you have the option to book your flight on a weekday, then opt for a weekday flight. While the best day of the week may depend on many factors, you want to focus on weekdays to find better prices and deals.

Plan a Month or Three Ahead

It is common knowledge that you want to plan ahead to get the best rates on your vacation, but you may not realize that you also need to avoid planning too far in advance. As a general rule, plan your vacation between one and three months before the event.

Planning three months in advance allows you to keep an eye on flights, hotel rates, and other factors that may impact your costs. You can then book a flight, hotel room, and other travel-related plans when you see a special deal or price. Expect the prices to increase as you get closer to your vacation dates. In most cases, you can expect rates to increase roughly two to three weeks before the date of your trip.

Consider a Non-traditional Vacation Spot

Do you want to avoid overpaying for your vacation without giving up on quality? Consider a non-traditional vacation location. Avoid common vacation hot-spots like Orlando, Florida and opt for a vacation that is a bit off the beaten path, such as Hollywood, Florida. You may find that you are getting much better deals without giving up on your vacation plans. While you may have limitations if you are planning a trip to a theme park or similar place, you have a variety of unexpected gems available if you are looking for a relaxed beach vacation or hiking trip.

Compare Prices on Everything

Comparing prices may seem obvious, but you can easily overlook it when you are excited about your vacation. You can also overlook comparison shopping for some of the smaller expenses. Unfortunately, those small expenses can add up quickly when you do not pay attention.

Take the time to compare the prices on flights, hotels, rental cars, and even restaurants. You may find some unexpected hidden gems with a few minutes of comparison shopping.

Take Advantage of Your Reward Points on Credit Cards

If you have a credit card, then you likely have some type of reward points system or cash-back system. Look into the details of any credit cards you currently carry to see if you qualify for any travel-related points or cash-back. For example, you may have airline miles that cut back on the cost of your plane tickets through certain companies. Alternatively, you may get cash-back on your card for using it at restaurants, certain types of stores, or gasoline. Take advantage of your reward points or cash-back to cut back on the cost of your vacation.

Taking a bit of time to cut back on unnecessary costs while going on a vacation can help you save more than you realize. From comparing the prices of everything to strategically using your credit cards, you can find ways to avoid overspending and still enjoy a break from the daily grind.

Uganda is one of the friendliest and most hospitable countries in the world. Idi Amin is dead and gone, the nation has enjoyed 15 years of peace and a million tourists visit every year. However, a lot of visitors, especially those from outside of Africa, will find some of the customs unfamiliar. It’s possible to insult your hosts without meaning to. Here are five things you should avoid doing when you visit Uganda.

1. Don’t Dress Sloppily

Africans like to dress well. Even though Ugandans often wear second-hand clothing, it’s always properly mended, clean and pressed. It’s considered insulting to wear clothes that don’t meet those criteria.

Women should not wear miniskirts and short shorts. Men are expected to dress modestly as well. Both men and women will be appreciated if they avoid wearing shorts entirely. Dressing well is both respectful and respected.

2. Don’t Be A Know-It-All

When you engage in conversation with a Ugandan, listen. Don’t criticize, and be slow to offer advice. You will learn something. Ugandans resent it when foreigners repeat what they’ve “learned” from their own media, and these statements often don’t reflect the true state of the country.

Tell your own story: where you’re from, what you do. Ugandans are genuinely interested in a two-way conversation. Above all, don’t talk as if you know what’s best for their country.

3. Don’t Take Photos of People without Permission

In particular, avoid what are called exploitative poverty tourism pictures. We see this “poverty porn” in fundraising ads on TV. A lot of Ugandans are poor, but they’re not helpless victims waiting for you to rescue them. They’re smart, resourceful and entrepreneurial.

“Slum tours” have become something of a fad in parts of Africa. It’s incredibly disrespectful to snap photographs that depict people as poor and desperate. Don’t do it. They don’t think of themselves that way.

4. Avoid Public Displays of Affection

Hugging and kissing on the street, even with your spouse, is frowned upon. Sometimes men hold hands, but that’s a sign of friendship, not of romantic attraction. Public conversation about private intimacy is considered in poor taste.

That is changing to some extent. Nowadays you will sometimes see people greeting one another with hugs, particularly in Kampala. However, the bulk of Ugandan society has a conservative attitude toward these things. In fact, any kind of public emotion, particularly anger, is disapproved.

5. Avoid Discussing Ugandan Politics

Uganda is a democracy, but the customs of public political engagement are different from what you may be used to. Not everyone voted for the current president or supports him. When you ask Ugandans what they think about the government, you put them on the spot. In any case, they’re probably not going to tell a non-African what they really think. They’ll be happy to tell you about their families, their work and their own lives, but they’d rather not talk politics with outsiders.