Destination Review - Delhi
There are two Delhis. No, not the old and the new. But The official, Capital-Of-India, Parliament-housing ‘Sarkaari’ Delhi on one hand and, on the other, the Delhi which has an urban culture of its own that can well rival Mumbai with its street-smartness, pace and metro-life quality. The vibrant Nightlife circuit only bears testimony to the latter. Yet it is not of the generic sort that you may encounter in any other city. It has as a character, a spirit that is very much its own!
Take the bar 'Pebble Street' at New Friend's Colony, for instance. You can dance, you can drink, there's fabulous music and the service is personalized like you may have never seen before. There is also 'Raasta'. It doesn't stand for'road'. It's meant to reference Rastafarianism but sadly there's hardly any reggae played here. Yet the music is always the sort that is the latest craze. There are some interesting eatables to go along with the drinks. The chilled out laid-backness here would instantly tell you why Delhi Nightlife is different from, let's say, Mumbai! And for those who are looking for some place that's really swanky, then there's always '1911' which is luxury bar at its best!
Delhi has plenty of options for people looking to let their hair down and dance the blues away. 'Urban Pind 'embodies synthesis of cultures just like its name. It's a hooqah bar cum DJ-ed disc. Too good to skip! There's also 'Shroom' which has got the edgiest dance music that , arguably, no other city's dance scene can boast of. It's also got some really trippy lights and well, the attention to detail in everything from the set to the audio quality is just commendable. It's not like you are going to be dancing while thinking of all of this but it is only when you come out do you realize how perfect the whole experience was.
And, well, for those who are looking at a night-life beyond and different from clubbing and chilling out at bars, the cultural circuit in Delhi has a reputation that it totally lives up to. The best of both classical international music and Hindustani sangeet can be enoyed at the Kamani Auditorium while the best of virtually every dance-form from kathak to kathakali and bharatnatyam to ballet are performed at the Sangeet Naatak academy.
Destination Review - The Sunshine Coast
If you are looking for a seaside holiday that has that yesteryear charm but with all the modern amenities, then Peregian Beach is well worth considering. On the northern side of the Sunshine Coast, Peregian Beach Queensland is just a short drive from the ever popular Noosa Heads. The drive is spectacular with fabulous views of the Pacific Ocean and features quiet secluded beaches such as Castaways and Marcus Beach.
Peregian Beach
Peregian Beach itself is one of those rare beaches that offers plenty for the casual bather, yet decent waves for the ardent surfer. The beaches along this section of coast are patrolled by surf life savers and if swimmers follow the rules, quite safe for all levels of swimmers. The sand is clean and soft underfoot, perfect for a little sunbathing, or perhaps just relaxing and watching the world go by.
Peregian Beach Markets
If you are looking for fine dining and fabulous shopping, then head back to Hastings Street in Noosa. Peregian is not about fine cuisine or boutiques, it’s more about relaxation, healthy minds and healthy bodies. That doesn’t mean you won't find good food, you will, but not in great abundance. Peregian does have a reputation for alternative medicines, particularly holistic approaches to health. Like all quaint little villages, Peregian does have its ’boutique’ boutiques but like the restaurants, they are not in abundance.
On the northern side of the Sunshine Coast, Peregian Beach Queensland is just a short drive from the ever popular Noosa Heads. The drive is spectacular with fabulous views of the Pacific Ocean and features quiet secluded beaches such as Castaways and Marcus Beach.
The beaches along this section of coast are also patrolled by surf life savers and if swimmers follow the rules, quite safe for all levels of swimmers.
Destination Review - Adaminaby
Located in New South Wales Australia, and nestled in the Snowy Mountains is the pretty little village of Adaminaby. This little town may only have less than 300 residents, but it is an important service town for those looking for adventure. Adaminaby has had a disturbed past, having been relocated when the old township was completely immersed when Lake Eucumbene was created. A small part of the old town remains on the lakes edge, about seven kilometers from the current township. The old part is appropriately named Old Adaminaby.
You will find Adaminaby just south of the nation’s capital, Canberra and about 40 minutes west of Cooma, the nearest large town. You will know you have arrived in Adaminaby when you come across the ‘Big Trout’, a monument to the areas famous and popular sport of trout fishing. Adaminaby itself is over 1000 meters above sea level and frequently receives light snow falls in winter.
Adaminaby is a small service center, but it services visitors who come to the area for a wide range of activities. The snow fields of the Snowy Mountains can be accessed from Adaminaby as can Lake Eucumbene for those looking to experience trout fishing at its best. However, there is more to this area than snow fields and trout fishing. The area is famous for fruits, particularly berries that like cool conditions. Rather than farming sheep and cattle, farmers in this area have turned to more exotic animals such as fine wool goats and Llamas.
A small part of the old town remains on the lakes edge, about seven kilometers from the current township. The old part is appropriately named Old Adaminaby.
You need to know that you will know you have arrived in Adaminaby when you come across the ‘Big Trout’, a monument to the areas famous and popular sport of trout fishing.
Shop Like A Local
Shopping while your on holiday can be a highlight for some people, but sometimes it’s hard to break free from the touristy shops selling postcards and overpriced knick-knacks. Depending on where you’re traveling from, international shopping is often something to take advantage of, because you might be exposed to brands that you wouldn’t be able to get at home, or get your favourite brands at a cheaper pricepoint.
Outlets are great places to utilize while abroad and often times they’ll be featured in tourists brochures and advertised at hotels and hostels. They’re often easy to access, with bus companies and local public transport option being relatively easy to access and navigate your way through.
Department stores can be helpful because it’s likely a familiar format with brands that you might not be used to being able to shop with such ease. You’ll be able to get help from product specialists and see/try what you buy before you do.
Research where great shopping is! It’s often a little off the tourist beaten track, but the rewards for your efforts will be great!
Tips For Long Stays
When you know you’ll be traveling for a substantial period of time, the thought process around your time away is completely different to that of a quick stay abroad. Here are 5 tips for making sure you get the most from your long stay;
- Allow time for rest.
You’ll need it. Give yourself a weekend off, every few weeks. To chill and rejuvenate. This will ensure you don’t get sick, and give you time to reset before heading off again.
- Cover more ground—the smart way.Just because you’re traveling longer, this doesn’t mean you have to spend more getting to new places. If you extend the reach of where you’re already going to be, you’ll find that the backstreets, and what’s just off the tourist beaten track is well worth it. See the main attractions, and then allow for extra time to see beyond
- Budget. Budget.Your money has to stretch as far as your travels do! Be smart about budgeting, and have check-ups along the way to make sure you’re staying on track. Beware spending too much, too early.
- 50% structure, 50% “winging it”.When you’ve got a lot of time, give yourself the opportunity to properly explore and leave the rigid nature of a structured itinerary. Get lost in placed you’d usually be rushing through to get somewhere else.
- Don’t get photo lazy.Taking. Photos. Sometimes when we travel for long periods of time we can forget to document so much of it because it starts to feel like normal life. Don’t rob yourself of memories to look back on.
Three Great Driving Holidays
Southern Scenic Route, NZ
The South Island of New Zealand is a road trip wonderland, no turn is a wrong turn when everything is as gorgeous as this paradise. Everything is fresh and green, an unspoilt and untouched holiday for the nature lovers amongst us. Make sure you spend time in Milford Sound, Dunedin and Queenstown.
Great Ocean Road, Aus
Australians are proud of their coastlines, and so they should be. The Great Ocean Road was built for tourists and was built to be driven. With gorgeous coastal towns to stay in and explore along the way, the region is well worth the trek from Melbourne. Lined by rugged bush and rainforest, with cliffs that drop to ocean and beaches that stretch on and on. You’ll find yourself falling in love with ocean air.
Route 66, USA
An iconic road trip with a lot of history to match. Stretching from Chicago to California, what was originally the trek to a new life is now a international icon. 3800 kilometres of small American towns and landscapes that you won’t see anywhere else on earth. A great way to see more than just the major cities of America.
5 Must See Destinations In Australia
Australians are quick to hop overseas for adventure, but really, we live in a vast country with plenty to explore. Traveling Australia you’ll quickly discover is relatively simple and easy; air travel is direct and cheap, there’s no customs or visa requirements (assuming your starting point is somewhere in Australia already) and there’s no faff with currencies and the stress that comes from adapting to new cultures.
Here are 5 places to see in Australia before you run off overseas.
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- Hobart
Hobart (actually Tasmania in general) is arguably Australia’s forgotten gem and the locals love it that way. The natural beauty is second to none and it’s small enough that it won’t take a huge investment of time to see the best Tassie has to offer. We recommend driving up the east coast and then down the west, and if you have the time Bruny Island in the South West is well worth the detour off main roads.
- Hobart
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- The GrampiansNestled in the middle of Victoria, The Grampians National Park is unspoilt and serene. There’s a holiday here for everyone, go hiking off the beaten track or find a luxury day spa to spend your hard earned coin. The mountain range itself is stunning, attracting professional photographers, animal lovers and artists. Try to visit in the autumn and spring, as winter is extremely cold and summer the danger of bushfires is high.
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- Phillip IslandJust over two hours out of Melbourne’s CBD, Phillip Island is easy for a weekend away. Famous for the Little Penguins (Fairy Penguins) the island offers beautiful countryside, wildlife, tons of activities and quaint little towns. There are great camping grounds, or plenty of privately rented holiday houses if that’s more your style.
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- AdelaideAustralia’s forgotten capital, Adelaide, has so much to offer. Some of the best wineries and eateries are in the city’s limits and you won’t find yourself battling crowds to get them. Famous for gorgeous red sunsets, wildflowers and beautiful architecture. Give ‘Radealaide’ a go.
- Kangaroo IslandKangaroo Island is the jewel of South Australia. Not far from Adelaide and accessible only by fairy. The entire island is pristine National Park with a limited number of permanent residents. You’ll see plenty of wildlife, have dozens of ‘stop the car for a photo’ moments and find yourself breathing in fresher air than you’ve ever experienced before.
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Destination Guide - Bergamo, Italy
Tourists heading to the more popular destinations of Italy could be forgiven for not knowing of this hidden gem in the Lombardy region. Bergamo is an easy train journey from the hustle and bustle of Milan with the benefit of having its own airport. A short taxi ride brings you to the lower city (Bassa) where the majority of accommodation can be found. If this is your first time to Italy, you may be horrified at the carefree style of driving, with little regard to other road users!
While Bassa is pleasant enough with its fair share of bars, restaurants, and shops, Bergamo is still very much a working town. For those requiring a little history to savour, then a trip to the upper city (Alta) is an absolute must. The journey itself provides some entertainment by way of an old-fashioned funicular, which children in particular will adore, often full of local women intent on talking over each other!
There are many beautiful buildings to wander around, admiring the architecture and occasionally seeking refuge from the Mediterranean sun. The most famous sites such as the Cattedrale di Bergamo can become crowded. The best option is to look for the hidden side streets, each of which will reward you with a plethora of photographic opportunities.
Of course, the food here is outstanding, and even a simple pizza is elevated to a gastronomical delight! Gelato is another favourite and comes in an astonishing variety of flavours. The Bergamo locals can happily make a coffee last for hours, and you can follow their example, relaxing and people watching. Aperitivo hour is a popular evening stroll, calling at local bars for free snacks!
So, what are you waiting for? A visit to Bergamo should be on your wish list for an authentic Italian experience.
Visiting Australia For The First Time
The Land Down Under holds a huge variety of sights and activities for tourists, ranging from its exotic fauna to the landscapes and seascapes that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Travellers to Australia can see all the biggest sights in a matter of a week or two, but they should not be fooled by the continent’s small population. It is the size of the United States and is mostly sparse desert, so travelling by car or bus is not recommended. What’s more, it is far away and requires a flight that can be as much as a full day to get to the country.
Perhaps the greatest attraction in all of Australia is its coasts. As an island nation, you can find sandy beaches and plenty of fun water sports wherever you land. You can try many activities or just a few but without doubt; the most compelling is a snorkel trip to the Great Barrier Reef. This thousand-mile-long coral reef, visible from the moon, dominates eastern Australia’s coast. With more species of fish in a single reef than in the entire Caribbean, it is the diving experience of a lifetime. If you are trained to scuba dive, you can get even deeper to check out the fish, corals, and sea snakes. Go through ancient shipwrecks from ships that did not make it past the reefs. Marine animals like dolphins, whales, and sharks roam the reefs, so you can get a kick out of seeing the largest animals in the sea on patrol. Surf in the incredible waves of the Gold Coast and go on a horseback ride at sunset on Cable Beach. Once the day is done, eat the delicious seafood that thousands of restaurants across the country provide.
With dozens of natural parks across the country, visitors to Australia can see animals visible nowhere else on earth. The cute (but not always cuddly) koalas that roam the treetops pop down for a closer look while kangaroos hop around on legs that could kick down a door. The saltwater crocodiles grow larger in Australia than anywhere else except Egypt, while turtles and seals roam the shores in search of food. You can hike, bike, kayak, or go ATV’ing through the national parks in order to get your fill of adventure and sightseeing across the breadth of Australia.
Destination Guide - Venice
To many travelers, Venice is a dream destination known for being unique and romantic. There is so much to see and experience, and here are just a few prime examples of what can make your visit an extremely memorable part of your vacation.
Canal Grande
Everyone wants to experience gliding on an authentic and serenaded traditional Venetian gondola ride on these famous “liquid streets” that comprise the city's main water thoroughfare. You are taken past magestic Renaissance palaces, beautifully colored gardens, elaborate churches, and other landmarks.
St Mark's Basilica
This is Venice's most famous cathedral, is one of the finest examples of the opulent Italo-Byzantine architecture style, and contains valuable art, metalwork, and other treasures. Originally built in 832, by the time of the 11th century, it was going by the nickname “Church of Gold”.
There are 85,000 square feet of mosaics that show scenes from the Old Testament and the New Testament. The four bronze horses were created around the 4th century BC in Constantinople and were plundered during the Fourth Crusade and were placed in front of St. Mark’s in 1254. The ones you see are replicas that were installed in the 1980s due to air pollution that was doing damage to the original ones that are still inside St. Mark’s Museum.
Doge's Palace
The palace is over 1,100 years old. An architectural masterpiece with its elaborate exterior, rococo interior, and grand halls, it was the residence of the Doge, the "Duke" of Venice. Italy's greatest architects added to it as the city grew, and it has been a museum since 1923 with priceless paintings by Venetian masters.
The Bridge of Sighs is a symbol of love. It is best to go there on a gondola because it is said that if a couple kisses at sunset as they pass under the bridge and hear the bells of St. Mark's tolling, their love is sure to last forever!
Walking Tours
They are very popular and allow you to see numerous sights first-hand. If you want to take one that is unusual, consider a Ghost Tour! You get to explore the city's mysterious past and go through abandoned piazzas and ancient passageways while your guide tells ghost stories and legends as you see the spookier side of Venice.