Showing posts with label Backpacking around the world. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Backpacking around the world. Show all posts

Top Eastern European Cities to Visit

Top Eastern European Cities to Visit
Must see places in Eastern Europe
Seeing so many good articles on top destinations in Western Europe, I thought to create a list of some of the top Eastern European cities to visit, and tell you why I think they’re great destinations. In no particular order, five of the top Eastern European cities to visit on your next vacation include:

Constanta, Romania

If you’re planning a cheap beach vacation like no other, look no further than Constanta Romania.

Located along the western coast of the Black Sea, Constanta Romania offers lively resorts, beautiful sandy beaches and centuries old remains and ruins from past cultures. Another reason why Constanta Romania is one of the top Eastern European cities to visit, it’s because of its affordability and accessibility. The airport is just minutes from the heart of the city center, and with hundreds of charter flights available, airfare bargains are easy to come by.


Budapest, Hungary

Most people that travel to Budapest Hungary for the first time don’t know what to expect of the city. Perhaps, one of the most striking things about the capital city of Budapest Hungary it’s the city’s architecture, with its many bridges and statutes, as well as amazing cultural scene. The music scene is diverse and they’re plenty of music events happening all year-round to keep you busy. Budapest Hungary is also one of the most popular cheap summer destinations in Europe, when you consider the small price you’ll pay for foods, eating out and entertainment.

Varna, Bulgaria

Varna Bulgaria is another popular summer destination in the Black Sea, located on the same stretch of coast as Constanta Romania. If you’re looking to do day trips, the city of Varna offers daily ferry connections to cities along the Black Sea coast, including Istanbul Turkey. The thing that makes Varna Bulgaria one of the top Eastern European cities to visit it’s its lovely attractions and the many things to do that can be enjoyed by all. For instance, you’d love a visit to the popular Sea Garden Park which boasts a dolphin theater, planetarium and more.

Kusadasi, Turkey

Kusadasi Turkey is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey, in par, with places such as Ibiza in Spain and Ayia Napa in Cyprus, but with its distinctive Turkish vibe. If you’re looking for a lively beach vacation and vibrant nightlife, without breaking the bank, Kusadasi Turkey has some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean to head. Apart from exciting beach and nightlife, Kusadasi Turkey is one of the top Eastern European cities to visit because of the famed Ephesus ruins.


Brno, Czech Republic

Located southeast of Prague, Brno Czech Republic is one of the few places in the country where you can still get a taste of the real Czech Republic. If you’ve always wanted to visit a medieval city, the city of Brno Czech Republic is one of the best places to visit Europe where you can do this. From beautiful architecture like churches, castles, medieval streets and UNESCO sites, there is really a lot to do in the city. Another plus about traveling to Brno Czech Republic, it’s that the city is just 70 miles north of Vienna Austria.

See. Things to do in Eastern Europe
Beautiful places in Europe
Best unknown European cities

Best Vacation Destinations in South America

Best Vacation Destinations in South America
South America 10 top sights
Are you planning a trip to South America but are not sure where to go?

There are plenty of great destinations in South America and where you go depends on what kinds of activities you’re planning to do and your budget.

South America is an exciting continent full of charm and rich with culture.

Best Vacation Destinations in South America: Top 4

I’ve put together four of the best vacation destinations in South America which I think offer best of both worlds, in terms of city attractions and outdoor opportunities.

Chiclayo Peru

Chiclayo Peru is one of the most popular cities in South America where traces of the Inca era can be seen. For instance, you can tour the majestic Pyramids of Tucume, enjoying hiking and bird watching at the Historic Pomac Forest, as well as surfing opportunities at the nearby beach town of Pimentel.

Salto Argentina

Although Buenos Aires Argentina is one of the most popular vacation destinations in South America, Salto Argentina is a great destination especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast.

One of the most popular attractions in Salto Argentina is taking a tour along ‘Train to the Clouds’ Scenic Railway, which lasts over ten hours and takes you through beautiful mountain scenery.

Cochabamba Bolivia

Cochabamba Bolivia is another great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as it boast plenty of natural attractions.

Places such as the popular Carrasco National Park offer you the opportunity to do camping, fishing and enjoy its many hiking trails while marveling at the park’s amazing variety of fauna and flora.


Montevideo Uruguay

The country of Uruguay is located between the borders of Brazil and Argentina, and its capital Montevideo Uruguay is an excellent destination for travelers looking to explore Spain’s colonial past.

You can visit the city’s many parks and museums, and enjoy a walking tour of Montevideo’s Old Quarter where you’ll be truly taken to another time.

See. beaches to visit in Northeast Brazil
Nicest Beach Spots in Chile 
Popular Tourist Destinations in Brazil
7 Things to Expect on a Trip to the Amazon Rainforest

Facts about South America

- Angel Falls, located in Venezuela, is the largest waterfall in the world.

- South America is home to the Amazon River which is the largest river in the world

- The highest mountain peak in the world is the Aconcagua which is located in Argentina

- The Amazon jungle is the largest rain forest in the world, represents over 60% of the world’s combine rain forests.

- South America is home to the highest lake and city in the world, Lake Titicaca and La Paz Bolivia respectively.

- South America is home to unique wildlife such as piranha, anaconda and llama to name a few.

- Brazil is the largest country in South America and fifth largest in the world.

- Spanish speaking countries in South America include Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela.

- South American foods have African, Native American, Asian, and European influences.


See. Places to Visit in Chile
Things Tourists do in Bolivia for fun
Things People do on a Vacation in Nicaragua 
Must do things in Peru
Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Argentina
Traveling Solo Tips
Popular Tourist Attractions in Chile
Top 10 cities to visit in the world
Top travel destinations in January
Interesting places to visit in Paraguay
Top places to visit in Belize
Interesting places to visit in Ecuador
Places to visit in Rio de Janeiro state

Fun Things to do in North Dakota

North Dakota is bordered by Canada in the north, Minnesota in the east, South Dakota in the south and Montana in the west.

If you are traveling to North Dakota for the first time, the state is home to many historic sites such as Fort Totten State and Double Ditch Historical sites where you can soak up some history and learn about North Dakota early settlers.

One of the top attractions and most popular fun things to do in North Dakota is to visit the renowned pioneer village at Bonanzaville USA, which is one of the top things to do in Fargo.

Fun Things to do in North Dakota: Outdoor Activities

Visiting a state park or a wildlife refuge is a great way to get in touch with nature and see many protected species of North Dakota wildlife.

One of the most popular wildlife refuges is Chase Lake National Wildlife. Apart from being a breeding ground for native species of birds such as white pelicans, the refuge is a great place for hiking and bird-spotting.

To explore the stunning natural scenery, the Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the best places to head as it is located in the breathtaking badlands region. In fact, Theodore Roosevelt National Park is along with the Grand Canyon in Arizona two of the most renowned tourist destinations in the USA.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a great place where you can enjoy fun family outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, water sports, and wildlife spotting.

If you are looking to enjoy boating and fishing, another popular place in North Dakota is Lake Sakakawea State Park. The state park, located on the south shore of Lake Sakakawea, is home to a full service marina that offers boat rentals and fishing guide services.

Fun Things to do in North Dakota: Ghost Towns

Exploring the state’s many ghost towns is one of the most poplar fun things to do in North Dakota.

Ghost towns in North Dakota are spread all over the state. Between the Red River Valley and the Badlands region, there are literary hundreds of ghost town sites, which you can explore.

For instance, there are a few ghost towns nearby the city of Fargo such as Arena town, which is a small empty town, where you can see a ghostly school and a white church.

Fun Things to do in North Dakota: Places of Interest

Fort Buford State Historic Site

Fort Buford State Historic Site, located near Williston, is a former military post built in the 19th century. The site is also home to the ‘Life by the Bugle’ permanent exhibit which explores the life of a frontier military officer at Fort Buford and also examines the role of women at an army post.

National Buffalo Museum

The National Buffalo Museum, located in Jamestown, is another popular attraction as it is home to ‘white cloud’ the popular albino buffalo.

The Enchanted Highway

The Enchanted Highway is a 32-mile stretch highway between Regent and Gladstone. Taking a scenic drive along this highway is one of the most popular fun things to do in North Dakota, as the 32-mile stretch is home to giant metal sculptures.

Mandan Indian Village

The Mandan Indian Village, located in Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, is another popular attraction in North Dakota as it recreates the village of the real Mandan Indian tribe.

Fun Things to do in North Dakota: Festivals & Events

Mandan Rodeo Days Celebration

The Mandan Rodeo Days Celebration, held in July in Downtown Mandan and Dakota Centennial Park City, is one of the most popular fun things to do in North Dakota during the summer. At the event you can see professional rodeo performances.

Fargo Blues Festival

The Fargo Blues Festival, held also in July, is a 2-day event where you can see world-class bands and enjoy great food and brews.

Fargo Film Festival

If you are a filmmaker or love making movies, the Fargo Film Festival offers a great opportunity for up and coming talent. At the film festival you can have your work reviewed and judged to enter the competition in North Dakota’s premier film festival.

The Scandinavian Festival

The Scandinavian Festival, held in Minot in late September, is the largest Scandinavian festival in North America where you can soak the heritage, traditions and food of Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Iceland.


See. Interesting places to visit in South Dakota
Interesting places to visit in Montana
Things to do on vacation in South Dakota

Backpacking around the world

Planning to set around the world backpacking? Below, we have put together the basics to backpacking light and a list of essential items you may need during your trip.

Backpacking around the world

Key basics

* Be flexible in terms of where you’ll be staying for the night and where you’ll be eating.

* Set a budget and stick to it. This means, buying from street markets as much as possible and eating where locals do.

* Travel light and keep your backpack light (between a 35 and a 45 litre pack) as traveling light allows freedom of movement, especially when you are traveling in crowded places.

* When packing your essentials keep in mind you can always purchase most of these items during your backpacking trip.

List of clothing essentials

It is important to pack comfortable, breathable and quick drying clothing. For instance, moisture wicking type fabric does a better job of wicking moisture than traditional cotton.

The following list of essentials is intended to achieve a light backpack:


* Pack three to four moisture wicking type t-shirts and make sure you include a smart shirt and a long sleeved top.

* Pack at least a full zip fleece jacket for extra warmth and a light rain jacket.

* Pack a couple of comfortable trousers such as cotton ones rather than jeans as cotton washes and dries quicker than jean material.

* If you’re a female backpacker, when traveling in places such as Asia it is important to remember religious sensibilities. Therefore, it is advisable to pack long skirts and a sarong when visiting sacred areas such as the Hindu temples in Bali.

* Pack a couple of items of swimwear and be aware of local customs and sensibilities when bathing on touristy beaches.

* Pack a few items of synthetic-type underwear and a few pairs of socks (including water-proof socks), as small items such as socks and underwear can be washed when needed.

* Pack a set of sandals, a breathable-type pair of trainers with anti-bacterial shoe liners, and a set of flip-flops.

* Pack head gear such as a baseball hat and a bandanna.

* Pack a plastic cutlery set that include plates, forks and so on.

First Aid and Toiletries

A first aid kit and a toiletries bag are perhaps two of the most important essentials to pack as some of these items might be hard to get hold of abroad:

First aid kit

Lip balm/Antiseptic cream
Cold and flu tablets
Plasters
Condoms
Mosquito repellent
Diarrhea and pain killer tablets
A mini-sewing kit

Toiletries

Shampoo
Toothpaste and toothbrush
Antiperspirant
Sun block and tweezers
Female hygiene product
Nail clippers

Tip

* Hard-wearing backpacking clothing is more expensive to buy, but if you’re serious about backpacking around the world, investing in backpacking clothing such as moisture wicking type is worth the expense.

* If you are taking prescribed medication with you, it is important to carry a doctor’s note as proof.

* Don’t flash around valuable objects such as phones and cameras, and always be discreet when using them.

* Make sure your passport is not about to expire and that you have enough time left on it when setting up for backpacking around the world.

See. Traveling Solo Tips
Best places for hiking in South Australia
Ways to Save Money While on Vacation