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vanillacup-cakes · 5 years ago

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This is, by far, the latest I’ve ever written one of my year round-ups, and by far, the messiest post.

2019 was a year guys, so have a really messily written year round up. If I try to tidy it up we’ll be here until December.

TL;DR

2019.

2019 was a year of love; happy, sad, somewhere in between.

My heart got broken.

Hera got married.

My friends are in love.

At the end of the Barat, in Pakistani wedding traditions, the bride goes home with the groom. Any events before that the bride always came home with her family. But for this main event, after the actual marriage contract has been signed, after all the festivities, she goes home with the groom. We took it in turns to hug Hera goodbye, I pushed myself to the back of the queue being the crier of the group.

When I was talking to Hera’s cousin she mentioned that some people have questioned why this little bit of the wedding celebrations causes such emotional responses from the bride’s family and friends, after all, we’ll see her again the next evening for the reception. And it’s not like she’s gone forever, she has just moved out of her parents house. She said that the reason for this was not because we will never see her again but because things will never be the same from that moment on. Not in a good, nor a bad way, it just is.

Changed.

Life changes and when one of your close friends get married it changes your relationship with them. Not that you or they love you/them less, not that you or they are less important, not that you or they care less. It just changes.

it doesn’t even have to be marriage.

In October, one morning in Peak District I was stood in the kitchen of our rented apartment and in front of me were two of my best friends with their other halves going on about their day eating their breakfast. It was a picturesque little scene I tried to capture as a photo, I was scared of ruining the moment though and my sly camera skills were terrible so I just have a blurry evidence of that moment. Throughout that holiday I caught little moments of the two couples, little moments I can’t really describe but you know it when you’re around it, little moments that made my heart swell and hurt at the same time. Because things are different. Things have changed.

Change isn’t bad, it can be really, really good. In fact I hope it’s a really, really, really good change for all of them, I just need a moment to accept that we’re no longer in our early 20s and our lives are going to change a lot before more.

2019 was a year of love; the good, the bad, and the bittersweet.

I started 2019 falling asleep as the fireworks went off. We had gone out for dinner earlier that evening with a friend from work and his missus, to a nice fancy restaurant where desserts are always perfect. I’m not one to go out on New Year’s so I worried that we’d be out long but, fortunately for me, the other couple we’re not up for a long one either so, after dinner, we tried to see if we could grab a couple of drinks in a bar before heading home but, as it was NYE, we had no luck. The other couple went home, we tried a couple more before we gave up and called it a night.

We were falling asleep when the fireworks went off. In our 20s, supposed to be the prime of your life, and I was cuddled up and happily falling asleep before the new year rang in. I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

January meant Hamilton and birthday boardgames and lots of ballroom classes. I think this may have been the year that we also started, or tried to, regularly schedule in time for face masks.

Then it was suddenly February and I received the best Valentine’s day card in existence, I continued to dance, finally saw a Footlights performance and even caught a show put on by CUMTS. Cirque du Soleil was okay too…

March was when Amy, Izzy and I decided to start our own tradition, every year, no matter what, we’d get together; us and the boys, with the dogs, or kids or goodness know what else life gives us, we’d meet up. We’d meet up somewhere in the UK for a long weekend, where we’d go for walks and cook dinner, and just overall relax and unwind and catch up with each other. Each year starting that October at the Peak District.

March was when I forgot my water bottle at our last dance class and we had to turn the car around. March was when I got no sleep and still chose to go to work the next day.

For the three months we had worked in the new building together we had never bumped into each other in such close proximity, and then, suddenly, there he was coming out of the showers as I tried to find an empty stall to check how I tired I looked. I smiled, I can’t remember if I said anything but my heart dropped.

March was when I got my promotion and all I wanted to do was tell him.

I gave him his stuff back and I gave him his birthday present; an embossed leather notebook, dotted not lined, perfect for both writing and drawing, he was a design engineer after all.

In July he wished me a happy birthday.

In my head, people judge how much it hurt me when we were only together for nine months. But no one has the right to dictate how you feel.

Back in January, Hera started sending me dance videos, videos she wanted us to learn for her wedding.

By April, the Kate, Olive, Sam and I were in the full swing of Friday on a Monday: Dance Edition. We’d cook a spicy meals (the spice increased in level as we went along, yoghurt or cream became more for taste than for firefighting) then we’d dance. Every Monday, where possible. Sometimes we’d skype Charley, sometimes Charley would be with us in person.

As per usual we celebrated birthdays not in the correct months; Kate’s November was in January in form of birthday boardgames, face masks and hand massages by Olive. Charley’s January was in May in Claydon house where we discussed medieval fayres and the Jane Austen festival, where we sat in a private chapel and spoke as we wished until a lady came into actually pray and we tried our best to exit quietly. Sam gave Olive a piggy back in the gardens and there were some happy screaming and laughter. Olive’s March preceded Charley’s as we went to Bath in May and had ourselves our own very luxurious baths. Preceded and proceeded by enough Sally Lunn buns to feed a small army.

My mum randomly won tickets to Look East festival so Charley and I went on an impromptu trip to London and saw Mumford and Sons live. Next time we’ll be prepared with a picnic blanket and more sunscreen for Charley. Indeed we were more fully prepared a month later for West End Live, armed with a cool bag full of food and drinks. What we weren’t prepared for, though, was the vast amount of people queueing. We knew it was popular and we knew there would be a long queue but we didn’t quite anticipate just how big. Having said that, after we admitted defeat we found a little section to the side of Trafalgar square with deck chairs facing a huge screen live streaming the whole event. We didn’t get seats straightaway but sure enough a family with kids left slightly earlier. Instead of standing under the sun for hours on end, Charley and I sat on our deck chairs in the shade in a lovely June day eating our food and drinking to our heart’s content. We decided that in 2020, we’d just do the exact same. We also come out wanting to watch ever single musical there was.

Speaking of getting the right picnic spot, we are starting to have this ‘Singing on the river’ thing down; picnic blankets a plenty, napkins, cutleries, takeaway for dinner by the river listening to the wonderful King’s men perform renditions of old and new songs. It’s a Cambridge tradition we just can’t miss.

We did try to keep up monthly dinners in 2019; we went to Varsity, The Red Lion and Petersfield before we had to suspend the dinners as it was time to fly to Pakistan.

After the vaccinations were done, after the visas were sorted, after all the clothes were bought, after all the make-up and hair trials were done, after all suitcases were packed, after all the dances were mastered (somewhat), after the incredibly long wait to see Hera again it was time to get in the taxi and slowly but surely make our way to the train station. Slowly because we had a flat tyre. But it was going to be faster to get on a slow car than wait for another taxi.

For months on end, as a group, we all had a phrase “After Pakistan”. The amount of things we said we’d do ‘after Pakistan’ and suddenly we were there. Suddenly it was all gone.

I’m not sure life kept going after Pakistan, you know.

And yet it did. I came back to work with my new manager fully into the swing of things, nothing had exploded and everything was still chugging along. Suddenly I was being invited to more meetings and prospects of going business trips became a thing.

I also started sewing classes, along with Olive and Sarah. I stopped ballroom classes and continued with krav maga.

In October, Amy and Tom picked me up in Cambridge and we all drove to Bakewell together to meet Izzy and Zack. The weather could have been nicer to us but it was the UK in October, we should have known better. So off we went, in the rain, walking down an old railroad track (we did consider cycling but that got confusing and expensive), climbing hills for loo breaks and risking ankles and necks for a hope of a nice warm lunch only to be disappointed because pubs in the middle of nowhere is far and few in between and only serve food at specified hours. Having walked for hours with a small amount of sustenance we took the taxi home and enjoyed a meal at the apartment instead.

In November, we flew to Bulgaria and what an experience it was. Beautiful sceneries and definitely a hidden gem, but take it from me, don’t take the jeep up the mountain. Find a different mountain, there’s plenty. Explore the gorgeous towns preserved to their original glory and feel like you’ve been transported back in time. Try the local cuisine! Dress up in traditional Bulgarian outfits, it’ll make a wonderful family photo.

That same month, Hera visited England again. For a mere few days she stayed in Cambridge and we tried to make the most of it as possible. Butch Annie’s was obviously a requirement. And at last, once again, Kate’s November birthday was celebrated in November. In a once in a lifetime opportunity where all six of us were finally back together again to tackle not one, not two but three escape rooms! We got out of every single one of them. No biggie! But just like that, we were all split up again.

But no rest for the wicked because the very next day I was off to Austria on a business trip. My first ever business trip. It wasn’t all work and no play, in fact, at one point we were chucked out of the office so we can explore Vienna further so we did. We went to Christmas market after Christmas market and I stocked up on Christmas baubles and Christmas presents. My favourite bauble though? Came from the Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fayre. I’ll be on the look out for you again next year!

Before long it was December. With all the hubub of 2019 and the hubub that 2020 will bring (in form of a NYE party) I decided it was best if we had someone else cook for us for Friends Christmas. Secret Santas were exchanged and extra sticky toffee puddings were ordered, no dishes were cleaned by our hands that evening,

And then it was time to party. 1920’s themed party to ring in the 2020’s…

When I really think about it 2019 was one helluva year. So much has changed, so much will change. There isn’t one month similar to the one before, it’s terrifying. Growing up is terrifying. Changes are terrifying.

But we have to bury broken hearts and raise a glass to falling in love, we have to hug memories goodbye and smile at the new ones. We have to accept things won’t be the same but that’s not a bad thing. There are still songs to dance to and movies to cry at, rooms to escape and snacks to share. They’ll always be there no matter what… no matter what 2020 will bring.

#personal #end of year #end of year 2019 #yes I have written this as if I don't know what's happening in 2020 already

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absolutecreed · 7 years ago

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Heated Blue

(also posted on AO3!)

During one reconnaissance mission, Eli and Thrawn come to a planet that's famous for their hot springs. After spending the day walking around various art galleries, it seems like a good idea to end the day relaxing in the hot water. ...Maybe.

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The planet of Onsenkura was like nothing Eli had ever seen. It had a very traditional feel to it, with hardly any technology in sight. …No, that wasn’t accurate. It was more as if technology and traditional fused together. The buildings were mostly wood and rice paper, and even stiff reeds. Yet, mingled in were power lines, transformer boxes, number pads for security, and a handful of floating banners, displaying sales at nearby supermarkets. Even the people were quite traditional, preferring robes and sandals to shirts and pants. Eli felt a bit overdressed in his Imperial uniform. And if Thrawn felt discomforted at all, he didn’t show it. No, like Eli, he found himself captivated by the scenery.

The mission—if one could call it that—was to scout out Osenkura. It was one of many vacation planets near the Outer Rim. A good place to go to escape for a bit. And what a place to. The planet’s politics had no ties to either the Empire or the Rebel Alliance, making it neutral ground where both sides, and everyone in between could relax and enjoy themselves. From what Eli could gather, this was just a reconnaissance mission, to make sure the people of Osenkura were remaining neutral as agreed. And, from just their first few hours there, Eli could tell that they were on their best behavior. Their Imperial uniforms didn’t make anyone flinch, which Eli wasn’t used to. These people really were at ease, with just about anyone and everyone.

The culture enraptured Thrawn. The moment they landed, and got settled at a nearby inn, Eli practically had to run, in order to catch up with Thrawn. He was looking at everything, from the nature and plants in the city, to their technology and culture. Eli lost track of how many food places they stopped at to try various traditional foods. And, of course, Thrawn just had to find an art gallery. They spent HOURS looking at the gallery. And while Eli didn’t have as much of an interest as Thrawn did with art, he couldn’t deny how gorgeous each and every piece was. Modern and ancient art was displayed, and while there was a similar style, each piece was characteristically different. It was fascinating, really. Thrawn was in his element, observing each and every piece thoroughly.

They hadn’t even made it halfway through the gallery, when it came time for it to close. They were still there for a few more days—Thrawn would be able to see the rest of the pieces, before they headed back. When they made it back to the inn, Eli was surprised to discover that the inn was more than just an inn—it was a bathhouse. In the back, there were naturally occurring hot springs that one could relax in. Whether Thrawn saw Eli’s growing curiosity, or maybe he was curious himself, the Chiss suggested that they give it a try. There was no harm in it, right? And Thrawn made a pretty good point.

'These baths are a part of their culture. I’ve heard quite a lot about them. It would be amiss of us to skip the opportunity.’

And so, minutes later, Eli found himself in the hot spring.

There were three separate baths—one for men, one for women, and one for both sexes. They chose the men’s one, though Thrawn encouraged Eli to go ahead; he wanted to talk to one of the bathhouse employees, no doubt asking for information about the history of the baths. Upon taking his clothes off and showering (one was required to shower before stepping into the springs), Eli looked over the waters, that were warm enough to be steaming slightly. The water was slightly murky, but not in an entirely dirty way. Letting the towel drop from his waist, Eli took a step into the water, almost flinching back. It was hot, that was for sure! But it wasn’t unpleasant… Slowly, Eli walked the rest of the way in, settling down near one of the rock dividers in the spring. The water wasn’t deep, but with Eli sitting down, the water easily covered more than half his chest.

“Never had a bath like this before…” he mumbled, rubbing the warm water on his arms. He could get used to this…

“These springs are truly remarkable, are they not, Ensign?”

Eli jumped a little as he heard Thrawn’s voice, turning around to face him. And what he saw made his face burn, and it had nothing to do with the hot water he was partly submerged in.

Thrawn stood there, in nothing but a towel, hair damp from his pre-spring shower. And while Eli had caught glimpses of Thrawn shirtless, this was the closest he’d been to seeing him completely naked. The legends weren’t lying when they said the Chiss were a very fit race. Lamely, all Eli could think of was how Thrawn’s abs resembled some marble statues they’ve seen in art galleries. Compared Thrawn, Eli was a kriffing stick. Unconsciously he sunk a little further into the water, hiding his puny body.

“They are, sir.” said Eli at last, realizing Thrawn had addressed him, “I’ve had baths before but these waters feel entirely different from normal bath water—”

Eli’s voice died in his throat a bit, as Thrawn dropped his towel to enter the springs. Eli unconsciously closed his legs—even ‘there’ Thrawn ‘outranked’ him.

“That’s because these springs are all natural.” explained the Chiss, as he slowly waded in. He paused for a moment to let his body get used to the hot water, before wading further in and settling down in a spot opposite of Eli. The water looked slightly different in Thrawn’s area, but perhaps the stones under him were different colored.

“The volcano nearby help heat the springs from below the surface.” continued Thrawn, moving his hands a little in the water, “There are volcanic vents, full of super heated magma below the surface of these springs. Thankfully they’re far enough down to where the water here won’t boil anyone alive.”

“That’s a pleasant mental image…” grumbled Eli, sinking a bit further into the water, blowing some bubbles, before sitting up, “So the slight sulfur smell is from the volcano, then. That scent is getting transferred up through the water and steam.”

“Precisely.” said Thrawn, nodding, “And because of the nature of the surrounding rocks, the bathhouse has a natural filtration system. No need for harsh chemicals.”

“The hot water probably helps kill a bunch of bacteria and all that, too.” Eli sighed contently, sinking a bit further into the water, “Plus all this hot water relaxes you. Say goodbye to any sore muscles you might have. You probably don’t even need a massage, if you soak in one of these…”

Thrawn tilted his head, watching Eli looking seemingly amused, “They do offer massages here. They have a Besalisk they handles all the massaging. They told me he’s very highly rated. Especially in what they call ‘happy ending’ massages.”

The Chiss started slightly, as Eli spluttered, face completely red. Thrawn waited until Eli wasn’t inhaling anymore water, before speaking up, “What do they mean by ‘happy ending’? Aren’t all massage sessions supposed to end well?”

“It’s…” started Eli, not sure if he should explain the true meaning of that phrase. There was no need to ‘poison’ his mind with that, “Those massages are often done in private…and paid for under the table.” Judging by Thrawn’s still curious look, he wasn’t getting it. Eli sighed, “…Just…if you go get a massage and they offer a ‘happy ending’, just politely decline. Trust me.”

Thrawn watched Eli for a moment, before slowly nodding, “Understood.”

Eli relaxed, glad that Thrawn was leaving it at that. As a comfortable silence fell between them, Eli shot a shy glance at Thrawn. He was glad that the murky water hid the Chiss’s lower half. He knew he’d give himself away if Thrawn caught him blushing. But from the waist up, Thrawn was…well…wonderful. Since getting settled in the Imperial Navy, Thrawn had a daily workout routine. Eli attempted to join him once, but had gotten his ass kicked within the first few hours. He was incredibly sore for days after, to the point where Thrawn was concerned enough to want him in the medbay.

That aside…

Thrawn didn’t seem to have any issues with his body image. Not that he went around naked or anything, but he was confident in his body. Maybe it was a Chiss thing… Legends did say that Chiss had incredibly fit bodies, due to high metabolism from living in such frigid conditions. Despite Thrawn obviously not being human, it seemed like everything else was very human-like. The way his muscles moved under his blue skin, the way his muscles in his abdomen were shaped, how they tensed and relaxed as he moved…

“Ensign?”

Eli practically screamed, as Thrawn’s voice suddenly cut through his thoughts. Blushing darkly, he glanced up at the Chiss, who regarded him with those red eyes. …Though was it just him, or did Thrawn’s eyes seem a little…dull? Eli didn’t question it, still embarrassed that he was caught staring. At least Thrawn didn’t sound upset…

“S—So sorry, Sir…” he stammered out, averting his eyes finally, “I didn’t…I didn’t mean to stare…That was r—rude of me. I’m—“

“Ensign, it’s quite all right.” said Thrawn calmly—almost too calmly, “There’s no need for apologies. We’re you looking at…for…anything in particular?”

That calm voice of Thrawn’s made it seem like his tone was so…silky smooth. Eli couldn’t help but blush harder, and his wording didn’t help matters at all.

“Your…Your body is similar to us humans in quite a few ways.” started Eli, feeling his accent creeping in a little—something that happened when he got flustered, “The way your body is shaped…it’s similar to a very fit human male. Even…Even the way your muscles move under you wet ski—your skin—is very similar. Your muscle structure is similar, even if you guys are stronger than us. You probably have more muscles, to keep you warm in that native climate of yours. A—And it shows. Your daily workout routines help a lot. You’re really fit Thrawn, a—and you look amazing, and the way your muscles move is just fantastic, and…and…I—“

Eli yelped as there was a sudden splash from over where Thrawn was. Whipping around, Eli saw Thrawn…and stared. There were a few things going through his mind in a matter of seconds.

First—Thrawn was facedown in the water.

Second—his backside was just as toned as the rest of him. Eli had never seen such a muscular ass before. And his broad back…!

Third—…Thrawn wasn’t moving.

That third thought practically screamed at Eli, as he leaped out of the water, rushing towards the motionless Chiss.

“Thrawn!!”

+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+

"I...have made...a tact...tactical error..."

Eli would've laughed at Thrawn's slurred tone, if he hadn't had the absolute daylights scared out of him.

Apparently Eli calling out Thrawn's name and struggling with pulling him out of the water got the attention of the owners of the bathhouse, who quickly jumped in to help, pulling the Chiss up onto the ground, folding a towel under his head. Thankfully, he hadn't inhaled any water while face down, and he revived fairly easily. As per Eli's request, they had brought a bowl of ice water and a small washcloth, which Eli was using to carefully cool Thrawn back down.

Unbeknownst to either of them, certain areas of the hot springs were hotter than others. The owners explained, then apologized profusely. Eli wasn't upset at them, and he knew Thrawn wouldn't be either, if he wasn't currently acting as though he had a high grade fever. They should've asked before hand. At least Thrawn was alive and out of the hot water, and didn't seem too terribly effected. No harm, no foul. They knew for next time, at least.

"How do you feel, sir?" asked Eli, wetting the cold towel again, and carefully wiping it down Thrawn's still bare (and broad) chest. He knew he couldn't just dump the ice water on him. If his physiology was the same as humans, then introducing a cold element to his still hot body so suddenly, would put him into shock. No, it was best to chill him gradually. Eli's lips almost twitched up into a smile at the phrasing of that.

"I'm..." Thrawn paused a moment, his unfocused gaze just staring up at the ceiling. After a moment, he seemed to realize he was in the middle of speaking, and started up again, "...I'm doing better, I believe...I feel different..."

"That's because you nearly boiled yourself, sir." said Eli with a hint of humor in his tone, as he went to wet the washcloth again, "Apparently, Chiss can't handle really hot hot springs. You probably would've been fine in my area. It wasn't too hot, but it wasn't chilly. Probably just right for you."

"I will keep that in mind..." said Thrawn slowly, still attempting to fight through the hazy heat that had enveloped his body. Eli recalled having acted similar, having succumbed to heat exhaustion once. It wasn't a pleasant experience, and he could only imagine that Thrawn didn't feel too hot (no pun intended) either. Or at least, he wouldn't later one, once his body cooled down. Eli wanted to bring him back to their rooms, but Thrawn was decently bigger than he was. And still naked. He could help the Chiss stagger back to their rooms, but only after he was well enough to move.

"...A question, Eli..." said Thrawn simply, getting Eli out of his thoughts. Even more so, with him using his name instead of his rank.

"Yes?"

It took Thrawn a moment to speak, just staring up at the ceiling some more, before speaking, "...Whist I was changing for the hot spring, there was a patron in there, that had just been coming out of another set of hot springs. They said something that confused me, and I wonder if you could translate..."

Eli nodded, "I'll do my best."

"They looked me up and down, and said, and I quote..." said Thrawn, lifting his hands up off of the ground slightly to do air quotes, which amused Eli greatly, "'You are shredded, my man. I'm jealous.' ...What exactly does shredded mean, in that context?"

"Well, obviously you're still all together, so you're not the actual definition of shredded..." started Eli with a chuckle, feeling his face flush as Thrawn chuckled at that as well. It was rare to see the Chiss smile, let alone laugh or even chuckle. Eli quickly recovered, and started again, "In that sense, they're using it as slang for 'you have a really nice body.'"

"Interesting..." mused Thrawn, letting his hands drop again. He went quiet again, and just as Eli turned around to soak the towel in cold water, he spoke up once more, turning his head towards Eli, "...Do you consider me 'shredded', Eli?"

Eli knew his face turned a deep shred of crimson, as Thrawn tilted his head at him, "...Your temperature has spiked, Eli. Were you in the hot springs for too long, as well?"

Eli just wrung out the towel, and let it fall down on Thrawn's face, earning him a soft noise from him.

"I believe you're still dizzy from the heat and don't know what you're talking about..." muttered Eli, but there was a smile in his voice, despite the blush on his cheeks. He added quietly, as he took the washcloth off of Thrawns' face, "...And yes. I do."

Thrawn's small smile under the washcloth made even Eli's ears burn with a dark blush.

#Star Wars #Thrawnto #Thrawn #Eli Vanto #Mitth'raw'nuruodo #My first Thrawnto fic!#Bit nervous posting it a;slkfj;a;laskjfas

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skarsbill-blog · 7 years ago

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Forbidden - Chapter II

Chapter II! A little more character development but for the most part, it’s a long one and we’re getting in to the story now, and getting to the bottom of what exactly went down between Bill and Vida, and where their feeling are at now. Please let me know what you think so far! I would really appreciate hearing from anyone who reads so I know to do more. If you’re looking for the first chapter, I will be posting all parts to this under the ‘Stories’ link on my blog.

Happy reading!

It’s been a week since my move and I feel as though things are finally falling in to place, I’m feeling a little more at home. My apartment was completely unpacked and seeing it clean and free of cardboard boxes made my heart swell with gratitude at how grateful I was to be able to have such nice things in my life. My new apartment was gorgeous, beyond anything I ever thought I would ever be able to call my own. A four-bedroom dream home that featured dark brown, matte floor boards that covered every floor in the house, apart from my bathrooms where marble tiles took over from the floor to the ceiling. All of my walls were true white, my kitchen all white with marble bench tops and all of my furnishing either grey, white, silver or marble as well. My environment is important to me, this felt pristine and pure, crisp and perfect for me, perfect for my fresh start.

Today was my first day in my new office, and weirdly enough I wasn’t nervous. I think having gained experience with the company and the role already, this was just a matter of a change of scenery and people, which I could handle. I got up, put on my face, dressed myself in a loose black soft cotton t-shirt that I tucked in to a high waisted, ¾ length black skirt and accessorised with some black around-the-ankle strap on Lou B’s, a gold chain and a gold watch. Going to work I liked to keep it simple, and although my whole environment was a true reflection of how much my soul appreciated light, I truly loved wearing black. I grabbed my bag, my keys and headed straight to my car, knowing very well I had to allow PLENTY of time to get to where I was going in this city.

I parked in my designated spot and made my way in to the elevator, up to the top floor of the building. The office space was beautiful, luxurious, like they always were. I spent the day mostly introducing myself and building relationships with my new colleagues before attending all of my afternoon publicity appointments. While writing for Vogue as an expert in mostly styling, fashion, makeup and trends, I was always allocated a role in supervising photo shoots as someone with an eye for what will look good amongst the pages of our magazine. This also meant that I had the opportunity to meet a lot of amazing people, from models, actors all the way to people who did amazing things for the community.

Today’s shoot involved a male for our Hottest Man of the Year issue, I had no clue who it was but the title of the issue they were chosen for says a lot about the kind of person they would be. I entered the studio, introduced myself to the team and began discussing plans with the artists and stylists on set, trying my best to get a feel for the vision so that I could make accurate judgements on what needs to be done to achieve it.

“This all looks awesome, I’m loving it so far. So who is our model today, because truthfully I have no clue.” I laughed with one of the photographers and he rolled his eyes at me playfully.

“This year the lucky gentleman is none other than Alexander Skarsgard. Gorgeous if I do say so myself, very tall.. kind of weirdly tall.” He trailed off and I laughed, before completely coming to terms with name that came out of his mouth.

“Alex Skarsg.. fuck.” “What?” “Nothing! Nothing, I’m just going to check on everyone and make sure we’re all on the same level with what we’re after today, good luck with your shots.”

Alex fucking Skarsgard, why is my luck literally maybe the worst of anyone’s ever? A week in to my move and an encounter with a Skarsgard is the last thing I need. I began trying to figure out how I was going to make my way through this without being seen, the only people who knew I was back were my parents and my brother, and that’s the way I’d prefer it to stay while I’m finding my feet. I never even completely wrapped my head around what happened between his brother and I, and to be honest I don’t want to. It’s too painful to think about, and I know very well how seeing Alex will make me feel.

I manage to lurk in the shadows during the whole shoot, giving my opinion only when needed and staying quiet every other time, daring not risk him noticing me. The shoot finished and I snuck out and back to my floor before being seen, relieved as soon as I made it inside the glass walls of my office, in disbelief of the bullet I dodged, and what a large bullet it was. I got straight back to work, answering any remaining emails from the day, sending off final editions to articles and making sure everyone had what they needed before making my way home. Engrossed in my inbox, I heard my door open and assumed it was one of the girls bringing me the final copy of their piece, instructing them to leave it on my desk and to have a nice night.

“Thanks, but that’s not why I’m here.” I froze immediately, my neck going hot at the sound of the voice in front of me, afraid to look up.

“Alex.. wow it’s so nice to see you, what are you doing here?” I looked up at him, puzzled, cursing at myself for obviously not being discreet enough.

“You really thought you could get away before I noticed you, I noticed you five minutes in to the shoot Vida, I know that face anywhere.” He smiled down at me, and I stood from my desk, giving in and smiling straight back.

“It’s so nice to see you Alex, truly” I breathed, walking around to give him a big hug, “I’ve uh.. I’ve moved back.” I looked at him, waiting for his reaction.

He grinned, moving over to sit on the lounge in the corner of my office as I followed, “You have? That’s awesome, Bill will be happy with that.”

I swallowed audibly at his words, shaking my head and looking down, “I’m not so sure about that Alex.” I laughed nervously, playing with my necklace and thinking back to everything that went wrong as soon as I left, thinking back to my relationship with my best friend completely falling apart.

He smiled and took my hand, holding it and offering me a reassuring look, “It was so good to see you Vida, congratulations on all of this incredible success, if anyone deserves it it’s you.”

“Thanks Alex, and same to you of course, you big movie star.” I laughed as I stood up, walking him to the door and farewelling him with one last hug.

What weird afternoon, I thought to myself as I fell on to my couch in a heap. While I can’t deny that seeing Alex had me shaken, I also can’t deny how nice it was to be in his presence, someone I grew so close to, being almost like a family member to the lot of them after knowing Bill so very well. Everyone knew the whole Skarsgard clan was full of lovely people, and there were never truer words spoken, I just wish things didn’t have to be snuffed out the way they were. On my way to run myself a rather large, extra bubbly bath with my extra full glass of wine, I heard my phone ring. Deciding almost instantly to ignore it, I continued on and spent the next hour thinking of every aspect of my life, making realisations and deciding what to have for dinner before hauling my ass out of the bath and in to the fluffiest bath robe I could find.

Knowing I couldn’t avoid checking my phone any longer after hearing my message tone three more times while bathing, I put the kettle on and walking straight over to it.

What I saw on the screen made my heart drop, I literally questioned whether or not I was hallucinating. A missed call and three text messages from none other than Bill himself. I stared at my phone like it was an alien, forgetting how to use it completely and unsure of how to make my brain start working again. I sat down slowly on the couch, first listening to the voicemail.

“Vida, it’s Bill.. in case you don’t have my number anymore. Alex told me you’ve moved home? I was so happy to hear, I was wondering if we could maybe catch up, I have so much to tell you and I’ve missed you s-“ he was cut off by the end of the message. I sighed, knowing this would happen and resenting the fact that it did. I had nothing to say to Bill, all of this makes me sound so angry but I’m not, I was done being angry a long time ago, now I’m just sad, hollow, disappointed and over it.

His messages were all similar, asking to see me and begging me not to avoid him because he knows I’ll try. I sighed, deciding to ignore the messages for now, needing time to think about how I need to answer these, well enough the first time for him to understand that I don’t want to go through this again.

The next day was thankfully Saturday, and I completely intended on doing nothing but sitting on my couch in my comfiest clothes, and doing absolutely nothing. I ended up mustering the courage to reply to Bill, confirming with him that I had moved back and that I needed time adjust and just be with my family. I was honest when telling him that I wasn’t really ready to see him and that I was still hurt by everything that happened. I hadn’t heard back from him, and hoped that this meant he got the message and was going to give me the space I requested.

It was around 5pm when I heard a knock on my door, assuming it was the food I had ordered I naively opened it, hating myself for not asking who was there first. There stood Bill, in all his gorgeous glory, looking down at me smiling, waiting for me to invite him inside. “Bill.. what are you doing here? How did you know where I lived?” I asked him, frowning, bordering on completely creeped out.

“Your Mum told me,” he smiled, moving past me in to my home like it was no big deal, “I know you asked me for space, but I know you would try to avoid me forever and I won’t let that happen.” “Bill, why couldn’t you just understand-“ “I understand Vida, but I don’t accept what you said, because I missed you so much and I’ve hated myself every day since we stopped talking. We were supposed to be there for each other, and for all of that time we weren’t, we were like strangers..” he trailed off, visibly upset as was I.

Seeing him in the flesh, right in front of me, made it hard for me to control my emotions. I began tearing silently, letting a few escape as I thought of what to say.

“Bill, you have no idea what you put me through, you ignored me for months, you pretended I didn’t exist. Don’t you dare come to my home, and act like this wasn’t all you!” I sobbed, visibly upset, feeling my sadness slowly turning to anger faster than I could process.

“You were the one who stopped answering my calls and texts. You’re the one who told me it was best if we stopped talking, what the fuck made you do that? What happened?” His eyes glazed over with guilt and sadness, but before he had the chance to speak I stepped in again,

“You have some nerve, waltzing straight back in to my life just because I’m back and you know you were the one who did this to us. Well I won’t let you, I finally have my shit sorted out, you destroyed me once and I won’t let you do it again.” I was back to sobbing like an absolute mess, staring straight in to eyes that were once so familiar, now I didn’t recognise them at all. ‘Vida.. please, I’m sorry, I swear I had reasons. You have no idea what doing that did to me too, I thought of you every second of every day, I-“ “Leave, now. Leave my apartment right now.. and never come back” “V,” “Now Bill, I’m serious.” I stood planted firmly in place, throwing daggers at him, completely serious and ready to call building security.

“Just know that I did it all for a reason, and that I want to tell you everything, that I’m sorry and that I just want my relationship with you back. You’re my best friend..” He trailed off, finding no sympathy from me, my body language completely defensive and dangerous. He frowned and walked away, closing the door softly behind him.

As soon as I knew he would have been in the elevator, I fell in to a ball and cried all of my hurt out, or at least attempted to. In complete disbelief of what just happened and what I had done, I went straight to bed, knowing very well that dwelling won’t do me any good. I had been here before, and this time I wasn’t staying.

#bill skarsgard #bill skarsgård x reader #bill skarsgard imagine #skarsgard #hemlock grove #roman godfrey #pennywise #it 2017

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eunoiastarss · 5 years ago

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Travelogue in Bohol

BOHOL is located in central Philippines southeast of Cebu and southwest of Leyte. It is an oval-shaped island, 411,726 hectares big, surrounded by 73 islets. Bohol became a province on March 10, 1917 by virtue of Republic Act N. 2711. Its capital city, Tagbilaran, became a city on July 1, 1966 through RA 4660. It is home to the late President Carlos P. Garcia, the fourth president of the Republic (1957-1960). Bohol has 47 municipalities, 1,114 barangays, besides Tagbilaran. This city is 630 kilometers from Manila and 72 kilometers from Cebu.

You’ve never heard of Bohol? What?? You’re probably not Filipino then. Bohol is located in the Visayas, a 2-hour boat ride away from Cebu. It’s the 10th largest island in the Philippines. Okay, that might not be interesting enough for you. So let me tell you that its extraordinary attractions make Bohol is a fun place that has so much to offer!

BOHOL has everything you’re dreaming of…

People come here for the white beaches and beautiful nature with its diverse wildlife. The world class diving, waterfalls and hundreds of caves for spelunking. And they come for the incredible history along with its colonial Spanish churches. I’m only scratching the surface.

I mainly came for 3 reasons: the beautiful beaches, the magnificent Chocolate Hills, and the cute Tarsiers! Ofcourse you’ll find plenty of beautiful beaches in the Philippines, so Let’s focus on the hills and the Tarsiers first!

THE CHOCOLATE HILLS

Let’s start with the Chocolate Hills, the greatest pride of Bohol. Basically it’s a strange group of oddly shaped hills, a lot of hills. There are more than 1000. It’s not easy to describe the place; it’s like a piece of art. An unbelievable scenery. I felt like being on the set of a science fiction movie. They look extremely surreal. It’s hard to believe that the Chocolate Hills are not man-made.

They’re a natural wonder, and personally, I think they look like giant boobs.

No offense. I mean that in a good way. However, you probably noticed that the Chocolate Hills are covered with green grass. So, where is the name coming from? Good question. The hills turn brownish during the dry season. That’s why they call them the Chocolate Hills because…yes… chocolate is mostly brown.

Even today, scientists aren’t able to figure out how the Chocolate Hills were formed. However it was, this strange earth formation looks truly fascinating for sure.

Almost as impressive as the Chocolate Hills itself were the people posing and doing performances in front of the hills to get extremely memorable pictures. Very amusing. I should have taken some shots of that.

Shouldn’t forget to mention, there is a bell on top of the highest hill. Ring the bell after making a wish. Let’s see if my dream come true. No I won’t tell you here. That’s bad luck!

THE PHILIPPPINE TARSIER

Let’s talk about those cuddly Tarsiers. Sweetest creature ever! Like a mix of a monkey and a rat . . . or bat? Whatever, it’s easy to fall in love with them. Those tiny Tarsiers are sleeping all day, only getting active at night to find food. Their head can rotate 180 degrees. The Tarsier is small, like a human fist, but it has extremely huge eyes which make it look like Gizmo from gremlins

You might wanna pick one from the tree and keep it as a pet because this little furry thing is such a cure creature.

Don’t even think about it. I’m serious, please don’t take them home. And don’t cuddle with them either!!

They’re actually pretty bizarre animals. If they’re getting stressed (probably from rude tourists being loud or taking photos of them with flash) they tend to commit suicide. The tarsier will hit his head against something until it dies. No joke! They are very sensitive to noises and light, so you better be very cautious around them. Here a few more shots… aren’t they gorgeous?

BEACHES AND ISLANDS

Bohol is surrounded by more than 50 Islands, including Panglao Island, which is one of the most visited tourist destination in the Philippines. The most popular and developed place in panglao Island is Alona Beach, a 1.5Kilometer long stretch line with coconut palm trees. The place is truly beautiful with its white sandy beach and crystal clear water. There is fantastic snorkeling in Panglao and you can find a reef right in front of Alona Beach

Bohol and Panglao are connected by two bridges, so it’s easy to get there.

With a coastline of more than 250 kilometers you can expect some awesome beaches. One of my highlights was definitely a trip to Virgin Island, a C-shaped Island with a long white powdery sand bar. The pristine Island is 20 minutes away by boat from Panglao.

There is not much to do there; just buy a fresh coconut, try some sea urchins and wander around the long sand bar. Or do sun bathing, relax, get a tan and take photos that will make your friends jealous for sure.

One of my tricycle drivers told me the other day that Bohol exports its sand to other beaches in the world. Apparently, the sand on the Island is of such a high quality that it is some of the best in the world.

We stayed for 3 days in Hennan Beach Resort (I lost my pictures), together with my family we were so blessed that we’ve been there. We decided that , sooner or later we will be coming back to Bohol in the coming days. Because Bohol has a lot of tourist stop. We would like to travel it around.

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tamboradventure · 5 years ago

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My 15 Favorite Things to See and Do in Georgia

Posted: 12/28/2019 | December 28th, 2019

Once part of the Soviet Union, Georgia is a destination full of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and plenty of surprises. It’s home to an award-winning wine industry and the cool capital of Tbilisi, which has a stunning Old Town and vibrant nightlife.

And to top it all off, the Caucasus Mountains offer incredible hiking and climbing for anyone looking to explore the outdoors.

Georgia deserves all the praise it gets. It really is jam-packed with activities and attractions and is slowly starting to get on people’s radar. I loved my time there, and my only regret is that I didn’t have more of it (but I guess that’s just a reason to go back, right?).

It may not be one of the most obvious places to travel, but if you want an eclectic destination that doesn’t have a lot of crowds and is safe, inexpensive, and filled with great food and drink, Georgia is it! I can’t recommend it enough.

Here’s a list of what I consider to be some of the best things to see and do in Georgia:

1. Visit Tbilisi

Georgia’s capital is home to just over a million people and has started to gain a reputation as a progressive city that offers an amazing blend of old and new.

Tbilisi is surrounded by hills, one of which is home to the ruins of Narikala Fortress, which dates back to the fourth century. Take the cable car up for amazing views overlooking the city and the Mtkvari River. And the restored historic Old Town is full of colorful window frames, gorgeous balconies, ornate spiral staircases, and intriguing alleyways to explore.

In contrast with this history, there are also lots of modern sights to see in Tbilisi, like the ultramodern bow-shaped Peace Bridge and a growing number of trendy bars and restaurants. If you’re looking to party the night away, be sure to visit Bassiani, one of the most popular nightclubs in town.

2. Try a Sulfur Bath

Tbilisi is known for its sulfur baths, natural hot springs with minerals that are said to help with problems such as joint pain, arthritis, eczema, and dry skin. They have been a staple of the city since it was founded and are now a popular pastime for tourists and locals alike. (There are actually over two thousand mineral springs throughout Georgia, so you can have a spa day outside Tbilisi as well.)

The baths underneath the Narikala Fortress are the easiest place to try this popular Georgian tradition; you can also get a traditional scrub and massage. The baths are easy to spot: they have large brick domes rising out of the ground that cover the healing waters.

Expect to pay at least 50 GEL (Georgian lari) ($17 USD) for a budget bathhouse or 100 GEL ($34 USD) for a nicer one.

3. The Chronicle of Georgia

Just outside Tbilisi, the Chronicle of Georgia is made up of 16 enormous pillars and columns with carved images that illustrate the nation’s history, each of which is over 30 meters tall! Some people call this “Georgia’s Stonehenge,” but there’s nothing ancient or mystical about it — the memorial was built in 1985 by a Georgian sculptor (although it was never finished).

It’s easy to reach the Chronicle by taking the metro and then walking a short distance. In addition to seeing this unusual monument (which is free), you’ll also get a beautiful view over the city and the Tbilisi Sea.

4. See Mtskheta

Mtskheta was an ancient capital of Georgia and today is known as the religious center of the country. It’s about a half-hour north of Tbilisi and is home to historic churches and beautiful buildings from the Middle Ages (some of them are UNESCO World Heritage sites as well). The entire city was also declared a Holy City by the Georgian Orthodox Church in 2014.

One of the best things to do in Mtskheta is to go up to Jvari Monastery on the hilltop, most famous for being where Christianity was declared the official religion in 319 CE. The monastery itself was built in the sixth century and has survived nearly unchanged since then. From here you’ll be treated to stunning views over the town and the two rivers that meet at Mtskheta.

Also, don’t miss a visit to the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (which dates to the 11th century) and the fourth-century Samtavro Monastery.

5. Eat Khachapuri

There are all kinds of traditional Georgian foods you can try, but the one that all visitors seem to leave Georgia raving about is khachapuri. It’s basically a cheesy bread that can come with various toppings and in various shapes, sometimes looking a bit like a pizza and other times more like a big bread roll.

Every region of Georgia has its own version, but probably the most famous is Adjarian khachapuri. It comes in a kind of boat shape and is first filled with cheese and then topped with an egg.

Another popular food you’ll want to try is kudari, which is a large leavened bread pocket stuffed with meat (usually pork or lamb) and vegetables.

6. Visit the Vadrzia Cave Monastery

The Vadrzia Cave Monastery is located near Aspindza in the south of Georgia, about four hours from Tbilisi by car. It’s one of the most famous monasteries in the entire country. Built in the 11th century, it’s a system of caves dug into the side of Erusheli Mountain. Originally, the complex included 13 levels and over 6,000 apartments. These were used to help protect the locals from the Mongols, who ravaged the entire region in the 12th century.

These days — after earthquake damage and raids from invaders — there are around three hundred surviving apartments and halls that can still be accessed. Additionally, the underground Church of the Dormition is still intact, which is home to murals depicting historical scenes of Georgian royalty.

7. Hit the Slopes

Georgia probably isn’t your first thought for a skiing holiday. However, the country is rapidly becoming well known in Europe and Asia as a fun and affordable ski destination, and more lifts are being added each season. It shares the highest mountain range in the region and has plenty of snow in the winter, making it a great place to ski. Plus, it’s a whole lot cheaper than many options in Europe.

At the moment there are four main ski resort areas: Gudauri, Mestia, Goderdzi, and Bakuriani. There’s even a ski school with English-speaking instructors in Gudauri, which is only a two-hour drive from Tbilisi. You can get lift passes for as little as 30 GEL ($10 USD).

8. See the Katskhi Pillar

For a particularly unique sight, head to western Georgia’s Katskhi Pillar. This huge limestone monolith is a natural tower that stands over 130 feet high. You can reach Katskhi in a couple of hours from Batumi or in about three and a half hours from Tbilisi.

But that’s not all — built on the top of this narrow pillar is a church complex dating back to the seventh century. Until 2015, a monk actually lived up on top, but these days the monks sleep in the monastery at the bottom — and only monks are allowed to climb up the steel ladder on the side as part of their daily pilgrimage to pray in the church. The buildings were refurbished recently, and a visitor center is in the works.

9. Go Hiking or Trekking

If you like hiking or trekking, then you’re going to love Georgia. The Caucasus Mountains stretch from the Black Sea to the Caspian Sea — over 1,000km — so there are plenty of possibilities.

The most popular multi-day trek is walking from Mestia to Ushguli (4 days). There are enough villages along the route that you don’t need to camp. Not surprisingly, the scenery along the way is magnificent.

As Georgia is a hiker’s paradise, there are literally dozens of other hiking possibilities, so look around and see what kind of trek fits what you’re after. Some suggestions worth considering are Omalo to Shatili (5 days), Chaukhi Pass (1-2 days), and Svaneti to Racha (a challenging 3-4 days).

10. Try Georgian Wine

It’s said that Georgia has the oldest winemaking history in the world. Georgians have been making wine for over 8,000 years, so you can bet they’re pretty good at it by now. They use qvevri (clay pots buried in the ground) to ferment grapes for a unique taste. The climate in Georgia is perfect for winemaking, too, so it’s no wonder that Georgian wine is starting to win awards internationally.

There are five main wine regions in Georgia, but the largest and most visited is Kakheti in the east. Technically you can make it a day trip from Tbilisi, but it deserves more than just a few hours. If you want to explore the vineyards, then pick either Sighnaghi or Telavi as a base.

11. Explore the Coast

If you’re looking for some rest and relaxation, Georgia even has a beach resort region along the coast. At Batumi, located on the Black Sea, you’ll find subtropical temperatures perfect for swimming. It can get quite humid in summer too.

You can chill out at a beach resort near Batumi or explore some of the craziness this part of Georgia has to offer (it’s sometimes described as the Las Vegas of the Black Sea). The region is home to some unique architecture and a number of casinos, though it also has the enormous Batumi Botanical Gardens, which boasts one of the most diverse ranges of flora you’ll see in a botanical garden anywhere.

12. Visit Gergeti Trinity Church

Built in the 14th century, this church tucked away near Mount Kazbek is perched almost 2,200 meters above sea level and draws crowds from all over the country. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in all of Georgia, offering stunning views of the mountain range (which you’ve probably seen on Instagram).

While you can visit on a day trip from Tbilisi, a better idea is to head to Stepantsminda and stay there overnight. That way, you can see the church in the morning (which offers great light for photos) while beating the tourist crowds that will eventually arrive from the capital.

13. The Caves of Gareja

Located near the border with Azerbaijan, this is a Georgian Orthodox complex that dates back to the sixth century. Here you’ll find hundreds of small rooms, small chapels, churches, and monastic living quarters carved out of the rock face.

The monastery survived incursions from the Mongols and Persians but was shut down under Soviet rule and used for military training (which caused a lot of damage to the buildings).

Today, you can visit the complex on a day trip from Tbilisi. The journey takes around three hours by bus and bus tickets cost 25 GEL ($9 USD).

14. Visit Gori

Gori is the hometown of Joseph Stalin, the brutal Soviet leader. Located 90 minutes from Tbilisi, the city is home to the popular Stalin Museum, which has lots of artifacts (including the wooden hut where he was born) and information about his life — all of it whitewashed and biased, of course.

Here you’ll also find a World War II museum that focuses on the achievements of the Red Army, as well as Gori Fortress, a citadel that dates back to the 17th century and offers a panoramic view of the region.

Although it’s close enough for a day trip from Tbilisi, you can stay in this small city of just 50,000 for a day or two if you want to get away from the crowds.

15. Get Outdoors in Svaneti

This is one of the most beautiful regions in the entire country. Tucked away in the northwestern corner of Georgia, you’ll find many tiny villages and incredible hiking here. There are also several UNESCO heritage sites in the area, including watchtowers that date back to the 12th century. You’ll also be completely enveloped by the Caucasus Mountains, which provide both a picturesque backdrop and stunning views.

Stay in Mestia, a tiny village of fewer than 2,000 people, and head out on foot or by car to explore the region. You’ll also find some of the best cheese in the country, made by traditional methods kept alive by the Svans (an ethnic subgroup). The region is one of the most remote areas in Georgia — see it before the tourists arrive.

***

This list just scratches the surface when it comes to the incredible things to see and do that Georgia has to offer. There are dozens more historical sites, monasteries, caves, and castles to see and a whole lot more stunning landscapes to explore. (And the country is quite safe too.)

Whether you just have a few days to enjoy Tbilisi and its surroundings or a couple of weeks to cover more of rural Georgia too, you are not going to be disappointed!

Book Your Trip to Georgia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation To find the best budget accommodation, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory. Some of my favorite places to stay in Costa Rica:

Fabrika (Tblisi) – This hostel is also a bar and co-working space housed in an old Soviet warehouse. It’s got a cool vibe and the people here are wonderful. This is the best place to stay in the country if you ask me.

Temi Hostel (Kutaisi) – This hostel is small but the staff are great and it’s clean and cozy. It’s in a great location too.

Boutique Hotel and Medusa Hostel (Batumi) – This place is relatively new so the beds are comfy and have curtains and the place is well maintained. The staff are super helpful and will make sure you have an amazing visit to Batumi.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)

Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Want More Information on Georgia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Georgia for even more planning tips!

Photo credit: 3 – Marcin Konsek, 4 – orientalizing, 6 – Marco Verch, 7 – Tony Bowden, 8 – Paata Liparteliani, 9 – Levan Nioradze, 11 – tomasz przechlewski, 15 – Andrzej Wójtowicz, 16 – Florian Pinel

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bites-kms · 5 years ago

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Once upon a time in Greece

Land of philosophers, birthplace of Western world, history can be breath in every corner you pass by. Athens, by excellence, is the center of this action and a compulsory stop while in Greece. Welcome to an epic journey to the past, you won’t regret it.

After 9 hours and 15 minutes, in a direct flight from JFK I arrived at the Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport. You can already feel the language challenge bursting by trying to pronounce its name, but nothing easier than to get to the city center with the metro pass by 10 euros. And we were staying meters, I mean, literally 37 steps away from the Acropolis. My friend Mau was waiting for me, and as crazy as it sounds, I guess we’ve seen more of each other during this year in NY, Macau, Hong Kong and now Greece than what we actually hanged out in Singapore - what a beautiful turn of events ♥!

Pomegranate and lemon trees, fake jazmin scent, tons of adventurous and cute, street cats as well as few tortoises, and chirping birds are the beautiful scenery that frames your strolls by Athens. But of course, the beauty highlights are found in the absolute exquisite merge between all of the above with the IV century columns, archeological sites and historic details embedded in every single house at sight.

It’s a great place to think - if you don’t believe me, then ask Aristotles, but jokes aside, each and every time that I sat down to eat by myself, the writer muse decided to join over for a drink or too, and she hardly ever missed the point. I actually told her “come, stay, make yourself comfortable and talk to me” as per Neil Gaiman’s recommendation. 9 double-sized notebook pages later, I think it worked.

We decided to have a powerful breakfast at Everest, a cute local chain with tons of flavor and delicious coffee and orange juice. Man, if there’s something that I truly miss about living in Asia and Europe is the facility and access one has to delicious organic freshly squeezed juices at an affordable price. They are sweet, tasty and thirst quenching perfect! And I must say, coffee in Greece was an absolute delight as well. Same as in Turkey, their beans are strong yet never burnt, with subtle flavor hints depending on your roast. They were, undoubtedly, a compulsory yet perfect way to start each morning.

We kicked it off towards Aristotle’s Lyceum. It was quite striking to witness, live and walk around the same inspiration field where major World Philosophers established the Western way of thought. Being Peripatetic for a while - or walking around while wondering about the meaning of things, was quite strange. I had a Philosophy professor that said “the art of wondering is where the questions matter more than the actual answers, and it serves as a sieve for our thoughts” and right there, at the Lyceum, walking around practicing the togetherness of body, mind and soul, with the Greek sun bathing our cheeks, there was absolutely no doubt that this is a magnificent way to create. Surrounding by olive trees and training arenas, contemplation was a must during our stay. We later walked back via the Zappeion or Convention Center, the Olympic Stadium, the National Garden and ended up visiting the Olympion or Zeus Temple, complex which contains the Roman Baths and our beloved Hadrian’s Arch.

It’s also impressive to acknowledge how long these stone pieces have been standing, and the crazy value they own for thousands of years until today. The same thing happens to me each time I go to a temple, monument or to a very iconic sight. Regardless of the culture or the place where it’s located, these “rocks” contain so much energy, people’s faith, wishes and wonder that is hard not to feel them and truly understand the symbolic attachment and meaning, transforming them into way more than just plain rocks.

Mau got this amazing tip: checking out the Guard Change on Sundays, when the officials wear their festivity outfits, so beautiful and traditional. Luckily for us, it was Sunday and it was almost 11 am. So it happened that our walk by the National Gardens suddenly became decorated by the Greek Anthem chords, and that was when we knew it was time to approach the Parliament. We found a perfect spot, in the middle of the street, where to witness all the Guard Change and its following parade with the National Marching Band.

After this dose of Greek nationalism, we decided to go where the action happens: Plaka & Monasteraki. These two are the neighborhoods that surround the Acropolis and where the majority of restaurants and stores are located. Highly touristy, yet beautiful, so it’s well worth to put your “I’m-a-traveler-not-a-tourist” pride inside your pocket, and wonder the streets of Plaka guilt free. The delicious Greek treats you find your way will confirm your decision.

We had a highly Greek traditional lunch by the ladder of the Acropolis, sigh-seeing all Athens at the Klepsydra Tavern. Our first (out of maaaany) delicious Greek Salad with feta cheese, cucumber, peppers, onions and tomatoes, some tzatziki, the delicious yogurt, cucumber, garlic and herbs dip and a spanakopita, the very best spinach pie.

We had to make a decision: tackling the Acropolis and the Parthenon on the very first day, or leave it for the first thing for the following morning. We decided to go with the second option, having the whole morning to explore and to avoid the crowds - which so far, we’ve been tackling like pros. Hence, we went on and explored Anafiotika, the picturesque and artistic tiny neighborhood full of hidden alley and old houses around Plaka, by the northerneast side of the Acropolis hill.

I loved this house: on the background, a window to the past, where the Parthenon with its Greek and West heritage lays. Inside, the secret and the intimacy of a Greek family, with family portraits, Orthodox crosses, a coffee set and an old TV. And on the same window that allows you a glimpse of this family lifestyle, you can see the reflection of the “outside”, of us, of where we were standing, of today’s Athens, today’s possibilities and tomorrow’s chances in Europe and in the World. I absolutely felt for it.

The good thing about this area, (not so much Monasteraki) is that no matter which or how many turns you take, you’ll always find your way back. It’s confusing at first, but later you’ll discover its actual pocket size, and start enjoying the joy of being lost, not depending on your map nor phone to figure out where you are (again, another philosophical question to occupy your -un-worried mind while strolling the streets of Athens).

I don’t know if you had noticed it, but let me call your attention to the sky on all the pictures featured above and on absolutely most of the pictures taken during this trip. There was not a single day where the sky wasn’t entirely blue and without clouds in Athens. It was gorgeous and quite stricken. It’s a Greek clear sky, what I like call the “Gods’ Exodus” - they left their Olympus comfort to wonder around the street of Greece among us mortals, leaving the sky completely clean. Homer already wrote about it on the Odyssey and highlighted a concept that I truly like: the terrenal god, of divine dust and magic that blends, interacts and lives between men. I believe this is the way religion should be lived, felt and practiced, since when the encounter with one another and with oneself happens, it reflects that divinity spark that is walking around, ingrained in us, no doubt about it.

After more food, learning the Greek traditional dance, having a drink in Athens’ oldest bar and a deserved night full of jet-lag yet some sleep, we woke up with one objective in mind: having a tet-a-tet encounter with the Acropolis. The Acropolis is the name of the ancient citadel and complex group of historic buildings and remains located on one of Athens highest points, hence its name. The most iconic one of all is the Parthenon, but there are a bunch of other meaningful and equally astonishing buildings around worth to check out. First, the Parthenon is the “newest” temple dedicated to Athena, patron of Athens. It’s the biggest structure on site that remains standing and constant efforts to preserve it are done by the Greek Government and EU institutions. It’s formed by 17 standing columns (weird number, I know) and a smaller and smaller complex done inside with less and less number of them. Right next to it, with incredible goddess-like or nymphs style columns, is the Old Temple of Athena. The Erechtheum is on its right, dedicated to Athena and Poseidon. Then, there’s the famous Temple of Athena Nike, the one that served as an inspiration for the legendary sports brand since Nike is the Victory Goddess in battle and in friendly and athletic encounters. It’s a smaller and secluded temple, yet it’s wonderful and inspiring. The halo of “just do it” spreads around the whole Acropolis complex and inspires its visitor to accomplish and to dare every single desire they have on their bucket lists During sunset, in my mind the only song that was playing in loop while watching the shape of the Acropolis fade to black was “All the things I’ve done” by The Killers, since it played on a Nike commercial a while ago, stating that “All you need is already inside (you)”. Cliche? Maybe. Yet, empowering as hell.

Continuing the exploration of the Acropolis, there’s the Dionysus Theater as well as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The first one is small and a little bit ruined down in comparison to the magnitude and the preservation of the second one. Yet, the first one has a deeper and more meaningful connection with me. I used to have a literature teacher that went nuts about Greek Mythology and while teaching us Homer songs, he displayed his beloved fandom towards the Ancient World. We learned about the dithyramb, an ancient Greek hymn and feast dedicated in honor of Dionysus, the God of wine and fertility (my favorite kind of god ;) - so, what happened here, was a kind of old-style, all-in semi orgy with divine purposes where poetry, performances, dances, songs and goat sacrifices were done. Imagine my enthusiasm while witnessing the place my professor was so passionate about, describing it with high-pitched voice, almost like a politician, with emphasis and devotion, as trying to gain the Gods’ approval and grace with his lectures. Those classes were amazing, almost as good as walking and sitting on that same place IRL where comedy and tragedy, with often divine offerings happened.

Many, many, and some more wines, cafe stops and dishes later, we needed to say goodbye to Athens, at least for now, in order to embark towards Santorini. Mau had left to the airport, and I had yet a night to go. I wasn’t going to bed, regardless of my early flight, at least not before enjoying my last night in Athens, where the sky was clear, the stars were shining and the streets of Plaka were bursting with delicious food and activities to mesmerize me one more time. What happened? I was walking searching for a nice rooftop to have a drink or two and I found Cine Paris - this al fresco cinema, where Joker was playing, right next to the Acropolis. It was a sign: few minutes after its starting time, I walked in, grabbed a blanket, a drink and a pizza - yet traditional popcorn was available. I just came from experiencing all the tragedy and comedy offered to the Gods, and now I had the opportunity to watch this contemporary masterpiece in which these two elements are being portrait exquisitely by Joaquin Phoenix. It felt I was at the orchestra section while Athena, Dionysus and Poseidon where watching it from the main box. Loved it. Taking the early train towards the airport the following morning, was also something God-worth it. October 15, 6:56 AM, with the moon setting on my left and the sun rising on my right, in between the Athens hills and the high tension cables, it felt like Apolo was driving his carriage, chasing the moon, bringing the sun.

So now you know it, when in doubt about Greek plans, or for that sake, with everything you are questioning yourself to do, buy, travel or say, go with Victory’s Goddess wisdom and just do it, Niké already foresees your success ahead.

#greece #athens #parthenon #acropolis #joker #drama #comedy #europe #travel #discovery #beauty #history #philosophy #greek #food

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shooktim-blog · 5 years ago

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Whether you’re in Europe, North America or elsewhere in the Northern Hemisphere, there’s no doubt that the summer of 2019 has already been a hot one. If heat isn’t your thing, there are plenty of places you can still visit to cool off though, which is why I decided to share a few favorites today. This year I’m working with Allianz Travel Insurance to share my thoughts about travel, what makes me happy when I explore the world and why I even travel in the first place. This post is done in partnership with them and I’m excited for the opportunity to share some amazing places to visit this summer. Remember though, no matter where you go travel insurance is always a good idea, as I discuss in this post.

Iceland

I’ve been to Iceland several times now, each trip focusing on a different region of the country. It has very quickly become one of my favorite places to visit for any number of reasons, including how much fun it is to explore. For the best experience though in Iceland, I firmly believe that visitors need to leave the capital city and venture out into the countryside, especially the somewhat-remote northern areas. The northern regions, particularly the Lake Mývatn area, are rich with natural wonders no matter the time of year, but in the summer months the landscapes are green and easy to access without being too hot. Whether you drive yourself or take a tour with a local, there are plenty of natural sights to enjoy from waterfalls and lava fields to natural baths and mountain landscapes. Spending time in the northern tier of Iceland feels like standing on the edge of the world because, well, you are.

Incredible Museums

Even if you do find yourself visiting a place that’s hot in the summer, there are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself without suffering from heat stroke. One of my favorites of course is to visit a great museum. I love museums, but I’m fairly picky about the ones I spend time visiting. My personal interests veer towards history and culture more so than art, and thanks to that natural proclivity I’ve discovered some fairly amazing museums around the world. Any museum I believe is to be treasured because it means that someone or a group of people cared so deeply about a subject that they devoted a significant portion of their lives to showcase what makes it so great. That’s to be admired I think and it makes the museum, almost no matter what the topic, worth at least a short visit. Granted, not all museums are made the same and believe me, I’ve visited some truly horrible ones over the years. But I’ve also had the great opportunity to visit smaller, quirky and off the beaten path institutions that I think are well worth anyone’s time to visit. So when you visit a new city, yes, seek out the famous museums but also do a little research to find those quirky spots that you’ll probably enjoy even more.

Melbourne, Australia

Of course if it’s summer in the Northern Hemisphere that means it’s winter in Australia and a great time to visit. One of my favorite cities in the world just after a few hours of being there – some places you just fall in love with right away and for me that was Melbourne. Still, I felt like I owed it to myself to go back and confirm whether or not this love was for real, or just a one-night stand. On one of my trips to Australia I rearranged the schedule and frankly went out of my way just to have a couple of nights in beautiful Melbourne and you know what? It was totally worth it. I don’t know if it’s the convenient downtown core or just the surprising beauty of the city, but it all clicks for me and it’s not only a place I could visit again and again, but I know I could also happily live there. I’m not alone either; Melbourne frequently makes the top list of most livable cities in the world owing to this unique combination of beautiful neighborhoods, diverse activities and just overall charm.

Cape Town, South Africa

Calling the tip of Africa home, the Mother City is one of the most popular cities in the world for a reason, it’s amazing. Routinely named to the Best in the World lists, Cape Town is unlike any other city you’ve visited before. In a quirky mix of European and African sensibilities, it’s easy to forget that you’re in southern Africa as you stroll around this colonial city. Days could be spent exploring the historical and cultural treasures of The Mother City, as well as admiring the natural beauty that is all encompassing. From the omnipresent Table Mountain to Chapman’s Peak Drive, your jaw will drop many times as you survey the beautiful landscapes that define this area of South Africa. Travel umami is something that is impossible to define, but rather the combination of all elements of a destination that culminates in a sort of perfection that has to be felt to be properly understood. That’s Cape Town and that is certainly South Africa. Long before my first trip to Southern Africa I was told that there is something in the air, something that latches onto your soul and refuses to let go. I naturally didn’t believe them until my first time experiencing it firsthand and then I understood, I got what they were talking about – this special travel umami. That’s simultaneously my top reason why everyone should visit but also the only one I can’t prove. So just trust me, plan a trip and go, go see and feel and taste South Africa and then I dare you to come back and say I was wrong.

Ireland

The Aran Islands are a group of three islands located in Galway Bay on the west coast of Ireland and even in the summer they’re not usually too hot. Largely isolated throughout the centuries, their remote location has defined culture on the islands even up to today. There’s a reason why thousands of tourists visit Inishmore every week during the high season – it’s amazing. Due to its location and history, Inishmore remains a destination that honors its past in a way that is almost unique in Ireland. This is experienced through language and culture, but also the preserved thatched roof homes and ancient stone walled farms dotting the island. Although my time in the Aran Islands was all too brief, it was a highlight of my trip to Ireland. I love visiting small, remote islands, to enjoy both unique cultures as well as gorgeous landscapes. Inishmore is one of the most impressive I’ve seen around the world and instead of satiating my curiosity, my first visit has only fueled a strong desire to return and explore even more.

New Zealand

Like Australia, once again take advantage of the winter weather in the Southern Hemisphere with a visit to New Zealand. If you visit before the snows start, then I recommend driving around to best experience the country. Tackling the Great West Coast Drive on New Zealand’s South Island was one of the most remarkable experiences of my life. State Highway 6 is massive, extending from the northeastern corner of the South Island across the top and then down the length first along the West Coast and then across the Southern Alps. To complete the entire drive would take weeks, and I only had time for the West Coast portions, but even that brief encounter was enough to convince me that this truly is one of the world’s great road trips. The beauty of New Zealand exists on a scale unheard of in other parts of the world. Starting in Greymouth and following the coastline, it seemed as if there was another “once in a lifetime” view every few minutes. Whether it’s rainforests or glaciers, Hobbit country is just as amazing as it appears on the big screen.

Seattle

Sandwiched between lakes and mountains, Seattle’s climate is famously temperate. With a moderate temperature and a vibrant atmosphere, Seattle is one of the best places in the country to escape the summer heat. The city is full of fun things to do like visiting the iconic Space Needle, towering over the city, and exploring the massive Pike Place Market where visitors and locals alike indulge their taste buds with delicious foods and shop for odd gifts. For those who would rather take advantage of the cooler temperatures of Seattle to venture into the great outdoors, the city is a good home base. Washington State has some of the most gorgeous and untouched forests in the country and are perfect for some light day hikes.

Canadian Maritimes

I have spent a fair amount of time exploring Canada and almost never have I had a bad experience. But not all parts of the country get equal attention by international tourists, which is one reason why I want to highlight the provinces that comprise the Maritimes. Specifically, over the last few years I’ve had the great opportunity to explore two Maritime provinces, Newfoundland & Labrador and Nova Scotia. Made famous by the ultra-luxury hotel on Fogo Island, Newfoundland has had its fair share of press lately, but there’s so much more to the province than a nice hotel. Whether it’s St. John’s or taking a coastal road trip, the scenery, food and people will quickly endear you to the province. Many of those qualities aren’t endemic to Newfoundland though, they’re part of the overall Maritime experience, as I learned after spending a week in Nova Scotia. Those same kind and very curious people made the trip remarkable, accentuated by natural wonders like the Bay of Fundy and a surprisingly high level of great food. So skip some of the more flashy provinces and instead plan to spend some time along the gorgeous Atlantic seaboard of Canada.

What would you add to this list?

The post Summer Loving – Great Places to Visit When Temperatures Soar appeared first on LandLopers.

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simnovels-blog · 7 years ago

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Rags to Riches - Chapter 11

Because of my busy life, I decided it was time I added some passive income to our balance. Of course this required a bit of an investment, but in the long run we could make a nice profit. So I decided to drop by the grocery store and made a deal with the owner for a joint partnership. Now, part of all the profits would be ours! It required an investment of 7.000 simoleons, but I had some saved up anyways so that was fine. If we were ever low on money, I could always quickly drop by the festival and pick some of the wild flowers there.

Back home it was time to teach Jack how to walk. It would be convenient if he was able to get around the house more easily by himself. He was already able to go pee by himself, so walking was the obvious next step. Jack loved learning how to walk. He was always such a happy toddler. I could never get enough of every minute I spent with him, teaching him stuff or just adoring him and snuggling him until he was nearly as flat as a pancake.

I had completely forgotten about it, but it was time for my adult birthday. When you reach adulthood, a birthday isn't really worth celebrating anymore, so I didn't even think about doing that either. I aged up in the nursery right after I had completed a walking session with Jack. It was as if I could feel the wrinkles pop right onto my face! But I wasn't unhappy about aging. It made me feel a bit closer to Bruce now that we were only one lifestage apart from each other again.

Pochi worked really hard for us nearly every day to find precious gems and rocks to sell, though one day he had stayed outside for way too long and came home covered in flees. Bruce rushed him upstairs into a new bath we had bought just recently and made sure Pochi was spot clean before he was allowed to walk around the house freely again. Just the thought of Jack catching Pochi's flees was already a nightmare. Luckily Pochi enjoyed the bath and didn't fight getting washed at all. Bruce himself could use a bath as well, since he had been working out all day and was sweating like an otter.

As winter continued to cover our house in beautiful white snow, I spent some cozy days inside teaching Jack how to talk. This was by far the most rewarding thing to teach him, because now we could finally communicate with each other. Of course, there were still many thing he didn't understand, but listening to him ramble about all the crazy things he deemed important in his toddler life was an absolute joy.

One evening, as the sun was setting, I looked outside the window and spotted a beautiful rainbow in the distance. I stared for a while at the lovely pink sky and its colorful rainbow. In the distance I could see two birds making their way south, probably in search for food. Hidden Springs was truly a magical place to live. Its nature was incredibly beautiful. I loved how the people here managed to build an entire town without destroying the woods, the hills or the lake. I wondered if my parents knew about this place, or if they had bought me a random ticket. I hadn't thought about my parents in a very long time. Who knew how they were doing. Maybe they were already dead by now. It was definitely possible. It was a strange thought, but honestly I wasn't really concerned about it. Dead or not, I was never going to see them again anyways.

Winter continued and took longer than ever. The thing was, Jack would age up into a child soon but we never had the opportunity to try out the bouncing bee ride yet. I had wanted to wait until it was a bit warmer outside, but in the end I decided I could also just wrap the little guy into extra warm clothes and take him out at least once. Jack absolutely loved the bouncy bee! He was enjoying it so much, that in the end when the ride was over he threw a tantrum when I wanted to pull him off.

I noticed that now that Jack knew how to talk, he started to get a little more rebellious and demanding. He would scream his lungs out for food, even if it wasn't dinnertime yet. I didn't really know how to deal with this. His face was so cute, that it was hard to get mad at him. I usually asked Bruce to reprimand him, since he had experience with this kind of stuff.

It was still cold outside even in march, but the sun started to shine more often and this made it a lot more fun to actually go outside into the snow. Hidden Springs was absolutely gorgeous in winter. Bruce usually took Pochi out for a walk, just to enjoy the scenery. We had a little secret garden right next to our house which was almost like a painting when covered in snow. It was Bruce's favorite place to take Pochi.

Even though I had a hard time scavenging during winter, I had come to love the season. I felt like we were living in a fairytale with everything covered in snow. Sometimes I'd climb up one of the hills near our house just to enjoy the amazing view. The hills were also a great spot to get away from the busy life at home for a second and to clear my mind.

That evening, I felt like it was time to finally discuss my fears with Bruce. I felt control over Jack slip away and depended even more on him to take care of the difficult parts of parenthood. This couldn't go on forever. Bruce was already nearing the age of 80. 'My love... I'm so scared. You're getting older every day and Jack is getting more difficult to handle every day as well. How am I ever going to survive without you? I'm a terrible parent and I can't even imagine losing you. I have nightmares about it every night...'

'I know, I'm scared too. I don't want to leave you alone while you are still this young...' he answered. His eyes had a deep sadness in them that he had always hidden until now. 'But don't worry, Zorah. You are such a strong woman. You shouldn't underestimate yourself. Jack loves you. He's just now figuring out how far he can go until we get mad. And I'm not gone yet! I feel as young as I ever was and I don't have any health problems. Who knows, maybe I'll become more than a hundred years old and by then Jack will be a young adult already.’

'I wish you could live forever...' I whispered as tears rolled off my cheeks. Bruce gently wiped them away. 'I will always live forever inside your heart. Now please, stop thinking these dark thoughts about death. We should enjoy life instead!' After he said that, he suddenly grabbed me, twirled me around and kissed me like he was still 30 years old.

I wanted to listen to him. I wanted to forget about the fact that death was right around the corner. But I couldn't. It was like a parasite that had spread all around my head. Whenever I looked at Bruce, I could see Grim lurking behind his back. At night, I had either nightmares about it or I couldn't sleep to begin with. The night after our conversation was no different. I sneaked out of bed and spent hours in the living room, secretly crying. I couldn't help it. This was just who I was. After having gone through a lot of bad times, I was unable to just accept happiness. I was always just waiting until the next bad thing would happen and would ruin everything.

#ts3 #ts3 legacy #ts3 story #ts3 challenge #Sims 3 #Sims 3 Legacy #Sims 3 Story #Sims 3 Challenge #The Sims 3 #Sims #sims story #ts3 Rags to Riches #ts3 simblr #simblr #ts3rtr

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evelynsmusings · 6 years ago

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Head Northbound in New Zealand (Have Halal Will Travel Article)

REASONS TO HEAD NORTHBOUND IN NZ THIS 2019

New Zealand, with its breath-taking natural sights and equally marvellous towns and cities, is a photographer’s dream true come.

Spectacular glaciers, picturesque fiords, rolling hillsides, volcanic plateau, miles of coastline with gorgeous sandy beaches – the list goes on. New Zealand is widely known as having the most amazing landscapes in the world; separated by two islands, each with its own unique charm.

However, if you want to explore a warmer climate with hot springs, mud pools, and white-sandy beaches, explore Maori culture, venture through larger cities, and enjoy more cosmopolitan comforts, the North Island is for you.

Here are three reasons New Zealand’s North Islands should be at the top of your travel bucket list this 2019!

Credit: Giphy

Are ewe ready for this?

1. The incredible Culture of New Zealand

For a small country (much like its national bird), New Zealand sure has a big personality. There is a lot that goes into the make-up of the unique Kiwi culture – being heavily influenced by multi-ethnic migration and the cultural input of the indigenous Maori people.

Credit: @laurao_travels on Instagram

The culture of New Zealand affects the nature, temperament, language and arts of the citizens of the land – it’s important for one to at least know a few things about their culture and traditions. One great way to do is to visit their many cultural sites – try Whakarewarewa at Rotorua.

Credits: @allthelivelongday on instagram

Explore and experience Maori Culture at Whakarewarewa (try saying that 10 times) – the living Maori village. They provide hourly tours through the Maori village where you can immerse yourself in their incredible history (and maybe their mud baths)! The guided tours are entertaining and informative with a focus on giving everyone an understanding of the Maori history, culture and how the villagers live in the challenging Whakarewarewa Geothermal field.

Here’s a little extra; the full name of Whakarewarewa actually “Te Whakarewarewatanga O Te Ope Taua A Wahiao,” meaning, The gathering place for the war parties of Wahiao.

Address: Whakarewarewa The Living Maori Village, 17 Tryon Street, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua Central, Rotorua, 3010, New Zealand

Opening hours: 8.30am - 5.00pm (Closed Christmas Day)

How to get there: 10 minutes from Rotorua Airport or 5 minutes from Rotorua Bus Terminal

Visiting a traditional Maori village is not the only way to immerse yourself with New Zealand’s rich culture. How about celebrating the Matariki Festival? Otherwise known at the Maori New Year, the Matariki Festival is a celebration of Maori culture, language, spirit and people.

Credit: matarikifestival

To celebrate Matariki in Auckland, many significant public buildings and landmarks, including the Auckland Museum, Sky Tower and Viaduct Harbour, will be lit with orange lights. This annual event in Auckland also celebrates with art workshops and displays, flax weaving, kapa haka performances, music, movies and many other events.

Here’s how it goes down: to mark the beginning of the festival, a Matariki dawn karakia (prayer) service will be held at Tāwharanui Regional Park with the participation of local kaumātua (Maori elders) who will recite ancient karakia and lead traditional chants and contemporary waiata (song).

Credits: @hauitichick on Instagram

More than 100 events will be running across the Auckland region during the Matariki Festival celebrating Maori culture, art, entertainment, and food!

Address: Various locations

Opening hours:

Fri 29 Jun 2018, 10:30am

Sun 29 Jul 2018, 12:00pm

Admission: Free

Website: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2018/matariki-festival/auckland/great-barrier-island#none

New Zealand’s culture is not limited to just the Maori people – they have an iconic festival called Pasifika Festival, where they bring together Pacific Island communities to celebrate the diverse cultures of the South Pacific!

Credits: noted.co

The festival is free for everyone, with authentic foods, arts and crafts stalls and demonstrations, traditional and contemporary Pacific Island music as well as amazing performances. Try Maori nail art at the Aotearoa village, check out traditional Fijian costumes and accessories, see how artisans from Tokelau use time-honoured techniques to create fishing lures from shells, and enjoy dancing and drumming from around the Pacific.

Credits: @masterfoodsampler on Instagram

Address: Western Springs Park, 731 Great North Rd

Opening hours: Saturday 23 March 9am – 7pm (all villages will close at 5pm with the festival stage continuing to 7pm) and Sunday 24 March 10am – 4pm

Website: https://www.aucklandlive.co.nz/show/pasifika-festival

2. The amazing sights of North Island

New Zealand is known for a lot of natural wonders and crazy Instagram-worthy locations. People say the South Islands have the best spots to get the best scenic views – but let’s beg to differ! The North Islands has its own extraordinary swoon-worthy locations.

Starting with an upcoming festival that will fill your camera with phenomenal shots of hot air balloons - Balloons over Waikato is another one of New Zealand’s free large-scale events! You’d need to be an early bird though to see these beautiful and exotic hot air balloons fill the dawn sky of the Waikato.

Credits: balloonsoverwaikato.co.nz

New Zealand's premier hot air balloon festival, Balloons over Waikato is held annually in Hamilton. This five-day icon event it is arguably the most popular event in the city. It attracts balloonists from all over New Zealand and around the world, to come by and experience the fun.

Credits: balloonsoverwaikato.co.nz

Just imagine, beautiful hot balloons that fill the air - fill your Instagram with these magnificent shots – be prepared to have nothing but comments about where you took it!

Address: At Innes Common & University of Waikato

Opening hours: Tuesday 19th - Saturday 23rd March 2019

Website: https://balloonsoverwaikato.co.nz/

A Mecca for film fans who travel from far and wide, the Hobbiton Movie Set sits within the gentle rolling hills of Matamata - just three hours from Auckland. Wander around the 12-acre set which happens to be filled with hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn and the Party Tree – a dream come true for all Lord of The Rings fans.

Credit: @timeouthomes on Instagram

A living movie set from one of J.R.R Tolkein’s popular movie franchises, Hobbiton is an unparalleled experience that will fully transport you to The Middle Earth.

Credit: @eurasianstar on Instagram

You will enjoy it even if you are not a Tolkien Fan - the whole area is simply specular, consisting of green rolling hills dotted with cows and sheep, beautiful unique trees and adorable hobbit holes. I mean – just think of the selfie opportunities!

Credit: @benjwashere on Instagram

Address: Hobbiton Movie Set Tours, 501 Buckland Road, Hinuera, Matamata, Hamilton - Waikato, 3472, New Zealand.

Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Directions: A 2 hour drive from Auckland, or a 1 hour drive from Rotorua.

Hobbtion is not the only place you can capture beautiful Instagram-worthy moments.

Tongariro National Park is home to the most remarkable mountain scenery around every corner – colouring it rainbow with red craters, vibrant greens and blue lakes. Did you know Tongariro National Park is New Zealand's oldest national park and is a dual World Heritage Site?

Credits: inafarawayland.com

Start with a gander at the most accessible waterfall in Tongariro – the Tawhai Falls (also known as Gollum’s pool); a mere 20-minute return walk from the roadside. It’s definitely worth the photo stop.

Credit: @jberendtphotography on Instagram

Prepare yourself for a day-hike at the Tongariro crossing – this hike will take you about 6 to 8 hours and features dramatic landforms, volcanic topography and an assortment of endemic flora and fauna. A veritable playground for avid hikers for sure!

Credit: tongarirocrossing.org.nz

On this 19.4km hike, you’ll have ample photo opportunities to get the perfect gram. See the Soda Springs – a flat paved boardwalk trail that will start your journey into the eye-gasmic views of the blue lake, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of many reasons why you should not ignore the North Island!

Credits: @status_afk on Instagram

Credits: Tripzilla

Tip: Avalanches can occur in Tongariro National Park in any season, but are most common from July through to October, so do some research before going over!

Address: Manawatu-Wanganui 4691, New Zealand

Opening hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm daily for Summer and 8:30am – 4:30pm Winter (closed Christmas day)

Getting there: The nearest towns are Taumarunui, National Park Village, Ohakune and Turangi. The small village of Whakapapa is located within the park. Daily national bus services are available to and from Ohakune, Taumarunui, National Park, Whakapapa Village and Turangi.

3. Adrenaline junkies, steady your heart

Do you have a need for speed? The thirst for the thrill? The inclination for invigoration? We could go on, but you get the point. If you want the wind in your hair, try these few activities – great for solo travellers and families!

Ever tried real-life Mario Kart? If you think Singapore’s Sentosa Luge rides are fun, wait till you try New Zealand’s own!

Credit: @czech.theworld on Instagram

Skyline Rotorua is the name of this fun park that has numerous activities in addition to luging: there's the Sky Swing, Zoom Ziplines and, the Gravity Park for mountain biking - all accessed via a gondola ride.

Credit: Backpackerguide.nz

Credit: @huiyuan_wen on Instagram

Take the Gondola all the way to the tippy top and you can select from one of three different Luge trails which vary in difficulty! Each luge track is over one kilometre long so there are plenty of twists and turns to navigate - so Tokyo drift your way down!

1. The scenic track is a good option for those who want to experience the adventure at their own pace.

2. The intermediate track is almost 2 kilometres long and includes a tunnel and chicanes, for the more adventurous.

3. The advanced track is perfect for those wanting a speedy, exciting ride with tight corners.

Address: 185 Fairy Springs Rd, Rotorua

Opening Hours: 9am till late Website: www.skyline.co.nz

Price: NZ45 for Adults, NZ29.50 for Children

Remember those hamsters running in small hamster balls? Ever wished you could do the same? Well now you can, and it’s called Zorbing! On top of a million other things to do in Rotorua, zorbing is one you can’t miss out on. Zorbing—where you roll around within a protective air-filled ball— trust me it’s more fun than it sounds.

Credit: Discovernewzealand

Credit: Youtube

There are apparently many ways to Zorb – wet, dry, zigzag or straight down the hill, there is even something called Zydro Zorbing - which happens to be a cross between a waterslide and a rollercoaster.

Credits: zorb.es

Climb inside one of the bouncy balls and take a roll down a beautiful grassy hill solo or with your friends! It’s a fun and safe activity for anyone who loves a thrill and will definitely be something new for you to try!

Address: 149 Western Road, Ngongotaha, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://zorb.com/world/rotorua/

Price: Zydro NZD$45.00 Tandem NZD$40.00.

You’ve heard of wakeboarding, ski boarding, surfing – now how about sandboarding? Just past Kaitaia, New Zealand’s northernmost town (about a four-hour drive from Auckland), you’ll find the mammoth Te Paki sand dunes, which merge with the well-known Ninety Mile Beach.

Credits: deviatingthenorm

The Giant Te Puki Sand Dunes reach up 100 metres, with the longest run nicknamed “Devil’s Hook” offering a 350-long metre “surf” down. You can easily do this independently with your own boards or get boards for hire!

Credits: thestar

The Te Paki sand dunes don’t just attract the thrill seekers anxious to sand board. They are also a remarkable sight to take in while you stand at the foot of them. On a day that has a bit of a breeze, you can stand and watch the dunes change shape right before your eyes. If you do have the energy, then walk up to the top for some amazing panoramic views.

Credits: @ chris.goes.global on Instagram

Address: 47 Te Paki Stream Rd, Cape Reinga 0484, New Zealand

Opening hours: 24 hours

Price: Free (but rental prices for Goggles NZ$2, Board NZ$15 each)

Directions: From Auckland, take a plane to the Kaitaia Airport, which is a five-minute drive from the Sand Safaris office

With the overload of sensationalist information and commentary in the media, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. New Zealand is a good opportunity to get away from it all and appreciate the natural world. Every moment can be breath-taking and scenic even if you're sandboarding or taking a hike down while heading to the festival therefore the North Islands has something for everyone!

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travelguy4444 · 6 years ago

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Visiting Iceland in 2019: Detailed Itineraries for the Land of Fire and Ice

Posted: 1/24/2019 | January 24th, 2018

Windswept volcanoes. Black sand beaches nuzzled against rugged coastlines. Secret hot springs hidden in misty valleys while majestic waterfalls cascade from every hill.

Welcome to Iceland.

It’s a destination unlike any other in Europe. Its unique landscapes and natural wonders perfectly complement the modern capital of Reykjavik with its café culture and boozy, rambunctious nightlife.

Iceland is known as both the Land of Elves and the Land of Fire and Ice. It’s a country where you’ll find smoldering active volcanoes and vivid blue glaciers side by side. Horses and sheep dot the countryside, colorful puffins flock along the cliffs, and whales breach the choppy Atlantic waters that envelop this tiny island.

It’s easy to see why Iceland has become such a popular destination in recent years (all those cheap stopover flights have helped greatly too).

And, while it’s not the most budget-friendly country in the world, there are still ways to see the sights without breaking the bank!

If you’re planning a weekend getaway or want to drive the entirety of the island, this list of Iceland itineraries will ensure that you see the best the country has to offer!

Table of Contents

One Weekend in Reykjavik

Four Days in the South

Four Days in the North

One Week: Golden Circle and Southern Iceland

Two Weeks: Exploring the Ring Road

One Month: Everything!

What to See and Do in Iceland: One Weekend in Reykjavik

Day 1

Take a tour of the city I always like to start my trips with a free walking tour. They’re a fantastic way to see a destination, learn about its history and culture, and get all your questions answered by someone who knows what they’re talking about. City Walk and Free Walking Tour Reykjavik both offer great free tours of the city. They’ll help you get a sense of Reykjavik so you can decide what you want to revisit later. The tours are donation based, so just make sure to tip your guide!

Explore Laugavegur When you’re in need of a coffee or snack, go for a stroll down Laugavegur, a shop- and café-lined street in the center of the city. This is the oldest (and coolest) street in Iceland, and you’ll find everything from expensive couture to dollar stores here. Be sure to stop in a bakery for a pastry or a coffee. My personal favorite is Mokka Kaffi.

Visit a museum After that, make your way to the National Museum of Iceland, where you will learn everything you need to know about this tiny Nordic nation. The most famous piece in the collection is the Valþjófsstaður door, a piece carved in the Middle Ages that illustrates the saga of the lion and the knight. The museum does a fantastic job of giving you a robust history of the country without being boring.

If you’d rather visit a more unconventional museum, consider a visit to the Icelandic Phallological Museum instead. Colloquially known as the Penis Museum, this small institution is home to the world’s largest collection of penises and penis-themed art. Yes, you read that right! There are almost 300 items in the museum, including whale penises and (allegedly) troll penises! It’s a small museum, but it’s actually incredibly informative — if you’re not too shy!

National Museum: Suðurgata 41, +354 530-2200, thjodminjasafn.is. Open daily 10am-5pm (closed on Mondays in the winter). Admission is 2,000 ISK (1,000 ISK for students/seniors).

Icelandic Phallological Museum: Laugavegur 116, +354 561-6663, phallus.is/en. Open daily 10am-6pm. Admission is 1,700 ISK per person.

Go for a swim Once you’ve gotten tired of walking, go for a refreshing swim in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool. Swimming and saunas are how locals relax and unwind after work. It’s basically a national pastime. This pool is Iceland’s largest and was built in 1968. It’s actually a whole complex with hot tubs, a thermal steam bath, a waterslide, and even mini golf! If you have extra time, check out the nearby garden and zoo too.

Sundlaugavegur 105, +354 411-5100, reykjavik.is/stadir/laugardalslaug. Open weekdays 6:30am-10pm and weekends 8am-10pm. Admission is 625 ISK, though if you have the Reykjavik City Card, it’s free!

Take in the nightlife End your day enjoying the city’s famous nightlife back around Laugavegur. This is one of the best party cities in the world, so there’s something for everyone. Just make sure to go during happy hour so you don’t blow your budget (alcohol in Iceland is not cheap!). Here are a couple of my favorite hotspots in Reykjavik:

Kaffibarinn – This café transforms into a dance club on the weekend, and it’s a great place to party. The space is divided into three different sections (bar, dance floor, and lounge), so you can find a section for however you want to spend your night out. It’s small, so seats can fill up quickly. Bergstaðastræti 1, +354 551-1588, kaffibarinn.is.

Lebowski Bar – Yes, this is a Big Lebowski–themed bar. The inside looks like a vintage American diner and bowling alley. And, since The Dude drinks a lot of White Russians, its menu includes a wide variety of different ones. Its signature Lebowski cheeseburger is pretty good too. Spin the prize wheel to win up to 10 free beers! Aim for happy hour, which is held daily 4pm–7pm, as drinks are cheaper then. Laugavegur 20b, +354 552-2300, lebowskibar.is.

Slippbarinn — This is the first proper cocktail bar in the city and boasts live music and DJs several nights a week. Happy hour is daily 3pm-6pm. Myragata 2, +354 560 8080, slippbarinn.is.

Where to stay in Reykjavik: Hlemmur Square – If you’re looking to splash out, this is both a cozy hotel and an upscale hostel, so you have options for your type of stay. There’s a great bar here, plus traditional Icelandic communal dinners several times a week.

For a more standard hostel, stay at Kex Hostel. It has a café and bar with an awesome happy hour, a comfy lounge, and a heated patio.

Day 2

Explore the Golden Circle The Golden Circle — comprising the Gullfoss waterfall, the Strokkur geyser, and Þingvellir National Park — is the biggest tourist draw in Iceland, so you’ll want to start your second day early and head out of town in a rental car (or on a tourist bus). As tourism booms in Iceland, these sites can get a little crowded, so make sure you get there early (especially in the summer and on weekends).

The round-trip journey is around 250km, so plan accordingly when it comes to food and fuel (if you’re driving). If you’re driving, you’ll also be able to stop regularly to see the many Icelandic horses that you’ll pass by.

Experience the famous Blue Lagoon This is one of the most iconic destinations in Iceland. The pools are quite large, and the whole area is steamy, with the water a stunning milky-blue color that is rather photogenic (which is why the lagoon is so popular on social media). It’s a beautiful and luxurious way to end the day, and a great place to relax right before you depart.

Personally, I think the place is a bit overhyped, as there are tons of free, secluded hot springs all around the country. Of course, if you’re short on time and don’t plan on leaving the city, then it’s the perfect way to end your trip!

Fun fact: The Blue Lagoon is simply runoff from the nearby geothermal plant. Icelanders just found a way to monetize it for tourists! Thank you, Instagram? Ha!

Norðurljósavegur 9, +354 420-8800, bluelagoon.com. Open daily, but hours vary, so check the website for an up-to-date schedule. Admission starts at 9,990 ISK per person, but it can be cheaper if you go during certain hours.

READ MORE: How to save money in Reykjavik

What to See and Do in Iceland: Four Days in the South

In addition to the itinerary above, here are some activities you’ll want to add if you plan on getting further outside of Reykjavik to explore the southern region of Iceland.

Day 3

Experience nature Head southeast on the Ring Road from Reykjavík to scout out some waterfalls. Be prepared and bring swimsuits, towels, a waterproof camera, and a jacket.

Reykjadalur – Stop in the town of Hveragerði to visit the Reykjadalur hot spring (or hot pot, as they are known locally). It offers a gorgeous backdrop of rolling hills and mountains, and it’s free to enjoy. You’ll need to hike a bit to get there (30-40 minutes), but it’s worth it! Keep in mind that there’s not a private changing area here, so you may want to wear your swimsuit under your clothes.

Seljalandsfoss – Continuing on the Ring Road, you’ll come to the picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall. It has a drop of 60m and is another highly photographed spot in Iceland, so try to get there early before the tourist buses. You have to pay for parking, but otherwise it’s free. If you’re hungry, there’s a food vendor that sells delicious lamb stew (among other things).

Skógafoss – Another epic waterfall is Skógafoss. Legend says that you can find a treasure chest behind this massive waterfall. This is also the starting point for a long, multi-day hike, but you can also just climb to the top and walk for as long as you’d like before returning. There’s a small museum nearby as well if you want to learn more about the history of the waterfall.

Seljavallalaug – This hot pot is located a short walk off the Ring Road. It’s not super hot, and the change room has seen better days, but it’s secluded and it’s worth it just for the scenery, as its located at the bottom of a deep valley.

Make Your way to Vík Head to the charming little town of Vík and spend the night there. Vík is a seaside village with a glacier that covers the Katla volcano. It’s also home to some amazing black sand beaches and a DC-3 plane wreck in Sólheimasandur (located on the coast between Skógafoss and Vík).

Where to stay in Vík: Vík HI Hostel – This charming hostel has a café/bar, a female-only dorm, rooms for families, and a kitchen so you can cook your own food if you’re on a budget.

Day 4

Chill at the beach Wake up in Vík and go for a stroll on the otherworldly Reynisfjara black sand beach. There are some offshore rock formations you can see from the shore and from the cliffs above if you feel like a hike. If you’re here from May through August, you may even get to see some puffins!

Take in the view If there’s time, head up the hill to see the small Vík i Myrdal Church. It overlooks the town and gives a complete view of Vík and the ocean. Grab a coffee at a local café and enjoy the scenic vista.

Head for home Head back to Reykjavik. See more sights, chill in more cafés. Do whatever you want before you head home! (sad)

What to See and Do in Iceland: Four Days in the North

If you want to get away from the crowds, go north. Northern Iceland is one of the least-visited regions of the country and has a lot to offer the intrepid adventurer, including majestic hikes, more varied landscapes, whale watching, fewer people, and a better chance to see the Northern Lights!

Day 1

Travel north to Akureyri Start your adventure off by flying north to Akureyri from Reykjavik. If you don’t want to fly, it’s a 5-6-hour drive from Reykjavik up the west coast, which can easily be done in a day. You’ll just want to factor in a few stops along the way to sightsee!

Explore Akureyri Take a self-guided tour of the town, visit the Akureyri Botanical Gardens, get an espresso from the picturesque Laut Café, hop in the local swimming pool, or just explore the relatively small town and sip on some kaffi (coffee) and “happy marriage cake” (rhubarb jam–filled pastry with a buttery oat crust) from Kristjánsbakarí. Soak up local life as much as you can before you go!

Where to stay in Akureyri: Akureyri Backpackers – This is a laid-back hostel with a cool bar, great staff, and really hot showers!

Day 2

Visit the Waterfall of the Gods Make your way to Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods. It’s a majestic semicircular waterfall that’s close to Akureyri on the Ring Road. The waterfall is over 12m tall and 30m wide, and (not surprisingly) is highly photogenic! Enjoy the view before heading onward to Mývatn.

Head to Mývatn Spend the day in Mývatn, starting off with a hike around Lake Mývatn. There is an easy trail you can follow that lets you stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. You can easily hike the lake in a few hours if you go at a leisurely place. Then head to the Mývatn Nature Baths geothermal pool, which is much quieter (and cheaper) than the Blue Lagoon.

There’s not much else to do here. It’s a quiet town for relaxing, but the lack of lights makes it a wonderful place to see the northern lights!

Spend the night in Mývatn at one of the many Airbnbs, guesthouses, or farm stays in the region.

Day 3

Pretend you’re on Mars Next, you’ll want to head toward the coastal town of Húsavík. On your way there, stop at Hverir and Krafla, two geothermal areas with Martian-like craters and lakes. Steaming sulfur fills the air, giving this whole area an otherworldly ambience. You can just stop to take photos or go for another hike.

Visit Dettifoss Next, head to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. There are two roads leading here from the Ring Road: 862 and 864. The latter is ridden with potholes, but in my opinion offers the better view. Just drive slowly and keep an eye on your tires! Enjoy a snack by the waterfall and take in the scene. When you’re ready, drive to Húsavík (you can take the 864 north from Dettifoss).

Visit the Whale Museum Whaling has been a part of Icelandic culture for centuries. And while there is a global moratorium on hunting whales, it’s still worth learning about these massive creatures, their habitat, and their impact on the country. They also have a full blue whale skeleton!

Hafnarstétt 1, +354 414-2800, hvalasafn.is/en. Open daily with hours varying depending on the season. Admission is 2,000 ISK per person, with discounts available for seniors, families, and kids. If you go whale-watching with Gentle Giants, you’ll get 20% off your museum ticket.

Where to stay: Spend the night in sleepy Húsavík at a local guesthouse or Airbnb. If it’s northern lights season, stay at Arbot HI Hostel. The hostel is in a relatively secluded spot outside of town so you’ll have a great view of the dancing lights without having to worry about light pollution.

Day 4

Watch the whales and explore the coast Wake up early, head to the coast, and go whale-watching. There are a few different companies you can book tours with here, including Gentle Giants, who have a partnership with the Whale Museum (see above). Whale-watching tours usually last around 3 hours. Expect to pay around 10,400 ISK for adults and 4,400 ISK for children.

When you’re done, explore the hiking trails around Húsavík. You can find a list of the trails on the Visit Húsavík website. Pop into some of the local shops and cafés to get a sense of small-town life here in Northern Iceland.

See some unique architecture Travel to nearby Laufás, which is located west of Húsavík. Here you’ll get to see the old turf houses, traditional Icelandic homes that are timber framed and covered in grass. The furnishings are from around 1900, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. While in Laufás, take a small detour and check out the church. Inside is a decorative pulpit from 1698!

Have an Icelandic feast Go back to Akureyri to explore the city and dine on fresh fish and chips from Akureyri Fish & Chips. Don’t forget to sample the country’s famous ice cream from Brynja too!

Note: I know it sounds like a lot, but if you have a car, this itinerary is very doable.

What to Do In One Week in Iceland: Golden Circle and Southern Iceland

Day 1-2

Head East Fly into Keflavík International Airport and rent a car (SAD Cars and Car Rental Iceland are the companies I recommend). Head east from Reykjavík along the Ring Road to start your adventure!

Soak in the hot springs and search for puffins Head east for a soak in the Reykjadalur hot springs in Hveragerði. Camp or stay at the hostel nearby so you can get another soak in before heading onward.

To get a bit off the beaten trail, take the ferry to the Westman Islands for the afternoon or an overnight stay (you’ll find plenty of puffins here during the summer season!). There are very few tourists here, so it’s a nice way to escape the crowds and relax.

Chase some waterfalls Venturing onward along the Ring Road, head to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. At Skógafoss, the 29km Fimmvörðuháls Trail begins. If you want to hike the entire trail, you can stay at the Volcano Huts at the end of the route and then take a bus back to Skógafoss in the morning. If you’re fit, you can do this hike in a day. Otherwise, you’ll need to bring tents and camp halfway. If an epic hike isn’t in the cards, stroll around the area before continuing east toward Vík.

Tour a crash site Before you get to Vík, you’ll want to check out the DC-3 plane wreck in Sólheimasandur. It’s about a 45-minute walk from the Ring Road, but it’s worth it to see the crash up close (you can no longer drive directly to the site). Dress appropriately, as it can get windy near the coastline.

Spot puffins Continue on to Vík and stop to see the black sand beaches. There are also two short hikes nearby that take you up the cliffs. They offer incredible views of the areas, and if it’s the right season, you can go puffin spotting!

Where to stay: For your first night, stay at the Hot Springs Hostel in Hveragerði (right near the hot spring). That way you can wake up early and go for another soak before you leave. If you’re on the Westman Islands, stay at Aska Hostel (or book one of the many private guesthouses for a cozy local experience). When you get to Vik, stay at Vík HI Hostel.

Days 3-4

Hike Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon This 2km-long canyon dates back to the Ice Age. It’s over 100m deep and makes for a great place to hike or have a picnic and enjoy the view. The road to get there is full of potholes, so drive carefully.

Explore Vatnajökull National Park Hike in the Skaftafell wilderness area to see the glaciers of Vatnajökull National Park. There are plenty of hikes here, both long and short, for outdoorsy types. For a shorter hike, head to Svartifoss, another photogenic waterfall surrounded by long columns of black basalt (the waterfall’s name literally translates to “the black waterfall”).

Klapparstígur 25-27, +354 575-8400, vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is. The park itself is open 24/7 however the Skaftafell visitors center has limited hours (usually 9am-7pm in the summer and 10am-6pm in the winter). See the website for more details, including camping information and weather updates. Parking is 750 ISK per vehicle per day.

Visit Jökulsárlón Lagoon The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon borders the national park, and you don’t want to miss it. The waters are blue, and there are huge icebergs from the nearby glacier floating in the water. The lagoon flows into the Atlantic Ocean, and you’ll see lots of seals in the winter. You can follow the stream out to sea and watch the glaciers as they meet the ocean. Best of all, this is right on the Ring Road and it’s all completely free (though if you want to take a boat out into the lagoon, you’ll have to pay — I don’t think it’s worth doing, though!)

Tour the coast Continue on the Ring Road to Höfn or Djúpivogur, two tiny coastal towns. Get a taste of what life is like in small-town Iceland while exploring the winding coastline. There’s a hidden hot spring outside of Djúpivogur to reward you for making it so far up the coast too!

Where to stay: If you’re ending your day in Höfn, stay at Höfn Hostel. You can see the Vatnajökull Glacier from the town, and everything is within walking distance. If you’re heading on to Djúpivogur, Airbnb will be your best choice.

Days 5-7

Return to Reykjavík Hop in the car and head back to the capital city. Stroll the cozy streets, take a free walking tour, and enjoy some of the city’s plentiful happy hours.

See the Golden Circle Wake up early and drive out to see the three main sites of the Golden Circle. The sooner you start, the better, as you’ll be able to beat the tourist buses there and get some photos without the crowds. You’ll also have time to hike in Þingvellir National Park if you want to stretch your legs. Stock up on snacks for the day in Reykjavik to save some money (the cheapest supermarket is Bonus, so shop there!).

Relax at the Blue Lagoon If you’re craving another dip in a hot pot, head to the Blue Lagoon before your flight home. You’ll be able to end the trip on a very relaxing note!

Two Weeks: Exploring the Ring Road

With two weeks, you will be able to drive the entire Ring Road without rushing too much. You’ll have time to enjoy the rugged east coast and places like Seydisfjordur, explore the second-largest city Akureyri, hike around the Snæfellsnes peninsula, and maybe even dip into the Westfjords.

Start in Rekyavik, head east, see Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, explore Vík, visit the Jökulsárlón Lagoon, detour over to Seyðisfjörður, then head over to Dettifoss, Mývatn, Goðafoss, and Akureyri.

After exploring Akureyri, continue west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula for some hiking. Make sure you stop off to see the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, which is one of the most photographed spots in all of Iceland (plus, it’s where they filmed some Game of Thrones scenes, too). Snæfellsnes National Park is home to Snæfellsjökull, a 700,000-year-old volcano capped by glaciers. You can book a glacier hike here or just explore the rest of the park on your own. It’s right along the coast too, so you’ll be met with some gorgeous views. Stay at The Freezer hostel (it has great live music.)

If you have time and want to get off the beaten trail, detour into the Westfjords in the northwest, or visit the Westman Islands off the south coast.

If you want to be more focused on your trip, you can split Iceland up into smaller geographic areas. One fun route to take is to head west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, then up into the Westfjords for some hiking and relaxing before flying back to the capital. This will be the most remote part of the country, so you’ll have a lot more space and privacy to enjoy your trip.

One Month: Exploring All of Iceland

With one month, you can see the entire island of Iceland. I’ve met quite a few people who have decided to spend this amount of time in the summer months. They’ll rent a car or camper van, pack a bunch of camping gear, and drive the Ring Road at a leisurely pace. But even if you aren’t renting a van or car, you can get around by bus, air, or hitchhike!

Take multi-day hikes, visit to the less-explored Westfjords, an area many tourists skip due to a lack of time (and paved roads); visit Hrísey and/or Grímsey, the very remote islands in the north with fewer than 100 inhabitants each; or the Westman Islands, or explore more parks in the interior of the country (it’s very remote, very unvisited, and very, very awesome).

If you’re traveling on a shoestring budget and planning to camp and hitchhike in Iceland, you’ll need this longer travel time to make sure you aren’t rushed, as sometimes you’ll be waiting awhile for a lift.

But with a month here, there’s very little you can’t explore!

***

Iceland really does have something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending an entire month exploring this rugged landscape, you’ll be able to have an amazing experience.

While it’s not cheap, there are tons of ways to save money in Iceland to make these itineraries doable for even the most frugal budget traveler. But don’t take my word for it. Get out there and explore the Land of Fire and Ice for yourself!

WANTMORE? GET ALL MY TIPS AND ADVICE WITH MY GUIDEBOOK TO ICELAND!

Want to plan the perfect trip to Iceland? Check out my comprehensive guide to Iceland written for budget travelers like yourself!

It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful and exciting destinations in the world.

My favorite things to see and do

Money-saving tips

Budget advice

Transportation advice

My favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars

And much more!

Click here to download the Iceland guide now!

Book Your Trip to Iceland: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use these all the time. My favorite places to stay in Iceland are:

Hlemmur Square (Reykjavik) – A posh hotel with a great bar and traditional Icelandic communal dinners several times a week

Kex Hostel (Reykjavik) – Has a café and bar with an awesome happy hour, a comfy lounge, and a heated patio

Akureyri Backpackers (Akureyri) – A laid-back hostel with hot showers, a cool bar, and helpful staff!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)

Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for more information on visiting Iceland? Check out my in-depth destination guide to Iceland with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credits: 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12

The post Visiting Iceland in 2019: Detailed Itineraries for the Land of Fire and Ice appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

source https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/iceland-itineraries/

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vidovicart · 6 years ago

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Visiting Iceland in 2019: Detailed Itineraries for the Land of Fire and Ice

Posted: 1/24/2019 | January 24th, 2018

Windswept volcanoes. Black sand beaches nuzzled against rugged coastlines. Secret hot springs hidden in misty valleys while majestic waterfalls cascade from every hill.

Welcome to Iceland.

It’s easy to see why Iceland has become such a popular destination in recent years (all those cheap stopover flights have helped greatly too).

And, while it’s not the most budget-friendly country in the world, there are still ways to see the sights without breaking the bank!

If you’re planning a weekend getaway or want to drive the entirety of the island, this list of Iceland itineraries will ensure that you see the best the country has to offer!

Table of Contents

One Weekend in Reykjavik

Four Days in the South

Four Days in the North

One Week: Golden Circle and Southern Iceland

Two Weeks: Exploring the Ring Road

One Month: Everything!

What to See and Do in Iceland: One Weekend in Reykjavik

Day 1

National Museum: Suðurgata 41, +354 530-2200, thjodminjasafn.is. Open daily 10am-5pm (closed on Mondays in the winter). Admission is 2,000 ISK (1,000 ISK for students/seniors).

Icelandic Phallological Museum: Laugavegur 116, +354 561-6663, phallus.is/en. Open daily 10am-6pm. Admission is 1,700 ISK per person.

Sundlaugavegur 105, +354 411-5100, reykjavik.is/stadir/laugardalslaug. Open weekdays 6:30am-10pm and weekends 8am-10pm. Admission is 625 ISK, though if you have the Reykjavik City Card, it’s free!

Slippbarinn — This is the first proper cocktail bar in the city and boasts live music and DJs several nights a week. Happy hour is daily 3pm-6pm. Myragata 2, +354 560 8080, slippbarinn.is.

For a more standard hostel, stay at Kex Hostel. It has a café and bar with an awesome happy hour, a comfy lounge, and a heated patio.

Day 2

Fun fact: The Blue Lagoon is simply runoff from the nearby geothermal plant. Icelanders just found a way to monetize it for tourists! Thank you, Instagram? Ha!

READ MORE: How to save money in Reykjavik

What to See and Do in Iceland: Four Days in the South

In addition to the itinerary above, here are some activities you’ll want to add if you plan on getting further outside of Reykjavik to explore the southern region of Iceland.

Day 3

Experience nature Head southeast on the Ring Road from Reykjavík to scout out some waterfalls. Be prepared and bring swimsuits, towels, a waterproof camera, and a jacket.

Where to stay in Vík: Vík HI Hostel – This charming hostel has a café/bar, a female-only dorm, rooms for families, and a kitchen so you can cook your own food if you’re on a budget.

Day 4

Head for home Head back to Reykjavik. See more sights, chill in more cafés. Do whatever you want before you head home! (sad)

What to See and Do in Iceland: Four Days in the North

Day 1

Where to stay in Akureyri: Akureyri Backpackers – This is a laid-back hostel with a cool bar, great staff, and really hot showers!

Day 2

There’s not much else to do here. It’s a quiet town for relaxing, but the lack of lights makes it a wonderful place to see the northern lights!

Spend the night in Mývatn at one of the many Airbnbs, guesthouses, or farm stays in the region.

Day 3

Day 4

Have an Icelandic feast Go back to Akureyri to explore the city and dine on fresh fish and chips from Akureyri Fish & Chips. Don’t forget to sample the country’s famous ice cream from Brynja too!

Note: I know it sounds like a lot, but if you have a car, this itinerary is very doable.

What to Do In One Week in Iceland: Golden Circle and Southern Iceland

Day 1-2

Days 3-4

Days 5-7

Return to Reykjavík Hop in the car and head back to the capital city. Stroll the cozy streets, take a free walking tour, and enjoy some of the city’s plentiful happy hours.

Relax at the Blue Lagoon If you’re craving another dip in a hot pot, head to the Blue Lagoon before your flight home. You’ll be able to end the trip on a very relaxing note!

Two Weeks: Exploring the Ring Road

If you have time and want to get off the beaten trail, detour into the Westfjords in the northwest, or visit the Westman Islands off the south coast.

One Month: Exploring All of Iceland

But with a month here, there’s very little you can’t explore!

***

Iceland really does have something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending an entire month exploring this rugged landscape, you’ll be able to have an amazing experience.

WANTMORE? GET ALL MY TIPS AND ADVICE WITH MY GUIDEBOOK TO ICELAND!

Want to plan the perfect trip to Iceland? Check out my comprehensive guide to Iceland written for budget travelers like yourself!

It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful and exciting destinations in the world.

My favorite things to see and do

Money-saving tips

Budget advice

Transportation advice

My favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars

And much more!

Click here to download the Iceland guide now!

Book Your Trip to Iceland: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Hlemmur Square (Reykjavik) – A posh hotel with a great bar and traditional Icelandic communal dinners several times a week

Kex Hostel (Reykjavik) – Has a café and bar with an awesome happy hour, a comfy lounge, and a heated patio

Akureyri Backpackers (Akureyri) – A laid-back hostel with hot showers, a cool bar, and helpful staff!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)

Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for more information on visiting Iceland? Check out my in-depth destination guide to Iceland with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credits: 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12

The post Visiting Iceland in 2019: Detailed Itineraries for the Land of Fire and Ice appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

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vietnamtour-blog · 5 years ago

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6 Reasons to fall in love with Da Nang, Vietnam

Danang is a fantastic city that has everything. From fabulous mountains to famous beaches and forests, Danang also has spectacular Hai Van Pass and a booming number of modern hotels, resorts, shopping malls, amusement parks, this city has it all. No wonder it has attracted so many tourists recently. Undoubtedly, Danang is truly a unique and perfect destination for every traveler.

Nowadays, Danang has become a must-go spot. It holds onto a lot of top luxury hotels and resorts and embraces the long and romantic beaches. You might be amazed because of the incredible modern facilities combined with the spectacular nature here.

In 2019, Danang was chosen to be one of the 52 best places to go by The New York Times. Early this year, according to Google’s research, Danang is the Top 1 Google Trending Destinations in 2020.

This article will show you the reasons why this beach city could grow rapidly to Top 1 destination to visit in Asia.

1 – Danang owns the best sandy beach

Danang is dubbed the Hawaii of Asia. It is truly a beach city as it is embraced by approximately 30km of beaches and shorelines. My Khe beach is also known as one of the appealing locations and ranked Top 10 Asian best beaches (Source: The Australian Magazine & Sunday Herald Sun). This is a beautiful stretch of white sand and crystal clear water. Besides, lying on the sand, you can comfortably rest your eyes on the greenery of the Son Tra peninsula. My Khe beach is also among the safest beaches for kids and the elderly in Danang due to its less salty, warmer water, long, gentle slope, and waves during the year.

Morning on Da Nang beach. Photo: Da Nang FantasiCity

There are plenty of luxurious hotels and high-quality resorts, international standard villas, as well as free access and the ticket for both locals and tourists. You can layout on a gorgeous coastline to get as much as possible of vitamin sea or take a sun-bathe from the magnificent hotels viewed to the sea.

2 – Numerous attractions including Golden Bridge – a walk through the god’s hand

Even though the Golden Bridge is new, it is a must-go place when traveling to Danang. This unique bridge, which is held by a rocky hand, is the inspiration for majestic Instagram pictures. It is also the newest footpath added to Ba Na Hills and Sun World Amusement Park, which has modern accommodations and interesting outdoor games.

Besides, Danang is well known because of the spectacular Hai Van Pass. With the crooked path, one side is mountains, and another is the sea, you will have a chance to admire one of the most marvelous sceneries that are the whole view of Danang beaches. Passing by Hai Van location looks like passing by the cloud in the sky. You must be very excited when getting through this fantastic path.

The so-called “ribbon of perfection”, Hai Van Pass. Photo: Flynow.vn

Another impressive destination is the Marble Mountains, that have 5 mountains represented for 5 factors: Iron, wood, water, fire, soil. Every mountain has its own cave inside. Nowadays, there is only Water Mountain open for tourism. You can climb on it, discover the story of Sun Wukong, and contemplate beautiful nature.

Buddha Statue in Marble Mountain. Photo: dhpdaedalus

As Hanoi has the Red River, Danang has the Han River, which has numerous exciting bridges and a lot of water performances. You must drop by Han River because of its history and landscape as a symbol of Danang.

Besides, there are a ton of beautiful beaches for you to choose such as Tien Sa, My Khe, Non Nuoc, etc. They are all famous and ideal beaches you can visit. Don’t worry because each beach has its luxurious accommodations, as well as hotels in budget and other facilities. You also must take a visit to the Son Tra peninsula, which is well known as Monkey Mountain. From this location, you can easily have an overlook of the entire bay of Danang and explore the diversified biology of plants and animals. Come to Son Tra Peninsula; you can visit Linh Ung Pagoda and other destinations such as Chess Desk Peak, Buddha statue as well.

youtube

Son Tra (Monkey) Mountain. Video: Eviva Tour Vietnam

3 – Shopping paradise for local specialties and quality goods

Han Market is a famous market where every visitor who travels to Danang must come here. This market dates back to 1940 and it has become more modern, cleaner and crowder at the present. It is full of standard goods such as silk, shoes, clothes, bags, souvenirs, and seafood, dried food. Visit Han Market, you will experience exploring and buying products from a typical local market.

Spices and local smiles at the Han market. Source: danangfantasticity.com

4 – Ease of access & connection to Vietnam’s best attractions

As Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Danang is a travel hub in Central Vietnam. It connects 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites: Hue Citadel, Hoi An Ancient Town, and My Son Sanctuary. Danang is truly a hub to go almost everywhere not only in Central but also entire Vietnam or other countries.

In addition, Danang has various international and domestic flights that totally come to 35 international routes and 10 domestic routes. Danang harbor is also easy to access.

Da Nang airport. Source: vietnamairport.vn

5 – Heaven for foodies

Danang is a combination of traditional culture and growing-up countries such as Korea, Japan. That is why the cuisine in Danang is really diversified.

There are a thousand special dishes in Danang that you have to try such as Bun Cha Ca, green mango, rice paper salad (bánh tráng trộn), steamed rice cakes (bánh bèo), thick noodle soup with spiced fish (bánh canh cá lóc), My Quang Ca Loc, savory Vietnamese Crepes (bánh xèo), etc that are very delicious and reasonably priced. It is very easy to find Western restaurants if you want as well.

You might love this: What to eat in Da Nang

My Quang. Photo source: 2foodtrippers.com

6 – Remarkable events

Danang is full of outstanding festivals. It is referred to as the Leading city of Events and Festivals in the region. Exciting events are all year round, from the International Firework festival, Ironman Championship, Miss World, International Marathon. Check out Eviva’s updated list of International Events in Vietnam.

The annual Da Nang International Firework Festival. Photo: Danang FantastiCity

In the end, as you can see, Danang is growing up rapidly. With the spectacular scenery, luxurious facilities and the rich traditional culture, Danang must be on your bucket list today!

Should you need further information, please contact our travel consultants at [email protected].

Source: https://blog.evivatour.com/6-reasons-to-fall-in-love-with-da-nang-vietnam/

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tripstations · 5 years ago

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6 of the best desert lodges in Namibia

Namibia is still relatively unknown outside of the core of Africa enthusiasts who travel to the continent on a regular basis, however this vast and beautiful land offers dramatic scenery, traditional cultures, and world-class wildlife viewing that is a match for anything found in better known destinations.

A particular highlight for visitors are the spectacular desert lodges that can be found throughout the country from the Southern Namib Desert and the famous red dunes of the Sossusvlei area, to the Kalahari and the far northern areas of the Skeleton Coast.

If you’re looking for an alternative African adventure across a remote and beautiful wilderness, Namibia is an unbeatable choice. These are 6 of the very best desert lodges in this spectacular country.

Little Kulala

Little Kulala is a luxurious desert retreat situated in the private 37,000 hectare Kulala Wilderness Reserve – the gateway to Namibia’s Dune Sea with its towering dunes and clear starry skies. The camp takes its design inspiration from its surroundings, notably from the magnificent Dead Vlei in the middle of Sossusvlei. The overall mood and feel is cool, serene, organic and sheltering.

Little Kulala features an elegant main guest area which includes a library, wine cellar, craft boutique, lounge and dining areas. The interiors have been designed to provide an all-natural and unique experience in this most beautiful environment. The extensive use of neutral colours, gorgeous textures and natural light reproduce the soothing pastel tones of the desert. There is also a central shaded swimming pool. A water hole in front of the main lodge building provides the opportunity to see gemsbok (oryx), springbok, bat-eared fox, aardwolf, ostrich and jackals.

Activities at Little Kulala include morning guided drives to the spectacular towering dunes of Sossusvlei, through a private gate into the reserve. Guided drives and walks are also offered on the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve with incredible views, desert-adapted wildlife and plants, and the sunset/sundowner excusion is always very popular! Quad-biking can also be arranged as can a hot air balloon trip.

Each of the gest suites has exquisite fittings and fixtures, and a deck with a private plunge pool that offers spectacular desert views. A staircase leading to the flat rooftop above the bathroom provides the ideal setting for star-gazing, and mattresses and duvets can be made up into a ‘skybed’ for an unforgettable night of sleeping out under the stars.

Sossusvlei Lodge

Situated right at the entrance gate to the famous Sossusvlei and Sesriem Canyon in the Namib Nauklauft Park, this is the perfect location from which to visit and explore the epic sand dunes sculpted by the wind.

Experience the desert beauty from a bird’s eye view in a hot air balloon or by aircraft. Take a guided drive through scenic natural beauty in a custom built and comfortable all-terrain vehicle or with a quad bike, or of course, you can drive yourself into the Park too.

A dip in the sparkling pool or an ice cold beer under the shady trees in the Acacia beer garden makes for the best relaxation after an eventful day. The al fresco terrace offers magnificent views of the floodlit waterhole where you can watch the passing parade of oryx, springbok, jackal, ground squirrel and hyena, whilst enjoying exquisite food and wine.

&Beyond Sossusvlei Private Desert Reserve

Nestled deep in the heart of Namibia’s ancient Namib Desert, the newly re-opened &Beyond Sossusvlei Private Desert Reserveoffers vast spaces, endless horizons and extraordinary clarity of light that makes this area one of Africa’s most compelling landscapes. A spectacular blend of glass, rock and steel pavilions with a bold geometric structure at its centre, the lodge extends over vast dunes and gravel planes, in perfect harmony with its elemental surrounds.

Overlooking the pristine natural terrain, the 10 suites offer the sophistication of simplicity, and the two-bedroomed Star Dune Suite is ideal for families or groups of friends. The guest area features floor to ceiling, frameless glass panels that fold away to reveal unobstructed desert vistas.

Guests can explore the desert by quadbikes or open 4×4 vehicles, and excursions to the famous Sossusvlei sand dunes, the highest in the world, and Sesriem Canyon will add to this unforgettable desert experience.

Wolwedans Dune Camp

Wolwedans nestles into the dunes and is set against a backdrop of extraordinary natural beauty. Located in the heart of NamibRand Nature Reserve, Dunes Lodge is the perfect base from which to explore vast stretches of awe-inspiring and undisturbed nature, and this is rightly considered one of the most iconic desert lodges in Namibia.

Wolwedans is not a one-night-stop which can be ticked off en-route to the next tourist hot-spot. It is a place to arrive, to be, to learn and unwind, whilst being looked after by a friendly and involved local team. Wolwedans provides an honest, relaxed and down-to-earth atmosphere, free of ‘wannabe’ fanciness and pretence.

Wolwedans provides the perfect base from which to explore vast stretches of undisturbed nature. The personal and informative scenic drives in open Landrovers reveal the wonders of the wilderness.

Scenic flights are another popular activity at Wolwedans. Commencing during the late afternoon, these flights give you a birds-eye view of the Diamond Coast and Sossusvlei and is a truly exhilarating and once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Mowani Mountain Camp

Between the Ugab and Huab Rivers in Southern Damaraland lies a vast and unspoilt wilderness. This area boasts magnificent desert scenery, fascinating geological formations, archaeological sites and a unique variety of desert fauna and flora. This is where you will find the Mowani Mountain Camp, nestled amongst the boulders of this beautiful area on a high spot commanding distant views over the landscape.

Adventures and activities available at Mowani include trips in a hot air balloon, hiking through the magnificent scenery, and early morning game drives to track the rare Desert Elephant with an experienced guide in an open Land Rover.

Guests can also visit the prolific site of Twyfelfontein. This wonderful archaeological site offers more than 2,500 engravings as well as various paintings, and is probably the finest example of rock engraving in southern Africa.

The luxury tented en-suite accommodation, each with its own private deck overlooking the desert landscape, is built unobtrusively, so as to ensure minimum impact on the natural environment. The outdoor showers and baths have some of the most spectacular views in the country….

Hoanib Valley Camp

In a country jam-packed with vast, spectacularly beautiful landscapes, Kaokoland may just be the most incredible of them all. Deep in north-western Namibia, the area is a melee of towering mountains, sand dunes, and huge expanses of desert, scattered with unique wildlife and nomadic Himba settlements. It’s also one of Namibia’s most remote and wild environments, and one that not many will get the chance to discover in a lifetime…and that’s exactly why Hoanib Valley Camp was built.

A joint venture between the local communities and the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, the world’s only Africa-wide giraffe conservation organisation, Hoanib Valley Camp is an elegant, intimate affair that immerses you into the wilds of the desert.

Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) are the longest running giraffe conservation charity in Africa and are the leaders in cutting edge giraffe research. In Hoanib, their research not only focusses on the desert-adapted giraffe in the area, but also helps to monitor elephant and general game. Very few people realise the giraffe are endangered and they are often over-shadowed by the larger species such as rhino and elephant. Through their genetic work, the GCF have discovered 4 distinct species of giraffe across Africa, instead of what was formally thought to be sub-species – crucial information concerning the future of giraffe populations across the continent. When in camp there are opportunities to meet the researchers and learn about the critical work going on in the area.

As well as game drives, guests can also experience cultural interactions with the local Herero and Himba people.

Paul Campbell is a Co-founder and Managing Director at Travel Butlers. Travel Butlers are specialists in tailor-made safari and beach holidays to Africa and the Indian Ocean.

If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

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