#we found a beautiful secluded cemetery to watch

[sleepytroll]

[sarah-dipitous]

Hellsite Nostalgia Tour 2023 Day 310

Nightmare Logic/Demons of the Punjab

“Nightmare Logic”

Plot Description: when Maggie disappears on her first solo case, the hunters confront their nightmares in a spooky place

I swear if we get Sam’s fear of clowns back I will flip out.

Would I Survive the First Five Minutes??: you couldn’t convince me to a cemetery at night. Sorry to disappoint

Make all the fun you want, Dean, but I personally like this more collectivist hunter community Sam’s running. Hunters were barely tethered together loners for too long. Sure, you’d avenge each other, but now there’s way more of a shot at saving each other

Oh Bobby and Mary are already at this house…interesting

Everyone here is so suspicious, the daughter, the nurse, even the groundskeeper…but that last one is more because he looks like he’s dressed for a different century

I don’t like new Bobby as much as I liked old Bobby

Mary saying Sam was born to lead is so interesting. Azazel said the same thing way back when iirc. Sam was his favorite of the kids with psychic powers

It’s gotta be super weird to listen to your resurrected mother talk about potentially dating an au version of your surrogate father. My condolences, Sammy

I’m not saying Bobby needed Dean’s permission to go off alone but he should have SAID something about doing so

Ok the daughter is a little less sus now. I don’t think she knows what’s happening in this house. I…..wait, that vampire wasn’t real??

Bobby continuously going off alone is going to be a PROBLEM

Dean, you are one to talk about letting go of the past…and by that I mean, you’re not. It’s nice that you’re giving this great advice, but maybe also take your own advice??

I swear if a…not a clown, just the same vampire. But hey!! Sam found Maggie! And she’s alive!

Au Bobby had a kid?? (Makes sense with Mary and Sam’s convo about this universe’s Bobby’s life)

Ok but … how did WHATEVER is going on manifest into a person who only exists in a different universe?

Omg. Dean, you’ve been doing this basically since you were four, I’ve watched thirteen seasons of you doing this, and you STILL can’t find a way to be subtle about sending people away for their safety? You just asked the grown ass daughter who not to long ago told you her tragic backstory to make you a sandwich so you could confront her father’s nurse?

Oh the nurse is a djinn and that djinn thinks Dean is still Michael. Play along, my dude

Dumbass…though, this djinn is very talkative

K but why did the djinn act that way when he touched Dean? Why did he seem so scared? Is Michael still partly there or something?

The idea that Michael has a whole bunch of hunter traps set up around the country is interesting

They allowed a father and son to fight in the same platoon in the angel war?

Omg are Mary and Bobby really about to start dating?? Are they really going on a few weeks vacation to a secluded cabin while Bobby recuperates? If there isn’t one scene between the boys about how weird this is, I’m calling the cw myself and making them shoot one for me

Man, I miss Garth…

Ok I don’t need it this episode but I need that scene this season

(Going from how Jensen sounds in season 14 to hearing the show preview Netflix has from the first episode is so jarring)

“Demons of the Punjab”

Plot Description: the Doctor and friends arrive in the Punjab, India in 1947, as a country is split apart

(I will never make fun of the Doctor’s love of the modern day UK if we can stop making the first female Doctor dip into the histories of countries England colonized.)

Oh AND we’re going to be crossing paths with Yaz’s grandparents in the past??

Scenery is beautiful though

This is a horrifically prescient episode to be watching now…

It’s both the day before Yaz’s grandparents wedding and the day of the Partition, and there are some kind of demon like aliens…and they’ve already killed one Hindu holy man

I don’t like that this massive loss of life that took place because of humans is going to potentially be attributed to aliens that have been labeled the most dangerous assassins in the universe. And then, if it’s not, it’s like Pompeii and the Doctor just has to let it happen. What a shitty premise

They really like emphasizing the relationships between the companions and deepening those while the Doctor just states that she cares about them. It’s infuriating. Why do they do this to her?

The assassins have turned into witnesses who honor those who die alone, and the guy who Yaz’s grandmother was supposed to marry is about to die alone, as the former assassins have traveled here to witness

Dude…this guy sucks. I’m not going to pretend that I know practically anything about this period of India’s history, but to try to keep your brother from marrying the love of his life because of a difference in religion and (and I’m going to have to look it up later) the events that occurred to cause the Partition

[itsallyscorner]

I don’t know if it’s too much to ask, but when you’re done with all your requests, can you please do a part 2 of getting to know you?❤️

Hello darling!💕 Thank you for the request and I’m so sorry it took me so long; I was waiting for Cherry to come out to write this and I also have time to finally write. I hope you like it!💕 *CHERRY SPOLIERS*

A/n: Hello my loves! I just wanted to say that these kind of fics are the closest I will get to writing for Cherry. I will not be writing about the characters in the story, I will only be writing about the filming process, working with Tom, etc. Now that I mentioned that, I wanted to let you all know that this is going to be a bit more of a happier fic! I see a lot of people writing about the hard parts of filming Cherry so I thought why not have a little fun one? I’m sure they had some laughs on set, I briefly remember Ciara and Tom mentioning it. But yeah that’s all, enjoy the fic! Ally xx

💌.

I’m Really Happy You’re Here

(GIF @thollandgifs )

Tom watched you from a distance. From where he was, he could hear the sound of your bubbly laugh and see that bright smile on your face. Your smile was contagious. The way your eyes crinkled at the ends and how your smile squished into your cheeks was something he’s grown fond of over the past eight weeks. Though the difference from the previous weeks was that your cheeks were fuller and the bleak expressions of Emily did not shadow your face anymore.

The last eight weeks of filming have been rough. Both on you and him, along with the rest of the cast and crew. Having to begin filming with the ‘Dope Life’ section of the movie was not a pleasant way of starting a months long project. He felt drained after every shoot, spending his time on set crying, kicking, and screaming. Not to mention he was also starving himself to enhance the ‘druggy’ look on his features. After those eight weeks they had to transition into the part of Cherry’s life where he’s falling in love with Emily. The transition from being an addict to becoming a lovesick college student was a tricky one for Tom. The sudden switch in the film’s dynamic, made Tom doubt himself. From the intense scenes and screaming to being all loving and sweet, he was self-conscious that he was not doing enough. Though you were quick to debunk his doubts. You kept your promise of being there for him and gave him the freedom to be vulnerable. You didn’t judge him, you listened to him ramble and understood the struggles he was facing. Because of this, you helped him through the transition of druggy to lovesick college student. 

It wasn’t hard to act like he was falling in love you. You have been so supportive and patient with him during the previous weeks that he’s grown to adore you. On and off set you made sure he knew you were not only his co-worker but his friend. When he had a rough day, you were there to pick him up. Or that one time when he had a bit of a panic attack and you were instantly by his side to guide him out of it. There were many reasons as to why you are so dear to him, he could have gone on for days listing them. But overall, it was your lovable nature that lured him in since the very beginning he’s met you.

He felt like Cherry in that one scene you guys shot in the classroom. The one where he’s gazing at Emily and admiring her features. Except you didn’t stare back at him, instead you were having a very animated conversation with your makeup artist and one of the stylists. You were dressed in Emily’s clothes, white stockings, a jean skirt, and that cherry pink jacket with flowers embroidered onto it. He thought you looked so adorable and carefree kicking around leaves with your brown ankle boots and playfully swinging your arms around. Tom felt his lips unconsciously twitch upwards at the sight of you.

Harry, who had been eyeing his older brother, nudged him roughly. Tom whips around to look at him, sending him a glare for rudely interrupting his train of thought.

“What?” Tom hissed.

Harry smirked, motioning to you, “(Y/n) looks really pretty today.” Tom distinctly squints an eye at Harry before looking over his shoulder. The glare for his brother softening once you come into view.

“I mean, doesn’t she always? She’s a beautiful woman.”

“And you’re absolutely whipped.” Harry remarked with a smug grin on his face.

“So I can’t call someone beautiful without being absolutely whipped for them now?” Tom retorted crossing his arms. Harry raised his hands up defensively, “You can mate, chill. I’m just saying that because you’re literally staring at her with a stupid love haze in your eyes.”

“No I’m not.” Tom scoffed, hoping to get his brother off his case. Harry stared at him blankly and rolled his eyes, “Whatever, they want you on your mark.”

The filming location was a secluded park located somewhere in Cleveland. The park was set up to appear as a cemetery, gray gravestones were placed on the ground and gothic statues scattered the place. The scene was supposed to be a meaningful one for Cherry and Emily. Emily was going to be telling Cherry about her abusive father and he was going to tell her he loved her.

Tom sat on the grass and leaned against the stone statue where his mark was located. He looked around his surroundings in curiosity. A few feet away from him was the crew, the Russos, and a tent that sheltered the monitors. He breathed in, wallowing in the crisp air of Cleveland’s autumn weather. It was a bit chilly, but not to the point where you were shivering and left with chattering teeth. The vintage looking jacket he was given and the black beanie on his head was enough to keep him warm. His eyes continued to wander around the park, shifting along the trees and studying the clusters of yellow and orange.

“Hey you.” Your gentle voice breaks through the quiet murmurs of nature and the crew surrounding him. Tom’s eyes instantly set themselves upon your figure, their focus on you and only you. The trees and cameras behind you faded in the background. His gaze followed your figure as you moved to sit beside him.

“Hey.” His voice is soft making you hum in response. Being the gentleman he was, Tom held out his hand to help you sit on the ground. You quietly thank him. He watches as you rest your head against the stone and shut your eyes.

“Still sleepy?” He chuckles nudging your shoulder. You giggle along, lazily nodding. Your eyes open again and he’s met with your stunning (eye color) orbs. They were bright and filled with joy even though you were clearly tired.

You turn your head to the side to face him, “I barely got any sleep last night.”

Tom’s brows drew together in concern, “Why didn’t you get any sleep?”

“I may or may not have watched The Nun by myself last night.” You cringed. Tom let out a dramatic gasp, “Darling, why would you do that to yourself?”

“I was bored and I couldn’t find anything else to watch. I thought watching a horror movie would be a good idea, but I was wrong.” You explained, shaking your head at yourself. You breathed out a laugh, remembering how terrified you were the night before.

Tom joined you, also shaking his head. “Why didn’t you ask Harry and I to join? We could’ve watched it for movie night. Then you wouldn’t have to be alone and you’d have two body guards to protect you from the scary nun.” He teased you poking your side. You squeaked and swatted his finger away.

“You guys were going out for dinner. I thought you might want to have some quality time with your brother.” You stifled a yawn, your nose scrunching after, making Tom pout at your sleepy state. He glanced in front of him to see everyone still occupied in side conversations. The Russos were haunched behind the tent discussing things about the scene.

Tom turns back to you and motions to his lap. You give him a questioning look. You glance at his lap, not completely understanding him. Tom followed your stare, realizing that you were probably getting the wrong message.

“Oh! No—I meant that you could sleep on my lap or something. I don’t think we’re gonna start filming for a few more minutes, so I thought you might want to squeeze in a little nap.” He explained, words jumbling together in panic. Your heart swelled at how sweet Tom was.

The two of you were silent, staring at each other before bursting out in laughter. Tom squeezed his eyes shut, fingers holding his temples, “God, I’m sorry, that was embarrassing.”

You chuckled resting your head on his shoulder, “It’s okay, you had good intentions.” When your laughs die down, you look up at him. “Does your offer for the nap still stand? I think I can use it.”

“Of course it does.” Tom shifts so there’s space on his thigh for you to rest your head on. He helps you lay down, fixing your hair so it’s not in your face. He leaves a hand to play with the strands, mesmerized at how luscious it was. He notices that he’s probably invading your space and pulls his hand away, apologizing.

You make a noise of disagreement, pulling his hand back. “It’s ok, feels nice.” You mumble, eyes closing and a content expression on your face. Tom played with your hair; being careful to not tangle any strands or pull on them too hard. He couldn’t help but study your features. To name a few, he took the time to memorize the way your lashes brushed against your cheeks, the shape of your nose, and the curve of your lips. Your lips. They looked remarkably soft and had a tint of pink to them. Tom found his eyes flickering down at your lips the most than your other features.

He was so caught up in admiring you that he didn’t notice the words coming out of his mouth.

“I’m really happy you’re here.”

Your eyes snap open dancing with amusement. A toothy grin forms on your mouth.

“Did you just quote the movie?” You question him, referring to the previous scene you were both shooting a couple of days ago. Tom becomes flustered, the blood rushing to his fair cheeks.

“Yes, shut up.” He muttered, bouncing his thigh, causing your head to loll to the side. You giggle elbowing his stomach. “Well were you practicing your lines? ‘Cause they’re for the wrong scene, Tommy.” You tease him.

Tom playfully rolls his eyes and looks down at you. His hands were still tangled in your hair, the soft strands like silk in between his fingers. “No, I know that—but I’m serious. I’m really happy you’re here with me. I know I’ve told you this so many times but I can’t imagine filming this movie with anyone else. And you’ve been so loyal and trusting, I feel so comfortable with you. You’ve always had my back and I’m really thankful for that. So thank you for—being you.”

You give him a lopsided grin, “You know, you don’t have to always thank me. We made a promise to always have each other’s back. I’m one to keep my word but at the same time you’re my friend, Tom. I’m not being nice to fulfill a promise, I genuinely care about you.” Tom beams while you continue.

“It honestly goes both ways, I should also be thanking you. The beginning of filming was very taxing and somehow you’ve made it bearable for me to come into work not worrying about losing my shit on everyone. So thank you, Tom.” You finish, reaching out to interlock your fingers with his free hand.

Tom sighs happily, “I guess we’re just happy to have each other, huh?”

“Yeah.” You agree, eyes trained on the way his giant hand enveloped yours. A peaceful silence lays upon the both of you. The melody of birds chirping and the sound of Tom’s breathing fill the air as you drift off to sleep.

Bonus:

Tom feels your hand loosen in his grip, your interlocked fingers resting on your stomach. He felt your stomach steadily raising up and down to the pace of your breathing. His hands remained where they were; one playing with your hair and the other holding one of your hands.

Joe approaches the both of you, gesturing to the position you and Tom were in. Though you were unaware, napping on Tom’s lap.

“Is this how you guys want to film the scene? We were gonna have you sitting beside each other instead.” Joe stood above you and Tom with his hands on his hips.

“I think this is actually better—don’t get me wrong, sitting beside each other and cuddling is pretty affectionate. But I think having someone rest their head on your lap is another level of intimacy.” Tom reasoned. He wanted to extend the amount of time you could ‘nap’ but he also thought the scene would be much better if your head was cradled on his lap. Personally, he believed it would show the audience how comfortable Cherry and Emily were with each other.

Joe nods his head, “Yeah, I get what you mean. I think I like that better, to be honest. What do you think, (Y/n)? Is Tom’s lap comfortable enough for you to shoot a few scenes on?” Joe asks, teasing you towards the end. He’s met with no response. He raises a brow at you, “Is she asleep?”

“Yup, long night.” Tom chuckled, running his hand through your hair soothingly.

Joe chuckles as well, “Is she all good though?”

“Oh, she’s fine. She just watched The Nun by herself and couldn’t catch any sleep after.” Tom reassured him.

“Ahh, alright.” Joe snickers, moving to make his way back to the crew. “She’s got a good 10 to 15 minutes to squeeze in a nap, monitors are acting up.”

“Gotcha’ boss.” Tom mentally notes, resuming to bask in the nature around him and your presence.

Tags:

Tom Holland Taglist

↪︎ @lovableparker @aprettyfleur @sunwardsss @dummiesshort @thotforcriminalminds @cuddlykoala101 @itstaskeen @whoslili @white-wolf1940 @tomsirishgirlx @roseke @kaylans-imagines @spideyspeaches @xxstrangegirlxxx @slutforsebstan

General Taglist

↪︎ @quxxnxfhxll @just-here-to-escape-from-reality @thegirlwiththediary @agustdowney

[daily-dose-of-imagines]

for the halloween prompts, can I have trick-o-treat, moon, and cemetery :)) for Jean and armin :) I absolutely LOVE trick o treating and i enjoy taking pictures of the moon :) thank you and happy spOooOoOooOoky season !

Of course you can~! I hope you enjoyed this as much as I did with brewing it up~! 

 » » Admin Ko

ɢɪᴠᴇɴ ᴛʜᴇ ɪɴɢʀᴇᴅɪᴇɴᴛꜱ ᴏꜰ: ᴀᴛᴛᴀᴄᴋ ᴏɴ ᴛɪᴛᴀɴ [ᴊᴇᴀɴ & ᴀʀᴍɪɴ] ; ᴛʀɪᴄᴋ-ᴏʀ-ᴛʀᴇᴀᴛ ; ᴍᴏᴏɴ ; ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴇᴍᴇᴛᴇʀʏ...

ᴛʜᴇ ꜰᴏʟʟᴏᴡɪɴɢ ᴡᴀꜱ ʙʀᴇᴡᴇᴅ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴀʟᴅʀᴏɴ...

“A...Are you sure this is a good idea you guys?”

Clearly hesitant and unnerved by the casualness his friends held, Armin couldn’t help but feel as though he was the only sane person in their trio. The night had gone by with no problems. A simple meet up with the rest of their friends and a silly bet on who could get the most candy had lead him, Jean Kirstien, and (y/n) (l/n) to venture competitively into the night. 

Yet after their burst of energy and hoarding of the delectable sweets-- save for the one house that decided to hand out miniature pamphlets -- it was without a doubt that their night of trick or treating was a success! Though how the trio ended up eating their prize in the cemetery-- even Armin didn’t know.

“Oh come on, it’s more secluded and we get more time to ourselves~! Don’t be such a worry wart~.”

Despite the playful and joyous attitude (y/n) exhumed, their pretend witch couldn’t help but feel his anxieties bubble up as he eventually found himself seated on the prickly ground. Broken branches and loosened soil littered the ground as he watched his companions make themselves comfortable in their new hide out. 

“You’re not bothered by this at all Jean?”

“I won’t lie, I’m honestly not too happy about sitting here of all places-- but it’s oddly...peaceful?”

“Aw~ Don’t be such party poopers! It isn’t crowded, not a lot of people, and we get this beautiful sight of the moon! What more could any Halloween lover want?”

Both men couldn’t help but give their companion a blank look. True, they couldn’t argue with the fact that there wasn’t loud arguing or screaming of parents or the booming of unnecessary music from nearby party goers, but even then sitting in a cemetery just seemed too...taboo for them. Or perhaps they were just wary. After all, it was late into the night and they had no idea what or who was lurking out in the woods.

So there they sat, exchanging candy and stories though as the trio found their last morsel, each couldn’t help but give one another a look. A strange aura now filling the area as the discomfort that both Armin and Jean felt early finally made it’s way towards (y/n). 

“I...please don’t tell me I’m the only one who suddenly got this feeling of dread...”

“I knew we shouldn’t have come here!.”

“Armin stop your whining!” 

Before any argument could break out,, the winds began to pick up. Scattered leaves swirling up into the air with an almost elegant flourish before a cloaked figure stood before the trio. The unease quickly rising to panic as the figure couldn’t help but sigh.

“This is the luck of the draw this year? Dammit...alright kids, let’s go.”

“G-Go? Go where?”

“Why, on an adventure of course. Every year those who receive our candies are given an opportunity to...I suppose, live out a-- what do you call them here... ah yes! An RPG life. Ah, I see your skeptical looks. Well, perhaps this will bring that false look into the ground.”

Before any of them could even counter or stop the mysterious figure, a portal opened. A world that look practically the same to their own appeared before their eyes--- yet the mythical creatures they had only seen in stories and fictional works flew by with tremendous power.

“Now then, how about a step into the magical life?”

[summervanlife]

11 July

Unbelievably Cian was up and packed away before any of rest of us were even thinking about it. Apparently he had woken very early and spent those hours thinking about chess tactics! By 0700hr he had woken Clare up to discuss those tactics an in the hope of getting her to play a game. Clare remained in bed while Cian tried all sorts of bribery - Jay and Clare even got coffee in bed! Cian sat outside and waited patiently. Eventually Clare submitted and took on our new kind of chess. The match took an age, and resulted in stalemate! Boy has got to work hard on his nighttime tactic sessions. Lie-ins, coffee in bed and tournament level chess, tarp dismantle and bike loading meant that conversion and departure were delayed until 1130hr We joined the main road and drove west towards Mangersta. Our hopes were to find sea stacks at Geodha am Fhithich, a nice little beach and a parking spot that the Petches had topped us off about. Along the way we stopped at a campsite to refill water and use the toilets (again, we paid!) That road also provided us with another huge oak carving of on of the Lewis Chessmen. This time none other than the King himself! Shortly after we spotted the track with the Petch 'amazeballs camp spot', unfortunately the track was now gated and had a shiny new chain and padlock on it. Oh well. We climbed a hilly road and the sea cliffs grew. A brief view of the sea stack summits was glimpsed so we parked and had lunch. The walk toward the cliffs passed through peat bogs, skittering around small pools and saturated moss. We got to a fence line and followed it until it had fallen into the sea - then we walked as close to the slumping, sodden adage as we dared (well, as close as Jay and Clare dared!) There was no way down to the beaches, an therefore with the pinnacle rock towers piercing the sky an the birds way below, ducking in and out of various caves it all felt primeval. We found a high point on the headland and watched for ages. By the time we returned to the van the sun was out and we decided to walk down the chained, padlocked track to the beach. We all knew what was on each other's minds, so the swimming kit and towels were packed. Nia and Cian toyed with the waves for a while; Jay and Clare sat on the sand and confessed to each other that they thought it too cold to go in. Cian broke the impasse by declaring that he would go in if someone else did. Jay is wise to this kind of propaganda from the boy so declined. Clare, being the sporting type, took up the challenge and they both stripped off and donned swimwear. In fairness to Cian he did go in, but only after Clare had repeatedly and forcibly splashed him with sea spray. Nia (better, but with sore stomach) had found a waterfall for them to wash off. Clare, now partly dressed, stripped again and went for a shower. With bathers now clean and drying, Jay got jealous and decided he ought to swim. Clare, jealous of Jay swimming (rather than just splashing) stripped again! (We think those pictures at Fawlty Towers had a lasting effect on her!) With everyone who wanted to go swimming happy with their achievements, we dried and got dressed (Clare, under protest, now agreed to go along with this social norm and managed to remain dressed all the way to the car.) Four wheel drive, diff-lock and low ratio were all engaged to extract us from our precarious parking spot - but all was good. We thought that a trip to the town Mangersta should be undertaken. Whilst there is no 'town' the few houses were harbouring two art installations, the first a nonesense signpost and the second a never-ending wine bottle (imagine!) being poured by a bronze arm and hand extending from the turf. At the end of the road we turned around and set off on the drive east towards the Callandish standing stones - our first port of call in the morning. We struggled for a while to find a suitable parking spot, and eventually ended up at a secluded cemetery carpark with a beautiful view overlooking Loch Rog an Ear. More chess in the hback, before and after our chilli dinner. Then conversion, teeth, book and bed.

[williameshleman-blog]

The Caribbean and Mediterranean have some serious competition when it comes to romantic island holidays because Africa truly has it all.

From an archipelago that is 115 islands strong to a volcanic wonder waiting to be hiked and biked, an Indian Ocean island holiday off of Africa’s coastline is bound to put the spring back in your step, leave sand on your toes, and a sun-kissed blush on your cheeks. There are plenty to choose from, so we’ve compiled a list of our favourite romantic island holidays:

Quirumbus & Bazaruto Archipelagos, Mozambique

First on the list are the archipelagos off the coast of Mozambique, both offering the quintessential island experience but each with their own touch of charm.

The endangered dugong may very well be the unofficial symbol of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Africa’s largest population of this rare, manatee-like animal lives in the warm Indian Ocean waters surrounding the archipelago’s main island alongside dolphins, humpback whales, manta rays, and whale sharks. And the treasures of the deep don’t stop there. This collection of islands is superb for both a family holiday and a couples retreat.

After flying under the radar for far too long, the Quirimbas Archipelago is quickly turning into one of the most sought-after island destinations this side of the continent. More remote and (if possible) more romantic than the Bazaruto Archipelago, this is the place for honeymoon hideaways. In Quirimbas, you’ll be met by the unspoilt beauty of powder-white beaches, palm trees, and turquoise waters – minus the swarms of tourists.

Hop from one island to the next on a lazy dhow cruise or—if you’re feeling adventurous—go scuba diving or snorkelling among the coral reefs. The warm waters are home to turtles, dolphins, and whales. If game fishing is your sport, venture further out to sea in search of bonefish, marlin, mackerel, sailfish, and dogtooth tuna.

Image credit: Felix Lipov

Maldives

A picturesque chain of atolls in the Indian Ocean makes up the minute Republic of Maldives. Malé, its capital, is often touted as one of the most densely populated cities in the world – hardly surprising considering its diminutive size! This pint-sized hub is the thrumming core of the Maldivian island nation and acts as the gateway to utopian island resorts and paradise getaways.

The original inhabitants of the island were an ancient fishing community who settled on the nearby riverbanks. In the centuries that followed, the island was exposed to Buddhism, Islam, and was, among other things, a British protectorate and trading partner with the Portuguese. Its colourful history is reflected in the numerous mosques dotted around the island, in the Sultan’s Park and National Museum, and the nearby tomb of Muhammad Thakurufaanu.

Image Credit: Jantz Kurt

Malé’s narrow streets and vibrantly painted houses are best explored on foot considering the island’s size. However, there are roving taxis to be found. Affordable and frequent ferries run between neighbouring islands including Hulhulé, where the airport is located, and Villingili, an island known for its pristine beach and excellent diving and snorkelling.

Image credit: Dmitrijs Mihejevs

Réunion Island

We like to call the next one on the list the Hawaii of the Indian Ocean. With Réunion Island‘s dramatic scenery, verdant mountain peaks that touch the clouds, and one of the most active volcanoes in the world to match, it’s not hard to see why.

This landmass is significantly dwarfed by its much larger neighbour, Madagascar, while its volcano, Piton de la Fournaise, is perched on the south-east corner of the island where daredevils, outdoorsmen, and those generally intrigued, can hike into its caldera – when it isn’t erupting, that is. Otherwise, visitors will have to be satisfied with the magnificently fiery display from a distance. The remainder of the island is made up of streaming waterfalls, lush forests, mountainous landscapes, and contrasting beaches of white and black sand.

Neat streets lined with bistros, boulangeries, and brasseries, alongside trendy waterfront cafes, will have travellers to Réunion island’s capital, Saint-Denis, mistaking their location for a town somewhere in France. Yet beneath this small coastal city’s ostensibly French veneer, there is an undeniably creole core. Full of museums, colonial and religious buildings, and a host of other epicurean delights, a visit to Saint-Denis should be part of every Réunion itinerary.

Image credit: Vicente Villamón

Mauritius

Mauritius is often lauded as one of the most advanced and established island nations in Africa. With a thriving economy and business sector, superb transportation systems, and a great location a short flight away from Johannesburg, this is a great place to holiday if you’re in search of an island vacay with first-world amenities. As with most of Mauritius, it is a place of beautiful beaches and several excellent resorts.

The island is also dotted with tropical vegetation and a booming social scene. Take the plunge amid the rays and barracudas that call the surrounding waters home, or head out to the big blue to hook a marlin or tuna. Championship golf courses are also found on the island, offering an intricate challenge for even the most seasoned golfer.

Image credit: Brocken Inaglory

If that isn’t quite your cup of piña colada, there are other ways to enjoy the island and its waters containing prolific sea life. Hop on to one of the many glass-bottomed boats that depart daily for tours around, or float across to neighbouring islands, such as Île des Deux Cocos which comes complete with its own mysterious shipwreck.

Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania

A land of spices, warm waters, pearly beaches, and rich marine life – it’s no surprise that the Zanzibar Archipelago is a tourist destination. The main island, Unguja, is a place where worlds collide in the capital city. One small creek separates the historical Stone Town (formerly the capital of the Zanzibar Sultanate) from the developed Ng’ambo, a settlement for African slaves in the mid-1800s and now home to developed office and apartment blocks.

Acknowledged as the historical and cultural core of the capital, Stone Town’s waterfront is dotted with architectural and traditional delights, from the Old Fort and House of Wonders—the former containing local markets and an arena for small shows while the latter’s terraced walls house a museum of Swahili and Zanzibar culture.

The stunning white walls and turquoise stuccos that adorn the balconies of the Old Dispensary are a visual pleasure, while at night the enticing Forodhani Gardens tempt visitors with its market of ethnic seafood.

The smaller satellite islands surrounding Zanzibar island offer a more secluded and less developed alternative to their larger neighbour. On Mafia Island and Pemba Island, visitors can dive with whale sharks, snorkel among colourful coral reefs and keep a keen eye out for the endearing pygmy hippo while cruising through mangrove forests.

Madagascar

In some places, rainforests of long-limbed succulents house leaping lemurs, while stout baobabs sport trunks branded with red-and-yellow swirls. Elsewhere, powder-white sands dissolve into cerulean waters, hiding tropical barrier reefs. This kaleidoscope of nature forms the fabric of Madagascar.

Image credit: Mathias Appel

With 250 islands, 450km of the barrier reef, and around 5,000km of coastline, the tropical island’s shores prove hard to resist. Divers are spoiled for choice – from underwater cathedrals to rusted shipwrecks – and share the deep waters with rays, whale sharks, and reef sharks.

Snorkel among curious fish, colourful coral, and graceful turtles. Those keen to keep their heads above water can watch the humpback whales breach, join a local fisher on a pirogue trip, or simply recline in their hammock.

Isalo National Park covers 81,500ha of Jurassic sandstone massif and is home to ringtail, brown, and sifaka lemurs, as well as sacred Bara burial sites. Delve into the island’s history, from the pirate cemetery strewn with palms, to the twelve sacred hills of Antananarivo. Madagascar is a cultural melting pot of intricate beliefs and ancestral rituals as well as ethnic spices and exotic cuisines.

Image credit: Larre

Seychelles

Far off the coast of East Africa, a chain of islands are the glittering jewels encrusting the necklace that is the Seychellois Archipelago. 115 islands and islets make up this small Indian Ocean island nation, home to some of the best beaches in the world.

This is the tropical paradise you thought only existed in movies. Spend your days discovering atolls and their beautiful beaches, and the larger islands blooming with colourful bougainvillaeas, frangipane trees, hibiscuses and palm trees. The crystal-clear waters of the Saint Anne Marine Park are comprised of six small islands surrounded by an abundance of sea life whose delicate ecosystem is fiercely protected and a sight to behold.

Are you ready to embark on your African island adventure? Get in touch today or browse through our scintillating selection of Indian Ocean Island Tours for more inspiration.

The post The Most Romantic Island Holidays in Africa appeared first on Rhino Africa Blog.

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New Post has been published on https://travelonlinetips.com/things-to-do-in-savannah-georgia-where-to-eat-play-and-stay/

Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia: Where to Eat, Play, and Stay

We’re fresh back from our epic East Coast road trip! By the numbers, it was a doozy: over 70 days, we traveled more than 3,600 miles and stayed in 14 cities in 9 states. (All with our cat, by the way)

For us, it was part road trip and part reconnaissance mission. We’re on the hunt for our next place to move. While Chattanooga is still at the top of our list, Savannah surprised us. It’s charming, historic, beautiful, friendly, and right on the water. And all those things that make it a great place to live naturally make it an awesome place to visit.

Things to Do in Savannah GA

By the numbers — less than 150,000 Southern souls spread across just 100 square miles — Savannah is a small city. And the downtown core is only a tiny fraction of that. It’s perfectly walkable, especially for out-of-towners without a car. Of all the things to do in Savannah GA, these are our favorite places to eat, play, and stay.

Where to Eat + Drink in Savannah GA

Gryphon Cafe in Savannah GA © TD Brat

Situated in the century-old Scottish Rite building, Gryphon is quite a romantic, date-worthy lunch spot. The intimate elegance of the interior, where white-clothed tables, carved-mahogany bookcases, and original stained-glass panels convey warmth and graciousness, provides a front row seat to the iconic Bull Street. The focus is on organic, locally sourced Southern cuisine.

Panoramic Rooftop Views from Top Deck Bar (Savannah GA)

For cocktail hour, Top Deck Bar is a rooftop bar that deftly balances “swanky” and “relaxed” with a healthy dose of amazing views of the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, the Savannah River, and historical Bay Street.

The Terrace at Cotton & Rye

Service at Cotton & Rye is dinner-only. But, the food is so damn good, it’s worth the all-day wait to eat there. While it occupies a mid-20th-century bank building, the vibe is mostly relaxed and slightly chic with plenty of Southern charm. The menu runs the gamut from house-made sour corn succotash to Carolina trout to shrimp & grits. Be sure to ask for a seat on the outside terrace.

If things start to wind down too much, head to The Rail Pub. Situated in a century-old building (isn’t everything in Savannah?), this dive bar is a Savannah institution with plenty of indoor and outdoor space to keep the party going well after midnight six days a week. Along with plenty of beer and house cocktails, you’ll find Southern delicacies like pigs’ feet & pickles.

Iconic Things to Do in Savannah GA (Georgia)

Few cities nail the beautiful-spooky-historic-Southern-Gothic vibe like Savannah.

Charleston aside, few cities nail the spooky-historic-Southern chic vibe like Savannah. While a simple stroll around the city presents countless Instagram photos like the ones in this post, the best place to get a feel for the city’s Southern Gothic vibe along with a healthy dose of history is Bonaventure Cemetery. It’s consistently ranked among the most beautiful cemeteries in the world, and with good reason. Not surprising then that it’s appeared in countless Hollywood movies like Clint Eastwood’s Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

It’s 100 acres of idyllic rolling hills dotted with centuries-old live oak trees covered in Spanish moss. Plan one hour for a quick peek, but I would allow two hours to tour it all and have plenty of time for photos. Bonus: it’s free.

Entry Gate at Wormsloe Plantation in Savannah

Wormsloe Plantation might be tied with Bonaventure Cemetery for the most popular and most Instagram’d attraction in Savannah. Upon entering, you’re overwhelmed with a breathtaking, mile-and-a-half-long avenue sheltered by live oaks and Spanish moss leading to the 18th-century tabby ruins of Wormsloe — the oldest standing structure in Savannah.

The avenue is iconic (see Forrest Gump), and it’s an ideal spot for weddings and professional photo ops. (Note: guests are requested to pay the entry fee before parking and photographing the avenue. Although, we found the caretakers pretty lax in this regard.)

Other Things to Do in Savannah GA (Georgia)

Looking for more things to do in Savannah GA? Take a stroll down Broughton Street. It’s the city’s main strip, where you can while away an afternoon of eating and perusing. Byrd’s Cookies is an iconic dessert shop that dates back to 1924. Be sure to grab a tin to go.

Savannah Bee Company (Broughton Street)

Also on Broughton Street, Savannah Bee Company got its start in — wait for it … — Savannah, Georgia. In the twenty years since the company’s launch in 1999, it’s turned into a global brand.

We love it not only for its amazing honey-centric products (grill honey, anyone?) but also for the worthy causes they support like The Bee Cause Project.

SCAD Museum of Art – Savannah GA

Located in a mid-19th-century rail depot, SCAD Museum of Art is arguably the best contemporary museum in The South. It’s a great way to break up an afternoon of eating and spending with a dose of culture. (Tip: they offer free admission on select weekends)

Lastly, do the River Walk. For all the right reasons, everyone will tell you to steer clear of this undeniable tourist trap. Make no mistake: it is an absolute tourist trap. It’s full of taffy shops, overpriced restaurants, and souvenir tchotchke peddlers. But, it’s an accurate snapshot of the city’s waterfront district and, even on a rainy day (and we had many), it provides a lovely photo backdrop.

Moody Afternoon Along River Street — Savannah GA

Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Savannah, GA

As y’all know, chain hotels aren’t usually our thing. We’ll take a boutique hotel, Airbnb stay, a sweet campground, or even a treehouse over a Holiday Inn or even a Four Seasons any day of the week. Thankfully, in addition to all the great things to do in Savannah GA, there are plenty of great places to stay (a surprising number actually, given the city’s tiny size).

CreekFire Motor Ranch in Savannah, Georgia

Entrance to CreekFire Motor Ranch in Savannah, GA

When we stumbled on CreekFire Motor Ranch, we were ecstatic. It’s billed as a luxury campground, but that’s quite an understatement. When we arrived, we found it to be a legit resort. Even though it opened in October 2017, it’s expanding at a lightning pace. There are plenty of primitive campsites, plus more than 100 RV sites with full hookups. So campers of all variety can find their perfect place to crash.

For us, the big get was to snag one of their “cabins.” I use that term loosely because the cabins are actually upscale, tiny-house-like accommodations. Our 400-square-foot cabin (cabin #1) featured a full master bedroom, a cozy kitchen with full-sized appliances, a full bathroom, a spacious living room with a giant TV, and an upstairs sleeping loft.

All the cabins at CreekFire Motor Ranch also feature a private deck overlooking a pristine lake, and a secluded backyard fire pit area.

Chairs by the Lake at CreekFire Motor Ranch

Plus, they offer all the bells and whistles you’d find at a traditional hotel: Wi-Fi, satellite TV, coffeemakers, and they’re pet-friendly which was obviously a huge plus or us. It was enough to coax us to stay inside most days!

If you manage to pull yourself away from your cabin or tent site for a few hours, the ranch is packed with resort-like amenities. There’s an outdoor pool, a lobby game area, a club area (with a basketball court, tennis courts, and a playground), a one-mile nature trail around the property, and fishing, kayak, and bike rentals.

There’s already a boatload of additional amenities in the works for 2018: a lazy river (!), a sandy beach, and a full lake house with a lounge, restaurant, and covered waterfront bar. When you’re ready to explore all the great things to do in Savannah GA, there’s even reasonably priced shuttle service to and from downtown.

Lobby Lounge at The Marshall House in Savannah, GA

While we absolutely loved CreekFire Motor Ranch, here are a few honorable hotel mentions in downtown Savannah:

The Brice: A Holiday-Inn-turned-boutique-hotel, The Brice is fun, comfortably chic, and pet-friendly. The free nightly wine hour and great people-watching along the boardwalk are bonuses.

Marshall House: For sheer historic Georgian charm, you can’t beat The Marshall House. As the oldest hotel in Savannah, it’s ideally sitated in the city’s Historic District, and offers vintage details like high ceilings, decorative fireplaces, and hardwood floors.

Nightfall Over the Cabins at Savannah’s CreekFire Motor Ranch

What are your favorite things to do in Savannah GA? Let us know in the comments!

The post Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia: Where to Eat, Play, and Stay appeared first on Vagabondish.

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The Most Romantic Island Holidays in Africa

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The Most Romantic Island Holidays in Africa

The Caribbean and Mediterranean have some serious rivalry when it is necessary to romantic island holidays because Africa genuinely has it all.

From an archipelago that is 115 islands strong to a volcanic wonder waiting to be hiked and biked, an Indian Ocean island holiday off of Africa’s coastline is bound to set the spring back in your step, leave sand on your toes, and a sun-kissed blush on your cheek. There are plenty to choose from, so we’ve compiled a list of our favourite romantic island vacations :P TAGEND

Quirumbus& Bazaruto Archipelagos, Mozambique

First on the list are the archipelagos off the coast of Mozambique, both offering the quintessential island experience but each with their own touch of charm.

The threatened dugong may very well be the unofficial emblem of the Bazaruto Archipelago. Africa’s largest population of this rare, manatee-like animal lives in the warm Indian Ocean waters surrounding the archipelago’s main island alongside dolphins, humpback whales, manta rays, and whale sharks. And the treasures of the deep don’t stop there. This collecting of islands is superb for both a family vacation and a couples retreat.

After flying under the radar for far too long, the Quirimbas Archipelago is rapidly turning into one of the most sought-after island destinations this side of the continent. More remote and( if possible) more romantic than the Bazaruto Archipelago, this is the place for honeymoon hideaways. In Quirimbas, you’ll be met by the unspoilt beauty of powder-white beaches, palm trees, and turquoise water- minus the swarms of tourists.

Hop from one island to the next on a lazy dhow cruise or–if you’re feeling adventurous–go scuba diving or snorkelling among the coral reefs. The warm waters are home to turtles, dolphins, and whales. If game fishing is your sport, venture further out to sea in search of bonefish, marlin, mackerel, sailfish, and dogtooth tuna.

Image credit: Felix Lipov

Maldives

A picturesque chain of atolls in the Indian Ocean attains up the minute Republic of Maldives. Male, its capital, is often touted as one of the most densely populated cities in the world- hardly surprising considering its diminutive size! This pint-sized hub is the thrumming core of the Maldivian island nation and acts as the gateway to utopian island resorts and paradise getaways.

The original inhabitants of the island were an ancient fishing activities who settled on the nearby riverbanks. In the centuries that followed, the island was exposed to Buddhism, Islam, and was , among other things, a British protectorate and trading partner with the Portuguese. Its colourful history is reflected in the numerous mosques dotted around the island, in the Sultan’s Park and National Museum, and the nearby mausoleum of Muhammad Thakurufaanu.

Image Credit: Jantz Kurt

Male’s narrow streets and vibrantly painted homes are best explored on foot considering the island’s sizing. However, there are roving taxis to be found. Affordable and frequent ferries operate between neighbouring islands including Hulhule, where the airport is located, and Villingili, an island known for its pristine beach and excellent diving and snorkelling.

Image credit: Dmitrijs Mihejevs

Reunion Island

We like to call the next one on the list the Hawaii of the Indian Ocean. With Reunion Island‘s dramatic scenery, verdant mountain peaks that touch the clouds, and one of the most active volcanoes in the world to match, it’s not hard to see why.

This landmass is significantly dwarfed by its much larger neighbour, Madagascar, while its volcano, Piton de la Fournaise, is perched on the south-east corner of the island where daredevils, outdoorsmen, and those generally intrigued, can hike into its caldera- when it isn’t erupting, that is. Otherwise, visitors will have to be satisfied with the splendidly fiery showing from a distance. The remainder of the island is made up of streaming waterfalls, lush forests, mountainous landscapes, and contrasting beaches of white and black sand.

Neat streets lined with bistros, boulangeries, and brasseries, alongside trendy waterfront coffeehouse, will have travellers to Reunion island’s capital, Saint-Denis, mistaking their locating for a town somewhere in France. Yet beneath this small coastal city’s ostensibly French veneer, there is an undeniably creole core. Full of museums, colonial and religious builds, and a host of other epicurean delights, a visit to Saint-Denis should be part of every Reunion itinerary.

Image credit: Vicente Villamon

Mauritius

Mauritius is often lauded as one of the most advanced and established island nations in Africa. With a thriving economy and business sector, superb transportation systems, and a great place a short flight away from Johannesburg, this is a great place to holiday if you’re in search of an island vacay with first-world amenities. As with most of Mauritius, it is a place of beautiful beaches and several excellent resorts.

The island is also dotted with tropical vegetation and a booming social scene. Take the plunge amid the rays and barracudas that call the surrounding water home, or head out to the big blue to hook a marlin or tuna. Championship golf courses are also found on the island, offering an intricate challenge for even the most seasoned golfer.

Image credit: Brocken Inaglory

If that isn’t quite your beaker of pina colada, there are other ways to enjoy the island and its water containing prolific sea life. Hop on to one of the many glass-bottomed boats that depart daily for tours around, or float across to neighbouring islands, such as Ile des Deux Cocos which comes complete with its own mysterious shipwreck.

Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania

A land of spices, warm water, pearly beaches, and rich marine life- it’s no surprise that the Zanzibar Archipelago is a tourist destination. The main island, Unguja, is a place where worlds collide in the capital. One small creek separates the historical Stone Town( formerly the capital of the Zanzibar Sultanate) from the developed Ng’ambo, a settlement for African slaves in the mid-1 800 s and now home to developed office and apartment blocks.

Acknowledged as the historical and cultural core of the capital, Stone Town’s waterfront is dotted with architectural and traditional pleasures, from the Old Fort and House of Wonders–the former containing local marketplaces and an arena for small presents while the latter’s terraced walls house a museum of Swahili and Zanzibar culture.

The stunning white walls and turquoise stuccos that adorn the balconies of the Old Dispensary are a visual pleasure, while at night the seducing Forodhani Gardens tempt visitors with its market of ethnic seafood.

The smaller satellite islands surrounding Zanzibar island offer a more secluded and less developed alternative to their larger neighbour. On Mafia Island and Pemba Island, guests can dive with whale sharks, snorkel among colorful coral reef and maintain a keen eye out for the endearing pygmy hippo while cruising through mangrove forests.

Madagascar

In some places, rainforests of long-limbed succulents home leaping lemurs, while stout baobabs sport trunks branded with red-and-yellow vortices. Elsewhere, powder-white sand dissolve into cerulean waters, hiding tropical obstacle reefs. This kaleidoscope of nature kinds the fabric of Madagascar.

Image credit: Mathias Appel

With 250 islands, 450 km of the barrier reef, and around 5,000 km of coastline, the tropical island’s shores prove hard to resist. Divers are spoiled for option- from underwater cathedrals to rusted shipwrecks- and share the deep waters with rays, whale sharks, and reef sharks.

Snorkel among curious fish, colourful coral, and graceful turtles. Those keen to keep their heads above water can watch the humpback whales breach, join a local fisher on a pirogue trip-up, or simply recline in their hammock.

Isalo National Park covers 81,500 ha of Jurassic sandstone massif and is home to ringtail, brown, and sifaka lemurs, as well as sacred Bara burial sites. Delve into the island’s history, from the pirate cemetery strewn with palms, to the twelve sacred hills of Antananarivo. Madagascar is a culture melting pot of intricate beliefs and ancestral rites as well as ethnic spices and exotic cuisines.

Image credit: Larre

Seychelles

Far off the coast of East Africa, a chain of islands are the glittering pearls encrusting the necklace that is the Seychellois Archipelago. 115 islands and islets make up this small Indian Ocean island nation, home to some of the best beaches in the world.

This is the tropical paradise you thought only existed in movies. Spend your days discovering atolls and their beautiful beaches, and the larger islands blooming with colorful bougainvillaeas, frangipane trees, hibiscuses and palm trees. The crystal-clear water of the Saint Anne Marine Park are comprised of six small islands surrounded by an abundance of sea life whose delicate ecosystem is fiercely protected and a sight to behold.

Are you ready to embark on your African island escapade? Get in touch today or browse through our scintillating selection of Indian Ocean Island Tours for more inspiration.

The post The Most Romantic Island Holidays in Africa appeared first on Rhino Africa Blog.

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