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July 15, 2020 by Chase Vandros

3 Awesome Active Holidays For Thrill-Seekers

There’s something to be said for vacations where the focus is unwinding all the way – if you lead a busy lifestyle, taking a holiday where the extent of your daily exercise is lifting a cocktail to your lips while lounging by the pool probably sounds pretty good.

However, some of us can’t chill out for more than a few days before we’re itching to do something more active that sets our pulses racing and stimulates the senses.

If you count yourself in the latter camp, take a look at these three awesome active holidays for thrill-seekers.

Surfing in Hawaii

Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing, so if you’ve dreamed of riding the waves since you first listened to The Beach Boys, there’s no better place to learn.

Hawaiians have been surfing for hundreds of years and it was once reserved as a pastime for the island’s royalty, but the waves at spots like Oahu’s North Shore now attract acolytes from around the world. Waikiki Beach is one of the best places to find your feet, and you’ll learn on a longboard at first, under the close watch of an experienced instructor.

Tips: browse the Sparky’s Surf School website for more information on surfing lessons in Waikiki.

Skiing in France

Fancy cruising down freshly powdered slopes while enjoying majestic mountain views, then spending your evenings knocking back toffee vodkas while dancing on table tops?

For many, the après-ski scene at famous French Alps resorts like Val Thorens, Meribel and Morzine is as much of an attraction as the skiing and snowboarding on the pistes ̶ if it sounds awesome, perhaps it’s time to try it out for yourself? Skiing on beginner’s slopes is free in many resorts and after a few lessons on easy green runs you’ll be tackling cruisey blue pistes and having the time of your life!

Tip: chat to Alpine holiday specialist Erna Low about arranging a tailor-made ski break.

Deep sea fishing in Jamaica

As well as being the homeland of reggae and an island packed with beautiful beaches, dramatic waterfalls and verdant mountains, Jamaica is also one of the world’s best spots to charter a boat and go deep sea fishing.

Off the Caribbean coast of locations like Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Negril, you can catch everything from Blue Marlin and Wahoo to Tuna and Sailfish while enjoying the vibes and knocking back a few ice-cold Red Stripe beers. Furthermore, most tours are catch and release, so you don’t need to worry about harming the fish or disturbing the ecosystem.

Tip: book a deep sea fishing tour with Island Routes and prepare for adventure on the ocean waves.

Any one of these three action-packed breaks will make your next vacation your best ever ̶ if you don’t do boring holidays, get booking today!

What’s your favourite active holiday? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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July 9, 2020 by Chase Vandros

Sweet Jamaica – 5 Sublime Scenic Spots

When asked to picture Jamaica, some people will sketch sun, sea, and sand in their mind’s eye.

And if you take an all-inclusive holiday to a Jamaican resort you may not get the chance to absorb any more than these basic elements.

As those in the know will tell you, it’s only by venturing off the beaten track that you truly experience the real Jamaica and understand how its majestic natural scenery has inspired a culture with a truly global footprint.

With that in mind, Let’s take a look at 5 sublime scenic spots in the land of wood and water.

Firefly, St Mary

Nestled on a hilltop 10 kilometres east of Oracabessa in Saint Mary parish, Firefly estate is the former home (and burial place) of celebrated English playwright Sir Noel Coward.

This is idyllic setting was also once owned by notorious privateer Sir Henry Morgan and its strategic position offers amazing views over the Spanish Main. When you see the vista for yourself, you’ll understand why Sir Noel found it so deeply inspirational.

Tip: stay the night at Blue Harbour, Sir Noel’s nearby seaside property!

Strawberry Hill, St Andrew

Strawberry Hill hotel in Saint Andrew parish is located in a lush mountainside setting overlooking Jamaica’s capital Kingston.

This charming traditional establishment was a favourite hideaway for reggae icon Bob Marley and over the years many other luminaries from the music world have stayed here. The views are to die for, and the customer service is impeccable.

Tip: when dining here, try the chicken breast stuffed with callaloo.

Pinnacle, St Catherine

Pinnacle is a site of national historical interest in the hills above Sligoville in St Catherine parish. In the 1940s and 50s this is where Jamaica’s first Rastafarian community, led by Leonard Howell, survived by farming the land and observing a religious and moral code with African traditions at its core.

The community was dispersed after a series of raids in the 1950s and the Rastafarian religion then spread throughout Jamaica and around the world thanks to the influence of reggae music.

Tip: hire a reliable car from a site like Enjoy to explore rugged locations like Pinnacle.

Zion Country, Portland

Zion country in the tiny rural community of Long Road in Portland parish is an amazing eco lodge run by Dutch native Free-I.

If your idea of paradise is lounging in a hammock on a rustic veranda, while watching the sunrise over the Caribbean and manatees splashing by the beach, this should be right up your street.

Tip: ask chef Owen at Zion Country to prepare some roast breadfruit ̶ you’ll love it!

Rockhouse, Westmoreland/Hanover

Rock House Hotel is in Negril, which straddles the border between Westmoreland and Hanover parishes in west Jamaica.

Book a private villa in this cliffside establishment and lounge on your private sundeck, snorkel in the crystal-clear water or simply watch some of the world’s most beautiful sunsets while sipping a cool rum punch.

Tip: take a look at this video of Rockhouse for a taste of the magic.

That’s our list! Share your own Jamaica highlights in the comments section!

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March 10, 2020 by Chase Vandros

The Five Best Reasons to Visit India Now

India has risen near the top of vacation destinations because of a variety of reasons. It is one of the largest countries in the world with a vast array of topographies, climates and sights, with dozens of different cultures living together.

A visit to India is sure to challenge and excite you, and leave you with lasting memories. Deciding the best reasons to visit India, is difficult because there are so many great ones. But to give you a sense of why you might want to come, are what we think are the five best reasons to come visit India.

The History

India is a country that has been in existence for more than 4 thousand years and throughout that time it has maintained itself as a place that set standards in terms of cultural significance and leadership. Ancient India presented the world with great rulers who dominated the region. Some of the most powerful include Ajatasatru who presided over a huge Indian kingdom around 500 BCE, His territory covering the northern tip of India, from Bengal in the east to the Punjab in the west, and north into Nepal. And, Samudragupta Gupta who was an Indian Emperor who led the Gupta dynasty from 335-375 AD. He has been called India’s Napoleon because of his mastery as a military general and tactician. Unlike Napoleon however, he was never defeated in battle.

As you peruse the history of the country you will discover great leaders and statesmen and a country that has faced many challenges and endured coming back better and stronger. Today, you can see examples of the country’s great history in its architectural landmarks, and on full display in its writings, artwork, and pictures at museums and galleries around the country, that chronicle the country’s history.

The Culture

Indian culture is recognized around the world as one of the most dominant. The country itself is a melding of many different cultures, languages and histories from the region that today compromise a wealth of richness and beauty. Indians are known for their pride and respectfulness and they exhibit great hospitality to strangers. They have strong family values, elevated the mother and father as nearly sacred. The elders receive and even higher status.

Most Indians are Hindus and strongly religious. A large number are also Buddhist which borrows heavily from Hinduism. These faiths require that Indians treat each other and others well, in order to create good fortune for themselves. As a result, you might find Indians doing good for you even at their own expense. Many visitors come back often because of the culture here.

The Value

Lots of people choose India because it is a vacation destination that delivers value for your money. Whatever your budget, there are hotels, food, and activities in abundance for you. You can also get budget flights to just about anywhere in the country. In fact you can find amazing discounts on your next Air India Express booking. Book in advance for the best rates on flights.

The country attracts the highest end travelers, but can also accommodate those who have meager budgets and want to have a memorable time. The country is constantly voted as having one of the highest “bangs for your buck” in terms of travel value.

The Sights and Activities

No matter what city or region of India you choose to visit, there is so much to do. Whether you enjoy roaming the big cities and discovering world class restaurants nightlife, and shopping, visiting the mountains where you can trek and even sample its world class Yoga and religious retreats, exploring forests where you can find exotic animals and plants, or a trip to get closer to and partake in the the country’s deep spiritual history and beliefs, India is a destination that really does have it all.

A trip to India offers a magical journey into a country that has a glorious history, amazing people and food, and also offers the best in modern conveniences. Come any time of year for a great time.

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March 10, 2020 by Chase Vandros

The Critical Elements of a Luxury Vacation

For most people, vacations are one of the most important events of the year. After working hard throughout the year and doing everything that is required in order to help your comapny along, you look forward to the time when you can just lay back time to relax and enjoy yourself.

For many people, a high-end, luxury vacation is the only way to spend their vacation time and for others, their dream is to have a luxury vacation. Of course vacation is more expensive than a typical vacation, and those who partaken one, have a higher standard expectations. Here are a few of the critical things that you should look for when you are seeking to book a high-end luxury vacation.

A Luxury Destination

Perhaps the most important thing for you to zero in on when you are looking to set up a luxury vacation, is the destination you select. Certain destinations are known to provide the highest end accommodations and activities. They also have reputations for knowing how to treat high-end guests.

One great example of a proven high-end destination, is the Greek island Mykonos. For hundreds of years, high society travelers have come to the island of Mykonos for rest, relaxation and enjoyment. This island, which sits in the heart of the Aegean Sea in southern Europe, has played host to celebrities and royalty.

A Top End Resort

The resort you select at your destination, should also be one with a proven reputation. These accommodations are likely where you will spend most of your time while vacationing. You will sleep here, eat here, and indulge in the amenities that the hotel or resort has to offer. Mykonos has a fine selection of resorts and hotels, and one of the absolute best is the Adorno Suites Hotel at AdornoSuites.com. This five star resort is all-suites and has a private beach at your disposal. You can also rent a room with your own private pool allowing you to experience the highest levels of I can see. Room service is available throughout the property and you can book all types of massage therapists who will give you your massage ensuite. use the concierge to book any of the amenities on the island and to make suggestions for where you can have the best time.

Top End Activities

Mykonos offers a range of high end activities including the best watersports in the Mediterranean. You can tan on white sand beaches, swim in the clear waters and snorkel off the island’s reefs. Rent a charter and go out to do some sport fishing or scuba diving. Rent the boat for longer and you can cruise around the island or go and visit the dozens of other islands in the area.

Hiking and bike riding are also common activity. Explore the island and glide down curving thin streets that have welcomed visitors for more than a thousand years. Visit Mykonos town and take in the unique and beautiful architecture.

You can also view the ancient ruins that are all over the island. See how the Greeks lived 2000 years ago as you trek through the remains of the buildings and into the galleries and museums dedicated to their preservation.

When you get hungry there are lots of lovely places to indulge. Whether you prefer the local Greek food or international cuisine, there are places to select with the finest food available in Greece.

A high-end vacation would not be complete without a throbbing nightlife and Mykonos delivers here. The nightlife on the island is the best in the area and you can select from a number of nightclubs, bars and late night restaurants playing local music.

Mykonos offers the discerning traveler the best in hotels, activities and fun. The island is beautiful and clean, and the locals are welcoming. Come here when you want to have a vacation to remember.

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April 1, 2019 by Chase Vandros

European Destinations that Must be on Your Bucket List

Europe is one of the most beautiful places in the world. If you are planning a trip to Europe you will certainly find this blog very useful as it covers the list of destinations you must include in your Europe tour package itinerary. Also, make sure you book the package through an international travel agent for a well-planned and hassle-free tour. This will not only make your trip more convenient and help you spend quality time with friends and family or friends, but you will also get a good discount on your air tickets, accommodation, fooding and more. That said, let’s take a look at the destinations you must include on your trip to Europe.

United Kingdom

Start your trip to Europe by visiting the United Kingdom. From London to Scotland, there are a lot of places that you need to visit on your trip to the United Kingdom. Do visit Lake District and some of the quaint little towns, before exploring the university towns of Cambridge and Oxford. After exploring London, head to Scotland to explore the untouched and natural beauty of the place. Scotland is also very famous for medieval castles, which you must visit on your trip to Scotland. The scenic destination is a paradise for photographers, thanks to the numerous picturesque destinations.

Switzerland

Switzerland, known for its majestic natural beauty, is a must-visit destination in Europe. Starting from the majestic Alps, quaint villages, castles, museums, placid lakes to cosmopolitan cities, there are a lot of places to explore in Switzerland. A paradise for foodies, you can eat a lot of chocolates, cheese, taste their superb cuisine. Wine tasting is another interesting activity that you need to experience on your trip to Switzerland.

Vatican

Vatican, which is the smallest country in the world, is visited by people from all over the world. The scenic destination has a population of only 770 people; however, none of them are permanent residents of Vatican. This is also home of the Pope since the 14^th Century, which is the reason why it is a spiritual centre Roman Catholics. Some of the famous destinations in Vatican are Saint Peter’s Square and Basilica, the Vatican Museum, and also the Sistine Chapel where Michelangelo spent many years painting the ceiling.

Netherlands

Visit Netherlands to experience the Dutch feeling on your trip to Europe. Cities such as Delft, Amsterdam, Leiden and Rotterdam are some of the must-visit places in Netherlands. Don’t forget to taste their cuisine and taste the Dutch beer. You can either hire a bike to experience the picturesque places in Netherlands or relax on the beaches and sail through the canals. Do visit the world famous Tulip Gardens at Keukenhof to see the miniature city of Madurodam.

France

Your trip to Europe is incomplete without a trip to France. Though France is synonymous to Eiffel Tower, there are a lot more places to visit. France is known for its beautiful beaches along the Riviera, beautiful scenery, historical places and even some wonderful wildlife parks. You can either cycle through rolling countryside or drive through different parts of France countryside.

Wrap Up

When you book a Europe tour package, consider contacting a reputable international travel agent who would not just find help you book the best of services at lower rates, but can also guide you about the things to do on your European tour. Also, make sure you go through the terms and conditions of the travel package to avoid any last minute issues.