Tasmania is a wild island, packed with powerful landscapes both tranquil and pure, yet at the same time untamed. And it’s one of the safest places in the world to travel right now.
Set in the peaceful Huon Valley atop a hill overlooking Southern Tasmania, Villa Talia is a stunning holiday home which presents as an unassuming Australian homestead, though is packed with treasure in the form of opulent furnishings, contemporary fixtures, and tempting adult luxuries.
It’s an adult kinder surprise, and it’s best to be warned that no matter how much you love your own home, from the moment you step through the door, Villa Talia will forever become the home of your dreams.
It’s like running into the celebrity crush you have a free pass for, and discovering they’re just as eager…
You no doubt love your own home and understand the reality of needing to return, but a few nights with Villa Talia is the ultimate fantasy escape; a home you’ll never want to leave.
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Many travelers to Mexico start out in the country’s capital Mexico City. The city’s historic center is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers up a number of major attractions, and makes a great base for exploring important sites around Central Mexico.
But not too far from Mexico City is another one of the nation’s most popular tourist destinations: Oaxaca City.
Also known as Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca City is located in the state of Oaxaca in central southern Mexico. The region is home to lesser known indigenous pre-Columbian civilizations like the Zapotec and Mixtec, and, much like historic Mexico City, is recognized by UNESCO and has become known as the culinary capital of the country.
Oaxaca City may only be five-hour-drive or hour flight from Mexico City, but it’s a world away in terms of culture and feel. While Mexico City is packed with nearly nine million residents, Oaxaca City’s population only numbers around 300,000.
Explore archeological sites like Monte Albán, natural wonders like Hierve el Agua, and many beautiful colonial-era buildings. Add to this markets filled with beautiful handicrafts and popular annual festivals such as Day of the Dead and the indigenous cultural event known as Guelaguetza.
Read on to discover how easy it is to get to Oaxaca from Mexico City and learn more reasons why you should include this fascinating region to your next Mexican itinerary.
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Every year, more and more people are trading in their 9 to 5 office job for a digital nomad lifestyle. Companies are becoming increasingly more flexible in allowing their employees to work from home, especially since the pandemic hit and they were sometimes forced to.
While it may seem like a dream working remotely from home or wherever you decide to set yourself up, there are a few things to consider before ditching the cubicle.
There are all kinds of careers these days which allow you to become a digital nomad. You can be a website developer, online yoga instructor, or e-commerce wizard selling products on Ebay, Amazon, and Etsy.
Being a digital nomad often means you get to set your own hours and work schedule. You can conduct business from the comfort of your couch or while enjoying a view of the beach. So long as you have a computer and an internet signal, you can begin to capitalize on modern technology and potentially earn a lot of money.
If you’re an independent thinker and think you have the drive and commitment to work for yourself from home or simply want to search for an online job offered by a company that allows you to work remotely, there are a number of tips that can help you get started and succeed.
If you’ve ever wanted to relocate to somewhere warm and tropical like Florida as I did, check out my top tips for becoming a digital nomad in Florida.
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New York City saw its tenth consecutive year of tourism growth leading into 2020, and despite a slight hiccup thanks to the pandemic, it will no doubt be at the top of many travelers’ lists once travel returns to normal.
Although international travel is down across the globe, residents of the U.S. are still heading to NYC and are enjoying the city’s many attractions without the usually large tourist crowds.
On a normal year, there would be well over 60 million tourists visiting the city. Now, families are enjoying taking to New York City’s streets to enjoy this once and a lifetime calmer side of the city.
New York City has always been a leader when it comes to art, fashion, food, and theater. It makes a perfect romantic escape, family getaway, or business destination. It’s a city that activates all your senses and has something for everyone.
The city’s businesses and attractions are taking serious steps to ensure visitor safety, encouraging you to come and see for yourself why New York City is still one of the best cities to visit. Here are just some of the reasons why the Big Apple will always be the apple of travelers’ eyes.
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Tanzania is a spectacular country in East Africa, which fits every stereotype of the romantic image of the continent; from the dramatic wildebeest migration through the famous Serengeti, to the beaches of the Zanzibar Archipelago, and Mt Kilimanjaro.
This is an adventurous destination which has fewer cheap packages than its neighbors; tourism infrastructure is well laid out here, and it’s attractions are far from low-key.
But that doesn’t mean it’s totally impossible for backpacking students, and there are definitely ways you can experience Tanzania on a budget, like keeping your itinerary simple, and your accommodations basic.
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Tasmania is world famous for its pure air, clean water, and crisp climate. And if you landed here without context, to our ‘lush crisp landscape battered by chilly seas’, pulled up to an imposing 19th century Coaching Inn, and were handed a single malt whisky, we’d forgive you for drawing parallels to Scotland.
After-all, you need a very stable, cool climate to brew the perfect malt whisky (not even modern climate controlled warehouses are as good as brewing in the perfect natural climate), and some of the purest air and water in the world.
Which is why Scottish Whisky has become so famous.
While both superb locations for making whisky, the difference of Scotland and Tasmania is that the distilling of spirits was outlawed here from 1838 to 1991. Though since the law was overturned Tasmania has experienced a craft malt Whisky revival, and the artisanal Whisky movement has earned the reputation of ‘Scotland Down Under’.
150 years was a long time for Tasmanians to wait between drinks, but the State’s pure ingredients and passionate distillers have more than made up for it since.
And that 19th century Coaching Inn? It exists! It sits at 26 Main St Kempton. 40 minutes from Hobart, the Coaching Inn is now a cellar door, with a distillery you can tour in the convict brick stables.
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Australia has a long history of sheep farming, and within 50 years of their arrival in 1788, sheep had become the main source of income for Australian industry.
29 sheep arrived in Australia with the British First Fleet. 230 years later, wool markets around the world are dominated by Australian exports, and our country has more than 27 million sheep; raised largely for wool over meat.
Humble farming has defined Australia for centuries, and sheep are considered the iconic Aussie flock; farmers continue to work sheep stations throughout the country to feed and clothe the nation.
A true-blue producing nation, there are now 85,681 farms across Australia, and many sheep properties invite you to stay; to swap those white sneakers for gumboots and experience country life in a real and authentic way.
One such property is Rathmore, an hour from Hobart in Tasmania’s Central Highlands; a historic sheep property settled in 1828, which is unique in offering a choice of accommodation.
Choose to stay in the beautiful sandstone homestead with the land owners, with grand bedrooms and period furniture, or in the historic shearers’ quarters, recently revived to offer a country experience that is rustic chic.
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The phrase “caters to every type of traveler” has become an increasingly overused cliché when it comes to describing destinations. While there may be a number of cities that fulfill the needs of different travel personalities, there are a rather limited number of cities that can really claim to be a leader in so many travel categories.
But whether you’re a business traveler, backpacker, foodie, adventure seeker, eco-tourist, or traveling as a family, you’re guaranteed to love Singapore.
As one of the world’s top 5 most visited cities, Singapore has managed to create a safe, vibrant, and state of the art city. It’s also a “green city” where many of its buildings and skyscrapers have been transformed into living gardens.
This culturally diverse city has become a hub for business travelers, offers plenty of parks and attractions for families, is a melting pot of exotic culinary flavors, offers world-class shopping, and still somehow manages to conserve tracts of nature filled with wildlife.
If you’ve never been to Singapore, check out this Singapore travel guide for first-timers to get the low-down on where to stay, eat, shop, and play (and join this Singapore Facebook Group for travel planning).
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Whether you’re arriving in Dominica by cruise ship, commercial plane, or private jet, this volcanic, rainforest-covered island offers up plenty of ways to simply kick back and relax. It’s Dominica’s adventure scene, however, which makes this a truly unique and rewarding Caribbean holiday.
There’s no shortage of beautiful islands to choose from in the Caribbean, but one gem that is often overlooked in the Windward Islands group is Dominica. Remarkably different than other nearby islands both in terms of culture and natural landscapes, Dominica is finally starting to gain attention as the next hot ecotourism destination.
Having been a filming location for Pirates of the Caribbean, you too can partake in your own exciting adventures including jungle jeep safaris, scuba diving, rowboat river journeys, river tubing, and horseback riding both on the beach and actually in the sea.
Two-thirds of Dominica is covered in rainforest, much of this untouched land home to national parks filled with waterfalls, hot springs, and other natural wonders. While narrowing down the best things to experience in Dominica definitely isn’t easy, here are my top five things not to miss on your next Dominica getaway.
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Restricted to Tasmania during the pandemic, Mike and I have made an effort to explore our home state. Though being ‘confined’ to such a naturally beautiful island with a number of world famous wilderness destinations free of crowds and chaos is far from limiting!
Our experience in the Huon Valley was the perfect balance of wild exploration, while still being able to relax in luxury after days full of dramatic adventure; a balance made possible by checking into the ultra modern Cygnet Retreat.
Nestled in Southern Tasmania just a short drive from Hobart, Cygnet is now known as the place to escape the fast-paced stresses of our modern day to day.
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Growing up in Hobart, I have many fond memories of heading to our family shack along the coast of Southern Tasmania. It had been years since I had returned to this southernmost part of Australia and I was eager to share the area with my American husband.
Basing ourselves in Dover, this region is defined by a culture of holiday homes; you won’t find high-rise cookie-cutter hotels here; it’s authentic living in seaside towns, from cosy waterfront studios, to beach-side bungalows, and locally owned villas in forested surrounds.
Surrounded by wilderness and relaxation, we were fortunate to stay at what must be Dover’s most unique and stunning property, a turn of the 20th century farmhouse that has been very much renovated into a luxury holiday home.
Known as the Peninsula Experience, this unique and secluded property actually boasts two separate houses which includes The Cape House and The Boat House. This is our experience at The Cape House.
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The Huon Valley has long been a popular day trip option from Hobart. After-all, just a 30 minute drive south of the city and you’ll be at the source of some of the finest food and freshest ingredients in the country.
Apple growers, craft cider makers, boutique winemakers, salmon producers, and other homegrown produce means even many locals make the drive just for lunch.
But this is a region defined by more than just its food excellence, and if you’re visiting the State, the traditional day trip from Hobart won’t even come close to doing the region justice.
Because on top of the apple cider, salmon sushi, and mouthwatering apple pie (trust me, you’ll order two servings), the Huon Valley also serves up incredible natural beauty, and a huge range of adventure. And they serve it to you on a platter!
The Huon Valley is full of beaches, caves, thermal springs, and is the gateway to the southern forests and World Heritage Wilderness Walks. You can explore by jet boat, hang glider, foot, or car, and if you’re hungry inbetween, fuel up on produce from local roadside stalls.
The Huon Valley is not a day trip destination. It’s worthy of far more time. We recommend at least four to five days for exploring the region.
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Known as the “Gateway to Southwest Florida”, Fort Myers makes the perfect base for exploring the many beautiful islands that are easily accessible from the city.
Being lucky enough to have called this subtropical paradise home for two years, Fort Myers is a place packed with excitement. Now a major tourist destination, snowbirds from northern cities choose to overwinter here and more and more people are relocating every year.
Islands around Fort Myers are home to abundant wildlife, loads of outdoor recreation including exceptional golfing, and many of Florida’s most beautiful hidden beaches. So we’ve partnered with Hotels.com to bring you a list of our favorites!
Once you’re finished shopping at the outlets and catching a baseball spring training game, be sure to check out these top nearby islands, each offering their own unique attractions and character.
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While millions of people flock to New York City every year, right on its doorstep on the other side of the Hudson River is the State of New Jersey.
The Garden State may feel like an extension of NYC (albeit more leafy!) though with a huge range of distinctly unique food, history, and the famed Gold Coast, there are plenty of reasons to jump across the river.
Totally understandable if the only thing you can name about New Jersey is the expansive white-sand Jersey Shore, after-all it’s easy for NJ to be shadowed by it’s more fame hungry neighbor!
If this is the case we’ve put together an introduction for you to the State – its diverse landscapes, cities, with a bit of rock and roll history thrown in too!
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Located on the coast of Spain, Barcelona is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world, full of charm, ancient history, iconic buildings and monuments like the world famous Sagrada Familia.
This is for the most part because of the early-20th-century architects and artists who lived there, like the incredible Antoni Gaudí, who designed several buildings inside and outside of Barcelona as well.
One of the great things about the city of Barcelona are the several viewpoints which offer spectacular panoramic views of the city. And that’s what this article is all about; where to find the best and most breathtaking views Catalonia has to offer!
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When one thinks of Anaheim, Disneyland is often the first thing that comes to mind. There are, however, many more reasons why people are finding Anaheim the “happiest place on earth” and are choosing to relocate here.
There has been a large increase in the desire for many resident Californians to migrate out of larger cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego in favor of smaller and safer cities like Anaheim.
California’s larger cities like L.A. are starting to become plagued by unbearable traffic, overcrowding, and homelessness which has only been exacerbated by the current pandemic.
Ask any Anaheim moving company and they will tell you they’ve been working flat out to keep up with the demand for families wanting to relocate to a safer suburban lifestyle. So let’s look at some of the many reasons why Anaheim is an enticing choice for Californians or other Americans looking to escape life in the big city!
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Whether you like to refer to it as the French Riviera, Côte d’Azur, or the Azure Coast, this region of Southeast France along the Mediterranean coastline has long been one of the finest travel destinations in the world.
While there is no official boundary to the French Riviera, it roughly runs from just east of Marseille around Cassis eastward until you reach Menton.
The French Riviera was once reserved for royalty and other elite and although it’s still a playground for the rich and famous, there are still countless ways for budget travelers to experience this world famous region as well.
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There’s no denying the allure of casinos. They can be found on six of the world’s seven continents and the only reason they aren’t in Antarctica is because no one wants to gamble with upsetting its precious ecosystem!
Casinos attract people from all walks of life and for many more reasons than simply gambling. From being pampered in luxury hotels, enjoying elegant dining, shopping, and getting more than your fill of world-class entertainment, casinos often have a lot to offer.
But there’s no need to take a gamble on these top 5 casino destinations in the world, as I’d be willing to bet each will provide you with an exceptional travel experience.
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Across the globe, few activities are more highly-anticipated than taking a holiday. Given the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life, a change of scenery and chance to relax in a destination of your choice is always a welcomed relief.
However, before booking a European break, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration. Here are three things I highly recommend you consider before finalizing your European vacation plans.
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Set on the southernmost point in the continental US, Key West looks and feels as though it should belong in the Bahamas. So you’d be forgiven if you thought you’d just stepped foot in the Caribbean!
A laid back place known for incredible cuisine, fishing, diving, and sunset cruises, Key West sits at the end of a much more colorful “red carpet” of coral keys or small islands that collectively form the Florida Keys.
While many may travel to down a margarita alongside a slice of delicious key lime pie under the shade of palm trees, Key West has an incredibly fascinating history; much of which you can still experience.
Though the island may be small at just around 7 square miles, it’s packed with luxurious hotels and resorts in Key West’s Historic District just steps from the world famous Duval Street.
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One of the world’s most beloved hiking trails just so happens to end at one of the most famous wonders of the world. While many tourists take the train to the ancient Inca citadel Machu Picchu, it’s the 4-5 day hike along the world-renowned Inca Trail through the Andes that allows you to really embrace the region and its culture.
The Inca Trail’s roughly 26-mile-long trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu will introduce you to a range of different natural landscapes including clouds forests and alpine tundra, passing numerous ancient Inca ruins along the way.
Here are a few of the highlights along your journey.
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In 1798, European explorers Bass and Flinders sailed along the northern coast of Van Dieman’s Land, known today as Tasmania. They took a colonial sloop and proved that it was indeed an island, separated from mainland Australia by a strait (today called the Bass Strait).
Rowing up the Tamar River to where Launceston is today, their exploration laid the groundwork for some of the first European settlements in the country, and in 1806 Launceston became a township.
It’s easy to first think of Hobart or Sydney when seeking out colonial heritage in Australia, though Launceston has a rich and vibrant heritage, and one of the finest early cityscapes in the country.
Defined by Georgian buildings and Victorian gardens, Australia’s third oldest city is today a shining example of adaptive reuse; with fashion boutiques, bars, banks, and high-tech offices sitting inside colonial churches, town halls, and towers.
And as far as historic hotels? The Leisure Inn Penny Royal is a boutique, family-friendly apartment hotel, set in an 1840’s corn mill.
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Miami’s sun, sand, and surf are enough to lure countless travelers each year, but then you add in fun colorful art deco buildings and an equally vibrant nightlife and you have the perfect getaway destination.
Miami’s art deco and gorgeous sunsets aren’t the only colorful things in Miami though. Scattered around the city are lush subtropical gardens that are as colorful as the many characters that you’ll encounter on South Beach.
You’ll find beautiful green spaces nearly everywhere in Miami, and we’ve partnered with Hotels.com to bring you this list. Many of the most luxurious Miami hotels and resorts even have their own private little gardens wrapped around refreshing pools.
After you’ve had enough tanning and partying on the beach and need to nurse that sunburn or hangover, check out these stunning gardens around the city that will provide you with the perfect detox.
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Antalya is a sea-side heaven located on the coast of Mediterrenean Sea in southern Turkey. It is the country’s second biggest tourist draw after Istanbul, and welcomes millions of visitors each year, known as the gateway to the Turkish Riviera.
When it comes to the Mediterranean, Antalya’s Turquoise Coast offers one of the most sensational coastlines in the region, but beyond its beaches and jade water is a classically beautiful city, rich with history (think ancient Roman ruins), bustling with markets, and rich in traditional Turkish food.
Many visit Antalya and set up at their sea-side resort, though for those wanting to balance out their time at the beach, the following are great things to do.
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The scene is set; a summer’s day, a lush Scottish glen, centuries of history, competitors ready to battle it out … it’s Scotland’s iconic Highland Games – but not as we know it this year.
In 2020, for the first time ever, the Scottish Highland Games have been held virtually, and everyone can have a front row seat to the very best of Scottish culture and competition!
The Highland Games are a traditional feature of summer across Scotland, particularly in rural areas. Dating back over 1,000 years, Highland Games are a celebration of Scottish and Celtic culture, centered around a variety of competitions such as heavy athletics, piping, drumming and Highland dancing.
Whether you want to re-watch the action, find out more about the history behind the games, or stage your own Highland Games from home, there are plenty of ways to get involved this year, albeit in a physically distanced and virtual way!
Here’s how you can be part of the action!
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