As far as tropical getaways go, you can’t beat a vacation to Hawaii. And, when it comes to choosing an island, if you’re after beaches, unspoiled nature, and a place to escape the crowds, you can’t beat the island of Maui.
Maui is the second largest island in the Hawaiian chain, and many believe it is home to some of the best beaches in the world. It has the advantage of being highly accessible, with great infrastructure, though with most people flocking to the Big Island, it’s not overly crowded.
What’s more, you can take a direct flight from mainland USA (California, Alaska, Colorado, Washington, Texas, and Arizona) to Maui (OGG airport in Kahului) without first landing in Oahu.
From sugary white beaches to Technicolor coral reefs, and a diverse range of hiking trails and volcanoes, Maui is an incredible choice of destination. But, before you travel, there are a couple of things you should know.
Read More
As plastic pollution becomes a global environmental priority, governments and political establishments are working towards a greener way of life.
And as responsible travelers, we can show our support for the cities that prioritize responsible living by throwing our tourism dollars behind them, and visiting these destinations over destinations that continue to contribute to the problem.
Cities in USA, Scandinavia and Australia have introduced initiatives to motivate their citizens to start pursuing an environmentally friendly way of life in a sign of independent action against plastic pollution.
In the following article, Waterlogic covers a variety of urban initiatives aiming to overcome global warming. Why not consider your own independent action and install a bottleless water dispenser at home or at work?
Consider the following cities for your next vacation to show you support the fight against plastic pollution.
Read More
We’ve all seen the images; what was once a pristine coastline, with sugary white sand, dazzling waters, and swaying palms, now littered beyond recognition.
From Hawaii’s Kamilo Beach, to Kuta Beach in Bali, and El Gringo Beach which has been nicknamed the “Dominican Chernobyl”, irresponsible human behavior has turned some of the world’s most beautiful beaches into trash heaps.
If we don’t act soon to curb single-use plastics, we are in danger of losing our coastlines beneath a sea of waste. So Waterlogic has put together the following list of the world’s most idyllic and unspoiled beaches to showcase what we are putting at risk.
Whether you’re visiting for their turquoise waters, bleached-white sand, or mesmerizing marine life, each spot deserves protection. Read on to learn about five remarkably untouched destinations.
And, when you visit, please keep them that way.
Read More
We often talk of the most powerful countries in the world in terms of their military, political or economic might, but some countries are powerful due to their influence over our daily lives.
Whether it’s an influence on food, fashion or entertainment, the following countries have a considerable hold on pop culture; they might not influence the world with their tankers or drones, but they do send cultural waves across the globe.
Read More
They are some of our closest relatives, yet unlike humanity’s population, which has exploded to well over seven billion people, world gorilla numbers have been drastically declining.
Trekking through the mountainous jungles in search of wild gorillas in countries like Uganda and Rwanda is one of the most memorable travel experiences you can have; standing face to face with living creatures that resemble us in so many ways.
Though this opportunity, to seek out Mountain Gorillas in the wild, may not be possible in the very near future. The consequences of habitat destruction, poaching, human civil wars, and deadly viruses such as Ebola are wiping them out.
But, it’s not all doom and gloom!
Conservation efforts are under way to preserve this species, so in today’s post we plan to introduce you to the world of gorillas: where you can see them in the wild, and what’s being done to ensure these majestic creatures remain for future generations to come.
Read on for tips on what you can expect on a gorilla trekking experience, how to pack for the adventure, and ways to ensure your experience is a success: for both yourself, and the gorillas in the wild.
Read More
When people dream of the Caribbean, they generally don’t think too hard about what that means; they think of a singular destination, as opposed to a collective region; a region of 28 island countries located in the Caribbean Sea.
28 might seem like a manageable enough number to choose between, though those 28 nations are home to some 7,000 plus islands; each with sugary white beaches, swaying palms, and shimmering reefs.
Combining adventure with relaxation, culture, and history, the Caribbean is a diverse region with something for every type of traveler. If you’re after a tropical vacation you can’t go wrong with one of these.
Read More
Traveling on the Beijing to shanghai train is the quickest and most cost-efficient way to get between these two iconic mega-cities. Because China’s high-speed trains operate at a speed of 350 km/hr, you can travel 819 miles within 4.5 hours.
While this is of course longer than the time it takes to fly (2 hours), there are many perks to train travel, including easier security, the convenient location of stations, comfort of travel, and cheaper cost of ticket.
And, when you consider getting to the airport at least an hour before your flight, and the time it takes you to disembark, collect your bags, and then catch a taxi, train travel actually ends up being around the same amount of time.
So, you’ve decided the book the train between Beijing and Shanghai. What else do you need to know?
Read More
I had never taken a river cruise, and, to be fair, this was my first trip to both Vietnam and Cambodia, though I was fairly certain that a river cruise was the best way to see each country. I had a feeling in my gut that traveling independently by land would mean missing out on half the adventure.
One of the world’s longest rivers, covering 4,000 km from its source high on the Tibetan Plateau, the Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia. It flows from China to Vietnam through six countries (China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam), and is key to the survival of some 300 million people.
From fishing boats to floating markets, river life along the Mekong is vibrant, and has been for thousands of years. And it captures a diversity that you wouldn’t experience by land; a juxtaposition of ancient temples with modern palaces, of imperial cities with traditional villages.
I didn’t want an incomplete picture of from my trip to Vietnam and Cambodia. I wanted to see the major tourist sites, sure, but I also wanted to see daily life come alive in undeveloped and unexplored parts of the region. I wanted to immerse myself in new languages and lifestyles, to shake hands with locals who had never seen a foreign tourist, and really witness local life as we drifted along the Mekong Delta to Cambodia.
And one company stood out in particular.
Read More
Miami International Airport is Miami’s most important source of revenue. It generates billions of dollars every year by catering to the needs of millions of travelers.
Being that MIA is one of the busiest airports in the world, the fact that they are expanding shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. The plan is to spend the next five – fifteen years carrying out renovations that will make the airport leaner, more efficient to travel through.
The city’s aim is to prepare the airport for a time when MIA will contend with over 70 million travelers and four million tons of freight, numbers they could achieve as early as 2040.
But it appears that they haven’t dedicated much of their redevelopment plans to airport parking.
Read More
An archipelago made up of 115 islands set in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles just might be the most relaxing beachside getaway in the world. And all it takes is a quick Google image search for “tropical paradise” before you’re inundated with images of the Seychelles’ many idyllic islands.
Picture this: gently swaying palms, pure white powdery sand, and unrealistic blue seas. Better yet, one of the best things about Seychelles beaches is that they’ve all been made public!
Once a popular hideaway for pirates, where treasure is still said to be buried, many travelers visit the Seychelles to escape reality and lounge on the the world’s most picturesque beaches.
The following is a guide to three of the best, on each of Seychelles’ top 3 islands. I’ll introduce you to the nation’s most popular beaches, as well as those that offer a bit more seclusion.
Read More
Once upon a time, Croatia was on very few people’s radars. Now, it would be fair to say that the jewel of the Adriatic is well and truly grabbing headlines when it comes to travel – and for all the right reasons.
Tourism to Croatia is booming, though it isn’t very surprising that Croatia travel guides are flying off the shelves; this is a country home to more than 1,000 islands, all with amazing beaches, historic ruins, and Game of Thrones style medieval scenery.
Of course, connecting them all is the dazzling sapphire water of the Adriatic Sea; so mezermizing that it ‘sparkles with a jewel-like intensity’.
Croatia is a real treat for history buffs and nature lovers, but rather than focus on individual attractions the country has to offer, this article will look at three areas that the country really excels.
Read More
For a city that receives around 10 million tourists annually, you would think that Florence no longer holds any secrets. But this isn’t actually true.
While it’s no doubt difficult for travelers to find hidden gems that are off the main tourist trail, there are a few places and attractions where you can find a bit of respite from the crowds.
Overcrowding of Florence’s main attractions is not something you can avoid these days, especially during peak season (April to October). Tourist numbers at this time of year can easily outnumber the local resident population.
While the key highlights of Florence are not to be missed, you may wish to explore beyond the guidebooks in order to really dive beneath the surface of what this exceptionally beautiful city has to offer.
So, after an obligatory visit to Galleria dell’Accademia to view Michelangelo’s David, and the fine art of the Uffizi, take some time to blaze your own trail by checking out these often overlooked sights, these secrets of Florence.
Read More
In recent years, rumors have begun to spread about the existence of a small Polynesian nation in the South Pacific Ocean; a series of nine islands that lie halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii.
Defined by its iridescent seas, jade jungles and crystal waterfalls, rumors of this magical place are spreading like wildfire, and it’s unlikely it will keep its title of best kept secret in the Pacific for very long.
Though how do you know if Samoa is a country for you?
Even though it’s is a pretty safe bet in terms of an incredible vacation, what kind of travelers does it suit?
Read More
Craving a tropical vacation? There’s plenty of choice in the Pacific Ocean. From Fiji, to the Cook Islands, Tonga, and New Caledonia, there’s plenty of paradise to go around, and you’re well and truly spoiled for choice with the Pacific Islands.
But while visitors flood into Fiji, and fantasize about ancient Moai on Easter Island, there’s a small nation in the heart of Polynesia which might just be the Pacific’s best kept secret.
Bursting at the seams with intense natural beauty, and with a distinct lack of mega-resorts and superficial attractions, Samoa is an undeveloped tropical paradise, and one of the most authentic Pacific societies.
Instead of nightlife in Samoa, you’ll go to bed early, to wake up with the sun. You’ll snorkel with sea turtles before breakfast, trek through lush rainforests before lunch, discover volcanic sinkholes, and spend lazy afternoons in locally owned beach huts, sipping directly from fresh coconuts.
Not yet convinced? Between thundering waterfalls, white sand beaches, and an ancient culture, the following are 5 reasons to visit Samoa; you’ll be completely bewitched!
Read More
When you think about booking a trip to the United Arab Emirates, visions of sail-shaped luxury hotels and the world’s tallest building usually come to mind. But while Dubai may serve as your entry point to discovering the UAE, there is far more to experience than just the Burj Al Arab and the Burj Khalifa.
With impressive manmade islands and endless luxurious hotels and resorts, major hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi make great introductions to this Persian Gulf nation. However, many of the country’s hidden treasures lie in its lesser known cities.
Read on to discover the hidden corners of the UAE as I introduce you to some truly incredible cities to include on your next itinerary. Experience the country’s authentic culture and history, as well as stunning natural landscapes by visiting cities like Ajman and Al Ain.
The adventure starts with a simple Emirates flight booking. Consistently ranked as one of the world’s Top 10 airlines, flying Emirates mirrors the opulence you can expect across the UAE and makes a great introduction to the hospitality you’re sure to experience within the country.
Read More
I genuinely believe that accommodation should be an experience. A culturally immersive and authentic affair, that transcends the idea of being just a place to rest your head.
In Mongolia, that means staying in yurts (portable, round tents covered in skins and felt, still used by Mongolian nomads); in Tunisia, an ancient cave house. From reed houses in South America, to igloos in Scandinavia, and turf houses in Iceland, traditional living has never been cookie cutter.
So why should our hotels?
Hotels in Siem Reap are ridiculously cheap. But I wasn’t looking for something forgettable this time around. I had traveled more than 5,000 miles to immerse myself in ancient temples of the Khmer Empire, and I didn’t want to shatter the experience by returning each night to a bland, generic hotel.
But where do you search for authentic accommodation? Through Glamping Hub we found an eco lodge with Unique Bungalows near Angkor Wat Temple, Cambodia, luxuriously refurbished inside, with perfectly preserved architectural heritage on the out.
We would stay in a traditional Khmer stilt house.
Read More
There’s a certain magic about Siem Reap; as the gateway to Angkor Wat, this small, compact tourist town is where modern and ancient worlds collide.
Cosmopolitan cafes and modern markets form the epicenter of chic Cambodia, though a short tuk-tuk ride and you’ve stepped back in time.
Siem Reap was built around an empire of ancient temples, and from those reclaimed by the roots of enormous banyan trees, to complexes that were once the royal capital city of the Khmer empire, the city of Siem Reap is an incredible base for authentic adventure.
There’s plenty to do in Siem Reap beyond the temples of course; from the Cambodian circus, to Buddhist monasteries, and back country adventures to explore rural villages fringed by endless rice paddies, swaying sugar palms, and water buffaloes.
But before you focus on things to do (and you won’t be short of things to do!), the first thing to figure out is how to get there; by plane, bus, or boat.
Read More
Egypt is a country unlike any other. It’s true that all great historic nations are rich in culture and architecture, but none can match Egypt for how the past and the present blend together today.
While many famed historic sites in countries such as Italy, Greece, or Mexico, sit in ruin and require imagination, in Egypt, temples, pyramids and sculptures all stand tall and complete, surrounded by modern cities as if they were still in everyday use.
Because there’s so much to see in Egypt, it’s difficult to know where to start! So we’ve put together an overview of the most important sites, so you know what to prioritize.
That’s why we’ve put this short treasure hunter’s guide together for you; the treasures of Egypt are something that every traveler should see with their own eyes at least once in their lives.
Read More
Phuket is a favorite for exotic long weekends, and while there is plenty to do that you could easily fill a full week, even with only 3 days, you can take in a side of the island that is both varied and interesting.
Nicknamed the ‘pearl of the Andaman’, Phuket is an island defined by its spectacular scenery, stunning tropical sunsets, and warm blue sea. There’s fresh seafood, amazing beaches, great weather, friendly locals, and so much adventure!
Traveling to Thailand is one of the most exotic trips you can take, though Phuket is popular for short trips because it’s so easy to navigate. The whole island is well connected by roads, and renting your own vehicle makes it easy to pack the adventure in.
While there’s a huge range of choice for exploring Phuket; diving, nature hikes, massages, or even a day trip out to the surrounding Phi Phi Islands; the following are 5 things you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
Read More
Because of its pristine beaches, year-round warm weather, rich culture and relative affordability, Mexico has proven itself a tourism juggernaut.
Some head there for the all-inclusive resort experiences dotted along the coasts, some travel just south of the US border for a little North Mexican flair, and others prefer to make their way inland to soak in the modern Mexican, and traditional Aztec culture.
But, if you read the travel message boards, a few common complaints persist about traveling in Mexico. Paying too much for flights, packing the wrong clothes, getting sick, or coming up against the language barrier – these are a few of the usual quibbles travelers return with.
In order to address those concerns, and to make the most out of your next summer trip to Mexico, here are five tips you can follow.
Read More
If you’re looking to explore off the beaten path this year, venturing into some of the lesser travelled European countries, Romania should be at the top of your list.
Though many people assume it’s a small country, Romania is, in fact, one of the larger central/eastern European nations, with a land mass a shade smaller than the UK. And it certainly packs a lot into that space!
Romania offers a wonderful blend of history, culture, nature, and religion, and the almost-circular shape of the country means that it’s quite easy to explore the country piece by piece.
Cosmopolitan urban centers boast Gothic churches and medieval buildings, rural villages offer the chance to witness fascinating age-old traditions, and there is plenty of spectacular wilderness to see as you drive.
Wanting to plan a Romanian road trip? You’re in for one heck of an adventure; just make sure you’re aware of the following.
Read More
Does a tropical holiday sound good about now? This week long itinerary will take you from your arrival at Faleolo Airport, through many of the natural wonders, fabulous scenery, culture and relaxation that Samoa has on offer.
Explore the two main islands of Upolu and Savaii while experiencing the best of the rainforest, waterfalls, beaches and cultural attractions along the way.
Read More
My love for Japan is well documented, and I’ve traveled here more than I have any other country. It’s a truly timeless destination where ancient traditions, futuristic technology, and modern culture have all been thrown into the same melting pot.
Japan might seem small on a map, but don’t be fooled – it’s a very large country. And the mainland is absolutely jam packed with cultural icons. So I don’t blame you if you initially find it hard to decide which cities you’ll focus your attention on.
Thankfully though, you don’t need to settle on a single destination when visiting Japan, since their extensive railway network means you can explore the whole archipelago in a way that’s easy, fast, cheap, and comfortable.
There’s genuinely no better way to get around Japan than by rail, and thanks to the JR Pass for foreign visitors, you can do so quite economically. Read on for everything you need to know about the JR Passes and traveling around Japan.
Read More
Well before Las Vegas became a thing, the small European principality of Monaco was the gambling capital of the world, and the name “Monte Carlo” was synonymous with gambling.
Since opening in 1863, the Monte Carlo Casino has remained one of the the finest European casinos to this day: a gambling icon on a mountain top overlooking Monaco, attracting tourists and gamblers from all over the world.
There’s no doubt that the Monte Carlo is one of the oldest such places in the world, and one of the most beautiful … but are there others that exceed its gleam and history?
There are at least two!
Read More
Incredibly, there are almost 100 different attractions to take in when visiting Wisconsin Dells. From Waterparks and Go-Karts, to golf courses and relaxing spas, this is now one of the most popular family destinations in the Midwest!
The sky’s the limit when it comes to the activities available in Wisconsin Dells, and there really is something for everyone who makes the trip, whether you’re coming with small kids or adventurous teenagers.
Below, we outline the different categories of things to do in Wisconsin Dells so you can better plan your itinerary.
Read More