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Hidden Secrets of Florence: Things to Do That Most Tourists Don’t Know About!
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 more5 Types of Travelers Who Visit Samoa – Is This You?
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 more5 Reasons to Visit Samoa (Because You DESERVE a Tropical Break!)
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 moreDiscover the Lesser Known Cities of the UAE
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 moreStay in Traditional Khmer Bungalows Near Angkor Wat; This is Siem Reap’s Most Authentic Hotel
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 moreHow to get to Siem Reap (and Angkor Wat)
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 moreThe 5 Best Historical Sites To See In Egypt
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 more5 Things You Shouldn’t Miss on a Long Weekend in Phuket
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 more5 Tips for Your Next Summer Trip to Mexico
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 moreThings to Consider When Taking a Romanian Road Trip
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.
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