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- 5 days in Cyprus: ultimate travel guide about this beautiful island and best spots!
Cyprus, nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, is a year-round destination with something for everyone. If you're looking to enjoy warm sunshine in the autumn months, Cyprus can offer the perfect getaway even for 5 days, with pleasant weather lasting until the end of November. I had the opportunity to explore Cyprus and was instantly captivated by its stunning nature, delicious food, and friendly locals, who are justifiably proud of their beautiful island. A vacation in Cyprus offers a wonderful mix of culture, nature, history, gastronomy, and authentic experiences. Through the unique "Heartland of Legends" program, visitors can participate in local workshops and sample regional specialties, bringing them into close contact with Cypriot life and people. Participation is free for travelers, and local businesses are compensated by the government—a fantastic initiative! Discover in this travel guide why Cyprus deserves a spot on your bucket list. Day 1: Arrival in Larnaca to spend 5 days in Cyprus From Brussels, there are several direct flights to Cyprus. We chose TUI and made a short stopover in Paphos . The flight took about 4 hours and 20 minutes. You can also fly from Amsterdam, USA, uk, France to either Paphos or Larnaca . Upon arrival, greeted by a pleasant 23°C evening temperature in October, we were transferred to our first accommodation, Lordos Beach in Larnaca. Here, we were immediately introduced to the delicious Mediterranean cuisine, with a spread of mezze, a variety of salads, meats, fish, pastas, and a dessert buffet to finish off the meal. Day 2: From Larnaca to the Troodos Mountains After a refreshing night's sleep, we took a morning stroll through the old center of Larnaca . At the end of the Foinikoudes promenade, where palm trees offer plenty of shade along the seafront, you'll find the medieval castle. This is one of the last remaining forts, built between the 11th and 17th centuries to protect the city from pirates. Larnaca is the second-largest city in Cyprus after Nicosia and the only one with both a port and an airport. Just a short walk from the fort is the Church of Saint Lazarus , a beautiful Orthodox church built in Byzantine style. It is said to house the tomb of Saint Lazarus, hence its name. After soaking in the history, it was time for a drink at Sunmoon Hospitality , where we were treated to a "Brandy Sour," my new favorite cocktail! Made with the local anise-flavored spirit Zivania, lime juice, honey, and pink grapefruit soda, it’s a refreshing Cypriot delight. Another must-try drink is Commandaria , the world’s oldest sweet wine, perfect on its own or in cocktails. For lunch, we headed to the picturesque mountain village of Kakopetria , one of Cyprus’ most colorful villages with narrow, cobblestone streets adorned with flowers and many Cypriot cats. Fun Fact : Did you know that Cyprus has more cats than people? According to legend, they were brought here in the 4th century by Roman Empress Saint Helena to drive snakes out of a monastery. Before entering the village, you pass the Panagia Podithou Church , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of Byzantine architecture dating from the early 16th century. In the heart of Kakopetria , we dined at Linus Inn , where the owner’s mother taught us how to make stuffed vine leaves (Koupepia) and allowed us to sample delicious zucchini flowers (Athoi). We enjoyed a typical Cypriot mezze, similar to Greek tapas. After this feast, we continued our journey to the Troodos Mountains , where we stayed overnight in Platres . We planned to hike part of the Kaledonia Trail the next day. Our accommodation was Petit Palais Hotel , one of Cyprus' oldest hotels, dating back to the 1960s tourism boom. Day 3: Nature and Local Encounters Our morning began with a hike to the Kaledonia Waterfall , the highest waterfall in Cyprus at 13 meters. The level 3 hike was quite manageable, leading us through forests of cypresses and oriental plane trees. Thanks to the sunshine, we were treated to a beautiful rainbow by the waterfall. Our next stop was the village of Foini , where we participated in a pottery workshop led by Giota , a local artist who still prepares clay traditionally. This hands-on experience gave us insight into her craft, and we enjoyed creating our own piece. Alongside the pottery studio, we sipped on Cypriot coffee, a blend of coffee beans and chickpeas, traditionally served with water and a small biscuit. In the afternoon, we visited Omodos , a charming and bustling village surrounded by vineyards. Its main attraction is the Timios Stavros Monastery , well worth a visit. We enjoyed a delightful mezze lunch at Katoi Restaurant , followed by a stop in Doros , one of the ten villages permitted to produce Commandaria wine . The Karseras family treated us to a glass of this sweet red wine, a must-try for visitors. On our way to Paphos , we passed by Petra tou Romiou , the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and fertility. According to legend, she was born from the sea foam here. The day ends in Paphos where we will stay at the Athena Beach Hotel . This is the largest hotel in Cyprus, with as many as 500 rooms. There are several swimming pools and direct access to the beach. The hotel is particularly suitable for families but also for couples, so you have a separate pool for families and adults. Entertainment is also provided in the evening, so there are all kinds of folk dances performed and you can venture out to the Sirtaki. Day 4: Aphrodite’s Baths & Akamas Blue Lagoon After breakfast, we visited the Aphrodite Baths , where the goddess supposedly bathed. Surrounding the baths are beautiful walking trails, and there’s even a quad bike circuit for the adventurous. We then boarded a small cruise to the Akamas Blue Lagoon , where the water was an inviting, crystal-clear blue. Snorkeling gear was provided, and although the marine life was minimal, the warm water made for a refreshing swim. We lunched at Y&P Fish Restaurant in Latchi harbor, enjoying the freshest seafood mezze, including shrimp, calamari, sardines, and more, all freshly caught from the sea. On our way back to Paphos , we stopped at Barakas Lounge to enjoy a spectacular sunset with a freshly made cocktail in hand. We dine this time in Paphos town at the local Pagkratios Tavern where the terrace tables are almost all occupied by locals (always a signal that the food is good). Notable here are the several tables where only men are eating. Apparently they have something to celebrate. There is also an orchestra playing consisting of two Cypriot musicians who sing as well as play their instrument at the same time. Regularly one of the men at the table next to us gets up to dance to the music. Wonderful to see! While watching the local people dance, we again enjoy the most delicious mezze dishes and although we had asked for small portions, again so many delicious dishes are conjured up on the table that with the best will we cannot eat them all. We spend the night at the Athena Beach hotel in Paphos. Day 5: Archeological Discoveries Near Limassol and Colorful Villages Our final day in Cyprus began with a visit to the Kourion archaeological site, where we explored the remains of the House of Eustolios . The site showcases beautiful mosaics that mark the transition from the Roman era to early Christianity. The old theater is also worth a visit. Its beautiful location near the sea makes it very special and you can still enjoy a theater play or concert there today. The acoustics are excellent. We had lunch under a centuries-old plane tree at Platanos Roushias , followed by a visit to Lefkara , a charming village famous for its lace and silverwork. A local woman invited us into her home, where we admired the handmade lace pieces that the village is known for. I ended my 5 days in Cyprus with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Lefkara , surrounded by blooming bougainvilleas and pomegranate trees, grateful for the warm encounters with locals, delicious Cypriot cuisine, and unforgettable experiences. Looking for more travel inspiration? Read our brand new magazine ! *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- Discover stunning autumn colors at Bilderberg Hotels in the Netherlands
As October arrives, it heralds the autumn season—a wonderful time for scenic walks, where you can immerse yourself in nature's vibrant display of yellow, red, and brown leaves. Mushrooms begin to spring up everywhere, with the striking red-and-white fly agaric being the most iconic, despite its peculiar name. One of the best places to experience these autumn colors is in and around the National Park De Hoge Veluwe in the Netherlands. Color the Fall I was invited by the renowned Bilderberg hotel chain to experience their "Color the Fall" package. With this package, you can enjoy a two-night stay at Bilderberg, complete with an extensive breakfast buffet. You'll be treated to an autumn-themed snack platter with delicious bites to enjoy with your drink. The hotel also offers various marked walking routes, and a delightful autumn surprise awaits in your room. Under a pleasant autumn sun, we set off for Oosterbeek, located in the Gelderland province of the Netherlands. Upon arrival at the Bilderberg Hotel in Oosterbeek, we received a warm welcome and were given a wonderful walking route for the local area. You can also start a forest walk directly from the hotel's parking lot. If cycling is more your style, you can rent bikes at the hotel, but be sure to book in advance, especially if you want an electric bike. Experience the colors of Autumn with a Forest Ranger A special activity at Bilderberg in Oosterbeek is the opportunity to walk with forest ranger Aart. He leads walks through the Veluwe and the hotel's surrounding area, helping you experience the scents and colors of autumn through his expert eyes. Aart will tell you about the various tree species and their beautiful autumn leaves, as well as the many types of mushrooms that seem to pop up everywhere. Tip: With the ObsIdentify app, you can take a photo to identify the mushrooms you encounter. You might also want to bring a small mirror to view the undersides of the mushrooms! Aart will also explain how autumn affects the local wildlife. Some birds migrate south for the winter in search of insects, while species from Scandinavia come to the Netherlands to overwinter. Roaring Deer Autumn is the perfect time to spot red deer and roe deer. From mid-September to early October, it's mating season in the forest, and you'll often hear the distinctive roars, known as "burling," of the stags. The deer also grow their winter coats, shedding their old fur. However, some animals, such as hedgehogs and badgers, start preparing for hibernation, and you might not see them at all. Top Walking Routes Around Bilderberg Oosterbeek Deelerwoud Trail, Veluwe This beautiful walking trail, located between the Hoge Veluwe National Park and Veluwezoom, offers a peaceful oasis. You’ll wander through forests, heathlands, and stunning landscape scenes. Tip: You can park for free at the Deelerwoud parking lot along the N804. Follow the green markers for this trail. Just a few hundred meters in, you’ll likely encounter some impressive Scottish Highland cattle, often lying right in the middle of the path. These robust cows thrive outdoors year-round and help naturally maintain the landscape. A bit further along, you might see a glider soaring above the forest, as you’re nearing the Terlet gliding airfield. This area is also a prime spot for spotting deer grazing on the lush grass. Don’t miss the scenic views over the Kleine Heide, and as the trail continues through Deelerwoud, you’ll pass bird-breeding areas. Keep an eye out for the Stonechat, Skylark, and birds of prey like the Hobby and Buzzard. The walk is roughly 12 km—perfect for a morning or afternoon adventure. Explore Autumn in Hoge Veluwe National Park You can also opt for a walk or bike ride through the Hoge Veluwe National Park. Entry costs €13.50 per person, which includes access to the renowned Kröller-Müller Museum , named after the art-loving couple who once owned the estate. Parking outside the entrance costs €4.65 for the day, and driving your car inside the park costs an additional €9.25. In autumn, the park is open during these hours: October: daily from 9 AM to 7 PM November: daily from 9 AM to 6 PM One of the best things about the park is the free use of the famous "white bikes," which you’ll find at each park entrance. There are also child seats available. You can borrow these bikes for the duration of your visit. The Hoge Veluwe National Park is the ultimate destination to admire the breathtaking autumn colors in the Netherlands. Its sprawling forests, heathlands, and sand drifts create a stunning landscape during this season. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks or bike rides through the vibrant scenery, with the picturesque backdrop of golden leaves. The park also offers cultural highlights, such as the Kröller-Müller Museum, home to works by Van Gogh and others. Don’t miss the chance to spot wildlife like red deer, wild boar, and roe deer, especially in the evenings. Activities in Autumn: Walking trails through colorful forests and heathlands Biking with the free white bikes throughout the park Wildlife spotting during special observation sessions Visiting the Kröller-Müller Museum for art enthusiasts Hoge Veluwe is perfect for a fall adventure full of nature, culture, and tranquility. Stay at the Bilderberg Hotel The Bilderberg Hotel is nestled in the woods and offers ample parking. The superior rooms are elegantly furnished, with separate bathrooms and showers. There’s also an indoor pool where you can relax after a long walk, as well as a sauna and hammam. For dinner, you can choose between the Italian restaurant Asturia or Julia’s Kitchen, both offering a selection of dishes. Before our meal, we enjoyed the delightful autumn snack platter that was part of the special fall package, featuring tasty cheeses, game pâté, and fine meats—a perfect pairing with our aperitif. In the morning, you’ll be treated to a delicious breakfast buffet with various breads, toppings, yogurt, pancakes, and much more. Another nice touch at the hotel is the complimentary coffee, tea, and water available in the hallway for you to enjoy as much as you like. Although we were invited to experience this package and hotel, all opinions in this article are our own and completely honest. More information about visiting the Netherlands? Check it out here . Looking for more travel inspiration? Read our brand new magazine ! *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- Discover the magic of Villa de Leyva: 5 best things that you must visit!
This charming town, located about a 4-hour drive from Bogotà should definitely not be missed on your tour of Colombia. It is one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Colombia, with beautiful architecture, cobbled streets and charming squares. The immediate surroundings of this fun city also have a lot to offer, you can go on beautiful nature walks and there are some great sights within walking distance. 5 best things to do in Villa de Leyva Stroll over the Plaza Mayor in the heart of Villa de Leyva This impressive square is one of the largest in South America. Enjoy the surrounding colonial buildings and sit on a terrace to leisurely take in the relaxing atmosphere. You will also find plenty of delicious restaurants here such as: Mercado Municipal or La Osteria Taberna Casual . During cultural events like the Festival de Luces, where thousands of candles light up the streets, and Semana Santa (Holy week around Easter), it is extra special to visit this city and experience the local culture. Discover artisanal traditions and gastronomy Villa de Leyva has a thriving artisan community, here you can find unique handmade products such as pottery, textiles and juwellery. Villa de Leyva is surrounded by fertile land, making it a hub for fresh and organic produce. Several restaurants in the area make use of these local ingredients. You can enjoy dishes prepared with local fruits, vegetables, meats and cheeses, ensuring a delicious and sustainable dining experience. Besides local cuisine, Villa de Leyva also offers international cuisine, you can choose between Italian, French, Mexican and Mediterranean. What you should definitely not forget is to visit La Galleta Pasteleria , here you just have to taste the milhoja! It's a kind of millefeuille pastry with dulce de leche. Delicious! Visit the unique and largest Terracotta House in the world This extraordinary structure, also known as Casa Terracotta is definitely worth a visit. It is certainly not just another house but a real work of art designed down to the smallest details by Colombian architect Octavio Mendoza. Originally, the intention was to actually live in it, but due to global media attention, there were too many visitors and too little privacy to use it as a permanent residence. So it soon became a special attraction in the Villa de Leyva area. The entire building, from the walls and ceilings to the furniture and decorative elements, is made entirely of terracotta clay. Besides its artistic and architectural beauty, the Terracotta House is also an example of sustainability and eco-friendly design. More information such as opening hours and entrance fees can be found here . Go hiking to the Pozos Azules Pozos Azules means as much as 'blue ponds', these are within walking distance of Villa de Leyva and are also well worth a visit. Note that you cannot swim in these ponds as they contain sulphur. There are 7 of these ponds and around them you can take a nice marked walk. Although they are called 'blue' ponds, the colour is rather green.The last part of the walk is quite steep uphill and there is no shade either, so best to bring a cap or hat and plenty of sun milk. Admire fossils in the Museo El Fosil At this museum, you can admire the almost complete fossil of an aquatic dinosaur in addition to numerous fossils. The museum is open daily from 8am to 5.30pm. Where to stay in Villa de Leyva? This hotel was our favorite! Highly recommended is the Sie Casa hotel in the centre of Villa de Leyva. You will have spacious rooms in a very cosy setting, there is even a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy breakfast or a cup of delicious Colombian coffee with beautiful views over the city. Very centrally located and close to all sights. More questions about Colombia? Feel free to ask them in the comments! *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- What do you need to know when visiting Tayrona National Park?
Tayrona National Park is a spectacular destination located in the northern region of Colombia. It's the most popular national park in Colombia. This protected area, which covers approximately 15,000 hectares of land, is home to a diverse range of wildlife, ecosystems, and archaeological sites, making it one of the country's most significant natural and cultural treasures. The park is situated on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, near the town of Santa Marta. It is bordered by the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, which is the highest coastal mountain range in the world, and the Caribbean Sea, creating a unique and stunning landscape. The park's geography is characterized by rocky cliffs, white sand beaches, coral reefs, and lush tropical forests. What do you need to know about Tayrona National Park? Tayrona closes it's doors every year for a few weeks As Tayrona National Park is also a holy place for the different indigenous tribes living there it closes three times a year for two weeks. This is so that the indigenous tribes can perform their rituals in peace, for maintenance of the trails and so that nature can recover from all the hustle and bustle. Tayrona NP is closed in 2024 on following dates: 1st until 15th of February 1st until 15th of June 19th of October until 2nd November There are two different entrances to the park The main entrance is El Zaino. This is the best entrance as the paths are well maintained and if you want to stay for more than 1 day you can rent a tent there as well. To visit Tayrona National Park , visitors must pay an entrance fee and follow the park's rules and regulations. Entrance fee in 2023= 15€ The park has several camping areas, as well as a few eco-lodges and cabins, for those who want to stay overnight. We visited the park in one day and walked the trail towards Cabo San Juan and back. An overview of the distances, you can see on the map above. I would recommend taking the shuttle bus from the entrance to the start of the hike as it can be very humid and hot in the park and the road isn't very exciting to walk on. Decide if you want to stay 1, 2 or even 3 days If you would like to stay for longer than a day you can go to the camping area in Arrecifes. You can choose staying in at tent or hammock. that way you can visit the park more at your own pace and enjoy a wonderful sunset and/or sunrise. Chances of encountering wildlife are higher in the early morning or in the evening, when the area gets more quiet. Remember to book in advance or be at the entrance of the park (El Zaino) at 8am when the park opens , you can book a tent or hammock at the entrance. If you would like to stay 2 nights you can decide to hike up to Playa Brava. This part of the park is less visited as most people only go to Cabo San Juan. The hike up takes at least 3 hours and the roads aren't maintained very well. So it's a quite adventurous experience. There is only one accommodation available in Playa Brava, Ecolodge Playa Brava Teyumakke so it's necessary to book online. You can walk from there in about 2,5 hours to the exit Calabazo. What do you need to pack for visiting Tayrona National Park? Cool cotton clothes, a bathing suit & towel, pants and long-sleeve shirts for protection from insects and branches that can scratch the skin and from the sun. insects repellant sunscreen & sunglasses Powerbank blister patches bottle of water Resistant and adequate footwear to protect your ankles and water resistant shoes for the beach areas. Hat, cap, sunglasses and a light rain jacket for the rainy season. Identity documents and a valid health insurance card: you need to present your original passport at the entrance! There are less snakes in the Caribbean than in the Pacific region, nevertheless, it is best to take an all-purpose antivenom, that must be applied by a doctor according to the recommendations of the Colombian National Serpentarium. Faqs What are the opening hours of Tayrona national Park? Park hours are from 8 am to 5 pm Do you need vaccinations for entering the park? No, but being vaccinated against yellow fever is recommended. Can you swim at all beach areas? No, at some beaches it's not safe to swim, like Arrecifes for example. Can you visit the indigenous communities? You may encounter some indigenous people inside the park however their sacred places are forbidden to visit. How many people can visit Tayrona National Park? The daily capacity of the park is 6900 people. Wildlife inside Tayrona National Park Tayrona National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, iguanas, and a variety of bird species. If you're lucky, you may even spot a jaguar or a sea turtle. If you decide to stay for more than one day, there's more chance to encounter the local wildlife. Try to avoid visiting Tayrona on weekends or national holidays Tayrona can be quite crowded as it's the most popular National park in Colombia. If possible try to avoid visiting the park during weekends or national holidays. In long weekends (around 15/year) people in Colombia go visiting popular spots in their home country with the whole family. So it may occur that the park is more crowded on Mondays and Fridays as well. So it's best to schedule your visit avoiding these periods. National Holidays in 2024 Where to stay near Tayrona National Park? I would definitely recommend to stay close to Tayrona and not visiting the park out of Santa Marta or Taganga. There are many nice places to stay nearby and you don't have to get up so early in the morning to make it to the entrance at 8 am. We have chosen for the hotel Senda Koguiwa . This beautiful hotel is at about 5 minutes walk from the park entrance. TIP: On the way to the entrance you will pass several shops on the road, I would advise to buy some water and a snack there. We stayed here for three nights. Directly behind the hotel you can find the river and you can have a nice walk there around sunset. The hotel also has a very large pool and convenient spacious rooms. The restaurant is very good and you can also dine in the sister hotel Senda Watapuy only a few minutes away. Overall, Tayrona National Park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Colombia. With its stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history, the park offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers & adventure seekers. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- Minca: 5 fun things to do in the jungle
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia, the small town of Minca has become a popular destination for travelers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the country's larger cities. Known for its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning views, Minca has quickly become a favorite among backpackers and nature enthusiasts. How to get there? To reach Minca, most people travel out of Santa Marta. we took a flight from Medellín to Santa Marta, which is situated about 45 km's from Minca. The road leading up to it is winding and steep. However, once you arrive in Minca, you'll find that the journey was well worth it. You can choose to take a bus from Santa Marta to Minca or take a taxi. The beautiful nature, waterfalls, amazing birdwatching and the views over the jungle make it to one of the most beautiful spots in Colombia. Where to stay? There are many options in Minca but we preferred going up the hills to Masaya Casas Viejas . To reach this hostel (which also offers private rooms with a private bathroom) you need to take a jeep in the village of Minca to take you up. The views from this hostel are priceless, there's a great infinity pool from which you have a direct view on the jungle and the beautiful birds. The restaurant has a terrace and some lovely relaxing spots. It's recommended for backpackers but as it' is also an extraordinary place to stay we decided to book a private room here and enjoy the views from our hammock on the terrace as well. Things to do in Minca Check out the waterfalls One of the town's biggest draws is its natural beauty. Minca is home to a number of stunning waterfalls, including the popular Pozo Azul and Marinka falls. Visitors can hike through the surrounding forests to reach these waterfalls, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. At Marinka falls, the most beautiful one, there's a restaurant and some hammocks to chill in. I would highly advice to go as early as possible. Visit a coffee farm Minca is also known for its coffee. The town is home to a number of coffee plantations, and visitors can take tours to learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the local brews. The coffee in Minca is known for its unique flavor profile, thanks to the area's rich soil and ideal growing conditions. Finca Victoria is one of the oldest coffee farms in North-Colombia, founded in 1892. You can visit here directly from Casas Viejas, as there is a hiking trail that leads to the coffee farm. Go birdwatching Another popular activity in Minca is birdwatching. The town is home to a number of exotic bird species, including toucans, parrots, and hummingbirds. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the surrounding forests and spot these colorful creatures in their natural habitats. I was so happy to have my binoculars with me as I could watch so many birds surrounding the hostel and while hiking up in the neighborhood. Take a yoga session early in the morning For those seeking a more relaxing experience, Minca is also home to a number of yoga and meditation retreats. These retreats offer visitors the chance to unwind and connect with nature in a peaceful, serene environment. I had an early morning yoga session at Casas Viejas, a great experience in this beautiful environment. Hike up to the sunset spot view Directly from Casas Viejas you can hike up the hill to a wonderful sunset spot nearby, only 20 minutes away. From there you can even watch the lights of Santa Marta and the Caribbean Sea. Anymore questions about Minca? Feel free to ask them in the comments below. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- Things to do in Yucatan? Find out the best hotspots!
Mexico had been on my bucket list for quite some time, last December we finally managed to visit and chose for the Yucatan peninsula. This region of Mexico is not only quite safe but also the most visited. If you are looking for the authentic Mexico experience, the best places to visit are Valladolid, Bacalar, and Merida. If you love the beach and the underwater world, make sure to add Isla Cozumel, Tulum, Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox to your list. Practical Information and Travel Tips for Visiting Mexico Arrival: When you arrive at Cancun airport, you need to fill out an immigration document. Although there is a kiosk suggesting a digital download, the airport's Wi-Fi is unreliable. You'll receive the document at the immigration desk. Keep the paper you receive until the end of your trip! Time Zones: There’s a time difference between Yucatan and Quintana Roo. For instance, Valladolid it’s one hour earlier than Cancun/Tulum, … Wildlife spotting: Bring binoculars to spot the abundant wildlife, especially birds. Tipping: Tipping is customary in Mexico, usually around 10 or 15 % . However, if the service is subpar, tipping is not obligatory. Snorkeling Gear: If you love the underwater world, bring your snorkeling gear. The best places for snorkeling are Bacalar, Akumal, El Cielo and the cenotes. Cilantro: Coriander (cilantro) is added to almost every dish. If you don’t like it, request your meal ‘sin cilantro’. Traveling Around the Yucatan Peninsula Car rental: While you could hire a car, it’s best to book in advance with a reputable rental company like Sunnycars . Roads are generally good, but the driving style differs from Europe. We rented from a local company, and the car's condition was poor. Buses: For intercity travel, we used Adobusses . They offer a reliable and punctual service. Download the app to book tickets in advance, especially during high season. The buses are affordable, air-conditioned (bring a sweater), and have comfortable seats. No extra fees for luggage, but keep valuables with you on the bus. Bikes: For local travel, we often rented bikes. Avoid hotel rentals as they tend to be pricier. Local rentals are in good condition cost about 50 $ for four bikes for two days in Tulum. Taxis: Taxis are affordable,, but always agree on the fare before getting in. Prices range from 40 to 120 pesos. Colectivos: Colectivos are a cheap and popular way to travel. These mini-vans, used by locals, cost around 40 pesos for trips like Valladolid to Chichén Itza . They run frequently and usually have air conditioning. Recommended Itinerary for 12 Days in Yucatan Peninsula Route: Cancun – Isla Cozumel – Tulum – Bacalar - Valladolid – Cancun Alternatively, consider Isla Mujeres or Isla Holbox instead of Isla Cozumel. We skipped Playa Del Carmen and Cancun due to their crowds, staying only one night in Cancun upon arrival. If you arrive in the morning, head straight to one of the Islands. Things to Do in Yucatan Isla Cozumel Accessible by a 30-40 minutes ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, choose between Ultramar or Winjet (the latter being faster and cheaper). Sit outside if you arrive early enough. Stay: The west coast near San Miguel de Cozumel is ideal. Avoid staying near the cruise terminal. Our favorite hotel on Cozumel is Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa . Activities: Island tour: hire a car (with full insurance) and visit Playa Palancar, a beautiful public beach with a bar/restaurant and some resident raccoons. It’s also a starting point for snorkeling or diving tours to El Cielo and the reefs of Palancar & Colombia. Punta Sur Eco Beach park : the entrance fee is worth it for the stunning views, bird-watching, and the crocodile lake. Arrive before the park closes at 4pm. El mirador: Stop here for breathtaking photos. Restaurants: Hemingway’s & Sereno offer beautiful views, perfect for sunset dinners and great food. Tulum We stayed in Pueblo Tulum as the beach area was very expensive during the holiday season. Renting bikes made it easy to access the beach area, cenotes and local sights. My favorite place to stay in Tulum is Wakax Hacienda & Cenote Boutique Hotel, check it out here . Must-Visit Places: Tulum Mayan Ruins: Entry is 80 pesos per person. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the stunning seaside location with its sunbathing iguanas. Tulum Ruins are open daily from 8am to 5pm. Cenotes: Cenotes Cavalera: Small but adventurous, requiring a jump to enter. Cenote Aktun Ha (Car Wash): Near the Tulum-Coba road, it's a crystal-clear swimming spot, home to a turtle and a resident crocodile. Cenote Azul: Popular among locals. It features clear water and a jumping platform. On this picture my daughter and I are wearing our swimsuits from byjessicarey . We absolutely love these because they are beautiful, comfortable and 100% made from regenerated materials (like rescued fish nets), no sweatshops involved either! Beaches: Visit beach clubs or the public Paradise Beach. While the famous ‘Ven a la Luz’ statue is no longer at the entrance , Raw Love Café is still worth a visit. Akumal: a dream spot for swimming with sea turtles. Entry requires a guide and life jacket, costing 400 pesos (about 20$) per person. We reached Akumal cheaply via colectivo. Restaurants: Raw love café : Great for vegan breakfast or lunch. Del Cielo : The best breakfast in Tulum Pueblo. Burrito Amor: Heavenly guacamole and burritos. Bonita Tulum’s Burger bar: Excellent burgers and live music. Sabor de Mar: Delicious food at reasonable prices, despite the half-hour queue. Bacalar A three-hour Ado bus ride from Tulum, Bacalar offers a quieter, more autenthic atmosphere. Activities: Lake Bacalar: perfect for sailing , kayaking and snorkeling. Los Rapidos: Known for it’s seven blue shades lagoon and ‘living rocks’. Open daily from 9am to 6pm. Cocalitos: Relax in hammocks or swings in the water. Restaurant: La Playita offers amazing lake views and excellent food. Valladolid Located in central Yucatan, Valladolid has a one-hour time difference from Bacalar. The four-hour drive is worth it for its authentic charm and proximity to Chichén Itza. Must-Visit Places: Colonial Center: Enjoy Francisco Canton park and the beautiful Calzada de los Frailes street. Don't miss Wabi Gelato for the best ice-cream in town or a Marquesita from a park food stall. Cenotes: Visit Samula, Ik Kil, Oxman, and Suytun. Chichén Itza: A new wonder of the world. Hiring a guide is recommended to learn about Mayan culture. Entry is 600 pesos per person (about 30 $). Despite the vendors, it's a must-see. Book a guided tour here . Accommodation We stayed at Le Muuch Hotel , which I highly recommend. With excellent rooms, fabulous décor, two swimming pools, cozy relaxation spots, and a great breakfast, it's a perfect blend of luxury and affordability. Restaurants: Bazar Municipal: Offers great, cheap food stalls. Casa Conato: Serves excellent Mexican food in a lovely garden. Papparazi: Authentic Italian food by a real Italian chef. A medium pizza is ample for two. You can find the full itinerary of this trip on the app Travogram, check it here. Plan Your Affordable Luxury Trip to Yucatan I hope you enjoyed reading about the things to do in Yucatan and discovering its hidden gems. If you need help planning your trip or want more information, feel free to contact me. Yucatan awaits with its blend of affordable luxury, iconic landmarks, and unique destinations! *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- Best places in North Thailand? Check out my Northern Thailand Travel Itinerary!
Thailand is an amazing country. We visited the North, Bangkok, Kanchanaburi and the South. We had the opportunity to do this trip together with local friends, which made it even more special and authentic. It was a trip to never forget! This first blog post will cover the best places and things to see in the Northern Thailand. Sawasdee Ka! Welcome to Northern Thailand How to get there Most people will arrive in Bangkok, and from there, you have a few options to reach Chiangmai: Night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai : This takes about 11 hours and is a budget-friendly option. First class bookings are recommended for comfort. Flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai : This takes about 1 hour and is still cheap with airlines like AirAsia. Car rental: Driving yourself takes around 10 hours without stops, but you can make interesting stops in Ayutthaya and Sukhothai along the way. We decided to take the night train to experience the local public transport. Pros: It’s an easy way to get to the North. You arrive early in the morning. No need to pay for a hotel night. Onboard toilets and shower, beds made by the train staff. Families can book connected cabins. Con’s: The train makes many stops, even during the night. Limited visibility of the landscape as it gets dark early. No food available on the train, so buy provisions beforehand. Even First-class sleeping isn't very comfortable. Once in the North, it's best to book a car hire or private driver to get around. Chiang Mai has many temples to visit that not close to each other. Northern Thailand Travel Itinerary Visited Places: Chiang Mai – Doi Suthep – Chiang Dao – Pai – Doi Inthanon Chiang Mai In Chiang Mai, you need at least 5 days to explore. If possible, include a weekend to visit the Weekend Night Market. Stay: We stayed at Lamphu House , a budget friendly hotel close to the city center and the airport. Very clean rooms, an industrial design, a nice swimming pool, and a great breakfast, it's excellent value at about 25 USD per night, including breakfast. Note that there is no elevator, and we stayed on the 2nd floor. Fun things to do: Visit the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary : We researched to find an ethical and ecological sanctuary where elephants are well-treated. This sanctuary impressed us with its dedication to positive change. (no poaching, riding, overworking or abusing) We did the morning tour and enjoyed feeding, bathing and washing the elephants. Hotel pickup and a Thai lunch are included. Find out more about elephants in Thailand in this interesting article of my dear friend Jenny. Follow a Thai cooking Class : We loved the Akha Kitchen evening class, where we cooked 11 dishes. For those who want to buy ingredients at a local market, the morning class is recommended. It’s a fun way to learn about Thai cuisine and culture. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Doi Suthep is the most famous temple in Chiang Mai, located high in the surrounding mountains. Chiang Mai. We visited in the evening to catch the sunset, and the view over the city was breathtaking. Tips for Visiting Temples in Thailand: Always take off your shoes Cover your arms and legs Chiang Dao This small village is located at the base of Doi Chiang Dao Mountain, 75 km from Chiang Mai. The main attraction here is Chiang Dao Cave, which extends for almost 12 km. You can explore the lit areas on your own or take a guided tour deeper into the cave with a small oil lamp. Watch out the many bats! Stay: near Chiang Dao is without any doubt: The Tree House Hideaway offers a unique and luxurious experience, and was one of the highlights of our trip. Pai Pai is a small village in the northwest with a cool, laid-back bohemian atmosphere. It's popular among backpackers, with many shops and bars on the main street. In the evening, food stalls offer delicious streetfood. Stay: Pai Village Boutique Resort , in this beautiful boutique hotel along the banks of Pai River. It has a beautiful garden with rustic wooden cottages. We also loved the delicious breakfast here. Things to Visit Near Pai: Yun Lai Viewpoint : A 10-minute’s drive offers stunning views. White Buddha Tempel: A meditative walk up 353 stairs leads to this majestic white Buddha overlooking Pai. Free entrance, open daily from 6 am to 6pm. Doi Inthanon A visit to this highest mountain (2565 m) is a must. Doi Inthanon National Park, known as “The Roof of Thailand”, covers an area of 482 km2. We visited in April, and the cooler temperatures (around 16 °C )during our hike were refreshing. The park features beautiful waterfalls and diverse bird species (around 500 different species). Entrance fee: 300 Bath, Car: 30 Bath Opening hours: daily from 5:30 am to 6:30 pm (Except for Kew Mae Pan Trail: closed from June to October) Practical Tips for Traveling in Northern Thailand Transportation: Renting a car is convenient, but buses and trains are also reliable and affordable. Currency: The Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available, but carry some cash for smaller purchases. Weather: Northern Thailand can be cooler than the rest of the country, especially in the mountains. Pack accordingly. Food and Dining Northern Thai cuisine is distinct and delicious. Don’t miss out on trying these local dishes: Khao Soi: A creamy, spicy noodle soup topped with crispy noodles. Sai Oua: Northern Thai sausage made with herbs and spices. Sticky Rice with Mango: A sweet and satisfying dessert. Conclusion We very impressed by the beauty and nature of Northern Thailand. Although April is the hottest month and also burning season, it’s not the best time to visit. The best period to visit Thailand is from November to February. Want to read more about our trip? Check out my complete travel itinerary and more Thailand content here. Plan your Affordable Luxury Trip to Northern Thailand I hope you enjoyed reading about the Northern Thailand Travel Itinerary and discovering its hidden gems. If you need help planning your trip or want more information, feel free to contact me. Northern Thailand awaits with its blend of affordable luxury, iconic landmarks, and unique destinations! *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- Maldives Travel: Preserving Our Oceanic Wonders
Are the Maldives so attractive as they appear in the magazines and travel brochures? We had the pleasure to explore the Maldives and I can say that I felt like paradise found. Crystal Clear Waters and Luxurious Maldives travel Accommodations The water is as crystal clear as can be, the beaches are pure white and the Maldives luxury accommodations are very luxurious, especially if you choose a water villa, like we did. We had chosen to stay on Dhaalu Atoll which is about 40 minutes flight-time with a seaplane from the international airport of Malé, Capital of the Maldives. If you stay on an Atoll closer to Malé, it’s possible to take a boat as well. But as we went for the full Maldives travel experience, we loved taking the seaplane. Your gateway to Maldives Paradise Trans Maldivian Airways is the world’s largest seaplane fleet. Upon arrival in Velana International Airport, Malé, you are welcomed by representatives from your Maldives resort (if you booked via the hotel, they provide you with a transfer and assist you all the way). First your luggage will be put on a scale. Make sure that it doesn’t exceed 25 kg! Which includes 20 kg of checked-in luggage and 5 kg of hand luggage per person. This might be different from the international flight to Malé, so if you need to take the seaplane to arrive in your Maldives hotel take this into account when packing. Tip! Be aware that the seaplane only operates between sunrise and sunset, so check the timings of your international flight, if you arrive after sunset you will need to book a hotel in Malé for one night. You will be transferred by bus to the terminal of the seaplane, where you can enjoy the lounge area and have some free breakfast/lunch and drinks. The experience on the plane was amazing, the views from above on the different atolls are spectacular. Choosing Your Maldivian Retreat The Republic of Maldives is the smallest Asian country by land area and therefore also the least populous. With a chain of 26 different atolls containing 1192 coral islands there are a lot of islands to choose from. We have chosen for Dhaalu Atoll and more specific for the Sun Siyam Vilu Reef . The resort was amazing and especially our water villa where we could go snorkeling from our terrace straight into the crystal-clear sea. There are 3 restaurants on the island, the main restaurant Aqua, and 2 specialty restaurants The Spice (Indian/Italian) and Well Done. They also have an excellent wine cellar, where you can join some wine-tasting events. Want something extra? Try ‘destination dining’: you can choose between al fresco breakfast at sunrise to a sunset dinner on the most private corner of the island. Another plus for this resort is the fact that the reef starts at a few meters from the beach, so it’s a snorkeler's paradise but also great for Scuba diving. Engaging Activities and Marine Life Encounters Apart from the facilities in the resort, you can also book some extra excursions or take diving classes. At the sports center you can rent: snorkeling equipment, kayaks, SUP boards, Jet ski, catamaran (with captain) & surfing equipment. Why not try the fly board or go on a sunset dolphin cruise? At the diving center you can take scuba diving or snorkeling classes, book diving tours. We booked the exclusive excursion to swim with whale sharks. A once in a lifetime experience. Snorkeling in the Maldives: you will meet an amazing number of beautiful fish, from very small clown fishes to the big Napoleon fish. But also Manta rays, sea turtles and many different varieties of sharks. Watching the feeding of the stingrays was also a nice experience: every day at 5pm the stingrays were fed with pieces of tuna. You could watch it from the terrace of the Nautilus Bar which had an excellent sunset view as well. Not only stingrays arrived at this daily treat but also some yellow fin riff sharks. Awareness & Sustainability in the Maldives As this beautiful place on earth needs to be kept that way, please try to look at the resort you will be staying at about their policy on sustainability in the Maldives. These resorts will have a resident marine biologist with a variety of roles: educating guests, enhancing their experience, monitoring the house reef and contributing to research projects, such as coral planting programs and partnerships with organizations like ‘ Parley for the Oceans ’ , ‘ The Manta Trust ’ or ‘ Olive Ridley Turtle Project ’. Maldivian coral reefs experienced two severe bleaching events in 1998 and 2016. In 1998, 90% of the shallow hard coral died because of elevated sea temperatures. It took 16 years for reefs to recover the pre-bleaching. In 2016 there where 2 months of accumulated heat exposure. (Heat wave) Hard corals bleached again in almost all reefs surveyed. So, climate change is also hitting hard on the Maldives. Programs such as coral micro-fragmentation could be a solution. Let’s hope we can all work together and preserve these precious oceans and sea life. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- Visiting Salento, what to see in this charming little mountain village?
Salento is a small town located in the coffee region of Colombia, nestled in the Andean mountains at a height of around 1900 meters. It is known for its charming colonial architecture, beautiful countryside, and delicious coffee. How to get from Bogotà to Salento in Colombia? There are two ways to go from Bogotà to Salento. By bus: this is the cheapest choice, in Bogotà you can take the bus from the Terminal de Transporte to Armenia, what will take about 7 hours. In Armenia you need to take another bus to Salento, which will take one more hour. By plane: a little more expensive but if you book in advance it's still quite cheap. Viva Air & Avianca are good local airlines. The flight is only one hour to Armenia or Pereira. From there you can take a taxi to Salento. It' s a one hour drive. TIP: Ask your accommodation to order a taxi upon arrival at the airport so you can leave right away. It will cost you around 25-30 € How many days in Salento? I would advise to stay 2 days/3 nights in Salento to discover the main things to do. Things to do in and around Salento Go hiking in the Valle de Cocora One of the main attractions in Salento is the Valle de Cocora, a stunning valley filled with towering wax palms, the national tree of Colombia. These trees can become around 60 meters high and are the tallest palm trees in the world. You can take a hike through the valley and admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Choose between the short or long hike: The short hike will take you about 1,5 hours and will only show you the valley and palmtrees. The long hike takes around 5 hours and is definitely our favorite! The jeep will drop you off at the entrance and then you start your walk towards the cloud forest where you will cross several small suspension bridges. After reaching the finca on top (which is now a private house, but still possible to go the toilet or ask for a drink) you will walk downwards through the valley with its amazing beauty. How to get to the Valle de Cocora from Salento? At the main Plaza de Bolivar in Salento all jeeps depart towards the different activities in the surroundings. The colorful and completely packed Willy jeeps will bring you to the Valley in approximately 30 minutes and the ride will cost around 1 € (4000 pesos), the first jeeps will leave around 7 am as the weather is usually better in the morning it's a good idea to leave early. TIPS: As people sometimes get lost during the hike, it's a good idea to download a map on the app: maps.me. Don't forget your sunscreen, rain clothes, enough water, some snacks, good hiking shoes and some toilet paper. Visit a coffee farm Another popular activity in Salento is visiting a finca, or coffee farm, to learn about the process of growing and harvesting coffee. Many fincas offer tours and tastings, allowing visitors to try some of the best coffee in the country. We visited Finca El Ocaso . Take a view on Salento from above In Salento you can walk to the viewpoint 'Mirador Alto de la Cruz' where you will have a nice view on the village and surroundings. You will need to climb around 200 steps. Especially at sunrise or sunset this is a good idea. Stroll through the streets in Salento or go shopping In addition to its natural beauty and coffee culture, Salento is also known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene. The town is home to many artisanal workshops and galleries showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. Where to stay in Salento? There are a lot of accommodations in and around Salento, we stayed at Ecohotel La Cabana , this hotel is a bit outside the city of Salento but the owner is happy to take you to Salento in his car for free. This operating farm is located on the way from Salento towards Valle de Cocora. They arranged the Willy jeep to pick us up in front of the hotel! Breakfast and dinner are full of local farm products. If you like horse riding, they also offer horse riding tours through the valley. Coffee is available all day at the farm and occasionally they offer a bbq, which was a real treat. Overall, Salento is a charming and picturesque destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the countryside, Salento is sure to delight. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- Colombia: 5 Reasons why you should experience this fascinating and colorful country
Travelling in this country is an amazing experience. When people used to think of Colombia, they often thought only of cocaine, cartels and civil wars, but these days you hear very different stories. Almost everyone asked us the same question: “Are you going to Colombia? Is it safe?”. Well, I can assure you it is perfectly safe and now is the best moment to go as it’s not overcrowded with tourists yet. Today the stories are about beautiful nature, trendy cities with a lot of creativity and friendly locals who are very willing to show you their beautiful country. Colombia is on its way to become the most popular travel destination in South America. You should discover it now as this hidden gem will be discovered by mass tourism soon. You can find our full itinerary here: (for more information about our full itinerary please check Travogram ) Amazing nature and wildlife to discover We were surprised how green this beautiful country is. Nature is well preserved and the Colombians know this is one of the main attractions of the country. Hiking in Colombia is a great experience and you will see many different types of nature and wildlife. Our favorite hikes were Valle de Cocora (near Salento) where you can find the tallest palm trees in the world, Tayrona NP in the North of Colombia, where it’s hot and humid & Jardin, which isn’t known by many travelers yet. We didn’t go to the ‘lost city’ but if you like hiking this must be on your list when visiting Colombia. Very friendly local people Colombians are very friendly and helpful people. They are proud on their country and want to show you the best parts to visit. If you speak a little Spanish, the contact with the local people will absolutely add extra value to your experience. We were lucky to stay with a local family in Acacias, Meta and had a wonderful time there. Vibrant and trendy cities We visited three of the biggest cities in Colombia: Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena. They all three had different vibes but had one thing in common: good atmosphere, trendy bars & restaurants, a lot of creativity (make sure you book at least one street art tour). The smaller cities like Salento and Guatape are amazing too because of their colorful streets. Special places to stay and accommodation In Colombia, although it’s not very crowed yet, you have a lot of different places to stay to choose from depending on your budget. As we are more into luxury hotels or extraordinary places to stay, we found some true paradises there, like Bosko in Guatape and Senda Koguiwa near Tayrona NP. But staying in Casas Viejas by Masaya (which has more hostel vibes) was an unforgettable experience as well. It’s one of the cheapest countries in South America to visit Although the flights can be quite expensive and prices have gone up a bit, it’s still quite cheap to visit. The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP): 1000 COP is 0,20 EUR. In the cities you will find ATM’s and you can pay almost everywhere with your credit card. Only in smaller places you will need some cash. Don’t take too much money with you while walking in the streets. Food and drinks are cheap, you can enjoy a local beer for 1€. Domestic flights are still cheap too, we did three domestic flights with Avianca and Viva Air . Bus services are good as well, but sometimes the distance is so large that spending 9 hours in a bus for around 25 €, a one-hour flight for 50 € might be the better choice. FAQ’s Is Colombia a safe country to travel to? Yes, it is. The places described in our itinerary are all safe. In the big cities like Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena you need to be careful (but that is the same all over the world). Don’t walk alone in the dark, book your accommodation in a safe part of the city and leave valuable jewelry and watches at home. Do I need to speak Spanish? There are only a few Colombians that can speak English. In the hotels in the big cities this will not be a problem, but the menu in restaurants will be mostly only available in Spanish. It’s a good idea to download Google translate so you can use it offline. If you don’t mind learning a bit of Spanish yourself, the app Duolingo is a great idea! Which local transportation should I use? I wouldn’t recommend hiring a car as driving in Colombia can be dangerous. It’s very busy and driving rules aren’t always respected by the locals. In the big cities Uber is a great way to go around. Although it has been officially forbidden since 2020 in Colombia a lot of people are still using it. It’s a good idea to buy a local SIM card and install Uber. If you take a taxi, make sure you ask for the price before you get in and see if the driver uses a meter. If you take domestic flights, try to book in advance as prices go up and last-minute tickets can be quite expensive. Flying in the weekend is more expensive than on a weekday. Do I need a world plug? Yes, you do. It’s best to take a few of these with you. What’s the best time to travel to Colombia? Travelling to Colombia is possible throughout the year. There are only two seasons in Colombia: - the dry season: December until March and July until September. - Rainy Season: April until June and October-November Besides the weather it can get busier at the end of December until half of January as the local people will have their holidays and Colombians are traveling more in their own country these days. Also, public Holidays can best be avoided especially when visiting Tayrona NP or Cocora Valley. Most important public holidays are: - 22-25 February: Carnival in Baranquilla - April: Semana Santa, in the week before Eastern - 20 July: Independence Day As temperatures can vary a lot in Colombia, in Bogota it's usually between 15-20 °C and in Cartagena it can be 31°C or higher, you need to pack for different weather conditions. More questions? Please ask them in the comments below. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- Savor the Luxurious Essence of France's Champagne Region
The Champagne-Ardenne region of France is an enchanting destination rich in culture, history and natural beauty. This region is known worldwide for its sparkling champagne and picturesque landscapes. I would like to take you on a journey through the diverse areas of Champagne-Ardenne, from the charming south around Troyes to the historic north around Épernay. Discover the hidden gems, taste the famous bubbles and experience the unique charm of this exceptional French region. Discover the champagne houses in Champagne-Ardenne Some fun facts about champagne that you can use when tasting and possibly purchasing your favorite champagne brand. The regulation of the name 'Champagne' Champagne is a protected name to be used only for sparkling wine produced in the Champagne region of France, according to strict rules and traditions. This is so stipulated in international trade and wine laws. This protection ensures that the quality and origin of champagne are always guaranteed. Sparkling wine from other regions and countries may only mention 'méthode champagnoise' on the label. Informational codes on champagne bottles Did you know that on the label of each champagne bottle there is a number that refers to the origin and production of the champagne? You can find the following codes: RM (Récoltant-Manipulant) : this means that the champagne is produced by the vintner, made from his own grapes. NM (Négociant-Manipulant) : this code indicates producers who buy grapes or basic wines to make champagne. CM (Coopérative de Manupulation) : these are cooperatives of winemakers who produce champagne together. RC (Récoltant-Coopérateur) : these are vintners who bring their grapes to a cooperative and then have the champagne produced and sold there under their own brand. After this code follows a number e.g. RM-12345-1 or NM-12345-2, so there is always a number 1 or 2 at the end, what do these numbers mean? Number 1 : refers to the producer's primary location (often the best champagne grapes) Number 2 : indicates a secondary location This information can certainly help you choose the best champagne houses. In Champagne-Ardenne there are numerous champagne houses, in each village you will find several winemakers who make their own champagne. Both in the south (the region around Troyes) and in the north near Epernay and Reims you can choose between different types of champagnes. Look here at the map of Champagne region in France. Best champagne houses to visit Small champagne houses Visiting small champagne houses offers an accessible introduction to the world of champagne. These wineries often offer tours and especially tastings that provide more insight into the production process and the passion behind each bottle. Some pro-tips: A visit to the smaller, simple champagne houses is also best booked in advance Keep in mind that some smaller champagne houses also charge a fee to taste the champagne, on average 15 €/person. Often you don't have to pay anything if you buy a few bottles. Top champagne brands that are among the smaller champagne houses: Didier Ducos , rue Julien Ducos 9bis, 51530 Saint-Martin-d'Ablois This charming, small champagne house is located in the heart of Champagne-Ardenne. Family-run for many years, it is known for its dedication to traditional production methods and personal touch. In fact, you will receive a very warm welcome here by the lady of the house, who will be happy to let you taste numerous champagnes. We loved the premier cru l' Absolutien and the La Rosée. We also bought a special Cuvée Absolu Boisé, with wooden label and string on the stopper. On these bottles you will find the code RM and a 1 at the end. So they produce their own champagne from their own first quality grapes. Tip: this champagne house does not require you to pay to taste 2. Autreau Champagne , 7 rue René Baudet, 51160 Champillon This smaller champagne house, whose delicious champagne, by the way, we tasted in a renowned restaurant in Antwerp, is known for its excellent champagnes and rich family tradition. The roots of this renowned house date back to 1670. The vineyards are located on the slopes of the Montagne de Reims. Both the elegant brut and refined millésimes could charm us. (Millésime means that only grapes from 1 particular vintage were used). We bought here the premier cru as we tasted it earlier in Antwerp. These bottles have the code NM and a number 1 at the end. Tip: this champagne house does not require you to pay to taste 3. Champagne Mathelin , 4 rue des Gibarts Village "Cerseuil", 51700 Mareuil Le Port This family business cultivates its own vineyard and produces refined champagnes. Again, you get a warm welcome and can taste their most refined champagnes. We particularly liked the L'Orée des chênes here, this champagne was kept in oak barrels over an extended period of time and bottled in 2016. The Lady Coraly brut, a champagne inspired by Coralie Mathelin is also a good choice here. Also on these champagnes you will the code RM, with number 1 at the back. Tip: There is a charge of 15€/person for tasting here, if you buy at least 6 bottles of champagne this fee is waived. 4. Champagne Crucifix Père et fils , 3 allée de la livré, 51160 Avenay Val d'Or In this small champagne house, the 5th generation is now at work. Wife of the house Carole, is happy to explain to you where the vineyards are located and the composition of the terroir. Again, you get to taste several fine champagnes. Here we chose the Tradition, premier cru. The bottles list code NM and number 1 at the end. So they also buy grapes from other producers. Tip: in this champagne house you do not have to pay to taste 5. Champagne Hostomm e , 5 rue de l'Allée, 51530 Chouilly This champagne house has been around since 1930 and combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to produce exceptional champagnes. Like the Vikka, located 60 meters deep on the ocean off the coast of Brittany. In this spot, ravaged by swell and wind, a symbiosis between the seabed and the chalky terroir of the Champagne region takes place in an almost mystical way. We bought the Gourmandise demi-sec there. These bottles also have the code NM printed on them. Tip: this champagne house charges 15€ per person for the tasting, unless you make a purchase of at least 75€ Expensive Champagne brands If you are looking for a luxurious experience, you can visit prestigious champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon in Epernay or Veuve Clicquot in Reims. They offer a glimpse into the rich history and sophisticated production methods. Visits to these houses usually include a tour of the impressive cellars and conclude with a tasting. Also in these exclusive champagne houses there are numerous brands to choose from to visit, we chose the house Leclerc Briant because of its exclusivity (such as the gold-plated wine barrel and the latest new "Kronos," whose wine barrel is made of titanium inside). Champagne Leclerc Briant , 67 Chemin de la Chaude Ruelle, Epernay Champagne house Leclerc Briant, located in Epernay, is known as a pioneer in biodynamic viticulture. In 1966, it was Pascal Briant who started a radical conversion to biodynamic viticulture, a holistic approach that balances the ecosystem in the vineyards. No chemicals or pesticides are used but only natural preparations. This results in healthier grapes and a richer terroir. Champagne Leclerc Briant purchases its grapes from various biodynamic vineyards, which is why you will find the code NM on the bottles. It produces 200,000 bottles annually. Considering that about 340 million bottles are sold in the Champagne region, this is certainly not one of the largest Champagne houses. The Champagne produced at Leclerc Briant is kept in barrels for 9 months, some in wooden barrels, which are kept moist so that the wood does not absorb too much of the wine. Just before bottling in July, there is tasting to assess which flavors would make a good blend. In addition to wooden barrels, Leclerc Briant's cellars also have terracotta and limestone barrels from Italy made from natural materials, which then give the champagne a different touch. Their golden barrel is currently the only one in the world; according to the latest findings, this gives a pure, strong flavor to the champagne. Their most exclusive champagne at the moment is the Abyss, it has lain as much as 60 meters deep in the ocean for 1 year. This method enhances the good initial mineral reduction. After the very interesting tour of the company, our visit ended with a tasting. We were very charmed by the taste of the Brut Rosé and, of course, the exclusive Abyss. Attractions in the South of the Champagne region In the south of the Champagne-Ardenne region, the following places are absolute must-visits: Visit Troyes: a hidden gem in the Champagne region of France This medieval town still has many beautifully preserved half-timbered houses, and you walk through numerous picturesque cobblestone streets and lively squares. What also particularly struck us in this city was its outstanding cleanliness. You can easily follow the mapped out walking route "the historic circuit" via the triangles marked on the road. What must you see when visiting Troyes? The Cathedral of Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul This magnificent Gothic cathedral with its unique stained-glass windows is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The historic center Les Halles This covered market offers an authentic French shopping experience with fresh produce, local delicacies and artisanal goods. We bought La Prunelle de Troyes the original liqueur here. Explore Le Lac de l'Orient: a natural oasis in the Champagne region This large lake is located in the heart of Champagne-Ardenne. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. What activities and attractions can you find there? water sports and recreation: a real hotspot for water sports enthusiasts, you can sail, windsurf, kayak and swim. hiking and biking trails: you will find numerous well-marked hiking and biking trails, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forests. nature reserve: you can visit the nearby Forêt d' Orient, this protected nature reserve is home to numerous flora and fauna. picnic and family fun: you can enjoy a picnic on the shores of the lake where picnic tables are provided in many places. In addition, you will find very nice playgrounds. Tips for visiting best time to visit: spring and summer for the outdoor activities and in autumn for the beautiful colors of the landscape facilities: more than enough parking places, facilities such as toilets, cafes do not forget: binoculars to spot various bird species and of course your camera visit restaurant Le Belvedère in Mesnil-Saint-Pere (12 rue du Lac), this is an absolute must to enjoy a delicious dinner on the terrace overlooking the lake during sunset. Attractions in the North of the Champagne region Experience Épernay in the heart of Champagne This city is also not to be missed when visiting the Champagne region. This charming city offers a nice mix of rich history, architectural splendor and, of course, the world-famous champagne houses! Sightseeing in Épernay Avenue de Champagne: this legendary boulevard is definitely worth exploring. You will find the most prestigious champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon, Pierre-Jouët and Mercier. Hôtel de Ville: Surrounded by a lush park, this magnificent neoclassical town hall offers an oasis of calm in this city. Le Ballon Captif d' Épernay: For a different perspective on the city, you can step into this balloon and get a stunning view of the city and its surrounding vineyards. Tip! If you are still looking for a good restaurant with tasty local cuisine, I can definitely recommend La table du 18. Location: 5 Place Auguste Chauvet, 51150 Tours sur Marne (about 15 km from Épernay) Closed on Monday and Tuesday, other days open between 12-14h and 19-22h30, except Wednesday and Sunday only from 12-14h. If you travel further North, you can also visit the city of Reims, which has a lot to offer. Since Reims was not on our itinerary, this city will not be discussed now. Where to stay in Champagne, France? Sharing our favorite addresses Joie de Vivre in Doulevant-le- Chateau, 13 Rue Haute Joie de Vivre is definitely a well-chosen name for this wonderful Chambres et table d'hôtes in the southern Champagne region. We were very warmly welcomed here by Isabelle and Pieter, 2 Belgians who decided 6 years ago to move to France and bought this beautiful property. It's become a fabulous Chambres d'hôtes. The majestic house had once belonged to a general of Napoleon according to Pieter and has lost none of its charm. In the backyard you can relax and enjoy a welcome drink on the terrace. Weather permitting, both breakfast and dinner can be served on the terrace. In summer it is also great to take a refreshing dip in the pool. Pieter proudly showed us our beautiful spacious rooms with also very spacious and comfortable private annex bathroom. We slept there wonderfully. Isabelle provides the culinary treats of dinner with great passion. Please note if you wish to dine, you do need to book in advance. I can highly recommend this, besides the delicious homemade dishes Joie de Vivre also has an extensive wine cellar and of course you can drink delicious champagne. What makes it extra cozy is that all guests dine together at a long table where the host and hostess like to come after dinner to sit and chat some more. In the morning you are spoiled with a delicious breakfast buffet with homemade bread, pastries and jams. Pieter also asks if you would like another egg. Fresh fruit juice, coffee and tea are also available on the extensive buffet. There is an enclosed private parking lot on the property, and Pieter and Isabelle will be happy to provide you with any information about any attractions in the area. They are also happy to call a restaurant to reserve a table for you. In short, Joie de Vivre is a real hidden treasure in the Champagne-Ardenne region, where most guests definitely return. Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa, rue de la Republique, 51160 Champillon This beautiful 5-star hotel, from the owners of Leclercq Briant has a fantastic view over the vineyards. From the lovely terrace where you have both the Abysse bar and the bistro Le Bellevue, you can enjoy a tasty snack or dish with great views of the surrounding vineyards. Be sure to book in advance if you want a table at Le Bellevue. Want an exclusive dinner? Then book a table at Le Royal, this gourmet restaurant you will enjoy a culinary journey prepared by chef Paolo Boscaro, with his delicious interpretation of the Champagne region. The restaurant was therefore rightly awarded a Michelin star. ` The hotel has 47 luxurious rooms and suites, all with balconies or terraces and stunning views over the vineyards. All rooms were also decorated with natural materials, with the interior architect taking inspiration from the natural and cultural materials of the region. Literally a dream to wake up in. Be sure to pamper yourself in the hotel's spa & wellness area. Here too you have a beautiful view of the vineyards, there is an indoor and outdoor pool, as well as a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzis, yoga studio, gym & beauty bar. Various treatments are also offered here, which you should also book in advance. Only myBlend and Clarins Precious products are used. Furthermore, the hotel also supports all kinds of sustainability initiatives: for example, as little energy and water as possible is wasted and they maintain a strict plan for waste. As much bio-waste as possible is also composted. They also work with "Côteaux propres," an organization that collects waste in the vineyards after harvest. Finally, the hotel offers numerous activities such as: a visit to a champagne house, bicycle tours with electric bikes, baby carriage excursions in the vineyards, horseback riding, hot air balloon rides and a boat trip on the Marne. To make reservations, click here . Finally, some practical tips to properly prepare for a visit to the Champagne region in France: 1. Best travel time to visit Champagne region? The best time is between May-October. During these months the vineyards are in full bloom and the weather is also pleasant. September is harvest time and there are numerous festivities and activities. 2. How can you reach Champagne-Ardenne? The region is easily accessible from Paris. There is a train connection from Paris Garde de l'Est to Reims or Épernay, this ride takes about 45-60 minutes. By car, it is about 150 km from Paris. You can also book several tours from Paris, discover them here . 3. Which cities to visit in Champagne-Ardenne? As described above, there is a southern and a northern region. The most impressive cities to visit are Troyes (in the south) and Reims and Épernay in the north. 4. What local dishes should you taste? Besides champagne, the Champagne-Ardenne region also has a number of culinary specialties such as the 'Biscuit Rose de Reims' and the 'Jambon de Reims'. Delicious to combine with a glass of champagne. 5. How many days do you need to explore the Champagne-Ardenne region? If you only want to visit the region around Reims/Épernay you can do so in two or three days. However, if you also want to explore the southern region, I would allow at least 5 days. The Champagne-Ardenne region is a beautiful and sensory experience that you should definitely put on your bucket list. Besides the delicious champagne, you will also visit numerous picturesque villages, meet the friendly locals, enjoy the beautiful nature and delicious gastronomy of this region. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
- New York - our favourites for first timers by @Gapbeetle
We absolutely love New York City. The energy is intoxicating, the skyline is spectacular and the food is constantly surprising. We are lucky to have been numerous times and even lived there briefly, so it aways feels like home. However, the speed of life and towering scale of Manhattan can feel overwhelming on a first time visit and many visitors don’t go beyond well trodden Mid Town sights and Times Sq. They are massively missing out. So, here’s our tips on how to get the most out of this dazzling city that never sleeps during your first time in New York. This guestblog is brought to you by @Gapbeetle , click on the link to visit their website. Museums to visit on your first time in New York: Manhattan is home to some of the best museums in the world. The Met stands out as everyone’s favourite. We’re not saying don’t go, but do be warned that you could spend days absorbing its remarkable collection (it has endless rooms of instantly recognisable post-Impressionist art, galleries of sumptuous Egyptian artefacts, an actual temple and a reconstruction of a room by Frank Loyd Wright for starters). So, if you’re short on time pick a more manageable museum like the Frick or the Cloisters for traditional art - or the Tenement Museum for history. The Tenement Museum in the Lower East Side gives super informative and eye opening tours of its collection of historic New York Apartments. We learned more about New York’s immigration history and early inhabitants here than in any guide book. If modern art is your passion, then MoMA is the pinnacle, but again it’s huge. So why not try the more manageable Guggenheim instead housed in an incredible instagrammable building by Frank Lloyd Wright? Finally, another less visited attraction is the Radio City Music tour which takes you behind the scenes at this glamorous, art deco theatre. Like the Tenement Museum tours, you get a real sense of the history of Manhattan via preserved interiors and antique artefacts. Views: You’ll be spoilt for high rise views in NYC. The Empire State is the classic and busiest, but for us, apart from seeing the ornate lobby from the queue, the view from Top Of The Rock is the best. This is because you can see the Empire State from the top of the Rock! It’s also much less busy, quicker and has a cool lift. Newer attractions include the Edge in Hudson Yards (worth a wander round the bottom to see The Vessel) and No 1 World Trade Centre, but both are busy and pricy. You are equal spoilt for views from the water. The (free) Staten Island Ferry return trip is classic and hard to beat, but it takes time and you need to get off and on again at Staten Island. A more expensive option, and our favourite, is to take the Water Taxi service from one side of Manhattan to the other. The taxi speeds along and you get a real sense of New York as a sea port, which is easy to forget. This trip is less touristy and has better views from both the Hudson and the East River. You also get to see The Statue Of Liberty from the water, which we think is sufficient. We once visited The Statue of Liberty and found the trip expensive, crowded and an anti climax. Finally, our top don’t miss view of Manhattan is from the Brooklyn Bridge. Once you get past the souvenir stalls at the Manhattan entrance ramp and beyond the first arch, the tourists thin out and the views are spectacular. Our tip is to walk it early morning maybe on arrival when you wake up early with jet lag and there’s nothing else open. There’s also a handy Starbucks at City Hall on the Manhattan side for a grab and go breakfast on the bridge. Shopping: Shopping is not our thing, but there’s no denying it’s big business in the Big Apple. The famous shops are midtown - Macy’s, Bloomingdales and Sak’s. However, we tend to avoid midtown on our visits as they are rammed with tourists and not very relaxing. We find it far better to head to cooler neighbourhoods like LES, Brooklyn and SoHo to shop. Soho, in particular, has branches of all the major cool brands, including all the luxury shops of 5th Avenue, plus countless-one off designer stores. It’s more walkable than mid-town, stress-free and has beautiful architecture and fantastic cafes. Another option for stress free luxury brands is the Oculus a magnificent shopping mall in the Financial District designed by Calatrava. It’s worth a visit for the architecture alone. Eating: For us, New York has the best food in the US. The fashionable restaurants are constantly changing and increasingly expensive. So, when we eat out, we love Gemma in the uber cool Bowery Hotel for incredible rustic Italian food pizza. If you’re on a budget, a take-away slice from Prince St Pizza in SoHo is equally mouthwatering - the walls are decorated with photographs of the many celebrities who’ve eaten there. Our splurge place for breakfast is Balthazar in SoHo (for fluffy scrambled eggs), but we are equally as happy at the legendary and pocket friendly Katz’s Deli in the LES. Tip - if there’s queue, the take away bagels at nearby Russ and Daughter’s are our favourite in Manhattan (and quite possibly anywhere the everything bagel is unbeatable). If you want historical glamour, head for the ornate Oyster Bar at Grand Central (this exquisite station with its iconic clock should be on everyone’s itinerary) and check out the whispering gallery right outside the door! Finally, ice-cream. Sorry Italy, but we’ve had our best ever ice-creams in NYC! Our favourite is Morgernstern’s in Greenwich Village with a vast selection of intriguing flavours - we love Burnt Sage and the Salt and Pepper Pine Nut. We also go to Laboratorio Del Gelato in LES for desert after Katz’s or Russ and Daughter’s - the Cream Cheese flavour is more-ish. Finally, Sundaes and Cones Black Sesame ice cream in the East Village takes some beating. Our final tip for exploring and getting the most out of this incredible city is to walk everywhere and look up. By walking, you’ll experience different neighbourhoods, stumble across cafes and parks and get a far better sense of the city. You should always look up or you’ll miss out on the architecture, it’s usually far more ornate at the top. Finally, if your time is limited, just walk the High Line threading from the Meat Packing District to Hudson Yards to get an overview. We walk it every time we visit!