Sydney is more than the Harbor Bridge and the Opera House. Whether you’re a frequent traveler to Sydney or visiting Sydney for the first time, there are day trip destinations from Sydney to enrich your visit. Stay in a city apartment or hotel, sign up for one of the many bus tours, or rent a car and design your own day trip. These are the must-do day trips for your next visit to Sydney.

1. The Blue Mountains – Katoomba and Jenolan Caves

The Blue Mountains are just 50km from Sydney, or around a 90-minute drive, and make a great day trip destination, even if you’re staying in the central business district in a serviced apartment or hotel. You can also reach the Blue Mountains by train directly from Sydney Airport. Located within a World Heritage-listed area, this location offers excellent opportunities for walking, dining, shopping, day spas, and galleries. Katoomba is the main town in the area and boasts spectacular hilly sites. Look out for the famous rock formation, known as the Three Sisters. The Jenolan Caves, about 75 km from Katoomba, are some of the most famous limestone caves in Australia.

2. Hunter Valley – Famous wine region

The Hunter Valley, a river valley located between 120 and 310 km from Sydney (approximately 2 hours drive), is the most famous wine region in New South Wales. Hunter Valley is a popular destination for weddings, conferences, day trips and vacations. Take a cheese and wine tour and learn about growing the vine and making wine. The region is also a foodie’s paradise – be sure to take the time to sit down for lunch at any of the many elegant restaurants and cafes, some of which are attached to the wineries. Visit a gallery and admire the marvelous architecture of the region. There are also day spas and retreats where you can get a relaxing treatment.

3.Mudgee

Mudgee is a town west of the Blue Mountains famous for its wineries and rich with a gold rush history, heritage buildings and galleries. In June and September there are food and wine festivals. Mudge is a three and a half hour drive from Sydney or a short 40 minute flight.

4. Southern Highlands

You can reach the Southern Highlands after a short two and a half hour train journey from Sydney or a 90 minute drive from Sydney. Located southwest of Sydney, this region is known for its green landscapes, quaint and charming towns, and laid-back lifestyle. Mittagong, Bowral, Picton are just some of the places to put on your list.

5. South Coast

Around a two and a half hour drive from Sydney, the South Coast offers excellent opportunities to connect with the water and marine life. There are over 30 national parks, marine parks and reserves in this region, with a wide variety of coves and bays and opportunities to watch migrating dolphins and whales.

Drive along the Sea Cliff Bridge and onto Grand Pacific Drive. Small towns dot the coast with opportunities to visit markets and try the famous local cheeses. Both Jervis Bay and Batemans Bay have marine parks, while at the Royal National Park and Wadbilliga National Park, visitors can experience pristine forests and connect with wildlife.

6. Port Stephens and Nelson Bay

Port Stephens is approximately two and a half hours’ drive north of Sydney. Larger towns like Nelson’s Bay and Raymond Terrace give visitors the chance to experience the charming pace of a small town, but the area’s other attraction is its pristine beaches and waters, including the beaches around Stockton, Fingal Bay, Shoal Bay and many others.

Everyone surely wants to have a romantic vacation or a romantic honeymoon. So, possibly you start looking for the most romantic places in the world. Here is a list of them:

Paris

Who does not know the romanticism of Paris? Paris is the city of lovers with delicious food, wine and delicious nuances. In this city, you can dine by candlelight near the Eiffel tower, walk together along the Champs-Elysees, or have a picnic in the park. In short, Paris gives romance and beauty to couples who have been in love for years.

Hawaii

Hawaii is actually the greatest honeymoon city in the world, especially for Americans. Whether on Maui or on other large Hawaiian islands, this city always offers you the best option for couples. In this city, you can find beach, tropical forest, luxury hotel and some other interesting things in nature.

St Thomas

This city is located in Virgin Islands. It is the coastal city that is famous for its beautiful beaches and interesting shopping centers. This city is full of inns for couples or even families. It also limits the number of parties and party members, so you don’t need to have any difficulties if you want to be intimate with your partner.

Venice

The gondola ride through the canals of this city has been a symbol of the romanticism of this city. Sitting close to the couple while admiring the beautiful scenery of the city or having a romantic dinner at the Italia restaurant or visiting the romantic and beautiful church can be your choice when visiting this city. In fact, Venice is a place that will make you fall in love and fall in love more.

tahiti

This is a quiet area found in the South Pacific with beautiful beach bungalows. You can calmly swim there in the morning. There, you can relax on the white sand with beautiful coconut trees. Your hotel employees are even ready to help you with anything and anytime. The incredible sunset scenery cannot be forgotten either.

belize

Belize is the most beautiful place for couples. This island is located in the middle of the reef. So you can forget about all the people because on many beaches there has been movable property today. There the water full of colorful fish and the beautiful beach with its palm trees will await you.

Maldives

The Maldives are made up of approximately 1,190 coral islands grouped into a double chain of 26 atolls, running north-south, spread over approximately 90,000 square kilometres, making it one of the most disparate countries in the world. The atolls are made up of living coral reefs and sandbars, situated on a 960-kilometre-long underwater ridge that rises abruptly from the depths of the Indian Ocean and stretches from north to south. In fact, this island is one of the earthly paradises that can be the most romantic place for you.

seychelles

It represents an archipelago of legendary beauty that extends between 4 and 10 degrees south of the equator and lies between 480 and 1,600 km from the east coast of Africa. This is the most relaxed place in this world, complete with exotic life and a calm undertone that is always waiting for you and your partner. Golf course, spa, fishing trip and cool tropical drink will keep honeymoon couples from returning to their home countries.

witches

This is an old town with a medieval century setting in Brussels. Visiting this city is the best way to escape from all the noise of the city. Here, you can see stone paths with small cafes in the air space and some romantic and beautiful things.

tuscany

This is a place that is full of grape gardens, villas and small Italian towns. This place will surely make you have a romantic trip because you can live in a historical villa with its best foods, ride a bike through the grape gardens and drink the best wine. In short, this place is the most beautiful and romantic place in Italy.

If you want to have fun for a low price, all you need is a Carnival cruise. A Carnival cruise is a perfect way to pamper yourself. You don’t have to worry about paying extra for meals, entertainment, and a variety of activities. You only unpack once on the cruise. You are in the hands of fitness experts who provide massages, loofah treatments, hairstyling, saunas, pedicures, application of calming masks and micro-facelifts, there is a complete relaxation program for you with nautical spas and exercise programs.

Carnival plays all the songs, from hard rock, musicals, country music or big band. There is a backing piano so you can hum along. Compare that to vacations on land where you’re constantly involved in buying theater tickets, making reservations, valet parking, and looking for other things to do.

The Carnival cruise is the most popular cruise in the world. With Carnival you dine, dream and dance as you sail from one foreign destination to another. It’s popular with first-time surfers, young singles, couples, the old and the young who love the party atmosphere. Carnival Cruise Highlights Include: Casual Dining at Sea View Bistro, Convenient 24-Hour Pizzeria, Captain’s Cocktail Party and Gala Dinner, Complimentary 24-Hour Room Service, Carnival Camp for Kids and Teens. In addition to this, you will be able to see first-run movies every day, the dazzling Las Vegas-style casino, elegant dinners with gala buffets at midnight, nautical spa program, outdoor pools and hot tubs, duty-free shopping on board and singles cocktails

Carnival is a saga of entertainment for singles, couples and families, carrying more passengers of all ages on board than any other cruise line. You can enjoy a luxurious evening in the two-level Paris Lounge or you can rock and roll in the Rock and Roll dance club, the Café des Artistes and the Monte Carlo Casino. You have entered pure luxury with spacious and comfortable accommodation. All cabins are fully carpeted with closets, private facilities (toilet, sink and shower) and color television showing first-run movies. All the cabins of these super ocean liners are above sea level to enjoy a more relaxed cruise. Carnival’s staterooms are, on average, fifty percent larger than those of other cruise lines. You get 100 percent personal attention, whether you choose an interior or ocean view suite or a penthouse suite.

You can give your kids a fun vacation with all kinds of games, talent show parties, movies, crafts, arts, and a world of fun under the supervision of camp carnival counselors. All counselors are college educated and have professional child care experience, and your children are safe in your competent hands.

If for any reason you are dissatisfied with your cruise experience, you may notify Carnival prior to your first port of call and you may disembark at your ship’s first non-US port of call. Carnival Cruise will refund the unused portion of your cruise fee and offset your return flight fare. You can view Carnival Cruise’s vacation protection plans for a worry-free vacation.

Carnival serves buffet on the terrace. There is tea time with your favorite drink and cakes. In addition, you can request the courtesy cabin service 24 hours a day. His table is always reserved in the dining room. However, you can also dine at the “Sea View Bistro” restaurant on the Lido deck. The attraction is informal and meals are buffet style. The restaurant has open seating and is quite relaxed. Of course, if you care about calories, the carnival has a wide nautical spa selection with every meal. All menus have been prepared in consultation with dietitians. You can order freshly baked pizzas at the 24-hour pizzeria. There’s live music in the dazzling spirited lobby. You may want to enjoy your drinks with close friends at the bar.

The Estepona region is approximately 75 km from Malaga International Airport and 30 km from Gibraltar. It covers the beautiful coastal towns of Casares, Manilva, Duquesa, the old town of Estepona and towards Sotogrande. This area is considered more typically Spanish and much less ostentatious than its neighbor Marbella. However, in recent years it is fast becoming a sophisticated Spanish holiday destination that offers many facilities. Due to its perfect location, nestled between the shimmering Mediterranean Sea and protected on the other side by the Sierra Bermeja mountains, Estepona enjoys a microclimate with more than 325 degrees of sunshine per year.

In August 2010, the city hosted the First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, and her daughter Sasha, when they vacationed at the exclusive Hotel Villa Padierna. Despite the influx of tourism over the last decade, Estepona has managed to maintain its charm and village character. However, due to its charm, Estepona has become a hot spot for many Europeans wishing to live on the Costa del Sol. If you are looking to buy a property in one of the quieter regions of the coast, Estepona is an excellent place to live.

The Estepona marina is located at the western point of the promenade and is a perfect place to enjoy yacht watching. If you get up very early you can watch the local fishermen bring in their daily catch at the marina each morning. In and around the port there is a wide variety of bars and restaurants for people of all ages. The nightlife in Estepona is very different from that of Puerto Banús and other coastal towns, as here you will find more relaxed entertainment, such as bars and flamenco shows. However, there are still plenty of trendy clubs and most of the action takes place in the port area and in the back streets of the old town. Estepona celebrates its annual feria (festival) in mid-August and it is a wonderful and spectacular event showcasing typical Andalusian culture and tradition.

Estepona is famous for its virgin beaches that stretch along 21 km of coastline. If you take a relaxing walk along these beaches you will come across numerous beach bars and beach bars. There are also plenty of toilet and shower facilities and children’s play areas along the shoreline. In Laguna Village you’ll find the trendy Puro Beach Club, an adults-only hotspot with great music, white loungers, a pool, and a bar. This is currently the place to be seen if you like the high society lifestyle and celebrities are often seen here relaxing on the beach. If you enjoy working out on the beach, in addition to a good run in the sand, you can also take advantage of the outdoor exercise machines for adults that have been set up on the beach near the town of Estepona. As Estepona is located at the southern tip of the Costa del Sol, while sunbathing on these beaches, you can often admire the beautiful silhouette of Gibraltar and the African coastline. If you prefer to live at the gates of the Mediterranean, Estepona is the ideal place as front line and beachside properties are much cheaper than in Marbella.

Estepona is a great area if you like to shop. The village itself has many small independent shops selling all kinds of goods and there are plenty of cafes so you can take a leisurely stroll through the village. On Wednesdays you will find the weekly town market located next to the large football stadium. In the Port of Estepona there is also a smaller market that is held on Sundays. If you’re more into designer goods, you should visit Laguna Village, a beautiful beachfront mall next to the Kempinski Hotel, where you can find expensive stores like Dolce & Gabbana. There are also numerous bars and restaurants here, so you can really spend the day.

If you have children, there are plenty of things to keep them busy. Estepona city has a wonderful children’s playground that you will find on the seafront. Parents can take a seat and watch their children spend many happy hours here. Further along the N340 you will also find the Estepona Equestrian Center, where children and adults can go on pony rides and classes are also offered. This area is also popular with expats as there are excellent schools and facilities. The city of Estepona is a great place to live if you like the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you prefer to be in a central location, a property in the heart of the city of Estepona would be perfect for you.

Selwo Safari Park is a wonderful day out for the whole family. During the summer months it extends its opening hours to 20:00 so that you have the opportunity to see as many of the 2,000 animals as possible. The park extends over one million square meters and allows animals to roam in semi-free conditions. There are extensive gardens and lakes, and a ride in one of the safari trucks will take you past Masai-style village huts and the largest walk-through aviary in Europe. On the safari truck ride, you pass many different types of animals such as elephants, bears, tigers, giraffes, rhinos, etc. You can also hike designated trails and cross rope bridges if you prefer a more relaxed way of seeing the park. However, it is advisable to bring sun protection as most of the park is outdoors and there is little shade. There are several restaurants and cafes and a wide variety of additional activities on offer including falconry shows, camel rides, archery, trampoline, rope slide and an adventure park. For those who really love the safari lifestyle, you can even spend the night in one of the Masai villages. If you prefer to live in an area where you can take in nature, there are wonderful properties for sale that have spectacular views of Selwo and the surrounding coastline.

For golf lovers, Estepona is a wonderful place to be. It has some of the best courses in Spain and here you will find excellent facilities for golfers of all abilities. El Paraíso is one of the most established golf courses on the coast and has the envious reputation of offering one of the best championship course designs in this region. Other excellent courses include Atalaya Golf & Country Club, Estepona Golf, Montemayor Golf & Country Club, El Campanario, El Coto la Serena and Los Almendros. This area of ​​the Costa del Sol is a true paradise where golfers can enjoy their sport practically all year round. If you are looking to buy a property close to a golf course, Estepona and the surrounding area are the perfect place, as there are some excellent quality frontline golf properties for sale in this region.

Manilva is a city that remains inherently Spanish and is popular with both Spanish and European residents. The municipality is made up of several districts and the area is still very agricultural. The white town of Manilva lies a few kilometers inland and dates from Roman times. There are very well preserved Roman baths and an aqueduct. On the coast you will find the small fishing village of Sabinillas. This is a very quiet and peaceful town located right on the beach.

To the west of Sabinillas is the area called Duquesa, which has a beautiful and bustling port and castle. Duquesa Sports Marina is a small port and golf community and has beautiful beaches, promenades, bars, restaurants, cafes, shops and a trendy nightlife. For sailing enthusiasts there is an excellent selection of nautical activities and two days a week the port hosts a traditional open-air market. Duquesa Golf & County Club offers an 18-hole championship golf course and this area is very popular with families and golfers alike. The club also offers many other facilities including tennis and squash courts and a fully equipped gym. If you prefer the vibrant atmosphere of a port but don’t have the budget for Puerto Banús, then Duquesa is an ideal place to buy a property.

Further down the coast you will find the exquisite area of ​​Sotogrande, located within the municipality of San Roque. This is one of the most luxurious residential developments in Europe and has amenities fit for royalty. There is an exclusive harbor and a world-class marina with multi-million dollar yachts and apartments. The residential area of ​​Sotogrande is where you will find the homes of some of the wealthiest inhabitants of Spain. This is a privileged area with excellent schools and sports facilities. Prince Carlos and other members of the Royal Family are regular visitors to the Santa Maria Polo Club in Sotogrande. Sotogrande’s beaches are pristine and some of the best golf courses are found in this region; its most famous course is Valderrama, the prestigious championship course that hosts the annual Ryder Cup. If you have a seven figure budget and are looking for a property built to the highest standards with everything you could want, then Sotogrande is the perfect place to buy a home.

There are moments in life when you feel tired and exhausted from the stress of daily life, perhaps also from work and family pressure. And you want to get away from it all, but you also want to try something different. You don’t want to go to the same beach or mountain retreat or even your favorite spa. You also want value for money and not have to pay exorbitant prices.

I felt like this a few weeks ago. Since I was going to be in Paris on business, I thought: why not go to a Thalassa in France near Paris? Internet search suggests Quiberon, a coastal town in Brittany, northwestern France. The choice was confirmed by knowledgeable French friends who said this was the first place to develop Thalassa and remains one of the best.

This is how my husband, Roberto, and I spent a happy week at the Sofitel Quiberon Thalassa. Our journey began at the Gare de Montparnasse, a major and unimpressive train station in Paris. After three and a half hours on the elegant TGV (very high-speed train), we disembark in a town called Auray and take a 30-minute taxi to the Sofitel Hotel, which is connected to the Thalassotherapy Institute.

So what is Thalassa?

Thalassa is an abbreviated term for Thalassotherapy, which means ‘sea’ and ‘treatment’. It uses the healing and beneficial properties of mineral-rich seawater and marine products rich in trace elements and antioxidants for your health and well-being. A visit to a thalassa is a similar experience to visiting a spa, except that the treatments are not just for relaxation and beauty, but also for healing. As a thalassa has to be located near the sea, expect invigorating sea air as well.

This particular Institute offers a number of packages. We chose a package called Harmonie that offers five seawater treatments and a massage every day. The use of algae is a very important part of the treatment. Treatments last about two and a half hours, either in the morning or in the afternoon. I left the place strengthened, feeling that I was once again ready to face the world.

Evaluation

The service is good and efficient and the therapists are professional. That’s all good. Being used to giving massages in Thailand, I was not too impressed with the daily massage at the Institute. We were on a half board package with the hotel and found the food to be exceptional. We gain instead of losing weight despite intensive treatments. Next time I will take your weight loss program with a special menu and caloric control.

The highlight for me was meditating on a rock. In the silence of my mind, I could hear the sound of the waves around me and the flapping of the seagulls’ wings overhead. I could feel the sun on my face and the spray of the seawater and taste its saltiness. That was a magical moment to remember and savor.

There are many talented artists offering a wide variety of poker artwork. From originals to limited edition prints, there are poker paintings depicting scenes from old poker movies to abstract artwork featuring today’s poker celebrities.

Darci Faulkner’s art is widely collected and has been honored with many national awards. Her poker artwork is a testament to her talent and commitment to tackling new and challenging subjects. While many artists adopt a style and stick with it, Darci is always looking for something new and challenging herself to learn. Darci’s poker art work, which includes a series of celebrity poker paintings, combines digital technology and her expertise in traditional painting. Reflecting an influence from the genre developed by Andy Warhol and Peter Max, her style takes a whole new approach of combining the image of various celebrities to capture a specific moment in time. “I was looking for a way to do something with my artistic background and my knowledge of computer technology and I found it.” Not unlike her poker artwork, characteristic of Darci’s divergent styles, her sports paintings have been described as a marriage of the styles of Norman Rockwell and Leroy Neiman.

He is always exploring new techniques and avenues to create new images and works that combine his endless curiosity, knowledge of technology and love of colour… lots and lots of colour!

Kathy Womack, the artist behind the celebrated Women and Wine series, is now adding poker artwork to her resume. Her proven success with the Women and Wine series made her the perfect candidate to capture the sport and excitement that is offered in the art medium of poker with the recent rise in popularity of poker. Kathy started out as a newspaper fashion illustrator in the early 1990s. As she began the transition to CGI, the need for illustrators lessened. Seeking a more creative outlet, Kathy put down the newspaper, picked up her paintbrushes, and began to make a name for herself. Just five years later, at age 32, she opened the Kathy Womack Gallery in downtown Austin, Texas. Now, with the imminent opening of a Houston location and her sights set on Las Vegas in the near future, she is on her way to becoming one of the most successful entertainers of her time.

LeRoy Neiman is probably the most popular sports artist in the world, followed only by younger artists Stephan Holland and Richard T. Slone. Neiman produces about six different screen prints a year, usually priced from $3,000 to $6,000 each. Annual gross sales of new screen prints exceed $10 million. In addition to being an internationally renowned sports artist, Neiman has created works of poker art inspired by his experience of traveling the world visiting the world’s largest casinos.

Neiman’s poker artworks and gaming paintings include: Baccarat, Baden-Baden, Black Break, Casino, Chemin de Fer, Desert Inn Baccarat, Gaming Table International Poker, International Roulette, Pool Room, Roulette, Roulette II, Salle Privee – Monte Carlo, Stud Poker, The Game, The Game of Life, The Green Table, Vegas Blackjack and Vegas Craps.

Neiman produced much of his early work for Playboy magazine, for which he still illustrates on a monthly basis.

It rains non-stop in this small Caribbean town. It has rained incessantly for 3 days in a row; the only exception was the first day after the night of my arrival. Unfortunately, I spent that beautiful first day inside the local jungle internet cafe working on my website, falsely assuming there would be plenty of time for the beach. In addition to the rain, my stomach’s abrupt and vehement rebellion against the local cuisine has put a damper on my visit here.

It’s my last day in Puerto Viejo and I’m feeling surprisingly melancholic. The rain in this town brings a certain element of tranquility that is perfect for my creative flow. However, with my departure for San José fast approaching, I look forward to enjoying the beautiful stretch of beach that I remember so well from my last visit here. There is a narrow jungle path that leads to a vast expanse of untouched coastline. I started the walk yesterday afternoon eager to relax on the warm sand and swim in the calm waters, but a darkening sky and a rumble of thunder in the distance sent me back to the refuge of the peaceful Hotel Casa Verde. The rain has hampered my ability to enjoy the new addition at the beautiful Casa Verde, a beautiful pool built to resemble a natural lagoon, with interesting rock formations and a relaxing waterfall that gently spills into the clear blue water.

I’m sitting in my favorite hangout Café Rico, an open-air bamboo hut tucked within a dense clump of gorgeous tropical foliage. The place feels like a remote jungle hideaway. The voices of local children and a sweet floral scent waft through the balmy air as I watch locals and tourists wander the muddy dirt road just beyond the cafe. My new friend Liza, whose boyfriend Roger owns the cafe, kindly pours me unlimited servings of the best cappuccino in town and shares her latest impressions of the eccentric American man who has taken up residence here to promote the health benefits of colloidal silver. and the inherent dangers of government-sponsored terrorism.

A Canadian surfer walks in and orders a sandwich and a fruit shake. A local doctor named Gregory offers to make me a cup of medicinal tea made from a native plant to cleanse my ailing colon. Puerto Viejo seems to feature a constant stream of random characters and I never know what new surprise awaits me around the next corner. Will it be a Canadian surfer, a group of European backpackers, a retired Australian journalist or a local doctor? I’ve been spending time these past few days with a dance choreographer from Astoria, Queens. We have decided that we are soul mates dealing with problems of parallel lives and seeking the illumination of our soul through solitary journeys.

The rain has just intensified and is pounding hard against the bamboo roof of this makeshift cafe, drowning out all other noises from the surrounding village. I’m safe inside a tropical hideaway with delicious coffee and a constant supply of spinning bums with a story to share. This is a writer’s paradise, and yet the inner stillness and spiritual fulfillment I seek continue to elude me.

My mind is still occupied with superfluous details. I am reflecting on the stark contrast between my current experience in Puerto Viejo and memories of my exciting and sunny week nine years ago, when I was a young graduate student from Manhattan traveling the country in search of new adventures. During those restless young adult years, I was a hopeless romantic with idealistic views on life and love. I was carefree and naive, always looking for validation in people and places while not looking within for my sense of peace and fulfillment.

Through the passage of time and overcoming several harsh storms in my life, I have come to understand that true happiness cannot be found in the material world, as it must originate from within the heart and soul. Even so, I wrestle with many of the same emotional dynamics that challenged me during my last visit to Puerto Viejo nine years earlier. Perhaps the solo travel experience brings these issues into sharper focus due to the amount of time spent in deep introspection.

It’s funny how time works. The last nine years have brought many changes: losses and triumphs, blessings and heartaches. Despite the passage of time, I now sit here watching the rain fall and wondering how much has really changed inside of me. I could only wear it yesterday when I stumbled across this cafe laughing and seeking shelter from the tropical storm that drove me off the beach. Tomorrow I must leave this town and go to San José, where I will spend the night before continuing my journey through the Pacific side of the country. I wonder if I will return to Puerto Viejo in nine more years and reflect on this period of my life with the same feeling of bittersweet nostalgia.

Time goes by so fast and yet, at the same time, it seems to have stopped. There is no denying the aging process, and yet time is an artificial construct created by man, a dimension born of the human mind designed to locate the ego and apply order to chaos. We place enormous emphasis on the passage of time. Perhaps we would be better off concentrating on the empty space between the hours and the minutes, the universal sense of timelessness where inner peace and stillness meet.

I am the same soul that I was nine years ago, despite the aging of my physical body. If the soul continues after the physical body collapses, then we are all intrinsically capable of entering the space of universal consciousness where the gift of eternity awaits. That gift is the present moment, and we are all free to step into it whenever we are ready. This, I realize, is my goal for this journey, and my journey will continue long after I leave this town.

Brief description of two hotels on the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica:

Almonds and Corals Resort – Manzanillo. almondsandcorals.com Luxury bungalow tents located in the heart of the Manzanillo wildlife refuge, approximately 10 miles south of Puerto Viejo, offering five-star service, accommodations and amenities. The rooms are spacious, clean and comfortable with an IF (Insect Factor) rating of A-. While I didn’t see a single critter in my own room, people in the bungalow next to mine complained of several large bugs in the bathroom area. The bungalows are elevated by platforms raised on stilts and connected by narrow wooden walkways lit by gas lamps. The rooms include comfortable queen-size beds surrounded by mosquito nets and outdoor showers. This beautiful and quiet complex is located in the middle of a tropical jungle on a stretch of beautiful beach. The beach is not ideal for swimming due to strong currents, but it is perfect for relaxing.

The nearest swimming beach is a ten minute walk from the complex. The resort is constantly in the shade of the sun due to the surrounding rainforest, giving the place a true jungle feel similar to a five-star campground for adults or the set of the 1960’s TV show Gilligan’s Island. In the huge open-air restaurant, a warm and friendly Jesse will greet you with a beautiful smile, eager to make your stay a pleasant one. A full buffet breakfast is included. The dinners are tasty and satisfying and the food portions are more than generous. An unlimited supply of delicious Costa Rican bananas and coffee is available to guests throughout the day. The resort has its own zip line, a full-service spa, and plenty of comfortable nooks and crannies, perfect for reading, napping, or just relaxing and meditating. This is the perfect place to relax, unwind and commune with nature. However, if you are looking for cell phone service, Wi-Fi connection, or a resort located within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and nightlife, this is not the place for you, as the closest town (Puerto Viejo) it’s a good 15 minute drive. .

Green House Cabins – Puerto Viejo. cabinascasaverde.com Located in the heart of Puerto Viejo, Casa Verde offers a clean, friendly and safe environment, away from the dust and noise of the town center, but within walking distance of the beaches, cafes and restaurants scattered throughout the village. The place has a strong hippie vibe and tends to cater to backpackers and budget travelers looking for quality accommodation at a reasonable price. Walking through the hotel grounds, it’s easy to forget you’re in Puerto Viejo. The IF at Cabinas Casa Verde is a solid A+, as I didn’t see a single creature inside my basic room with private bathroom and two double beds. This little piece of heaven with its beautifully landscaped gardens, lagoon-style pool, soothing waterfall, outdoor Jacuzzi, and spa area can easily be found elsewhere in the Caribbean, yet maintains Costa Rica’s wild and natural appeal. Casa Verde serves breakfast in a beautiful outdoor garden surrounded by exotic birds and beautiful tropical flowers.

Guests can help themselves to an unlimited supply of coffee and the kitchen serves up delicious breakfast options such as homemade crepes filled with tropical fruits and fresh fruit smoothies. Owner Rene and his wife Caroline reside on the premises, and Rene is a constant friendly presence in the open-air lobby and grounds of this beautiful tropical oasis. It is clear that she takes tremendous pride in her surroundings and treats guests as personal friends visiting her home. The front desk arranges bike rentals for guests to enjoy the beautiful jungle trails and beaches that line the outskirts of town. Bottled water, snacks, juices, and soft drinks can be purchased in the open-air lobby. The place feels like a little piece of heaven, comfortably secluded from the rest of the town like a little island paradise. If you decide to visit Cabinas Casa Verde, be sure to request one of the rooms with a private bathroom, and bring plenty of mosquito repellent, waterproof clothing, and comfortable walking shoes. Be sure to ask for Rene at the front desk and get ready to enjoy the wonderful pleasures of Pura Vida.

Kenya is the land that has given birth to the most popular African activity among tourists, namely the safari, and it is easy to see why. Blessed with tremendous topographic diversity that spans four climatic zones and features coral reefs, desert landscapes, volcanoes, and snow-capped mountains, Kenya has it all in one.

Inhabiting these diverse landscapes and wilderness areas is Kenya’s world-famous wildlife, which can be viewed on horseback, in a 4×4 vehicle, on a terrace or on foot. There are more than 1,000 species of birds and huge colonies of colorful butterflies. Also attractive is the rich history, dating back to the Stone Age, and the diverse cultures expressed through the coveted arts and crafts.

So whether you’re lounging on the white sandy beaches of exotic Mombasa or watching the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle, the annual wildebeest migration, you’re sure to have a world-class experience.

CAPITAL:

Nairobi

AIR CONDITIONED:

There are four climatic zones: tropical, equatorial, semi-desert and desert. Only two seasons are identified, namely dry and rainy. Due to the differences in altitude and topography of the various regions, these seasons and temperatures are not uniform and vary widely. However, in general the climate is hot and humid on the coast, cool and humid in the central highlands, and hot and dry in the north and east.

BADGE:

The official currency is the Kenyan shilling. Traveler’s checks are widely accepted and credit cards are accepted by many hotels, travel agencies, safari companies and restaurants. Foreign currency, such as US dollars, British pounds, and German marks, can be exchanged at banks, exchange offices, and authorized hotels. There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into Kenya, but taking more than 500,000 Kenyan shillings out requires written authorization from the Central Bank. Prior to departure, travelers are advised to convert any excess Kenyan shillings into foreign currency at a bank or bureau de change. Departure taxes can be paid in local or foreign currency.

ELECTRICITY:

220/240 volts, 50 Hz. Plugs are 3-pin square.

HEALTH:

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended if the traveler comes from an infected country or area. Visitors are also advised to take pre-arrival precautions against typhoid fever, hepatitis A, polio, malaria, and meningitis, depending on the area visited and time of year. Other health problems include cholera, rabies, the Nairobi beetle (do not touch, threaten or kill), dysentery and diarrhoea.

IDIOM:

English is the official language, but Kiswahili is the national language.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS:

New Year’s Day (January 1); Good Friday (09 Apr); Easter Monday (April 12); Labor Day (May 1); Madaraka Day (June 1); Me Day (October 10); Kenyatta Day (October 20); End of Ramadan (November 14); Independence Day (December 12); Christmas Day (December 25); Boxing Day (December 26)

SHOPPING:

Traditional artifacts, beaded jewelry and decorative items, wood and soapstone animal carvings, furniture, coffee, gemstones, furniture, Khanga and Kikoy fabrics, musical instruments, modern art, basketry eg Sisal Kiondoo/Chondo baskets, Maasai Shukka blankets, ‘Thousand Miler Sandals, ‘elephant hair’ bracelets.

SOCIAL AGREEMENTS:

The culture here is a mix of the modern and the traditional, with European habits prevailing throughout the country. Kenyans are a very friendly nation and you can dress casual for most occasions.

TIME DIFFERENCE:

GMT+3

TIPS:

It’s not mandatory. Guides, drivers, waiters and hotel staff may receive tips at their discretion.

DESCRIPTION OF THE TEN BEST ATTRACTIONS:

Masai Mara:

National Reserve The most famous Game Reserve in the world due to the annual migration of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle over this vast plain that offers breathtaking views; home to a profusion of wildlife and birds; Activities include excellent year-round game viewing, hot air ballooning, and bird watching.

Tsavo East and West:

The twin national parks of Tsavo, totaling 10 million acres of wilderness, form the largest National Park in Kenya, making it ideal for those who enjoy solitude; of the two Tsavo West is the most visited; In addition to wildlife and birds, visit Lugard Falls, the Mzima Volcanic Springs, and a unique underwater observatory.

Mombasa:

One of the most exotic tropical ports in the world with a turbulent history. Visit the magnificent Fort Jesus and the port, see the Moorish architecture in the old town and smell the aroma of spices. Many excellent temples and mosques can be explored including Shiva Temple, Baluchi Mosque and Dawoodi Bohra Mosque. Also don’t miss Mombasa National Marine Park, Moi Avenue Gateway Arch, dhow cruises and beaches.

Amboseli National Park:

One of the most popular national parks in Kenya with a wide range of accommodation; the landscape is dominated by Mount Kilimanjaro and the park is famous for its big game and scenic beauty; bird life is abundant.

Lake Nakuru National Park:

Famous for its flamingos and very popular with bird watchers and other nature lovers. Make the most of the viewpoint and visit the Euphobia forest.

Mount Kenya National Park:

The country is named after Mount Kenya, the second highest mountain in Africa. For mountaineers and hikers, it offers easy and challenging ascents with magnificent scenic beauty. The local tribes believe that it is the home of Ngai (God). A number of unique, rare and endangered species can be found here and there is abundant bird life.

The mu:

A tranquil tropical island with a fascinating history, one that can be explored in the winding streets of its medieval stone town, a World Heritage Site in part because it is the oldest and best preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa.

Lake Turkana National Parks:

The three national parks serve as stopovers for migratory waterfowl and are major breeding grounds for the Nile crocodile, hippopotamus, and a variety of venomous snakes. Turkana is noted for the study of plant and animal communities and the Koobi Fora fossil deposits have contributed more to the understanding of paleoenvironments than any other site in Africa, it is also the most saline of the great African lakes and a World Heritage site.

Aberdare National Park:

A must for landscape lovers where you can see spectacular mountains, waterfalls, rainforest, trout streams, moorland, giant heather thickets, caves, abundant bird life, duikers, the black rhino and the elusive and rare Bongo , a forest antelope. This area is ideal for hikes, picnics, trout fishing, camping, and night game viewing.

Mount Elgon National Park:

One of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas in Kenya where you can find giant trees, around 400 animals, more than 240 species of birds and ‘cave elephants’ that go into the four caves at night to feed on the rich deposits of Salt. Mount Elgon is also a famous botanical town with a wealth of Afro-Alpine flowers. Hot springs occur and sport fishing is popular on the Suam River.

How many visitors to Paris could fail to notice the Sacre Coeur, a whitewashed skeleton on the Montmartre hill in northern Paris? At the highest point of the city, this whitewashed basilica marks the horizon on the horizon.

But why does this church look so white? Has it been painted with specialized paint? Is there an army of workers perpetually scrubbing it to keep it clean?

The answer is truly scientific. The church is made of travertine stone, quarried in Chateau-Landon, France. The stone releases a chemical called calcite, which means the building remains white even when exposed to the elements.

Perhaps the architect Paul Abadie had a vision about pollution problems in modern cities. Whatever the reason for it, the use of travertine stone has stood the test of time. Travertine stone was used by the Romans two thousand years earlier to build the Colosseum, the world’s largest building made primarily of this material. Subsequently, it has also been used at the Getty Center in Los Angeles.

The first stone of the Sacre Coeur was laid in 1875 and funding for it and the remaining stones came from donations from pilgrims. Stones could be ‘bought’, in the form of a single brick, for example, or, more extravagantly, an entire column.

The materials come together to form an unusual Romano-Byzantine structure with distinctive horseshoe arches. In front, there is a divergence from the use of the characteristic white stone in the use of bronze as a material for the equestrian statues of the French national saints Louis IX and Joan of Arc.

Consecrated in 1919, the Sacre Coeur de Montmartre sends a message of Catholic purity to the city of Paris.

Gambling in Macao (or Macao) became legal in 1850, under Portuguese rule, and has been known as the “Monte Carlo of the East” ever since. Both foreign and domestic corporations have invested heavily in Macau’s casinos, and tourists frequently visit them from Hong Kong and the PRC mainland. In fact, gambling and tourism are the main sources of income in Macau.

There are several casinos in Macau, they all operate under government rules and regulations, and most are open 24 hours a day. Games at Macau casinos include blackjack, roulette, boule, sic bo, Fan-Tan, keno and the very popular game of baccarat. The largest of Macau’s casinos is Casino Lisboa, a four-story complex originally built in the early 1970s by a Stanley Ho company. The Casino Lisboa in downtown Macau has expanded to a total of 927 rooms and another expansion is planned to face competition from the adjacent Wynn Macau, owned by Steve Wynn of Las Vegas.

By comparison, the Floating Palace, located on a barge about a five-minute walk from the ferry terminal, is the smallest casino in Macau. The second deck has six baccarat tables, two for blackjack and two for dai-siu and sic bo. Also, there is a small slots room and other areas that are probably used for private gambling. For a change of pace in a quieter environment, the Floating Palace has low table limits and is a good option to consider.

The Pharaoh’s Casino, inside the 5-star Landmark Hotel, is in a prime location in the center of the city. The Pharaoh’s, on the third floor, offers a luxurious gaming experience, with 383 slot machines and 19 table games including baccarat, roulette, nine poker tables and eight blackjack tables.

In addition, Macau’s casinos include the Fortuna at the Fortuna Hotel, conveniently located within walking distance of the business and commercial districts, and the Golden Dragon Casino. Located on floors 2 and 3 of the popular Golden Dragon Hotel, it has 72,600 square feet of lively, carnival-like atmosphere. The Golden Dragon’s décor is based on festivals from Europe, China, America and Latin America, including a Spanish fire display on the ceiling of the main gaming hall. Six of the VIP rooms feature the Trinidad carnival, the Venice mask festival, 19th century Paris, Mardi Gras, the Rio de Janeiro Carnival and the Chinese dragon dance. With 85 table games (15 for VIPs), 3 card poker, baccarat, sic bo and blackjack, and 137 slot machines, Golden Dragon Casino is full of fun and excitement.

For a while, Macau’s casinos, for the most part, didn’t have the glitz and glamor of Las Vegas or Atlantic City, but with the influx of foreign investors that’s changing, too.