travel

  The rumours are not entirely without basis. Melbourne is rather a shopper’s paradise. There is style and ample room for fashion in Melbourne. You can find avant-garde collections at the boutique stores, and enough styles for a wardrobe revamp. This article is a helpful guide to plan your shopping spree in Victoria’s capital. Wpcpey ,  Chadstone Shopping Centre Central Atrium 2017 ,  CC BY-SA 4.0 Make a plan A well-planned shopping spree will help you avoid unnecessary hassle. The shopping spots in our list are mostly close to the CBD. Hence, it makes sense for you to book accommodation in the CBD. Check out some ‘ hotel deals Melbourne CBD’  to find an affordable place. You can keep an eye out for seasonal shopping deals and sales before you begin your retail therapy. But remember to be flexible and spontaneous as well. Shop at the Melbourne city centre Where can you find luxury stores in Melbourne? Definitely Collins Street is arguably the best option. The street ...

  Ranked among the most historic cities on the coast of Vietnam, most travellers head to Hoi An to enjoy a beach holiday. Renowned for its breathtaking beaches and friendly locals, Hoi An is a relatively safe tourist hub in Vietnam but that does not mean that unsavoury experiences are not a common occurrence among tourists. From keeping your belongings safe to enjoying a drama-free vacation, here are some tips to help you avoid scams and other safety issues during your next trip to Hoi An. Image via Anantara Hoi An Resort    1. Safety on the Beach Hoi An's beaches are safe for swimming and water sports activities for most of the year but those who are heading to this part of Vietnam from October to March may find that the ocean is too rough. This means that it is best to avoid visiting Hoi An during this time of year as many locals who dare to spend time in the water during this time of year are known to suffer injuries and even fatalities due to less than calm ocean cond...

  Dambulla is by far the most favourite tourist destination in Sri Lanka. Many visitors come to see the Dambulla Cave Temple and the remnants of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Travel routes use both these places as a stopover, often combining the two in one day. But staying overnight at Dambulla is among the most pleasant experiences of your trip and it is highly recommended! Image via maxpixel The Dambulla Cave Temple Dambulla is famous for the Dmbulla Cave Temple. It is also a prominent temple in the country, and you have to climb up to get there. It is recommended to go up to the Dambulla Cave Temple and return via the King's Way to the Golden Temple. The trek up includes stony steps with a stunning view of the mountains. If you would also like to book accommodation that ofers similar sweeping views of the surrounding, then you can check out  Dambulla hotels  the likes of Amaya Lake.  When you reach the summit, just before entering the temple complex, take ...

  Kandy is the last kingdom of Sri Lanka and proudly retains its traditions and culture. The capital of the island’s pretty central highlands, this city is ideal for relaxing, sightseeing, and learning about local culture. In this article on how to spend two days in Kandy, you will find the best things to do in Kandy. Amal Balasooriya ,  Kandy Lake - Central Province ,  CC BY-SA 4.0  1. Explore the Kandy Lake  Once you arrive in Kandy, you will notice the city proper is centred around the man-made Kandy Lake. Built by a former king of Sri Lanka, the lake is deemed sacred and sits in front of the Temple of the Tooth Relic or Dalada Maligawa. Being sacred, no fishing is allowed at the lake, but you can buy cones of popcorn from sellers around the lake to feed the multitude of fish, enjoying the protected status in the lake. There is a footpath winding around the lake, which is ideal for an amble, admiring nature while all around you traffic rushes by. The perimete...

  From far stretched mesmeric beaches, breath-taking surroundings, candlelit dinners on the beach to stilted water villas, Maldives is all about the tropical charm of nature. Its location in the middle of the Indian Ocean along with its 26 atolls creates a wonderful aquamarine world. Read on to know why Maldives should be your next travel destination. Image via Hard Rock Hotel Maldives Go on a dolphin cruise How about going on a sunset dolphin cruise with your kids to get up close to the gentle dolphins? The variety and the richness of marine creatures in Maldives attract many a tourist from all around the world each year. There are more than 700 different species of marine creatures swimming around atolls and stunning coral reefs. Moreover, this island paradise is ranked among the top 5 destinations in the world to spot dolphins and whales. Your kids will have a wonderful time while relaxing under tropical skies and catching a glimpse of these gentle creatures swimming in front of...

  Adelaide, known as the   “city of churches”   and the capital of South Australia certainly does hold its own as one of the country’s must-visit destinations. For those of you considering heading over in the not too distant future, take note of the average duration which generally speaking should not exceed 3 days. Therefore, provided below is how you can make the most of your time in the city and its suburbs as part of a 3-day stay. Scott W. ,  Adelaide Chinatown ,  CC BY-SA 3.0 Kick things off (Day 1) Variety is king in these parts and hence, a perfect complement to your travel plans and where else better than to commence your adventures in Adelaide than within the central business district? As a starting point, make your way towards Gouger Street and Chinatown where foodies will surely be in their elements as these regions combine in serving up a wholesome and mouthwatering fare, be it local, western or Asian for that matter. With your belly full and satisfi...

 Thinking of holidaying in Brisbane, Australia? Have you mapped out a strategy that will have you exploring every facet there is worth delving into when in Queensland’s capital city? Should you be seeking a detailed overview of how best to navigate the ‘River City,’ then continue reading on below in order to maximize your next adventure-based escape to sunny Australia. Airtrain Having reached Brisbane, the city centre will be a matter of a hop, step and a jump in the event you opt for the convenience of an AirTrain ride. Affording direct transfers to the city that will hardly last more than 20 minutes, travellers like yourself will be well placed to avail of Brisbane’s AirTrain service which is reflective of the city’s outstanding travel and transportation system. Dean Scott Aus ,  Airtrain NGR Indigenous ,  CC BY-SA 4.0 Public Transport Public transportation can take on varying forms and depending on one’s budget and preferences, it will pave the way for a memorable time...

  The Emirate of Dubai is always an engrossing place to visit, offering many varied attractions and experiences for the visitor. Here, you will encounter sightseeing attractions, amazing shopping opportunities, cultural highlights and many other interesting things to see and do. You will also find that English is widely spoken with items like street signs and menus featuring English translations. Provided below is more useful information that will help to plan your first visit to Dubai. Ayisha rida ,  Dubai Mall Fountain ,  CC BY-SA 4.0 Select the time to visit There is no doubt that Dubai will usually feel warm to travellers from more temperate climates. However, during the months of winter which extend from November through March, there will be cooler temperatures that will please visitors from colder countries. Due to this reason, this period will also be the peak season for tourism in Dubai. Accordingly, you can expect more crowds and somewhat higher prices if you opt...

 Are you planning a family vacation to Melbourne? You are in for a treat. Melbourne is full of things to do as a family. You can explore wildlife parks, explore museums, spend leisurely hours at the beach and discover exciting bits of history. In this article, we round up some of the best kid friendly activities in Melbourne. Wpcpey ,  National Gallery of Victoria Britain & European Collection 2017 ,  CC BY-SA 4.0 How to spend family time at St Kilda St Kilda could be your kids’ playground for a day or two. This city has everything a child’s heart could desire. You can play on the beach and go cycling along the promenade. Then there is the Luna Park where you can go on roller-coaster rides, and enjoy an ice cream. They offer plenty of family rides that are safe for younger kids and thrilling rides for the older ones and adults. You could also enjoy some sideshow games. And, after such an exciting adventure, what could be better than a picnic?  You can pack some g...

  The beautiful nation of New Zealand offers many attractions for visitors including lovely natural scenery, pleasant weather, thrilling adventures and an appealing laidback ambience. It is also well-known for its delectable cuisine, with many tasty dishes waiting to be savoured by visitors. Amongst these dishes, a special place goes to the local seafood which is esteemed around the world. Provided below are some examples of the seafood delights to be enjoyed in New Zealand. Image via Wikimedia Commons Taste crayfish and king salmon You will find that the crayfish of New Zealand resemble lobsters; however, they happen to be clawless whilst also having fewer pairs of legs. Crayfish can often be found in sea-beds deep in the ocean and within rocky localities at various coastal areas around the country. They are particularly plentiful in South Island’s Kaikoura and are a delicacy, being rich and creamy in taste. Another highlight of New Zealand’s seafood would be the king salmon, with...

  Have you been dreaming of riding the waves into freedom in tune with the rhythm of the ocean? Surfing is a wonderous water sport. Nothing compares to the sense of adventure and absolute bliss. But, as in everything worth experiencing, there is a learning curve to surfing. In this article, we discuss the most important points to consider if you are planning to learn to surf. Photo by  form  PxHere Prepare for the learning curve Surfing is a complex sport, and it requires a lot of concentration, coordination and balancing. When you go out there to conquer the waves, you’ll soon figure out that each wave is a law unto its own. The wind tides and swells shape and control each wave. It is going to be difficult. You have to mentally prepare for the challenges and thrills. And, when you first catch your ‘green wave’ you’ll find that the trouble was worth your while. You’ll be hooked, but the battle will go on. You will get wiped out repeatedly. Hence, it is important to go wit...

 Although most travellers head to Abu Dhabi to experience its world-famous landmarks, museums and shopping opportunities, foodies also revere the Emirati capital for its culinary prowess. Providing diners with eclectic tastes the chance to savour not only some of the country's traditional dishes but also local variations of global favourites, eating like a local is a must for all visitors touring the city. Here are some not-to-miss highlights for your dining itinerary. Krista ,  Al fanar harees (7797136886) ,  CC BY 2.0 1. Snack the Abu Dhabi Way While you may reach for a bag of chips or peanuts when you need a quick burst of energy, residents in the U.A.E's bustling capital have a healthier option to savour. Milk and dates are not only the best pick-me-up in the city but also a popular starter among the older citizens of the city as it is quite literally a great way to start a meal. This snack is steeped not only in the city's heritage but Islamic scripture as well as th...

 In recent years, Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, has become a popular tourist destination. The island nation boasts of a great many things and caters to all types of visitors, from history enthusiasts, beach bums to passionate mountain hikers. Here's a step-by-step guide highlighting how to plan your vacation to Sri Lanka that you'll remember for years to come.   Image via Amaya Beach  When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?  Sri Lanka's climate may be highly unpredictable. The island is warm all year, but the monsoon seasons, which last between May and September, provide a lot of rain in the western parts, southwest regions, and the hill country. As a result, if you're planning a trip to these regions, December to March is the best time to go. If you're planning a trip to the east coast, the months from April to September are great.  What is there to see and do in Sri Lanka?  The evergreen mountains, sun-kissed beaches and remarkable cult...

 Salalah is Oman's most valuable natural treasure. The city, which is located in Dhofar's southern section, has a lot to offer tourists. Here's how you spend 2 full days in Salalah to get the most out of the city's architecture, culture, and natural beauty. An unforgettable holiday of your life is guaranteed, here in Salalah!  patano,  Taqah - Oman (enlarge please) - panoramio ,  CC BY-SA 3.0 Day One Morning Begin your first day here in this city with a delectable breakfast overlooking the deep blue seas and the golden sandy beach. Restaurants such as Sakalan and Darbat provide multi-cuisine menus with a vast selection of food. For an authentic local experience, visit the Souly Eco Lodge restaurant, which serves Mediterranean cuisine and has fantastic seating in wooden beach huts. Then go east to Taqah Castle, which is about 11 kilometres away. The castle has been one of the country's most stunning historical sites and a great example of Omani architecture.  Aft...

  The beautiful island nation of Sri Lanka is always a wonderful country to experience. It will also be a great destination for families, with activities and experiences that will appeal to all age groups. It offers lovely beaches, natural attractions, sightseeing highlights, interesting cultural features, delicious food and much more for visitors.  Provided below are some suggestions for experiencing Sri Lanka with kids. Image via Anantara Kalutara Resort   Take a boat trip on Kalu Ganga Your family is sure to enjoy a leisurely boat trip on the Kalu Ganga, which translates as ‘Black River’. Counted amongst Sri Lanka’s longest rivers, you will find that this waterway extends through Kalutara and provides an entrancing boating experience for visitors. On your boat trip, you will have the opportunity to glide through areas of verdant mangroves and pristine riverbanks as you make your way along the river. You will also have the chance to observe the different kinds of birds ...

 There is nothing better than an adventure abroad where you can de-stress, relax and enjoy new experiences. Planning a trip abroad is a thrill – right from the very beginning! And planning is an essential component of foreign travel. Here’s an article that focuses on how to plan a fun and safe trip abroad. Image via Avani Hotels & Resorts 1. Choose Your Destination  Shortlist destinations you want to explore. Once you do, explore your options in terms of what each place offers; check out the attractions, weather, and experiences in terms of your preferences. Are you a sun-worshiper, do you like city escapes, does the great outdoors call to you? Decide on what you expect from your holiday, if you are planning a family holiday call a meeting and take each person's preferences into consideration so you can come to a compromise of catering to everyone’s general needs. 2. Explore the Range of Accommodation on Offer Foreign travel is a whole adventure in our modern world, and ac...