8 Best Flea Markets for Finding Vintage Treasures across USA

Flea Market in USA

Even with a plethora of e-commerce sites and antique stores, the best of antiques and vintage treasures come from the local flea markets across the world. Though this is the era of modernization, treasure seekers and bargain hunters will still go to flea markets. Sellers come from all over visit these markets, offering you the best of things.

Brooklyn Flea
Brooklyn, N.Y.

To experience the best flea market, Brooklyn is your destination. You will come across medieval furniture, artsy handicrafts and vintage clothes. Smorgasburg is one of the best place for food where you will be able to sample food from hundreds of food trucks providing you with the most fantastic delicacies.

Brooklyn Flea

Image Credits

Lakewood 400 Antiques Market
Atlanta

Lakewood Antiques Market will offer you with a lot of mid-century electronic appliances, rich fabrics and merchandise and some toys too. You might come across some fascinating things dating back to the Civil War times such as uniforms, caps, medals and trophies.

Lakewood

Image Credits
Brimfield Antique Show & Flea Market
Brimfield, Mass.

This flea market is known for its traditional and trendy articles. Anyone who is fascinated by antiques and vintage items should make it to this market, which stretches for over a mile. Brimfield Antique Show is a huge collection of exhibitors. It takes place three times a year.

Brimfield

Image Credits

Springfield Antique Show & Flea Market
Springfield, Ohio

This market will offer you a flavor of everything. From handicrafts and quilts with vintage pottery and crockery. You will also find a lot of plants, vintage clothing specially wedding dresses and repurposed jewelry. Springfield Antique Show sets up special markets thrice a year providing you additional sales and spoiling you for choices.

Spring field

Image Credits

Randolph Street Market Festival
Chicago

This market has been showcasing one of the best shows for over a few years now. It is held at the Beaux Arts Plumber’s Hall providing you with some really interesting stuff. This market is usually held around the months of May to December. It will offer you with a variety of handmade items, fashionable jewelry and clothing.

Randolph Street Market Festival

Image Credits

Downtown Oronoco Gold Rush Days
Oronoco, Minn.

The markets here are held annually usually during the end of August. It is so compelling to see the whole town putting up with this together and having the best of times. Showcasing a mix of vintage cars and a large number of taxidermy animals.

Oronoco gold

Image Credits

Plucky Maidens Junk Fest
Portland, Ore.

Held thrice a year, this market is a modern style gathering. It features ancient, junk and contemporary items with a touch of modern art. You might come across an old vanity that has been painted in bright colors and has shiny knobs for a girly room. These items have developed a huge fan base and people from all across the globe come to these flea markets.

junk fest

Image Credits

Renninger’s Antique Center and Farmer’s Flea Market
Mount Dora, Fla.

This market is really huge and set up every week with over hundreds of stalls. On visiting these stalls you will come across antiques and vintage items such as old television sets or antique statues. This will give you a feeling of old-world charm. Three times a year, the market becomes the hub for a larger gathering called an Extravaganza.

Renninger's Antique

Image Credits

Featured Image Credits

11 Enchanted Places in Eastern Europe You Have to Visit

Eastern Europe

Today, more travelers are choosing Eastern Europe as their exotic vacation destination. Eastern Europe offers tourists cities with rich culture, medieval old town architecture, lyrical languages and historic palaces.

Here are 11 amazing places you should visit in Eastern Europe.

  1. Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is known for its exemplary tree-lined boulevards, historic architecture and diverse culture. The most remarkable attractions include Romanian Athenaeum of which the concert hall is the most prestigious hall in Bucharest. Calea Victoriei is the oldest and the most vibrant street of the city. The Parliament Palace is enormous, and is a display of luxurious interiors.

Bucharest

 Image Credits

  1. Sibiu, Romania

A city with a traditional vibe. The colorful houses and cobblestone streets add to the medieval charm of the landscape. The view from the top of the Council Tower is splendid. The Brukenthal museum and Crama siniu Vechih restaurant are the must-visit places in Sibiu.

Sibiu

Image Credits

  1. Bratislava, Slovakia

It’s a tiny picturesque town with narrow streets, traditional markets and numerous small cafes. Get a bird’s eye view of the town from atop the majestic Bratislava castle. Do make a trip to see the glorious Slavin Memorial.

Bratislava

Image Credits

  1. Nida, Lithuania

A UNESCO World Heritage Site shared by Russia and Lithuania. Nida is the tourist destination on spit, a curved sand dune. A hike through pine forests, views of pristine white sand beaches are the city’s charms. Parindis is the most splendid and massive dune with a breathtaking view. Curonian National Park will be a treat for wildlife lovers.

Nida

Image Credits

5. Skopje, Macedonia

A city with high spirits and a relaxed social vibe. The city has a thriving night life. It is a harmonious blend of Christian and Islamic cultures. The historic structures and museums, Triumphal Arch are the most frequented attractions. The Plostad Makedonija Square is dedicated to national heroes.

skopje-macedonia

Image Credits

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is also the shining star of Croatia. It has some spectacular sculptures, churches and museums. Dubrovnik is incomplete without a walk down the city wall. A cable car ride to Mt.Srd can add to another splendid view of the city.
Dubrovnik, Croatia

 

Image Credits

  1. Split, Croatia

Split is the heart of Croatia. Diocletian’s Palace is a beautiful Roman monument that is a UNESCO World Heritage. The eastern shores and coastal mountain backdrop adds to the compelling beauty of the city. A visit to the beaches especially Bacvice Beach during summers where people participate in water sports and beach thrills can be really worth your while.

Split

 Image Credits

  1. Orheiul Vechi, Moldova

The most extraordinary and scenic attraction is the Oreil vechi Monastery. Other attractions include an ethnographic museum near Butuncei, some newly opened caves. The view from the monasteries headquarters is just spine chilling.

Orheiul Vechi, Moldova

 Image Credits

  1. Mljet island, Croatia

Covered with dense Mediterranean forest, vineyards and tiny villages it is one of the most beautiful islands in Eastern Europe. Other great attractions are the Mljet National Park, Roman Palace, the salt water lakes, the diverse vegetation and the untouched oasis. Seafood lovers should try Konaba Ankora, the best seafood restaurant.

mljet Islands

Image Credits

  1. Belgrade, Serbia

A chaotic mix of nouveau masterpieces and a combination of old world charm Belgrade is the most happening place.Kalemegden Citadel is the perfect example of an impressive historic monument. The joyful atmosphere, lively streets and funfairs have its own worldly charm. An underground tour in the city’s past is a must to explore.

Belgrade

Image Credits

11. Ljubljana, Slovenia

A City full of culture and traditions. Packed with the best museums. Restaurants and cafes in the country. Presernov Trg, the center square is the city’s favorite place to meet and greet. Take a bike ride across the famous lkubljana River. Plan a visit to the Ljubljana Castle and the National University Library to see examples of some stunning architecture.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Image Credits

Featured Image Credits

[qcopd-directory mode=”one” list_id=”2019″]

12 Heavenly Getaways in the USA

American-vacations
  1. Hawaii

The Hawaii Islands have everything you need for a relaxing vacation. From black sand beaches, snow covered mountains, dense green rainforests and hot deserts. You will find the most colorful beaches, hike trails with a pristine view and let’s not forget the honeymoon-esque tropical vibe. A dip in the azure blue ocean with the Technicolor coral reefs is a beautiful experience. From family fun destinations in Maui, to the best hangouts in Oahu which attracts party-animals and surfers. A major attraction, the fire spitting Kilauea volcano, beckons those who seek adventure.

hawaii

Image Credits

2. Maui

From attractive wildlife, hippies, hula dancers, golf along fairways, and snorkeling with a variety of turtles and sea creatures, Maui is drastically different from the mainland culture. Travel along the road to Hana to experience the coastline and explore Haleakala which has the world’s largest dormant volcano. With tribal battle grounds and the Lao valley state parks, Maui indeed has a flavor of varied culture and diversity.

Maui

Image Credits

3. US Virgin Islands

This place has something different to offer you. From moko jumbies performing at the carnival parade to the aroma of the famous salt fish plate. This place is also called the “American Caribbean Paradise,” “Rock City” for its hilly areas and “Craggy horizon.” St. Thomas is known for its high-end luxury stores on the main street. A short ferry ride down east is favored by nature lovers and honeymooning couples. Spending time on the islands of St. Thomas, St. John or St. Croix will show you the colonial history and the beauty of untouched nature in a short getaway.

Virgin Islands

Image Credits

4. Outer Banks

A lot of rich history finds its roots here. The Wright brothers took their first flight here, Pirate Blackbeard fought his last battle here and the mysterious Lost Colony disappeared in this very place. If you’re expecting some adventure and action, Outer Banks will not disappoint you. Activities such as fishing, wildlife watching and other adventure sports can be performed here. A scuba dive will definitely surprise you as you’ll get to explore 3000 ship wrecks in one dive. Family time can be spent at mini-golf courses and the North Carolina Aquarium.

outer banks

Image Credits

5. Sedona

Sedona is one of the most dramatically colorful and beautiful places. It’s a place about red rocks and rugged good looks. Traditional local treatments of red clay wraps and blue corn body scrubs are a heavenly relief on a stressful day. A glass of local wine is always a bonus. Hiking trails and long drives will offer the best ever scenic experience. Many filmmakers have chosen these fiery rock formations and splendid nature trails for their movies.

sedona

Image Credits

6. Napa Valley

A progressive wine industry, Napa Valley has also become a vacation hot spot. The hillsides views, vineyards and illustrious estates make for a perfect backdrop. Resorts provide activities like golfing and spa pampering. A trip to California wine country will be memorable with the top cabernet and untouched nature.

napa-valley

Image Credits

7. Yellowstone

An outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, the Yellowstone National Park includes multicolored pools, hot springs, dense forests, wildlife trails, expansive meadows and volatile geysers streams. During your nature trails you will have company in the form of the park’s permanent residents like the buffalo, elk and even grizzlies. You will come across plenty of untouched territory to explore. Also, the Yellowstone Lake and Mammoth hot springs are an attractive destination for nature lovers.

Yellowstone

Image Credits

 8. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is sheer beauty. The stunning blue lake alone is worth a trip. Providing miles of hiking trails, dozens of picture-perfect shots, gondola rides, hot air balloon rides and scenic cruises on the crystal clear water. This place will definitely blow your mind and bank account too. The lake is one of the most beautiful water bodies of United States.

Shore of Lake Tahoe

Image Credits

9. Lana’i

This is one of the most beautiful parts of the Hawaiian Islands consisting of remote beaches, ancient rock formations and colorful water bodies with coral reefs. Mother Nature has put on quite a show for you to see if you visit this island. A taste of adventure and best nature trails is on the top of the list. Plush and luxurious resorts provide you a long list of activities such as golf, horseback riding and lawn bowling.

Lana’i

Image Credits

10.Martha’s Vineyard

You can add this to your secret summer hideaway spot. This place has exorbitantly expensive cottages and fancy dining places around the town. But in contrast you will still find budget cottages in a few areas. Vineyard Haven and Menemsha are focused on the marine industry. Play it cool when you spy some film stars or famous folk in town. This triangular island is definitely a star-studded hideout.

Martha's Vineyard

Image Credits

Featured Image Credits

8 Most Underrated Cities in Europe that You Just Have to Visit

Underrated Cities in Europe

Take a trip down small historic towns that will definitely give you a feeling of the warmth and rich cultural heritage of Europe. Here is a listicle that contains some small towns that should be on your travel itinerary as must-visit places to see in Europe.

Heidelberg, Germany

Top among places to see when you travel to Europe should be the picturesque little town of Heidelberg. Nestled in the valley of the Odenwald Mountains, the River Neckar alongside this quaint historic town. A trip to see the Heidelberg Castle is essential as it is a city landmark you don’t want to miss. Follow the trail along the Philosopher’s Walk to the mountains to see famous churches and the University of Heidelberg.

Heidelberg-Germany

Image Credits

Bruges, Belgium

If you have not seen the Anglo-American neo-noir crime drama ‘In Bruges’ or you have, Bruges is a city that will draw you in with its historic attractions. The striking medieval architecture and multitude of canals have earned it the sobriquet “The Venice of the North.” For art aficionados, Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child sculpture can be seen here.

Bruges-Belgium

Image Credits

Ferrara, Italy

The city of Ferrara is ringed by an ancient wall that is over nine kilometers. Apart from some stunning cathedrals, you can also see palaces that were built during the 14th and 15th centuries. Stroll along the broad walkways and take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful city. Ferrara is also the hometown of several famed writers, artists and musicians.

Ferrara

Image Credits

Valencia, Spain

Valencia is located strategically between Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza. Spain’s third largest city is filled with old-world charm like winding streets, striking architecture and gorgeous cathedrals. The large plaza in Valencia has many well-known museums and galleries to engage visitors.

Valencia

Image Credits

Porto, Portugal

In 2001, Porto was crowned European Cultural Capital because of its long standing tradition in music, art and athletics. The city celebrates several cultural festivals like St. John (late June) and Queima das Fitas (early May). It is also home to the FC Porto among other football (soccer) clubs.

Porto-Portugal

Image Credits

Biarritz, France

Situated on the Bay of Biscay, Biarritz is a lively coastal city that attracts a lot of tourists and surfers. The Biarritz Surf Festival is held annually that brings in surfers and fans from around the world. Interestingly, Biarritz is located in the Basque Country region so it offers a wonderful blend of French and Spanish cultures.

Biarritz-France

Image Credits

Innsbruck, Austria

The city’s claim to fame is the fact that it has played host to the Winter Olympic Games twice (both in 1964 and 1976). The high altitude makes it the perfect place for winter sports and it is also the ideal playground for hiking, climbing and mountain biking throughout the rest of the year. The little city is full of museums, castles and notable sites of historic value.

Innsbruck-Austria

Image Credits

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg is a university city that is well-known for hosting festivals like the Gothenburg International Film Festival and music festivals Way Out West and Metaltown. The city is a bastion of Scandinavian architecture, museums, sports and rich cultural history.

Gothenburg-Sweden

Image Credits

Featured Image Credits

14 Fairytale Destinations You Must Visit In 2016

fairytale-locations

Here is a listing of some fairytale destinations that look so picturesque like they are right out of a book.

Hoi An, Vietnam

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for producing silk lanterns. Located off the coast of the South China Sea, this place has preserved the charm of South-East Asian culture of the15th to the 19th centuries. You can visit the famous Elephant Bridge here along with pristine white sandy beaches.

Hoi-An-Vietnam

Image Credits

Greenland

This is the biggest island in the world, which is covered with snow throughout the year. A place of soulful quietude, this sparsely populated nation offers gorgeous vistas and chocolate-box houses in vibrant colors.

Greenland

Image Credits

Bamboo forest, Kyoto, Japan

This is one of the most famous tourist spots in Kyoto, also known as the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. In Japan, bamboo are said to protect against evil. But the swishing sound of these beautiful bamboos are known to put people into a state of soothing reverie.

Bamboo-forest-Kyoto-Japan

Image Credits

Kathmandu, Nepal

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, this place exudes a feeling of calm. Filled with ancient temples and Buddhist monasteries, the atmosphere radiates spiritual bliss. Archeologists have found traces of civilization in this ancient city dating back to 185 CE.

Kathmandu-Nepal

Image Credits

Sintra, Portugal

A stone’s throw away from Lisbon, the historic town of Sintra was the inspiration behind Lord Byron’s Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage. Lined with exquisite 19th century architecture, Sintra is a great place to just walk around absorbing the beautiful vibe. Preserved by the UNESCO, Pena Palace is a sight to behold.

sintra

Image Credits

Colmar, France

The little town in north eastern France goes by the sobriquet of ‘Fairytale Town’. With only 65 thousand residents, this quaint town emits peace and serenity. Noteworthy painter Martin Schongauer, sculptor Frédéric Bartholdi (of the Statue of Liberty fame), and Alsatian wine all find their home here.

colmar

Image Credits

The Faroe Islands

A chain of islands located in Denmark, the Faroe Islands are well-known for breathtaking landscapes, the pleasantly chilly Nordic climate, rolling mists and remarkable volcanic rocks with steep hills that create an environment fit for a painting. The kind where you are sure to find creatures from Scandinavian myth.

The-Faroe-Islands

Image Credits

Alhambra, Granada, Spain

The Sultan of Granada built a palace on a fortress in 1333. An excellent exemplar of Islamic architecture, the palace is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, gushing fountains and glistening pools. This palace has served as an inspiration for many artists, writers and filmmakers.

Alhambra-Granada-Spain

Image Credits

Cappadocia, Central Anatolia, Turkey

This historic spot is known to be steeped in rich heritage as much as it is a natural wonder. The rocks in this region have formed hoodoos or fairy chimneys. These rock formations are used for dwellings, with the oldest carvings going back to the 8th century.

Cappadocia

Image Credits

Venice, Italy

This city is a group of small islands joined by bridges and canals. So you can very well imagine that the streets are filled with water so you will be travelling across town in a gondola instead of a car. A cultural center of Europe’s Renaissance period. This city is fast sinking so go see it before it is no more.

Venice-Italy

Image Credits

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Suspected to be the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, this 19th century castle in Germany towers atop a craggy peak over the village of Hohenschwangau in south-west Bavaria. Built by Ludwig II of Bavaria, this castle is a major tourist spot that has attracted more than 61 million tourists.

Neuschwanstein-castle

Image Credits

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Right in the midst of a glimmering lake in Slovenia lies a tiny charming island, surrounded by exquisite scenery. A perfectly romantic spot to be married, this island houses a 170-ft high church which you can reach to by boat. According to folk custom, it is thought to be good luck for the groom to carry his bride up the stone Baroque staircase, and then ring the bell in the tower and make a wish while within the church.

Lake-Bled

Image Credits

Tunnel of Love, Ukraine

In the heart of a forest corridor lies the Tunnel of Love, which is a leafy route that is known to have induced many a lover to propose to his beloved. The perfect spot for a romantic walk, this foliage-encased is also a train tunnel so you will need to watch out for the train along this two-mile track.

tunnel-of-love

Image Credits

Vaadhoo Island, Maldives

The Sea of Stars on Vaadhoo Island really doesn’t seem like its real – the glittering waters that lick the shore are actually caused by a special type of plankton called dinoflagellates, emitting a light as their cell membranes experience electrical signals which causes them to glow. This bioluminescence makes this a brilliant display which seems like it’s molten moonlight.

Vaadhoo Island

Image Credits

Featured Image Credits

8 Enchanting Flea Markets to Visit in Europe

best-flea-markets-in-europe

Flea markets are places for great deals and unearthing some one-of-a-kind treasures that is sure to make your trip to Europe all the more special. European flea markets are known for a bit of everything from jewelry to handmade edibles. For connoisseurs of times past, you will also find vintage flea markets filled with flea market antiques that can be bought at great prices.

Braderie de Lille Flea Market

An hour’s ride away from Paris by the TGV, the quaint town of Lille in France has the biggest flea market in Europe – the Braderie de Lille Flea Market. An annual event that lasts two days, the “Braderie” (French for “sell at a low price”) flea market attracts over 10,000 sellers. Dating back to the medieval times, this French flea market attracts more than two million visitors every September.

Portobello Road Flea Market

The Portobello Road Flea Market in Notting Hill, London is a gigantic crowd puller every Saturday, though you will find shops open from Monday to Friday. With more than 2,000 exhibitors on Saturday, this is one of the top flea markets in Europe with a bohemian vibe. You are likely to find everything from Limoges to exotic culinary ingredients in this place where you can shop and wind down with something to eat after you are done.

IJ-Hallen and Waterlooplein Flea Markets

Amsterdam’s most famous flea market has to be the Waterlooplein. The Amsterdam flea market is open six days a week and houses everything you can possibly imagine from vintage garments to old cameras. But if you would like to discover hidden gems in Amsterdam, then head to the IJ-Hallen in Noord, which is the largest flea market in the Netherlands and one of the biggest in Europe.

Waterloo Flea Market

The Waterloo Flea Market of Belgium is held on Saturdays in the parking space of the Carrefour supermarket. Other names that this flea market goes by are “La Brocante du Biggs”, “Brocante Château Cheval”, “Brocante du Carrefour”, “Brocante de Waterloo”, or “Brocante du Lion”. If the historic battlefield doesn’t get you to visit the area, consider the 300 flea market booths packed with goodies for bargain hunters.

The Antiques Market/Flea Market in Arezzo

At the heart of Tuscany lies the ancient city of Arezzo in Italy, with Roman buildings, medieval Piero della Francesca murals and Renaissance architecture. This town is a great attraction for art enthusiasts, but every month on the first weekend, the Piazza Grande is an antique lover’s paradise. The Arezzo flea market offers paintings, bric-a-brac and Roman coins.

El Rastro Flea Market

More often going by the name “el Rastro”, this is the popular open air flea market in Madrid, Spain. This flea market is situated along Plaza de Cascorro and Ribera de Curtidores, between Calle Embajadores and the Ronda de Toledo. Regulated by the Madrid town council, this market has 3,500 stalls hawking their wares new and old. By municipal discretion, this market is held every Sunday and public holiday of the year, from 9 am to 3 pm, in the barrio de Embajadores (‘Ambassador’s neighborhood).

Munich Flea Market

Munich is always happening – if it’s not the Oktoberfest, the Theresienwiese grounds house the Munich flea market is one of the top flea markets in Europe. This humongous flea market sets up during the Munich “Frühjahrsfest” (the first Saturday of the Spring Festival of Munich, in April). With around 3,000 exhibitors that pull in crowds of 80,000 from all over Europe. Thrifters who love flea market merchandise will delight in the great selection of militaria, home appliances, electronic, antiques, etc.

Cormano Flea Market

The Cormano Flea Market near Milan is open every Saturday at 7.30am and winds up by lunchtime (2 p.m.). With 150 stalls that make up this treasure hunter’s cove, you will also find great deals on what the area is famous for since the 14th century: silk. Here is the most beautiful market for vintage silk fabric in Europe as well as household goods, glass and silver and whatnot!

Image Credits

10 Heavenly Holiday Destinations Ruined by Terrorism

terrorism

Once considered to be relaxing getaways, these places have been touched by the horrors of terrorism. A terror threat hovering over a place can destroy its reputation and make it considered to be the most dangerous place on Earth. This simply means that tourists can no longer access these pieces of heaven on Earth for fear of a terror attack.

Here are 10 breathtaking locales that are now out of reach due to terrorism.

Turkey

This beautiful country known to be the hub of Islamic architecture like the Blue Mosque has been turned into a terror spot thanks to ISIS. Many countries have warned their citizens against travelling to this tourist magnet. The breathtaking and ancient city of Istanbul is also considered to be constantly under a terror threat.

turkey

Image Credits

Syria

Another country that has been destroyed by ISIS is Syria. It has been branded as the most dangerous place on Earth. Once the country prided itself of gorgeous architecture from ancient times. Today, more than 200,000 Syrians have lost their lives in this war-stricken land while many have fled. The unspoiled settings of this glorious country have been lost to terrorism.

syria

Image Credits

Kenya

Al-Qaeda has made Kenya its activity center since 2013. With bomb blasts and other such happenings, tourists are deprived of the natural beauty and teeming wildlife that made this country feature on the watch list of other nations. With unspoiled beaches and other natural wonders, Kenya has been tainted by humans.

kenya

Image Credits

Sulu Archipelago, The Philippines

A breeding ground for revolts and terrorism, this tropical paradise has turned into a perilous place. The Sulu Archipelago was home to unspoiled beaches and lush foliage that was sure to be a favorite with nature lovers but has been unfortunately become a safe harbor for terrorists.

Sulu Archipelago

Image Credits

Iran

Many western nations have warned their people against travelling to Iran because of its unstable political atmosphere and the security threats. Iran is filled with many striking examples of Islamic architecture and World Heritage Sites. Isfahan is a city that’s dotted with marvelous mosques featuring floral tile work and elaborate mosaics.

iran

Image Credits

Libya

A long-running civil war maimed this beautiful country. Formerly, Libya was reputed for its well-laid out transport routes and golden sands of the Sahara with dazzling oases. The distinctive medina in Tripoli was a tourist draw. The home of ancient civilization has been reduced to rubble due to the ceaseless warfare.

Libya

Image Credits

Yemen

One of Al-Qaeda’s top bases, Yemen has gone from the land of milk and honey to a barren wasteland. Travel to this nation has been discouraged by most western countries.

Yemen

Image Credits

Egypt

Regions in this country, like the Sinai Peninsula, have been banned from allowing tourists. What this implies is that you will not be able to visit the oldest functioning monastery in the world and grand vistas of the sunrise and sunset over the Red Sea. Terrorists and insurgents have caused this area have become an obstruction that keeps locals and tourists away from its underwater attractions.

Egypt

Image Credits

Jammu and Kashmir

After the partition of India, the land that was once called “A slice of heaven” by poet Amir-e-Khusru Dehluvi became a terrorist-ridden political plot. Jammu and Kashmir with its scenic valleys, snow-laden mountains, crystal lakes and rosy cheeked people can be seen in many a Bollywood film. But the constant conflict in this region has caused tourism to drop here.

jammu-kashmir

Image Credits

Tunisia

This small strip of land off the Mediterranean coast made for the perfect beach holiday. However, there are varied landscapes that will interest travelers looking for scenic beauty. The British government has issued a warning to discourage tourists to this country due to its terror attacks on tourists.

TUNISIA

Image Credits

Featured Image Credits

6 Ways You Can Ruin Your Vacation and How to Avoid It

how-not-to-ruin-vacation

We all want a holiday that is smoothly orchestrated to the last detail. However, here are some ways in which you can ruin your vacation easily and how to avoid these pitfalls.

Forgetting to check the travel documents needed

Many western nations have the liberty of their citizens being allowed in most countries without a visa or with some simple paperwork upon entry. However, others have to plan ahead and have the right travel documents on hand or you will be barred from entry.

Quick Fix: A basic Google search should direct you about all the immigration documents you will need to carry upon your person. Ensure that you start this procedure at the earliest as some visas can take weeks to process.

You have chosen the wrong travel partner

When traveling with someone, you might have to also plan the trip keeping in mind your travel partner’s preferences and limitations. Ideally, you should travel with someone you are comfortable with.

Quick Fix: just because someone is your spouse or good friend, that does not immediately mean they will be a good travel buddy. It is better to travel solo or go with a person you feel will like to do similar things with your on the trip.

Not addressing problems during your trip

When you travel abroad, communication with your travel mate is very essential. If you are travelling with someone where you are unhappy about them leaving wet towels on the floor or getting up late, keeping a lid over the issue will only result in it being blown off one day.

Quick Fix: If you are experiencing a problem, the best thing is to do is to talk about it with the other person from a non-accusatory perspective. Effective communication can get you over great hurdles.

You keep socializing to a minimum

The whole idea of travelling is to go out there and experience the world – and that is not likely to happen if you keep only to the person you’re with. For example, if you are travelling to an all-inclusive resort it is just too easy to miss out on the local culture.

Quick Fix: Be open to talking to people, whether it’s with a local shop owner or a person you meet in an art gallery (or wherever you visit). You never know what meeting a new person might teach you.

You overbudget your vacation

Overspending on a holiday can seem like the right thing to do when you’re having fun but the rush is bound to go away after a while. If you are travelling with a partner, ensure that you both agree on what you wish to spend. Going a little over budget is totally acceptable, but do not go way above budget.

Quick Fix: Set a certain budget and stick to it. If you’re travelling with someone, make a list of the costs involved and who will be spending on what.

You only stick to the familiar

Travelling means doing new things and seeing something you haven’t seen before. Don’t hang on to the familiar just to be comfy.

Quick Fix: Get out of your comfort zone and push yourself to try something you have never experienced before when you travel.

Image Credits

5 Heavenly Getaways in South Africa for Couples

South Africa for Couples

Africa is the place to go to if you want to experience beautiful landscapes and nature in all its glory. South Africa is one of the hottest couple destinations as it offers so much by way of both fun and adventure.

Here is a list of the places to visit in South Africa that make for very romantic getaways.

Franschhoek, Cape Town

Franschhoek is along a picturesque town set along the southern slope. In fact, this pretty town with its vineyards is one of our most recommended honeymoon destinations as will bring to mind the lush wine country of provincial France. You can take a walk down the vineyards to enjoy fine wine or take a romantic ride on the Franschhoek wine tram. For car enthusiasts, the Franschhoek Motor Museum with its excellent selection of vintage cars makes this one of the places to see in Africa.
Best time to visit: September to November

Queenstown, Eastern Cape

Queenstown is an idyllic town that is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Africa because of its laidback vibe and scenic beauty. Located at the foothills of Hangklip Mountains, the place is perfect for a morning hike followed by a dreamy breakfast at the peak, with a bird’s eye view of the town. The river resorts in Queenstown can be perfect for those who love fishing.
Best time to visit: September to November

The Garden Route, Western Cape

Travel to South Africa is incomplete without a love-filled holiday to Garden Route. Among the scenic beauty of the Cango caves, Plettenberg Bay, Knysa and Tsitsikamma, you can take canopy tours of the wild forests in this region. Rightly called Birds of Eden, you can see some brightly-colored tropical birds here.
Best time to visit: May to August

Elephant Coast, Kwazulu Natal

Kwazulu Natal is one of the perfect places to visit in South Africa if you want to unwind after a wild wedding. This makes it to the list of honeymoon destinations in Africa as you can sip on a glass of wine and just gaze into the vast expanse of nature. Gaming at he game lodge is an option for adventure seekers as is enjoying the serenity of Nottingham Road. Being a coastal area, the fresh seafood is definitely a draw.
Best time to visit: October to December

Johannesburg, Gauteng

The premium city life – great nightlife and fantastic food. Johannesburg is the place to go on a shopping spree. Its beachside resorts feature big fireplaces to help you wind down or treat your lady to sumptuous dinners at Carnical City and Entertainment World. George Harrison Discovery of Gold is the place to get some shiny baubles for your beloved.
Best time to visit: August to October

Image Credits

5 Cheapest Holiday Destinations for 2016

cheapest-holiday-destinations

Vacationing can be an expensive affair and this keeps a lot of people from travelling. Here is a roundup of the cheapest holiday destinations that will definitely get you some summer sun or steamy salsa lessons (whichever you prefer) at a fraction of the cost that you think exotic vacations should cost.

Cambodia

Among the top places to get a glimpse of culture while enjoying cheap holidays is Cambodia. If you are seeking luxury five-star stays on a backpacker’s budget, then this is the country of choice. This is where you can visit Southeast Asia’s beautiful temples like the Angkor Wat, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cambodia

Image Credits

Vietnam

Untouched and hugely underdeveloped, this beautiful country can be one of the cheapest places to travel. Being a former French colony, you can see slivers of French culture in excellent patisseries and French villas. The local food like the infamous Vietnamese pho can be a soul food experience while you are seated on a small wooden stool enjoying the locals practice tai chi. A trip to the countryside will show you the iconic rice terraces, flower farms and even cashew nut plantations. Don’t forget a trip to the former French mountain resort of Da Lat in the central highlands.

Vietnam

Image Credits

India

A country which is known for its diversity in culture – which means you have access to even more types of food, architecture, clothing, terrain and whatnot. It is a large and very varied country so it is wise to plan what you want to do on your trip in advance. You can relax on a houseboat in the backwaters of Kerala or shop for beautiful blue pottery in the Pink City of Jaipur. If you want to go on a shopping spree then cosmopolitan cities like Mumbai and Delhi have much to offer.

india

Image Credits

Bolivia

Another one of the cheapest countries to travel where there’s just so much to see and do is Bolivia. Here is where you can experience South American life with a touch of its Spanish past. Stroll along the Calle Jaén for beautifully preserved colonial buildings with whitewashed facades and ornate grilled balconettes. Lots of museums along the Calle Jaén can help you go back in time. Food and drink here is the best value for money, and the proximity to the Altiplano Mountains so it is cool for most part of the year. If you’re there in February or March, attend the Altiplano Carnival for a UNESCO protected presentation of indigenous and religious Bolivian culture.

Bolivia

Image Credits

Hungary

If you are on a trip to Europe, you just cannot pass through without visiting the historic Hungarian capital, Budapest. From mouthwatering cakes to steaming thermal spas, there’s something for everyone here. If you want to visit the countryside, then head over to Lake Balaton – the biggest lake in central Europe. You can find big resorts in the cities of Siófok and Balatonfüred. If you are a wine connoisseur, then try the locally produced wines from the vineyards that dot Badacsony Hill.

hungary

Image Credits

Featured Image Credits