Travel Guides To Help You Knock That Bucket List

Travel Guides To Help You Knock That Bucket List

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Best Things To Do In Vietnam

Most travellers love visiting Vietnam, and for good reasons. Leo from Local Removals London is always waxing lyrical about it. Besides the natural features, parks, and museums, the country also has a distinctive culture. The locals have a unique way of doing things like the floating and love markets, which will make your visit worthwhile. You can hire a motorbike and tour the villages alone or join a tour and ride the bikes with a guide or other tourists. You can also visit the rice farms or trek the mountains. Indeed, you will be spoilt for choice about what activity to start with. These are the six best things to do in Vietnam.

1.    Visit the Ho Chi Minh City Museum and learn about the country’s painful past
The Vietnam War, which greatly decimated the population, ended in 1975. Over 50% of the country’s population was born after the war ended. Even though the country picked up the pieces and moved on, they did not bury the history nor forget the sacrifices the people made during the war. The government has preserved this history in the city of Ho Chi Minh in the Ho Chi Minh Museum. The museum contains educational exhibitions and describes Vietnam’s painful history using memorabilia, artefacts, and photos. The story is told expertly without emphasizing the gory actions. The museum is housed inside the Gia Long Palace; the same place Ngo Dinh Diem ruled from in his last hours alive before he died in 1963 due to assassination. The War Remnants Museum has a more chilling account of the story. It showcases autobiographical narrations by war soldiers, pictures of shocking napalm ruins, a guillotine, and bomb pieces.

2.    Walk over the Golden Hands Bridge
Also known as the Giant Hands Bridge or The Golden Bridge, this is a one-of-a-kind bridge you should see when visiting Vietnam. You can even walk over the bridge that has a length of 150 meters and it’s held by two hands made of fiberglass and a strong steel frame. It’s located in the Da Nang Province. The government built the bridge to boost tourism in the area, which has proven to be a successful investment since images of this bridge attract a lot of attention on social media.


3.    Go to Cat Tien National Park and catch a glimpse of rare animals
If you enjoy watching wildlife in their natural habitat, you will enjoy visiting this park. It covers 720 sq km and consists of a lowland forest and botanical gardens, home to rare birds and animals you cannot find anywhere else in the world. Some of the rare birds you will see include orange-necked partridge, bar-bellied pittas, blue-rumped pittas and Asian barred owlet. You can also see endangered primates such as native pygmy lorsies, silvered langurs and golden-cheeked gibbons inside the Dao Tien Endagered Primate Species Center. The park has several rescue centers and sanctuaries that protect these animals from extinction.


4.    Explore the largest cave in the world in Phong Nha National Park
Located deep in a jungle in the Quang Binh Province, this cave is enormous and has a high roof. The area has many other deep caves. You can hire the necessary gear and guides and descend into the gigantic cave. If you are not keen on accessing the cave from above, you can also trek. Beautiful waterfalls are sprinkled throughout the jungle, and you will see and hear loud flying foxes and monkeys.


5.    Gaze at the Ban Gioc Waterfall
This waterfall is right at the China and Vietnam Border on the Quay Son River in the Trung Khanh District. Its huge size of 208 meters wide and 70 meters high is enough to awe anyone, and the way it flows is also quite breathtaking. If you enjoy hiking, you can walk up to the top of the fall and get a better view of the falls. Make sure you wear the correct walking gear. You will also love taking panoramic images of the waterfall if you are a photography enthusiast. After viewing this waterfall, you can also walk around the area and see other waterfalls, see local homes, and go into caves.


6.    Cruise down the Mekong Delta
This delta is usually a beehive of activities. The locals go to the delta to fish, sell products and sell farm produce. You will be amazed to see the floating market that is done on the river. The massive Mekong River joins the ocean through this delta. If you have a lot of time for a cruise, go for a 4-8 days cruise to Cambodia and if you have less time, do a boat tour from Ben Tre or Can Tho for several hours.


Final Thoughts
Vietnam is a favorite tourist destination for many travellers due to its dense jungles, unique wildlife, fascinating culture, and ancient towns. If you plan to travel the world, you should add this country to your must-visit places because your mind will be blown away by its beauty. Overall, you will have a fantastic experience here, meet new people and eat amazing food. Just remember to be careful when choosing the tour companies to collaborate with to avoid falling prey to scammers.
 

Dreams and Skylines: A London Couple’s Adventure in Dubai

Phillippe and Imargen, a vibrant young couple from London, embarked on an exciting adventure to Dubai, the city where tradition meets futurism. Their life in London, while comfortable and familiar, couldn’t compare to the allure of this Middle Eastern jewel, a place they had dreamed of visiting together.

Phillippe, with his rugged charm honed from his time in the army, and Imargen, whose beauty was matched only by her intellect and passion for teaching, found Dubai to be a city of contrasts and surprises. They were enthralled by the blend of modernity and tradition, the bustling souks alongside towering skyscrapers.

Their first day was spent marveling at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. As they ascended to the observation deck, Phillippe’s eyes sparkled with the same excitement he showed during his army days, while Imargen’s face lit up, her mind racing with the educational opportunities such a structure could offer her future students.

The next day, they explored the historic district of Al Fahidi, where the old wind-tower houses provided a stark contrast to the modern architecture they had seen the day before. Imargen’s fascination with the cultural heritage was evident as she took notes, already planning how she would share this experience in her classroom.

Shopping was an experience unlike any other in the grand malls of Dubai. Imargen’s love for fashion found a paradise in The Dubai Mall, where they spent hours perusing high-end stores. Phillippe, always supportive, enjoyed seeing her eyes light up with each new find, reminiscent of their early dating days in London.

As night fell, they found themselves on a traditional Dhow cruise along the Dubai Creek. The city’s lights reflected in the water, creating a magical ambiance. They dined on local cuisine, and Phillippe, with his jack-the-lad demeanor, charmed the crew with stories from his army days, while Imargen listened, her admiration for him evident.

Their journey led them to the desert next, where they experienced a safari. The vastness of the desert was a humbling experience for Phillippe, who was used to the discipline and structure of army life. Imargen, with her keen interest in different cultures, was captivated by the Bedouin lifestyle, finding parallels to the historical accounts she’d read.

Their final day in Dubai was spent at the Palm Jumeirah. They relaxed on the beach, reflecting on their journey. Phillippe, looking out at the horizon, felt a sense of accomplishment, akin to his army days, yet softened by the love he had for Imargen. She, in turn, lay there planning her future lessons, inspired by the rich culture and history they had witnessed.

As they flew back to London, they knew that this trip had changed them. It had not only brought them closer but had also broadened their horizons, both eager to incorporate their experiences into their life and work. Dubai had been more than just a destination; it had been a journey of discovery for Phillippe and Imargen.…

A Parisian Love Story: Phillippe & Imargen’s Journey

Phillippe and Imargen had always dreamed of visiting Paris, the City of Light. After months of saving and planning, they finally found themselves aboard the Eurostar, speeding through the Channel Tunnel. As the train emerged into the French countryside, they smiled at each other. This was a new chapter in their life, a break from the hustle and bustle of London, and a chance to explore a city neither had ever visited.

Phillippe, with his military background, had a knack for logistics. He had planned the trip down to the last detail—where they would stay, what they would see, and even where they would eat. Imargen, on the other hand, was the dreamer. She had a list of places she wanted to visit, inspired by the books she had read and the movies she had seen. Together, they made the perfect team.

As they stepped off the train at Gare du Nord, Phillippe felt a sense of déjà vu. The architecture, the atmosphere, even the smell reminded him of his time stationed in various European cities. But for Imargen, everything was new and exciting. She couldn’t wait to explore.

Their first stop was the Eiffel Tower. As they stood beneath the iron lattice, Phillippe couldn’t help but marvel at the engineering feat. Imargen, however, was lost in the romance of it all. She imagined the countless proposals that had taken place here, the stolen kisses, and the whispered “I love yous.”

From there, they made their way to Montmartre, the bohemian heart of Paris. As they wandered through the narrow streets, they stumbled upon a small café. The smell of fresh coffee and croissants was too tempting to resist. As they sat sipping their café au lait, Imargen felt like she was in a scene from a French film. She looked at Phillippe and thought how lucky she was to have found someone who understood her so well.

Phillippe, sensing her thoughts, reached across the table and took her hand. “You know, I never thought I’d find someone who would make me want to settle down. But here we are, in the most romantic city in the world, and all I can think about is our future together.”

Imargen felt her eyes well up. “I feel the same way,” she said softly.

After their coffee break, they headed to the Louvre. While Phillippe was keen to see the military artifacts, Imargen was drawn to the art. They spent hours exploring, each lost in their own world but always finding each other at just the right moment.

As the sun began to set, they made their way to the Seine for a boat cruise. They felt like they were in a dream as they floated past the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Musée d’Orsay. The city lights reflected off the water, creating a magical atmosphere.

As the boat docked, Phillippe turned to Imargen. “I have one more surprise for you,” he said, pulling a small box from his pocket.

Imargen’s heart skipped a beat. She felt a rush of emotion as he opened the box to reveal a delicate gold necklace. “It’s beautiful,” she said, tears in her eyes.

Phillippe fastened it around her neck. “It’s a reminder of our time here and of all the adventures yet to come.”

As they walked back to their hotel, hand in hand, they knew that this trip had been more than just a vacation. It was a celebration of their love, a testament to their compatibility, and a promise of the life they were building together.

And so, under the Parisian sky, Phillippe and Imargen found a new city to explore and a deeper understanding of each other. It was, they both agreed, the perfect start to their forever.…

Phillippe & Imargen visit South America

In the heart of London, where the bustling streets intertwined with history and modernity, lived a young couple named Phillippe and Imargen. Their love story had blossomed amidst the urban chaos, and now they were embarking on a new adventure together – a journey to South America.

Phillippe’s affable jack-the-lad demeanor contrasted with Imargen’s poise and thoughtfulness, creating a dynamic that kept their relationship vibrant. As they boarded the plane, excitement coursed through their veins, for this trip held the promise of new experiences, challenges, and discoveries.

Their first destination was Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The moment they stepped onto the vibrant streets, they were enveloped by the rhythm of samba and the warm embrace of the locals. The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue stood tall, overlooking the city with open arms. Phillippe and Imargen wandered through the colorful neighborhoods, taking in the breathtaking views from Sugarloaf Mountain and immersing themselves in the contagious energy of the Carnival spirit, even though it wasn’t the season.

From Brazil, they traveled to Argentina, where the sultry tango melodies serenaded them through the streets of Buenos Aires. Imargen’s eyes lit up as they explored local markets, and Phillippe couldn’t resist joining an impromptu tango dance with her on the cobblestone streets. They indulged in the finest Argentine steaks, savoring the flavors that were a world away from their British meals.

The journey continued to Peru, where they hiked the Inca Trail to the mesmerizing Machu Picchu. Side by side, they navigated the ancient paths, sharing stories and dreams as they ascended to the mystical ruins. The sight of the sun rising over the stone citadel left them in awe, reminding them of the grandeur of both nature and human ingenuity.

As they moved through South America, their experiences deepened their bond. In Colombia, they explored the vibrant city of Medellín, where they learned about the country’s resilience and transformation. In Chile, they gazed upon the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert, feeling like they were on another planet. And in Ecuador, they stood on the equator line, straddling two hemispheres, symbolizing their own unique union.

Their journey reached its crescendo in the lush Amazon rainforest of Peru. Amidst the symphony of wildlife, they embarked on a guided expedition that opened their eyes to the delicate balance of nature. Imargen’s thoughtfulness found its place as she listened to indigenous stories, while Phillippe’s adventurous spirit led them on canoe rides through winding waterways.

As their South American adventure neared its end, they found themselves in a quiet moment on the shores of a tranquil lake in Patagonia. Reflecting on their journey, they realized how each experience had deepened their understanding of the world and of each other. Phillippe’s easygoing charm had blended harmoniously with Imargen’s wisdom, forming a partnership that was both exciting and nurturing.

With their hearts full of memories and their minds expanded by the wonders of South America, Phillippe and Imargen returned to London. The bustling metropolis now felt different to them, as if they had brought a piece of the world back with them. They knew that their journey was not just a chapter in their lives but a foundation upon which they would continue to build their life together, forever cherishing the memories of their adventurous exploration of a distant continent.…

Top 9 destinations for travellers on a budget

Travelling and seeing the world is a goal for most people. While travelling can be expensive, there are several affordable destinations for travellers on a budget. These are some of the best and cheapest destinations you can visit.

  1. Transylvania, Romania

Located in central Romania, Transylvania is among the top interesting and pocket-friendly destinations in Eastern Europe. It is an ideal destination for slow travellers and is popular for its folk stories and myths. Transylvania also features various medieval towns, historical neighbourhoods, vibrant cities, and gardens.

While peak seasons for travelling to Transylvania are usually from April to October, you can still enjoy cheap flights during the winter. Public transportation in Romania is low-cost and reliable and you can explore the magical towns and villages of Transylvania all year round.

  1. Puebla, Mexico

Puebla is among the largest cities in Mexico and is located in the Puebla State, central Mexico. Unlike the other bustling cities, Puebla is tranquil and relaxed. It is also beautiful and full of fun and fascinating places to visit, from churches and cathedrals to zoos, aquariums, and museums.

Travelling around Puebla and other Mexican towns and cities is quite affordable. From cheap bus fare and flights to low-cost and delicious food and accommodation, Puebla is a great destination for anyone trying to travel on a budget.

  1. Lima, Peru

If you are looking for cheap destinations in South America, Lima, Peru is a great option. Peru is not only a low-budget destination, it also has a lot to offer, including delightful Peruvian cuisines, spectacular coastal views of the Pacific Ocean, and wildlife.

At Lima, expect to enjoy food tours and visit various sites and neighbourhoods at a low cost. Ubers, flights, and buses are very affordable as well as hostels for accommodation.

  1. Thailand

Thailand is a cultural hotspot with numerous places to visit and explore. From its picturesque islands, clear blue waters, and white beaches to the temples and wildlife, Thailand is among the top popular places to visit in South Asia.

Thailand is also a favourite destination for most tourists trying to travel the world on a shoestring budget. With several affordable accommodation options, easy travel, and low-cost meals, you can experience so much without having to break the bank.

  1. Morocco

If you enjoy touring deserts and ancient cities, you will love Morocco. This historic North African country has striking landscapes with high mountain ranges, beaches, and rolling deserts. You can fully experience the scenic views of Morocco’s landscapes by taking road trips and desert safaris.

Besides being a budget-friendly destination, Morocco has generous hospitality, exotic food, and a rich culture. Whether you want to join a camel caravan, hike in the Atlas Mountains, or visit ancient ruins, exploring Morocco is very affordable and fun too.

  1. Cambodia

Cambodia is among the top exotic places to visit in Southeast Asia. It is an ideal destination for travellers who enjoy both relaxed and adventure activities. From touring temples and ancient cities to river boat trips and social cycle’s tours, there is something for everyone in Cambodia. These activities are also affordable and so are transportation, food and accommodation.

  1. Belgrade, Serbia

European travel destinations are often considered pricey, and for this reason, most travellers on a budget avoid them. However, there are places such as Belgrade that are affordable. With low-cost flights and bus fares and cheap accommodation, this city in Serbia is perfect for budget travellers. Belgrade is a beautiful destination with a lot of interesting places to visit and a lot to learn. Being among the top affordable cities in Europe, you can enjoy a range of activities like exploring the art and cafes, the local wine and cuisines and experiencing the city’s nightlife on a good budget.

  1. South Africa

If you are looking for cheap destinations in Africa, add South Africa to your bucket list. In South Africa, you can embark on a safari in areas such as the Kruger National Park, explore the incredible Kalahari, the garden route and enjoy wine in wine-making regions at a good budget.

  1. Kolkata, India

Kolkata, India is an old city with a rich history and features interesting architecture and several old buildings. Like many other parts of India, Kolkata is a cultural hub and an incredibly cheap destination. Popular sites and attractions in this city include the Cathedral of holiest rosary, RBI and Postal museums, Mallik Bazar Flower market and Magen David Synagogue.

Conclusion

Travelling on a budget is about proper planning and budgeting and having relevant information about your destination. While there are numerous cheap destinations in the world to visit, it is crucial that you gather information from other travellers on affordable accommodation, meals, security and transportation before visiting a place.…

10 best things to do in Venice, Italy

Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and the capital of the Veneto region. It is known for its canals, architecture, and art. The city is home to many famous landmarks, making it a popular tourist destination with millions of visitors each year.
There are many things to do in Venice. You can discover more about Venice here. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Venice:

1.  Take a Gondola Ride Through the Canals of Venice
A gondola ride through the canals of Venice is one of the most romantic things to do in Italy. The city is built on a network of canals, and the only way to get around is by boat. A gondola ride is a perfect way to see the city from the water and get a feel for Venetian life.

2.  Visit St. Mark’s Basilica
St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the world’s most famous and beautiful churches, and a visit here is a must-do when in Venice. The basilica is free to enter, but you can pay a small fee to take a lift to the top of the campanile (bell tower) for amazing views over Venice.

3.  Tour the Piazza San Marco
Piazza San Marco, commonly known simply as the “Piazza,” is the central public square of Venice, Italy, where it is generally known just as “the Piazza.” All other urban spaces in the city (except the Piazzetta and the Piazzale Roma) are called “campi.” The Piazzetta (the little piazza) is an extension of the piazza towards the lagoon in its southeast corner. The two spaces together form Venice’s social, religious, and political center and are commonly considered together.


4.  Explore the Doge’s Palace
The Doges Palace is a must-see when visiting Venice. It was the home of the Doges, the rulers of Venice, for over 1,000 years. The palace is an excellent example of Venetian Gothic architecture and is filled with works of art by some of the most famous artists of the time, including Tintoretto and Veronese.

5.  Take a Rideon the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a luxury train that travels from Venice to Istanbul. The train features beautifully appointed cabins and cars and offers unparalleled service. The journey takes approximately three days and includes stops in several cities along the way.

6.  Take a Cruise on the Grand Canal
The Grand Canal is one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any first-time visitor to the city. Stretching for over 2 miles through the heart of Venice, the canal is lined with beautiful Renaissance and Gothic palaces and many bridges, including the famous Rialto Bridge.

7.  A Visit to the Murano Glass Factory
One of the best things to do in Venice is to visit the Murano Glass Factory. Murano is a small island off the coast of Venice, and it is world-renowned for its glassmaking. The Murano Glass Factory is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about this traditional art form.

8.  A Tour of St. Mark’s Square
One of the best ways to experience St. Mark’s Square is to take a guided tour. When visiting St. Mark’s Square, be sure to dress appropriately. The square is a religious site, so it’s essential to dress modestly. This means avoiding shorts, tank tops, and other revealing attire.

9.  Try Italian Food
Italian food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world, and for a good reason. From pizza and pasta to gelato and tiramisu, there are many delicious dishes to choose from.

10. Learn Italian
Learning Italian can be an exciting adventure if you are not from Italy. This is the best way to show the people back home that you visited Venice. You can ask the locals to teach you a few sentences in Italian.

Conclusion
To get more out of your trip to Italy, hire a local tour guide or work with a local travel company. You will learn more about Italy and visit other places not on the list above.…

12 Cities You Must Travel To Once In Your Life

Travelling is a great adventure. It allows people to explore the world and experience new cultures, cuisines and customs. Whether you are into sightseeing a city or just lounging on the beach somewhere remote, there is always something that will interest you. Here are the twelve cities you must travel to once in your life:

1. New York City – One of the most iconic cities in the world, New York City has it all – skyscrapers, bustling streets full of shops and restaurants, Broadway shows and amazing museums such as The Met and The American Museum of Natural History. Whether you’re a foodie looking for some of the best street food in North America or a fashionista shopping until dawn at Manhattan’s 5th Avenue, New York City has something to suit everyone’s tastes.

2. Paris – An elegant city known as the “City of Light,” Paris is known for its fashion and beauty, but also for its amazing architecture and rich history. From shopping on the Champs-Élysées to exploring iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame Cathedral, there is no shortage of things to do in this beautiful capital city.

3. London – A bustling metropolis home to a diverse population from all over the world, London offers a truly unique experience for visitors with everything from royal palaces and museums like the British Museum to street theatre performances at Shoreditch or traditional English pubs serving fish and chips.

4. Rome – The Eternal City is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with its rich history and gorgeous architecture that can be seen in both ancient buildings like the Colosseum or more modern sites such as St Peter’s Basilica. With delicious Italian cuisine and world-famous sights like the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, there are plenty of reasons to visit this amazing city.

5. Barcelona – A coastal capital famous for its amazing architecture by Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona has something for everyone from beaches to museums to festivals such as La Merce with street performers and art exhibitions. Whether you want spend sunny days at Barceloneta beach or stroll through Parc Güell, this beautiful city will delight and inspire you.

6. Venice – A charming city made up of over 100 islands in the Venetian Lagoon, Venice is known for its canals and gondolas that allow visitors to explore different parts of the city. With amazing works of art at the Peggy Guggenheim Museum and delicious pasta dishes served all over town, there’s no wonder people flock to this romantic city to experience a different kind of adventure.

7. Tokyo – The bright lights and noisy streets of Japan’s capital are a must-visit for anyone looking for an exciting but also culturally rich experience. Whether you want to shop until you drop at Akihabara or enjoy some authentic sushi at Tsukiji, Tokyo has something for everyone with its beautiful parks and gardens, skyscrapers and temples.

8. Hong Kong – A vibrant city full of contradictions with both a booming economy and incredible natural beauty, Hong Kong offers something for everyone from hiking in the mountains to exploring bustling bazaars. With amazing food options and jaw-dropping views from Victoria Peak, there’s no wonder so many people want to visit this unique city in Asia.

9. Sydney – This stunning coastal capital is packed full of activities for all kinds of travellers – whether you’re looking for the best seafood on The Rocks or carefree days lounging on Manly Beach, there are plenty of things to do in Sydney. With its vibrant atmosphere and incredible architecture, this city is a must-vis for anyone travelling to Australia.

10. Istanbul – A fascinating city that straddles two different continents and covers both Europe and Asia, Istanbul has become an incredibly popular destination in recent years with plenty of things to do from exploring mosques to shopping at the Grand Bazaar or admiring fine art at The Blue Mosque. From street markets to beautiful scenery, there’s no doubt that this city offers something for everyone visiting Turkey.

11. Buenos Aires – The cultural capital of Argentina is a lively metropolis full of life and energy, but also filled with gorgeous parks such as Bosques de Palermo and stunning buildings like Casa Rosada. Whether you want to dance the tango or savour delicious steaks, this city has something for everyone with its world-famous nightlife and cultural activities.

12. Berlin – A fascinating city that’s undergone many changes in recent history, Berlin is a great destination for anyone interested in learning more about the country’s past as well as experiencing modern life. From breathtaking views of the city from Reichstag Dome to excellent street food inspired by international influences, there are plenty of reasons why this capital stands out among other European capitals.