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| Photo by Jeremy Bishop |
What is Noctourism?
Noctourism refers to the increasing number of travelers seeking to explore destinations during the nighttime, away from the typical daytime sightseeing. It includes activities such as stargazing tours, late-night art exhibitions, moonlit walks, and cultural events like nighttime food festivals or night markets. In essence, it allows tourists to experience a destination from a completely different perspective—when the sun sets, and the city or countryside reveals its hidden charms.
Why Noctourism Is Gaining Popularity-
Unique Experiences: Travelers are increasingly looking for distinctive, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and noctourism offers just that. Nighttime offers a new angle on cities, landmarks, and natural landscapes that are often overlooked during the day. Imagine experiencing a city’s iconic landmarks lit up at night or immersing yourself in a serene environment under the stars.
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Cultural Events: As cities grow, they are hosting more nighttime cultural events like outdoor concerts, art installations, and theatrical performances, which attract tourists looking to explore local culture beyond typical sightseeing. These events are often less crowded and provide a more intimate, enriching experience.
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Cooler Temperatures: In hot climates, the scorching midday heat can be unbearable. Nocturnism provides a chance to explore destinations when the temperatures cool down, making it more comfortable to enjoy outdoor activities like beach walks, desert hikes, or city tours.
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Stargazing and Astronomy: With growing interest in astronomy, stargazing tours have surged in popularity. Places like remote desert regions or mountainous areas offer incredible views of the night sky, allowing travelers to engage in star tours and learn about the cosmos.
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Safety: Many travelers feel that their safety is enhanced at night, especially in busier, more touristy areas where daytime crowds are overwhelming. With fewer people around, it can feel more peaceful, and visitors can enjoy the destination on their own terms.
As noctourism becomes more widespread, travel companies are adjusting their offerings to cater to this trend:
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New Tour Packages: Companies are launching specialized night tours, which often include guided explorations of cities under the stars, late-night food tours, and even private stargazing events. These tours offer a fresh way to experience destinations that traditional sightseeing packages don't cover.
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Night-Friendly Accommodations: Some hotels and resorts are adapting to nocturnal tourists by providing extended services, such as nighttime concierge services, 24/7 dining options, and midnight spa treatments. This ensures that guests can fully immerse themselves in the nocturnal atmosphere without having to worry about early curfews.
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Innovative Transportation: To accommodate nocturnal travelers, more transportation services are extending their hours or providing specialized late-night routes. This helps ensure that visitors can easily get from one location to another after dark, making it easier to explore more of a destination at night.
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Sustainability and Eco-Tourism: Many nocturnal experiences, such as stargazing or desert camping, emphasize eco-friendly practices, which aligns with the growing interest in sustainable travel. These experiences often take place in remote, natural environments where minimal impact on the environment is a key priority.
The rise in environmental awareness has led many to reconsider how their travel choices impact the planet. As concerns over climate change and environmental degradation continue to grow, sustainable and eco-friendly travel options have become more important than ever. Increasingly, travelers are prioritizing green accommodations, eco-conscious activities, and responsible tourism practices. But what exactly does sustainable travel entail, and why should you consider it for your next vacation? Let’s dive into the growing trend of eco-friendly travel.
Travel sustainably in 2025 with eco-friendly accommodations, green tours, and carbon offset programs. Discover why more travelers are prioritizing sustainability in their vacations.
What is Sustainable Travel?
Sustainable travel refers to the conscious effort of minimizing environmental impact while exploring new destinations. It involves choosing eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local communities, and reducing carbon footprints. Whether it’s opting for public transportation instead of car rentals, staying at eco-lodges, or engaging in wildlife conservation activities, sustainable travel ensures that tourism benefits both the environment and local populations.
Why Sustainable Travel Is Gaining Popularity
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Rising Environmental Awareness: With the widespread knowledge about the climate crisis, more travelers are seeking out destinations and services that actively reduce environmental damage. From the carbon emissions of flying to the impact of mass tourism, travelers are becoming increasingly aware of their responsibility in preserving the planet.
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Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Hotels and resorts are stepping up to meet demand for sustainability. Green certifications, like the Green Key or EarthCheck, have become common benchmarks for hotels that implement eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy, reducing waste, and conserving water.
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Reducing Carbon Footprint: Travel agencies and tour operators are providing more options for low-carbon journeys, from trains and buses to electric vehicles. Many airlines are also investing in carbon offset programs to neutralize their environmental impact.
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Local and Ethical Tourism: As part of the movement toward sustainability, travelers are prioritizing destinations that support local communities, cultural preservation, and fair labor practices. This reduces the negative impact of tourism and fosters greater connections with the places visited.
As travelers seek more immersive and meaningful experiences, there’s a growing trend that is redefining the traditional holiday. While luxury getaways and beach retreats still hold appeal, an increasing number of people are opting for vacations that challenge their physical limits and fuel their love for sports. Welcome to the world of Athletic Adventures — where vacations are not just about relaxation but also about enhancing physical fitness and participation in exciting sports activities.
What Are Athletic Adventures?
Athletic adventures blend physical activity with exploration, offering vacationers a chance to engage in everything from mountain biking and hiking to yoga retreats and watersports. These active getaways encourage participants to step out of their comfort zones, achieve personal fitness goals, and discover new destinations from a more active perspective.
The Growing Demand for Active Travel
According to recent travel trend reports, there's been a noticeable surge in travelers prioritizing experiences that involve movement and physical challenges. These experiences can range from multi-day treks through rugged landscapes to competitive sports events, offering something for everyone. Whether it’s scaling the peaks of the Andes or kayaking through serene waters, travelers are increasingly choosing destinations that offer something beyond just sightseeing.
With many seeking a holistic vacation that promotes health, wellness, and personal growth, the combination of adventure and physical activity allows them to disconnect from the daily grind while recharging their bodies and minds. It’s a trend that reflects a deeper desire for balance, well-being, and unforgettable memories.
Popular Athletic Adventures in 2025
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Hiking and Trekking in Iconic Landscapes
For those who love the great outdoors, trekking through majestic landscapes is the ultimate athletic adventure. Whether it’s conquering the famed Inca Trail in Peru or hiking the rugged terrain of New Zealand’s South Island, walking tours are a popular choice. These excursions are designed to test physical endurance, while also offering scenic beauty and cultural exploration. -
Cycling Tours Across Stunning Regions
For cycling enthusiasts, destinations like the Baltic States and the Alps are becoming popular spots for active vacations. These cycling tours often combine picturesque routes with historical exploration, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture while staying fit. -
Water Sports Retreats
Watersports have become a major focus for many travelers looking for a thrilling yet active vacation. Think surfing lessons in Hawaii, kayaking through the fjords of Norway, or paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters. With increasing interest in both beginner and advanced courses, these active beach vacations are providing a balance between adventure and relaxation. -
Adventure Yoga and Wellness Retreats
For those seeking a more balanced athletic experience, yoga and fitness retreats are a perfect fit. These trips offer daily sessions of yoga, meditation, and strength training while exploring breathtaking landscapes. Destinations like Bali, Costa Rica, and the Swiss Alps are known for their wellness retreats, combining serenity with physical activity. -
Sports Participation Holidays
Many travelers now plan vacations around sporting events, such as marathons, triathlons, and cycling races. Whether it’s training for an event or participating in one, athletic participation trips allow travelers to combine travel and competition, making fitness goals a part of the adventure.
As the concept of work-life balance continues to evolve, an increasing number of professionals are taking extended breaks from their careers to travel. Traditionally, gap years were associated with students fresh out of high school or university, eager to explore the world before settling into academic or corporate life. However, with changing workplace dynamics and shifting priorities, the mid-career gap year is becoming a major trend in 2025.
Why Are Mid-Career Professionals Taking Extended Breaks?
- Burnout and the need for mental rejuvenation
- The Rise of Flexible Work Policies
- Delayed Retirement and Career Longevity
- Financial Independence and Prioritizing Experiences
Top Destinations for a Mid-Career Gap Year
- Southeast Asia: Countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam offer affordable travel experiences, rich culture, and opportunities for personal growth.
- South America: Argentina, Peru, and Colombia provide adventure-filled itineraries with a mix of city life, nature, and historical sites.
- Europe: Extended walking tours in Slovenia, the Baltic States, and Northern Italy are gaining popularity among professionals looking for immersive, slow-travel experiences.
- Africa: Safari trips in Kenya and Namibia, as well as cultural experiences in Ghana and Morocco, are attracting mid-career travelers looking for unique, once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
Traveling the world doesn't have to be expensive. With careful planning, smart budgeting, and a few insider tricks, you can explore new destinations without draining your savings. This guide will provide actionable tips to help you travel affordably while still enjoying incredible experiences.
Discover practical tips on how to travel the world on a budget, including cheap flights, affordable accommodation, and money-saving hacks to explore the globe without breaking the bank.
1. Plan Your Trip in Advance
Benefits of Early Planning
Allows you to find the best deals on flights and accommodation.
Gives you time to research budget-friendly destinations.
Helps you take advantage of discounts and promotional offers.
Tools for Budget Planning
Google Flights & Skyscanner: Track flight prices and book at the lowest rates.
Airbnb & Hostelworld: Find affordable lodging options.
Rome2Rio: Compare transport options to save on travel expenses.
Some countries offer a lower cost of living, making them ideal for budget travelers. Consider destinations in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and Central America.
Top Budget-Friendly Destinations
Thailand: Affordable food, transport, and accommodations.
Portugal: An inexpensive yet scenic European destination.
Mexico: Low-cost travel with beautiful beaches and culture.
Flight Booking Tips
Use Incognito Mode: Prevent price hikes due to repeated searches.
Be Flexible with Dates: Flying midweek or off-season saves money.
Sign Up for Alerts: Use platforms like Scott’s Cheap Flights for deals.
Affordable Lodging Options
Hostels: Great for solo travelers and budget stays.
Couchsurfing: Stay with locals for free.
House Sitting: Stay in homes while taking care of pets or plants.
Camping: Ideal for nature lovers and free lodging.
How to Eat on a Budget
Street Food: Often cheaper and more authentic than restaurants.
Cook Your Own Meals: Rent places with kitchen access.
Grocery Stores: Buy snacks and meals instead of dining out frequently.
Local Markets: Affordable fresh produce and meals.
Spending the night high up in the trees is an exciting prospect for anyone, regardless of age. Given the growing popularity of nature vacations, we've curated a list of eight breathtaking treehouses from around the globe that you should definitely add to your travel itinerary. There are a lot of beautiful places to hide away, from fancy hotels with candlelit jacuzzis to simple cabins in the woods with nothing but a mosquito net between you and the stars.
Tree Hotel—Harads, Sweden
Treehotel is a modern residence suspended high above the leafy canopies of Sweden's Harads forest. This fusion of contemporary architecture and whimsical fun is the ideal place to cozy up among the trees—and it's only 50 kilometers from the Arctic Circle.
Treehotel was conceived by entrepreneur Kent Lindvall and consists of four forest dwellings, each custom-designed by a different architect. Choose between the reflective Mirrorcube, the camouflaged Bird's Nest, the wooden cabin, and the otherworldly UFO as your lodging. These eco-friendly accommodations also include a sauna, hot tub, and swimming pool.
Tsala Treetop Lodge—Harkerville, South Africa
Tsala Treetop Lodge is located in the dramatic hinterlands of South Africa's Garden Route National Park, a relaxing private paradise to return to after a day exploring the park's rugged coastlines, ancient lakes, and evergreen forests.
This idyllic treetop retreat is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway with plenty of comfort and atmosphere. Relax in your private infinity pool with a glass of champagne as the sun sets beyond a horizon of verdant mountains
Tree Hotel—Harads, Sweden
Treehotel is a modern residence suspended high above the leafy canopies of Sweden's Harads forest. This fusion of contemporary architecture and whimsical fun is the ideal place to cozy up among the trees—and it's only 50 kilometers from the Arctic Circle.
Treehotel was conceived by entrepreneur Kent Lindvall and consists of four forest dwellings, each custom-designed by a different architect. Choose between the reflective Mirrorcube, the camouflaged Bird's Nest, the wooden cabin, and the otherworldly UFO as your lodging. These eco-friendly accommodations also include a sauna, hot tub, and swimming pool.
Tsala Treetop Lodge—Harkerville, South Africa
This idyllic treetop retreat is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway with plenty of comfort and atmosphere. Relax in your private infinity pool with a glass of champagne as the sun sets beyond a horizon of verdant mountains
At an idyllic villa on the island of Santorini, immerse yourself completely in Greek island life. You can swim in a cobalt-blue sea, drive through tranquil whitewashed villages in search of your morning Spanakopita (spinach and feta pastry), and sunbathe in blazing sunshine when it's safe to do so. Your only issue will be determining the optimal vantage point from which to take in the island's dreamlike panoramas.
Continue reading to learn about Santorini's most popular flexible holiday houses, as assessed by global travelers.
Anemi House & Villas
The infinitely-instagrammable colour palette of Anemi House & Villas
A traditional Santorini cave house painted pink, lilac, and blue, Anemi House & Villas is as photogenic as the caldera itself. The layout of the house resembles a labyrinthine maze, featuring gray stone staircases and secluded terrace areas interspersed with a plunge pool. Shaded by olive and palm trees beside overflowing flower pots, you’ll have a wide choice of places to enjoy a glass of wine in the evening sun. The house has everything you could ever want on vacation: An attentive but unobtrusive owner, Dimitris; beautiful monochrome suites varying from bright white to royal blue and hot pink; 360-degree views of the island from the rooftop; outdoor hot tubs; and lots of local markets.
Ikia Kriton
Have a glass of wine with a surreal Aegean Sea backdrop at Ikia Kriton. This historic stone house is perched on the cliffs above Santorini's caldera, a crater that was partially buried by the Aegean Sea following a volcanic eruption some 3,600 years ago. Views out onto this half-moon-shaped bay are widely sought after, and each year, hundreds of thousands of travelers flock here to see beautiful sunsets over whitewashed cottages, a sapphire blue sea, and maroon cliffs. The unobstructed view of the island from the expansive terrace of this property is a priceless asset and a lovely setting for an early morning coffee or a nightcap provided to you by welcome hosts Kriton and Eirini, a mother-and-son duo.
Azalea Houses
Azalea is an 18th-century winemaker's house with peach-coloured brick walls
Azalea Houses is an original and traditional Greek restoration of an 18th-century winemaker's house with mud-brick walls. Simultaneously, it is the pinnacle of luxury with a minimalist look. The curving, peach-colored exterior contrasts magnificently with the blue of the sea and sky. Take a stroll to the nearby and renowned picturesque village of Oia, or retreat to a hidden area of the terrace to read a book in a hammock shaded by fuchsia flowers.
Ready to take your next great vacation? if yes then we got you covered. When travelling to a new place there are two experiences that come with going to a place for the first time. It can be an incredible or even life-changing experience, but preparing for your journey isn't always so fun but very necessary.
Travelling smarter is what 2021 vacation moves is about. It is one of the best ways to experience more enjoyable travel and there are many small things and changes that you can make to achieve this. The below tips help you prepare, view the simple travel checklist to ensure you’ve covered the essentials.
Travelling smarter is what 2021 vacation moves is about. It is one of the best ways to experience more enjoyable travel and there are many small things and changes that you can make to achieve this. The below tips help you prepare, view the simple travel checklist to ensure you’ve covered the essentials.
Say bonjour to the best place in France for solo travel
Paris is widely regarded as one of the most romantic tourist destinations in the world. However, Paris is also a magical city of lights, perfect for the solo traveler looking to have transformative experiences of culture, events, music, art, history, beauty, and crepes. Experiencing Paris alone satisfies your wanderlust, so don't let the idea of traveling alone deter you from embarking on your journey across the Atlantic. We’ve made it our mission to scour every inch of this beautiful city to bring you these essential Paris traveling tips… now you can take your own Tour de France.
Find the perfect place to stay
Before starting your solo Parisian adventure, you’ll need a place to call home. Experiencing Paris as a solo traveler is the ultimate cultural immersion and an aesthetic indulgence for both budget travelers and luxury seekers alike. Here are a few recommendations for the best neighborhoods in Paris.
Marais is a neighborhood for art lovers, with a bustling nightlife and culturally rich art scene.
Île Saint-Louis on the river offers a charming retreat from the rest of the city if you prefer a quieter spot away from the hustle and bustle.
Montmartre’s cobblestone streets and beautiful Sacré Coeur Cathedral lend an air of old-world enchantment for travelers hoping to immerse themselves in the Paris of the past.
Visit all the monuments and museums you can
While sites like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre are obvious to-dos, there’s an endless array of additional exciting activities to consider.
The Musée du Quai Branly is a museum dedicated to non-European art and culture and is surrounded by a beautiful garden along the Seine riverbank.
59 Rivoli is a former bank that’s been transformed into an artist collective where guests can chat with artists as they exhibit their work.
The underground catacombs are an entire tunnel network featuring an impressive maze of galleries, history, and wonder, best completed through a guided tour.
Enjoy the local cuisine
One of the best perks of solo travel in Paris is getting seated before groups in many of the city’s social cafés and eateries. And those with a sweet tooth will be in heaven in the city’s unforgettable boulangeries and patisseries.
La Frégate is an excellent spot to break for a taste of old Paris with some wine and oysters in between museum visits.
Le Select in Montparnasse, or Café de Flore in Saint-Germain, are traditional Parisian cafés where you can enjoy top-notch coffee and croissants.
Joining a chef-guided cuisine tour or sampling all around the Montmartre food market will have you in taste-bud bliss.
Experience the famous nightlife of the French
Whether you’re after a glass of crystal under chandeliers or French kisses at the Moulin Rouge, the nightlife in Paris is not to be underestimated. Stimulating company and night-long entertainment are guaranteed, while the rest is up to you! No matter who you are, you can find your niche in Paris. And at the end of the night, you can always rely on the stunning glow of the city’s architecture under the starry streetlamps to illuminate your walk home.
The Pont Neuf Bridge or the Pont des Arts are excellent choices for an evening stroll.
The trendy Le Showcase or Prescription Cocktail Club on the Rue Mazarine are just two of the numerous nightclubs to pop into if you need some excitement in your evening.
Attend a Parisian cabaret show at The Moulin Rouge or get tickets to a classical concert at the Parisian Opera house, The Palais Garnier.
Nothing lifts the spirits in winter like a sunshine-filled holiday; add an element of luxury and you’ll be on cloud nine. Here are five of the ultimate luxury winter sun escapes.
Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, Mexico
Facing the Sea of Cortez, this palatial hotel provides private hot tubs and infinity pools bordered by cacti
Las Ventanas Al Paraiso is a palatial hotel set in the Los Cabos region at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, right on a beach of powder-fine white sand. Each suite is decked out in Mexican artisanry like mosaiced headboards and carved cedar wood screens. Feast on a Mexican breakfast spread on your private garden terrace, visit the state-of-the-art spa and be spoiled by the flawless service, with staff bringing you iced water, fresh fruit and other treats at any hour of the day.
Vantage Over Byron, Australia
Watch the sunset in Byron Bay, with 360-degree views of the volcanic hinterland, rainforest and ocean
In the sun trap surf town of Byron Bay, the long, broad beach is lapped by royal blue, white-tipped waves and has a lighthouse on one end that marks Australia’s easternmost tip. The area's natural beauty and laid-back vibe are fiercely protected by strict rules against any high-rise buildings, so the fact that this villa’s rooftop infinity pool seems to tower over the treetops and neighboring houses makes it a rare find. Wraparound wooden decking provides 360-degree views of the rainforest and volcanic hinterland in one direction and the curved, golden bay—which is only a few minutes’ walk away—in the other. Watch the sunset with a cocktail while reclining on a poolside cabana before enjoying some of the best stargazing in the southern hemisphere.
Chobe Water Villas, Namibia
Each villa has a private sundeck built above the water on the banks of the Chobe River. At Chobe Water Villas, the teal-colored infinity pool blends so seamlessly into the scenery that it's hard to tell where it ends and Namibia’s Chobe River begins. The individual villas exude a luxury that seems surreal given the remoteness of the property; private sundecks above the water even have their own telescope so that you can watch the elephants, buffalo and other wildlife roam the plains. Beyond the villas, you can go on game drives into the Chobe National Park, where you’ll likely spot hippos, crocodiles and exotic birdlife, too.
Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, Mexico
Facing the Sea of Cortez, this palatial hotel provides private hot tubs and infinity pools bordered by cacti
Las Ventanas Al Paraiso is a palatial hotel set in the Los Cabos region at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, right on a beach of powder-fine white sand. Each suite is decked out in Mexican artisanry like mosaiced headboards and carved cedar wood screens. Feast on a Mexican breakfast spread on your private garden terrace, visit the state-of-the-art spa and be spoiled by the flawless service, with staff bringing you iced water, fresh fruit and other treats at any hour of the day.
Vantage Over Byron, Australia
Watch the sunset in Byron Bay, with 360-degree views of the volcanic hinterland, rainforest and ocean
In the sun trap surf town of Byron Bay, the long, broad beach is lapped by royal blue, white-tipped waves and has a lighthouse on one end that marks Australia’s easternmost tip. The area's natural beauty and laid-back vibe are fiercely protected by strict rules against any high-rise buildings, so the fact that this villa’s rooftop infinity pool seems to tower over the treetops and neighboring houses makes it a rare find. Wraparound wooden decking provides 360-degree views of the rainforest and volcanic hinterland in one direction and the curved, golden bay—which is only a few minutes’ walk away—in the other. Watch the sunset with a cocktail while reclining on a poolside cabana before enjoying some of the best stargazing in the southern hemisphere.
Chobe Water Villas, Namibia
Each villa has a private sundeck built above the water on the banks of the Chobe River. At Chobe Water Villas, the teal-colored infinity pool blends so seamlessly into the scenery that it's hard to tell where it ends and Namibia’s Chobe River begins. The individual villas exude a luxury that seems surreal given the remoteness of the property; private sundecks above the water even have their own telescope so that you can watch the elephants, buffalo and other wildlife roam the plains. Beyond the villas, you can go on game drives into the Chobe National Park, where you’ll likely spot hippos, crocodiles and exotic birdlife, too.
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Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
The Fairy Pools look as magical as they sound
The Fairy Pools form a collection of ice-blue waters and tumbling rapids that look like something straight out of Scottish folklore. Amid the Isle of Skye's emerald knolls (hills) and towering glens (valleys), these ponds can be reached via a trek along the River Brittle. The water temperature may be breathlessly cold but it's also endlessly enticing and refreshing to swim beneath rocky cliffs and under hidden arches shrouded by waterfalls. Clamber up onto the surrounding rocks to dry off in the sun before a drive home to the wooden cabins of Skeabost View Pods Skye.
Lower Ddwili Falls, Brecon Beacons
The Lower Ddwili Falls is hidden in the woods of Pontneddfechan
Hidden in Wales' bucolic Waterfall Country beneath the hulking red sandstone peaks of the Brecon Beacons, you'll find the Lower Ddwili Falls. An open pool crested by gushing waterfalls, this place is a real spectacle. You can reach it via a walk through the woods from the villages of Pontneddfechan or Pont Melin-Fach. On sunny days, the waterfall mist leaves rainbow trails overhead. Spend the night at the 18th-century farmhouse, Beili Helyg Guest House, just a short drive away.
Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire
True to its name, the Blue Lagoon is a gorgeous sheen of turquoise
On the Pembrokeshire shoreline near Abereiddy, there's a quarry filled with turquoise water that's known locally as the Blue Lagoon. At 25 meters deep, this shimmering plunge pool is primed for diving enthusiasts, having hosted a global cliff-diving competition. For a dose of adrenaline, the old quarry building serves as a great platform to jump from, though a languid swim through the silky waters is just as good. The lagoon is reached via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path—stay at Caerhys B&B, which is just half a kilometer away from the coastal trail.
Linhope Spout Waterfall, Northumberland
Dive into this surreal Northumberland pool before a picnic beside it
You’ll know when you’ve reached Linhope Spout Waterfall when you hear its long plume of water crashing down into the plunge pool and onto the rocks below. It's as spectacular a backdrop for wild swimming as it is for a picnic, with the waterfall being 18 meters high and slicing straight down through a quiet glade. You may be sharing your serene swimming spot with the local red squirrel, often spotted scurrying across the forest floor in search of fallen pine cones. Complete your day out with a night at the equally pretty Tankerville Arms in the nearby village of Eglingham.
Llyn Glaslyn, Snowdonia
Lyln Glaslyn has a long-standing association with Arthurian legend
The lake of Llyn Glaslyn is shaped like a heart and cradled by mountains and has long been the subject of Arthurian legend. Folklore suggests that King Arthur had Sir Bedivere hurl his sword Excalibur into the water here, with Arthur’s body later placed in a boat to be carried away to Avalon. Glaslyn is also the alleged resting place of a water monster that once wreaked havoc upon the people of the valley. These days it’s more sun and scenery than swords and sea creatures, with deep blue waters and mountains that are often thinly veiled in mist. The lake can be reached by walking Snowdonia's Miners' Track. Keep your outdoor adventure going with a stay at one of these wooden camping pods.
While many travel destinations tend to bloom in midsummer, there are quite a few that become particularly hot or busy during their warmest months while being in their prime come spring.
So for a holiday that makes the most of off-peak accommodation rates and fewer tourists, we’ve lined up five destinations that are at their most glorious before summer arrives.
Death Valley National Park, California
The floor of Death Valley coming into bloom with Desert gold Wildflowers, California
Death Valley is known as one of the hottest and driest places on earth, making a visit here in the height of summer an intense experience. Spring, on the other hand, is much more manageable for those who wither in the heat, with milder but still sunny weather. And—if you’re lucky—you’ll be privy to the Valley’s wildflower display when a carpet of spectacular colour covers the desert floor and attracts butterflies, bees and hummingbirds (this floral spectacle usually peaks in late March to Early April). Check into K7 B& for easy access to Death Valley National Park.
Seville, Spain
Traditionally dressed revellers during the Seville Fair
Spring in Seville not only brings sunshine and pleasant temperatures but also several Easter celebrations. Semana Santa (Holy Week) runs from early to mid-April and is one of Spain’s biggest festivals, involving a procession of flamboyant floats. The following week, another grand event—the Seville Fair—kicks off. Hundreds of tents are set up and locals and tourists gather to feast and admire the parade of traditional horses, carriages and people dressed in traditional Sevillian attire. Stay at Hotel Gravina 51, a restored 18th-century manor house in the centre of Seville featuring suites with brocade wallpaper and a beautiful courtyard.
So for a holiday that makes the most of off-peak accommodation rates and fewer tourists, we’ve lined up five destinations that are at their most glorious before summer arrives.
Death Valley National Park, California
The floor of Death Valley coming into bloom with Desert gold Wildflowers, California
Seville, Spain
Traditionally dressed revellers during the Seville Fair
Spring in Seville not only brings sunshine and pleasant temperatures but also several Easter celebrations. Semana Santa (Holy Week) runs from early to mid-April and is one of Spain’s biggest festivals, involving a procession of flamboyant floats. The following week, another grand event—the Seville Fair—kicks off. Hundreds of tents are set up and locals and tourists gather to feast and admire the parade of traditional horses, carriages and people dressed in traditional Sevillian attire. Stay at Hotel Gravina 51, a restored 18th-century manor house in the centre of Seville featuring suites with brocade wallpaper and a beautiful courtyard.
Hi everyone, it's been a while since I posted but yeah, I am back once again. Who's favourite weather is winter? Well, if you prefer traveling during winter,, there are a lot of cities you can explore in winter.
Here are the top 5 cities to visit during winter.
Russia
Russia is the largest country in the world. Its area is 17,098.242 thousand square km. The state is located in eastern Europe and northern Asia. From north to south the country stretches for over 4,000 km; from west to east—for almost 10,000 km.
What are the winter months in Russia?
The Seasons in Russia. Winter, spring, summer and autumn are the seasons of the year. December, January and February are winter months.
Here are the top 5 cities to visit during winter.
Russia
Russia is the largest country in the world. Its area is 17,098.242 thousand square km. The state is located in eastern Europe and northern Asia. From north to south the country stretches for over 4,000 km; from west to east—for almost 10,000 km.
What are the winter months in Russia?
The Seasons in Russia. Winter, spring, summer and autumn are the seasons of the year. December, January and February are winter months.
Nothing compares to the experience of seeing animals in their natural habitats, from lions stalking their prey on the African savannah to orangutans swinging through trees in a tropical rain forest.
The Lone Hunter: Bengal Tiger
Photo by Alexander Isreb
- Habitat: India, Nepal and China
- Population: 2,500 worldwide
- Average size: 10 feet long; 550 pounds
The stealthy and powerful Bengal tiger has a history of being both feared and revered by local populations across South Asia. In Hindu mythology, the goddess Durga is often depicted riding a tiger, while tigers represent royalty in the Chinese tradition. Naga tribes in Myanmar and India believe that men and tigers are brothers, a departure from the tiger’s fearsome reputation as a “man-eater.” The Bengal tiger has a distinctive striped coat—and no two tigers have exactly the same stripes. When a tiger roars, it can be heard from as far as two miles away.
The Gentle Giant: Mountain Gorilla
Photo by David Atkins
Habitat: Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda
- Population: About 900
- Average life span: 35 years
In much of the western world, mountain gorillas were once thought to be a mythical creature, like Bigfoot, until the early twentieth century. In 1902, German explorer and Army Captain Robert von Beringe encountered the mountain gorilla in the Virunga Mountains and helped establish this large ape as a separate subspecies of the gorilla. The mountain gorilla’s Latin classification—gorilla gorilla beringei—honors Robert von Beringe’s discovery.
If group travel brings to mind busloads of tourists being whisked between landmarks for photo ops, think again.
Over the last two decades, TCS World Travel has been curating unique journeys around the world, and we’ve discovered that group travel done right is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the globe. Here's a video and four reasons why our itineraries defy the group travel stereotype—and why our guests return to travel with us again.
Explore at your own pace
Whether you’re taking a private museum tour or exploring ancient ruins, you’ll never have to worry about being lost in a large group. Our daily activities are limited to small groups of 8 to 12 people, with a maximum of six for wildlife viewing. These groups form organically based on interest or pace—and are never pre-set. Each has its own guide and vehicle, so there’s freedom to adjust the schedule on the fly, and at many destinations, you can opt to enjoy time at your leisure.
Dine in small groups—or on your own
No two meals on our trips are the same. Share a table with new friends at a barbecue lunch, dine with your partner at a well-known local restaurant for dinner, or order room service instead of going out. We believe cuisine is one way of getting to know a culture, which is why each itinerary includes unique group dining experiences, such as a festive dinner among temple ruins in Cambodia, that showcase the food traditions of that destination.
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