The Best Places to Stay in Vancouver

Vancouver is a city abundant in rain. The winter can be notoriously wet and cold throughout the year. Even so, this place has never failed to amaze tourists with its fascinating view, vibrant nightlife, and hundreds of unique neighborhood to explore.

If you are planning a trip to Vancouver, here are the best things to do and places to eat and stay when visiting this city.

Where to Stay in Vancouver

Vancouver is quite gifted when it comes to luxurious hotels and apartments. However, if you are travelling on a budget, you might want to check the following hotels for a comfortable stay at a great price point.

HI Vancouver Downtown

This is probably the best hostel downtown that is at close proximity with valuable attractions in Vancouver. You can stay here for  $120 per night. It’s quite affordable especially if you are on tight budget. Nevertheless, traveling on budget should not deprive you of a great vacation, thanks to HI Vancouver!

The Burrard

You will love the ambiance of this boutique hotel if you are into vintage things. It was first built in 1956 and now it is a magnificent retro hotel with dog-friendly rooms and Wi-Fi.

HI Jericho Beach

If you want to get the best view of Jericho Beach, you will like this hotel. It is not centrally located but it offers private rooms with bathrooms.

Gage Apartments at UBC

This hotel is a bit far from the downtown area. You can stay here if you want to enjoy a luxurious stay at the price of a hostel.

Top Vancouver Neighborhood to Visit

Touring around Vancouver would not be complete without visiting the places we have listed below. So make sure they are on your list to make your stay in this country one-of-a-kind.

Downtown Area

Vancouver’s downtown area is like a “mini Manhattan” where you can see a lot of attractions. You can take great photos of Gastown, English Bay, and Robson Street. Or shop in luxurious boutiques.

Chinatown

Yes there is a Chinatown in Vancouver with beautiful red lanterns dangling from the buildings. You will feel like  you are in another space when you get here.

Mount Pleasant

If you want to see heritage buildings, you should go to Mount Pleasant. With perfect timing, you might be able to see some arts-focused festivals in this neighborhood.

Kitsilano

Unlike the busy downtown area of Vancouver, Kitsilano is quite peaceful. It has 15 public parks and a lot of green spaces where you can relax and breathe fresh air.

Vancouver is the largest city in Canada. Going here for only a day is probably not enough to enjoy what it offers.  In case you are bringing your family, it helps to plan ahead to make your trip better. Thanks for these travel tips to Canada from our friends at Chandler Towing and Recovery.

Hidden Gems of South America: Uncovering Paraguay’s Treasures

When it comes to South America, Paraguay may not be the first country that comes to mind for many travelers. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, such as Brazil, Argentina, and Peru, Paraguay remains a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Nestled in the heart of the continent, this landlocked nation boasts a wealth of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm-hearted people. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover Paraguay’s treasures and explore the enchanting secrets that make it a must-visit destination.

Rich Cultural Heritage:

Paraguay’s cultural identity is a captivating blend of indigenous Guarani traditions and Spanish colonial influences. The Guarani language is widely spoken, and its people proudly maintain their ancestral customs. One of the most unique aspects of Paraguayan culture is its vibrant music and dance. The polka-like genre called “polca paraguaya” and the traditional dance form “danza de la botella” are exhilarating displays of their artistic prowess.

Asunción – The Charming Capital:

The capital city, Asunción, is a delightful mix of old and new. The historic district boasts well-preserved colonial architecture, with landmarks like the Panteón Nacional and Palacio de los López offering glimpses into the country’s past. On the other hand, modern neighborhoods boast bustling markets, art galleries, and a burgeoning culinary scene. A stroll along the picturesque Costanera Promenade, hugging the Paraguay River, offers a chance to unwind and enjoy stunning sunsets.

The Mystical Jesuit Ruins:

Visitors can step back in time and explore the remains of Jesuit missions at places like Trinidad and Jesus de Tavarangue. These UNESCO World Heritage sites date back to the 17th century and showcase the architectural ingenuity of the Jesuits who once thrived in the region. The red sandstone ruins, surrounded by lush vegetation, provide a glimpse into a fascinating chapter of Paraguay’s history.

Encarnación – Pearl of the South:

Located on the banks of the Paraná River, Encarnación is a hidden coastal gem. Known for its lively Carnaval celebrations, this city’s spirit is infectious. Encarnación offers beautiful riverfronts, beaches, and parks, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and water-based activities.

The Enigmatic Chaco Region:

Paraguay’s Chaco region is a vast, untamed wilderness that remains one of the least explored areas in South America. Rich in biodiversity, this remote region is home to indigenous communities and offers unique wildlife encounters. Travelers seeking adventure and a genuine connection with nature will find the Chaco captivating and mysterious.

Ybycuí National Park:

For nature enthusiasts, Ybycuí National Park is a paradise waiting to be discovered. Verdant forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife paint a breathtaking picture of Paraguay’s natural beauty. The Cerro Pero trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the landscape, making it a memorable experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Warm Hospitality:

Perhaps the most precious treasure of Paraguay is its people. Known for their warmth and hospitality, Paraguayans embrace visitors with open arms. Engaging with the locals provides an opportunity to gain insights into their way of life, traditions, and values.

Gastronomic Delights:

Paraguay’s culinary offerings are as diverse as its cultural heritage. Sample traditional dishes like “sopa paraguaya” (a savory cornbread) and “chipa guasú” (corn and cheese soufflé) to experience the country’s unique flavors. For a meat lover’s delight, the country’s “asado” (barbecue) will satisfy even the most discerning palate.

In conclusion, Paraguay is a hidden gem in South America that beckons adventurous travelers with its rich cultural heritage, mesmerizing landscapes, and warm-hearted people. Steeped in history and brimming with natural beauty, this often-overlooked nation has much to offer those who seek authentic experiences off the beaten path. Whether exploring the charming streets of Asunción, venturing into the mystical Chaco region, or savoring the flavors of Paraguayan cuisine, every step in this enchanting land promises to be a treasure worth cherishing. So, pack your bags and uncover the hidden gems of Paraguay – a true treasure trove of South America.

Tips When Touring Peru for First Timers

Peru is a country of diversity, with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and ancient history. It is a popular destination for tourists from around the world, and for good reason. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for first-timers to plan their trip. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips to help you make the most of your visit to Peru.

Plan ahead

Peru is a big country, and there is so much to see and do. To make the most of your trip, it’s important to plan ahead. Research the places you want to visit, and make sure you have enough time to see everything on your list. If you’re not sure where to start, consider taking a guided tour to help you get your bearings.

Pack appropriately

Peru has a wide range of climates, from the hot and humid Amazon jungle to the cold and dry Andean highlands. Make sure you pack appropriately for the areas you’ll be visiting. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best for the jungle, while warm layers are essential for the highlands. Don’t forget to bring a good pair of walking shoes and a rain jacket, as Peru can be quite rainy.

Be mindful of altitude sickness

Many parts of Peru are at high altitude, and altitude sickness can be a concern for first-time visitors. Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, and shortness of breath. To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, take it slow and allow your body time to acclimate. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, as it can dehydrate you. If you’re concerned, talk to your doctor before your trip.

Try the local cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is among the best in the world, with influences from indigenous ingredients, Spanish cuisine, and other cultures. Don’t be afraid to try new things! Some must-try dishes include ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice), lomo saltado (a stir-fry of beef, vegetables, and French fries), and cuy (guinea pig). Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty of options as well, with dishes like quinoa soup and stuffed peppers.

Learn some basic Spanish

While it’s possible to get by with English in some areas of Peru, knowing some basic Spanish will make your trip much smoother. Learn some basic phrases like “hola” (hello), “gracias” (thank you), and “¿dónde está el baño?” (where is the bathroom?). If you’re really serious about learning Spanish, consider taking a language class while you’re in Peru.

Be respectful of local customs

Peruvians are generally friendly and welcoming to tourists, but it’s important to be respectful of local customs. For example, it’s considered impolite to enter someone’s home without taking off your shoes, and it’s considered disrespectful to touch someone’s head. Take the time to learn about local customs before your trip, and be mindful of them while you’re there.

Visit Machu Picchu

No trip to Peru is complete without a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. There are several ways to visit Machu Picchu, including hiking the Inca Trail, taking the train from Cusco, or driving to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes and hiking up to the site. Whichever option you choose, make sure to book your tickets in advance, as they can sell out quickly.

Explore Lima

When visiting Peru for the first time, it’s important to explore its capital city, Lima. Lima is a city that is full of history and culture, and there are many things to see and do. Some of the highlights of Lima include the historic center, the Plaza de Armas, the Miraflores neighborhood, and the Larco Museum. Make sure to try some of Lima’s world-renowned cuisine, like ceviche and lomo saltado, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city.

Tips When Traveling to Texas

The province of Texas is huge with a gigantic populace, so it is essential to be aware of the Texas travel tips and a thing to know prior to visiting Texas so you can partake in your excursion with practically no concerns.

1. Arranging

Before you leave on your excursion to the states, it is essential to design out your whole outing. As the biggest condition of the country, the spot offers various attractions that you could visit. It is vital to cover the most superb spots, how you will travel, where will you go and on what day. One more significant variable while going in the state is to convey the nearby money along with all the significant character confirmation and different archives that could be requested. This is significant with the goal that you don’t squander your valuable energy on the outing about contemplating where to go and how to go.

2. Best Time To Visit

The territory of Texas could be visited consistently. Nonetheless, there are a few suggested a very long time wherein we would lean toward you to head out to the states. The months from March to May and September to November end up being the best times to visit. Both these time-frames have one more fascination that will cause you to partake in the spot. While in the spring season you will partake in the wonderful bloomed blossoms on trees and plants all through the state, you can partake in the Fiesta San Antonio, a significant celebration throughout the cold weather months.

3. Great Communication Skills

While it sounds alleviating to realize that the language expressed in the United States Of America is English. It is vital to know the way that the English verbally expressed in the state is very not the same as the English that the greater part of individuals talk. The significant English language spoken all over the planet is British English. Henceforth it could get very hard to speak with local people since they will be communicating in English of the United States of America and have a generally unique emphasize. So it is vital to have the option to impart well while you travel in the state.

4. Pick The Best Hotels

While there are a great deal of inns all through the state it is critical to really look at the best of the inns to have an astonishing stay. It is critical to consider the variables like expense, area and vital, versatility to the state from your lodging. It is prescribed to pick an inn with every one of the offices and found near different vehicle center points so your movement in the states is simple. Probably the best lodgings to remain in Texas are Hotel Alessandra, Cavalry Court, and The Stella Hotel.

5. Continuously Keep Enough Cash

However the United States of America is one of the most progressive nations on the planet, conveying sufficient money while traveling is vital. The money could prove to be useful whenever, whether you are in awesome of the inns or purchasing products from little departmental stores. Ensure you know well about the money of the state and as needs be get some money for your outing.

FAQ About Niagara Falls

Do I need to pay to see the Falls?

No. Niagara Falls is in a public area on Niagara Parks land. It very well may be gotten to with the expectation of complimentary all day, every day the entire year around. The encompassing attractions anyway should be paid for.

Where is the best spot to see the Falls?

There are a few incredible places where you can see the falls. The falls can be seen whenever of day or night free of charge at the Table Rock Welcome Center. On the off chance that you need a more very close survey experience you might need to buy admission to Niagara City Cruises or Journey Behind the Falls. For a remarkable elevated view you may be keen on booking a helicopter ride on, Niagara Helicopters, or National Helicopters or taking a ride to the highest point of the Skylon Tower.

Could the Niagara Parks Adventure/Wonder Pass be utilized on numerous days?

Indeed, the pass vouchers can be utilized on quite a few days during the season. Every individual fascination ticket included inside the pass is really great for one passage into the fascination, with the exception of the WEGO which is substantial for 2 full back to back long periods of transportation beginning from the primary day of purpose.

Do American Citizens require an identification to enter Niagara Falls, Canada?

Indeed. A Passport (or a Passport Card or Enhanced Driver’s License if traveling via land) is expected for crossing the boundary into Canada except if you are age 15 or more youthful.

Are the Falls illuminated this evening?

The Falls are enlightened in various shadings consistently from nightfall until around 12 PM. For the specific illuminaiton timing for this evening, as well as the exceptional lighting plan.

Will there be firecrackers over the Falls this evening?

Firecrackers ARE BACK!

We’re praising the Holiday Season with daily firecrackers from December 26 to January 1. Plan your short term visit to partake in the wizardry of the firecrackers, Falls Illumination, OPG Winter Festival of Lights, Niagara Falls Music Live thus substantially more!

A Romantic Vacation in Costa Rica

Bathe in the Hot Springs at the Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica

The well of lava might be in sleep mode starting around 2010, yet it liberally gives a lot of natural aquifers to heartfelt douses. With spas and underground aquifers nearby, it’s an ideal opportunity to ruin yourself senseless.

Go Whale Watching at Marino Ballena National Park

An ecotourism area of interest Uvita in the South Pacific locale is a pristine piece of paradise, civility its isolated sea shores with brilliant sand and warm, welcoming water. With karma and timing, you might have the option to see the relocation of Humpback whales as the space is important for the Marino Ballena National Park (Whale Marine Park).

Propose on a Tree Top Suspended Bridge in Monteverde

Like the shade with your accomplice on this walkway involving eight engineered overpasses, associated by trails covering 1.9 miles. The occupants of this lavish scene will be close by to comfort you in the event that you get turned down.

Witness the Sunset at Manuel Antonio

The sea shores at Manuel Antonio are viewed as the absolute cleanest on the planet. Regardless of whether you go parasailing, scuba plunging, swimming, or just stay nearby, watching the nightfall, you’ll feel that radiant association with your significant other here.

Swim with Sea-Turtles in the Gulf of Papagayo, Guanacaste

The main awkward extra person you’ll have on your date in the Gulf of Papagayo are the ocean turtles. Situated in the northern Pacific Coast only north of Playa Panama, the scene couldn’t be more relieving on the eyes assuming it attempted — palm trees, clear blue waters, recluse crabs, volcanic scene and tropical woods. Makes you need to book your tickets now, yes?

Safety Tips When Touring Brazil for the First Time

To help you stay protected in Brazil, here are 13 hints that will keep both you and your assets out of danger: 

1. Stroll with reason – When out investigating, consistently stroll with reason. Seems as though you’re going somewhere explicitly, regardless of whether you’re not. Pickpockets and muggers search for voyagers who are uncertain of themselves. Try not to resemble an objective. 

2. Try not to convey cash – Carry just the base money required for the afternoon. Keep the rest secured up to your convenience. 

3. Separate your cards – If you have more than one credit or check card, keep them discrete. Carry one with you for the afternoon (in the event that you think you’ll require it) and leave the other one secured up in your room. That way, should something occur, you generally have at any rate one card. 

4. Try not to carry assets to the seashore – When you go to the seashore, don’t take anything superfluous. Towel, swimsuit, and a modest quantity of money. That is it! Whatever else you bring is probably going to vanish! 

5. Dress to fit in – When making the rounds, dress down and attempt to fit in. Leave any resources or gems at home. Try not to stroll around blazing your camera or telephone. On the off chance that you need to utilize them, be tactful. 

6. Convey an extra wallet – Bring an extra wallet with a modest quantity of money in it. That way, on the off chance that you get ransacked or pickpocketed they will not get your genuine wallet (where you’ll keep the remainder of your money and cards). 

7. Keep away from open air ATMs – If you need to pull out cash, just use ATMs inside structures. Continuously know about your environmental factors before you take out your wallet. 

8. Twofold check your convenience – No matter where you are remaining, make certain to check the entryways and windows prior to leaving for the afternoon and prior to getting comfortable around evening time. Try not to leave anything significant lying around your room; lock everything up. 

9. Try not to acknowledge free food/drinks – Never acknowledge beverages or food from outsiders. Sedating casualties before they are burglarized is normal, so decrease free food or beverages from outsiders. 

10. Watch out for interruptions – Thieves will regularly attempt to divert you before they loot you. Be aware of this basic trick to help you stay cautious. 

Try not to stroll around evening time alone – If you need to, keep away from city sea shores, stops, and void roads. 

11. Play it safe when driving – If going via vehicle, consistently keep your entryways bolted. By careful at stop signs or red lights, particularly around evening time. Numerous Brazilians will not stop for them to stay away from the danger of carjacking. Purchase travel protection before you go simply on the off chance that you run into inconvenience. It’s in every case preferable to be protected over grieved!

What Makes Nepal Beautiful?

Beautiful Nepal is a land of approachable and hospitable people. It is also a haven of beautiful and sacred temples, monasteries and historical monuments that are worthy of your sight. You can also find in Nepal the popular Sagarmatha, “Goddess Mother of the World”, the most scenic Mount Everest and the weather-beaten Himalayas. Nepal is truly a great place to visit. Now let us take you a little closer to the wonderful sceneries and fun things to do in Nepal that makes this country beautiful. 

Boudhanath Stupa

The Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu is a holy spot. It is the biggest stupa (a Buddhist holy place with an arch shape) in Nepal and the holiest Tibetan Buddhist sanctuary outside Tibet. Each piece of the structure speaks to stages to the way of edification, with the eyes painted on each side of the plated tower demonstrating the infinitely knowledgeable nature of the Buddha just as the components of earth, water, fire, air and ether (the fifth spoke to by another Buddha cherished in the middle). Your itinerary in Nepal is not complete without seeing this wonder.

Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the world’s best climbing courses, beginning in Pokhara. It covers between 160-230km at a height of 5,416m on the Thorung La Pass, which contacts the edge of the Tibetan level. It’s an extreme outing, taking various days (we’re talking from 9 to 25 days), generally anticlockwise due to the more progressive slope. You will have to navigate through an assortment of scenes and the popular Himalayan Mountains. Take this route if you love adventure!

Rhinos and Tigers

Relatively few individuals consider Nepal a spot bountiful with natural life. However when you visit Nepal, you’d be surprised just how much this country is blessed with bountiful wildlife. Nepal has an enormous, assorted populace of flying creature species, and if that is not sufficient, head to Chitwan or Bardia National Park for a safari. Here, you will find crocodiles, rhinos, deers and the slippery Bengal Tiger.

A variety of world heritage sites!

It is so hard to find a place with a rich number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites as Nepal. In Kathmandu Valley alone, there are seven locales (which is incidentally considered together one World Heritage Listing), with extra ones in Chitwan National Park and Lumbini. When you come to Nepal, try to visit as many UNESCO World Heritage Sites as you can. Nepal will truly give you a major hop the correct way.

The Best Hotels in Capetown

The dramatic heights of Table Mountain are absolutely irresistible. This is why many tourists around the globe are drawn to its beauty. But do you already know where to stay when you arrive in Capetown? When going to Capetown for a vacation it is wise to book for hotels in advance in order to reserve the best spot.  In this blog, we are going to discuss the best hotels that you can stay in this beautiful country. 

Dorp

Grand and unpretentious – these are the two words that best describe this hotel. Located high on the slopes of Signal Hill, Dorp gives guests with a panoramic view of Table Mountain making it the favorite go-to place for tired travelers.  “Dorp” actually means Village and staying here will make you feel the real African vibe. On a fine weather day, you can play with the public pool. There is only one room with a private pool. 

Compass House

Compass House is a perfect combination of a five-star boutique hotel. Its style and character is more relaxed and intimate. Staying in this hotel will allow you to feel fresher while mesmerizing the perfect view of the ocean. The rooms are very neat and clean. We also love the bright and airy atmosphere it offers at a great price point.

Kensington Place

As you may know, Kensington Place is a very popular hotel. You can see it in almost all listings. Well, it is no surprise why this famous hotel is everywhere. It originally opened in 1997 and now it has become one of the sought-after hotels in Capetown because of its eight womb-like rooms. It has the best location on the slopes of Table Mountain and will definitely help you have better sleep at night. The rooms are fully air-conditioned and the huge beds will totally give you comfort throughout the night.

Tintswalo Atlantic

This is the only luxury hotel in Cape Town. Located within Table Mountain National Park, this is an ideal hotel for tourists who want to be close to many attractions near Table Mountain. In fact, it is also the only hotel in the city that is right on the beach so you can expect a beautiful view of the ocean. 

7 Tourist Destinations in Greece You Can’t Afford to Miss

Greece is a country in southeastern Europe with thousands of islands throughout the Aegean and Ionian seas. Commanding in ancient times, it’s often called the cradle of Western civilization. Greece is located in the southeastern part of Europe and in particular in the southern tip of the Balkan peninsula (or the peninsula of Aimos), in the boundary between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

The capital is Athens, retains landmarks including the 5th-century B.C. Acropolis castle with the Parthenon temple. The country is also acquainted for its beaches, from the black sands of Santorini to the party resorts of Mykonos.

Top 7: OLYMPIA 

Olympia is the oldest site on Greece’s Peloponnese peninsula that holds the original Olympic Games. Its comprehensive ruins include athletic training areas, a stadium, and temples sacrificed to the gods Hera and Zeus. Olympia is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Greece and has one of the most essential familiarity worldwide.

Top 6: NAFPLIO

Nafplio is a famous place for Athenians and international visitors. Built on a small peninsula on the east coast of the Peloponnese, it became the first capital of modern Greece in 1828. The vehicle-free old town is filled with neoclassical mansions, churches and takes care by the 18th-century Palamidi Fortress. 

Top 5: METEORA

Metéora in central Greece is stunningly located on the head of several rock pillars, with the first monastery being established in the 14th century. On the UNESCO World Heritage list, six of the monasteries are open of everybody. You need to mount up several flights of stone steps carved into the rocks to reach each monastery, and inside, you’ll discover the flickering candles, religious icons, Byzantine frescoes, and burning incense.

Top 4: CORFU 

Located by the Ionian Sea, off the west coast of mainland Greece, this is one of the country’s most-visited island destinations. The capital Corfu Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was ruled by the Venetians for several centuries. Explore its romantic pedestrian-only streets to discover two 16th-century fortress, and the arcaded Liston, lined by quaint cafes.

Top 3: THESSALONIKI

Overlooking the Aegean Sea in northern Greece is the country’s second largest city. Its main sightseeing destinations are its UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches, but there are also different Roman monuments, the 15th century White Tower on the seafront, and an amazing Byzantine Museum. 

Top 2: SANTORINI 

It is safe to say that Santorini is by far Greece’s number one island attraction for the visitors. With such a  graphical backdrop, Santorini is popular for the cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia, which lie on the west coast, overlooking the deep, blue sea-filled caldera. 

Top 1: ATHENS

Athens is the most visited spot by tourists worldwide. The place referred to as the historical capital of Europe, and in 1834, it became the capital of the modern Greek state. In two centuries, it has become an engaging modern city with a unique charm that is by far Greece’s most visited attraction. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.