5 Best Things To Do in Chengdu, China

Whenever we imagine of a trip to China, the first thing that comes to mind is the Great Wall or Beijing or Shanghai. Yes, these are magnificent places and cities worth visiting, but China has much more than that. Do you think about Chengdu tour? Surely you have looked at tourist offers for China where Chengdu tour is, but you never discovered more about this city.

From the past to present china has a lot of unique practices, traditions, cultures and mythical creatures! Their practices are one of the most unique which cannot be seen elsewhere! Add that with the economically well developed cities! You will get the best of both the worlds!

Chengdu is the capital city of Sichuan Province in China with a population of 14 million people. Chengdu becomes tourist attraction these last years, not just because of the cutest pandas, but also there are so many attractions to be seen. Chengdu has the tallest building in China. The New Century Global Centre is 100 meters tall and is 500 by 400 meters in size, and it is the main attraction among the tourists.

Chengdu is the first place where the paper money was in use, over 1000 years ago. While you are on your Chengdu tour, do not miss to taste some of the most famous Sichuan cuisines. Here are a few places to visit during your Chengdu tour.

If you are next on your next vacation to spend unforgettable moments, visit breathtaking landscapes, see pandas from close, visit places that seem to be out of this planet, then the trip to Chengdu in China can be the perfect destination for you.



Well, here are some facts and things to do in Chengdu.

1. Visit the Giant Pandas

In 2019 we can say that Chengdu is home of White Giant Pandas, and visiting these cute little bears on a Chengdu Panda tour is an amazing experience and attraction. It even gets better if you volunteer to one of the panda bear centre's, where you can feed and maybe hug them. Near the city there three centre's and research bases where you can be near the pandas.

Chengdu Panda Base is located 25 km from Chengdu city center, and it is only half an hour driving. Bifengxia Panda Base is located around 150 km from Chengdu, and it is 2 hours driving with a car. From 2015 taking photos with the pandas and volunteering is stopped, there is no information when will restart with this activity.

Dujiangyan (Wolong) Panda Base is 55 km away from Chengdu. This is the only park where tourists can be volunteers for a couple of days.

2. Sichuan Opera

Visiting Sichuan Opera during your Chengdu tour is one of the memorable moments that you will experience on this trip. If you have been opera by now, you know that you need to be dressed well, but this is not the case, but quite the opposite. The whole atmosphere is relaxed, sitting on bamboo chairs and while you watch the opera, you can snack sunflower seeds and drink tea.

The Sichuan Opera has several acts: people dressed in traditional clothes where they play and sing, then playing instruments, there is a theater. The performance consists of changing masks, even a fire splitting. The play takes about 2 hours, but believe that in the end, you will have the feeling that it lasted only a few minutes.

3. Jiuzhaigou Valley

Have you ever imagined what the land of the fairies looks like? With turquoise and crystal clear lakes, surrounded by mountains, deep virgin forests, waterfalls and a sense of tranquility. You do not have to imagine anymore, it's enough to visit Jiuzhaigou Valley, there you will see everything you ever imagined for the land of the fairies of the stories.

During your Chengdu tour, spend at least two days to visit this wonderful piece of land, located 450 km north of Chengdu. Don't miss to visit this spectacular valley during your Chengdu tour, it is a bit far from Chengdu city, but every hour spending in driving it's worth it.

4. Mount Emei

Mount Emei is 169 km from Chengdu, 7 km southwest of Emeishan City. It is one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China and the ashram for Samantabhadra Bodhisattva. During your Chengdu tour, you can visit the Mt.Emei with its 28 temples. The most important and famous temples are Baoguo Temple, Fuhu Temple, Qingyin Pavilion, Wannian Temple, Hong Chunping, Xianfeng Temple, Xixiangchi and Huazang Temple.

There are four scenic areas: Baoguo Temple, Wannian Temple, Qingyin Pavilion, and Golden Summit. Golden Summit is the second highest peak with 3079.3 meters above the sea level if you are prepared to hike, go to the top and you can enjoy the stunning views over the snowy mountains, Chengdu Plain, Ming River, Qingyi River, and Dadu River.

In the Golden Summit, you can also see the four wonders of Mt. Emei: Sunrise, Cloud Sea, Broken Spectre, and Holy Light.

5. Leshan Giant Buddha

The Leshan Giant Buddha, also known as Dafo, is located to the east of Leshan City, Sichuan Province, at the confluence of three rivers, namely, Qingyi River, Min River, and Dadu River. In 1996 together with Mount Emei was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is believed that the statue is Maitreya, Buddha and disciple of Sakyamuni, who is thought to have been the founder of Buddhism, symbolizing brightness and happiness. And it is the tallest Buddha statue in the world with its 71 meters tall. During your Chengdu tour, you will need a day to see this miracle built between 713 and 803 during the Tang dynasty.

At the end of the day, you'll be one of the many who wished to stay in Chengdu, after visiting The Leshan Giant Buddha and Mt. Emei.

What to Eat & Recommended Food in Chengdu

The Sichuan region is isolated, a land circled by mountains. Foggy, muggy and damp climate. Sichuan cooking is the only one that fully embraces the anesthetic qualities of the province’s famous red peppercorns, known as hua jiao. But once chilli peppers made it to Sichuan cuisine, it replaced all other stimulants.

Sichuan’s signature red chilli oil is the fiery red cauldron of oil used to cook raw ingredients (Chengdu hot pot) that goes beyond its moisture-dispelling heat. The oil also provides aroma and stimulate appetite with its colour and surface sheen. This red chilli oil is generously used in many Sichuan dishes.

Best Time to Visit Chengdu

Summers in Chengdu can be extremely hot and rainy, and for the opposite, the winters are freezing. If you want a nice weather during the Chengdu tour, you should consider going in spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November).

Traveling to Chengdu is really a lifetime experience. Apart from these 5 top places to visit, Chengdu tour can consist of offers that include visiting many more sites, of course, depending on how many days you want the trip to last. If this year you decided to travel to Chengdu, look for offers from Chinese travel agencies because another travel agency can not make a better Chengdu tour than the domestic ones, right?

9 Best Places to Visit in Georgia - Top Instagrammed Spots

Georgia is home to some of the most amazing, totally Instagram-worthy destinations. It has been blessed with mesmerizing natural scenery and scintillating surroundings. From sun-kissed beaches of the Black Sea to the hot deserts, lush green national parks to the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus Mountains and protected regions of Svaneti to the party capital Tbilisi – there are many destinations in Georgia that are Insta-worthy.

Even if you are willing to spend a big chunk of time here, chances are that you will not get enough of Georgia. It is one of those travel destinations that offer unique surprises at each and every turn. If you love capturing beautiful moments and sharing it on social media, then read the following post. It has a list of the most popular Instagrammed places in Georgia.

According to Google, UAE's most popular travel search queries include Georgia tour and the recent trends, of course, show that a large number of people from UAE visit Georgia because of its short flying hours and incredible beauty. This is the reason why there are lots of holiday packages from Dubai to Georgia.

Traveling here, especially with Dollars or Euros, you will feel like a king! To give you an example: a cab ride within most parts of the city center are around 2-3 Dollars! No matter what you are into: nature, hiking/camping, historical sights, if you love the mountains or the sea, vibrant city, or intimate village life, you can experience it all here! And since everything is so close, you don't have to choose!

If you make decisions with your stomach, well, this is the place for you. As the cradle of wine, you can taste over 8000 years of wine-making tradition, along with our diverse, delicious choice of traditional and fusion dishes. If you wish to have an unforgettable trip, just visit Georgia and don't forget to visit these places and click some timeless shots.



Here are the best places to visit in Georgia and the most Instagrammed spots in Georgia.

1. Tbilisi

The Peace Bridge is a beautiful construction made of steel and glass. You can capture some really amazing photos here. The bridge connects Rike Park and the old part of Tbilisi town, over the Mtkvari River. It is a bow-shaped bridge which is 150 m long. In the evenings, it is illuminated by thousands of LEDs, which makes the whole area even more beautiful.

If you are into electronic music, love festivals and the club scene, well good news, Tbilisi is the New Berlin! Check out the world-renowned club Bassiani or attend the ECOWAVES Festival by the sea!

Abanotubani, located in the old Tbilisi is a well-known tourist attraction. It used to be an old spa district where people indulge in sulphur baths for healing and general bathing purposes. The whole area is spangled with dome-shaped structures which are actually the roofs of the sulphur baths. You can capture some interesting pictures here and enjoy a relaxing sulphur bath as well.

Though the old sulphur baths are available at relatively low prices, they might not be very clean. Therefore, many tourists prefer modern sulphur baths and spas to the old ones. You can also indulge in a soothing massage and scrubbing session when you are at Abanotubani. The Orbeliani Bath House is one of the most beautifully decorated places here. It is also one of the best Instagrammed places in Georgia.

2. Telavi

Kakheti is the wine capital of Georgia that houses some of the most beautiful French Chateau style wineries and vineyards. You can sample delicious traditional Georgian wines from the indigenous grape varieties. Thanks to the alluring scenery, you will not stop clicking pictures at all. Kakheti wine tours will be a wonderful treat for Instagram-addicts!

3. Omalo

Tusheti is the protected area of Georgia that also has a national park. The National Park is speckled with lots of waterfalls and amazing forests. You can spot some exotic wild animals in this region. Omalo is the largest village and the centre of Tusheti region and Abano mountain pass is the only access road to this village.

The 4-5 hours drive from the lowland village of Alvani to Omalo through unpaved road has several narrow turns and steep climbs. The views along the pass are just amazing and you get immense opportunities to photograph some scene! While you drive along the rivers, you can picture of beautiful alpine meadows, pine forests and even spot a few eagles!

Being one of the most Instagrammed places in Georgia, Tusheti offers a lot more to keep the shutters of your cameras moving.

4. Stepantsminda

Kazbegi region is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations of Georgia. It offers impressive views of Mount Kazbek. The mountain peak remains permanently cloaked in snow throughout the year and gives you the perfect shot. In winter, the hills and valleys get covered in snow and become a tourist hotspot of winter tourist activities with many ski resorts at the foothills of the mountain providing the skiing accessories.

During the summer season, the foothills and valleys become green again and offer amazing opportunities for hiking, camping, mountain climbing, mountain biking etc. The visually spectacular surroundings are surely going to inspire the photographer in you.

5. Svaneti

Svaneti is one of the protected areas of Georgia. The region is home to many ancient and traditional monuments, which will guide you through Georgia's history. Apart from the monuments, this region is home to some of the most exquisite natural wonders. It is also one of the most attractive tourist destinations of Georgia.

You can enjoy various adventurous activities such as mountain biking, camping, hiking and trekking through forest trails. This area is listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Sites which adds to its popularity.

6. Gori

Uplistsikhe is an ancient cave town in Georgia that is home to some of the most amazing historical remnants. It is a popular tourist attraction and will offer you lots of opportunities for capturing amazing pictures. The age-old cave system, monasteries, residences and ambiance will make you fall in love with the magnificent town where time has stood still for centuries.

The place oozes charm and mystic feels. Since it is nearer to Tbilisi, you can easily include it in your itinerary.

7. Chiatura

This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Georgia, especially among the adventure tourists. The place used to be a booming, mining town and due to its unique topography, rusty cable cars aka flying cabins were administered for a faster commute. They are also called as the death-defying metal coffins. It is a perfect reminder of the Soviet past of Georgia.

It is home to some really beautiful and demanding tourist trails and trekking routes as well.

Well, Katskhi Pillar is not a pillar actually. It is a narrow limestone monolith that has a church and small cabin on its top. It is located at a height of 13 feet from the ground. As it is extremely difficult for climbing the pillar, women are restricted from attempting it. It is one of the most Instagrammed places in Georgia. What makes the whole thing even more mystical is that a solitary monk still resides in the cabin.

8. Batumi

Batumi, located on the coast of the Black Sea is a fascinatingly beautiful beach destination. It is nicknamed as the Las Vegas of the Black Sea. The black sand along the coastal line is believed to possess healing properties. The place offers you an opportunity to enjoy various fun beach activities and sports.

9. Republic of Abkhazia

Check with Abkhazian and Georgian authorities about the rules of getting in and registering yourself. Misfollowing these may get you to a prison in Georgia. This is another partially recognised state (recognised by several UN States such as Nauru and Russia) on the list. De jure, this is still considered a part of Georgia. It is a home to a cheap and nice coast and delicious food and climate.

Well, this completes the list. Wait no longer, choose a good holiday package to Georgia and start sharing stunning photos of your Georgian trip with your friends on Instagram. If you will go to great extents to capture that perfect Instagram pic, look no further! You will find thousands of picture perfect instagramable places to create your next, original story/post.

So, which ones are you going to visit on your Georgian trip?

28 things NOT to do in New York City

Being one of the world's largest cities and leading metropolises for art, food, fashion and entertainment, New York should be on everyone's travel bucket list. Whether you come to spend a weekend or a lifetime in NYC, with so many options, you can never run out of things to see and do.

In addition to the world-famous NYC landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge, there are many hidden gems around every corner. Basically, there is something amazing for every age (and budget), which makes the Big Apple one of the world’s greatest tourist destinations.

A common mistake visitors make when coming to NYC is staying in Manhattan the whole time. Although Manhattan is the heart of NYC, the other four boroughs offer incredible sights and activities you should not miss out on.

Apart from the iconic attractions we mentioned earlier, tourists love the New York Botanical Garden and the Bronx Zoo in the Bronx, the amazing ethnic restaurants in Queens, the burgeoning Brooklyn neighborhoods of Greenpoint, Williamsburg and Red Hook, and the Staten Island Museum in Snug Harbor, just to name a few. I believe I've given you enough reasons to start packing your bags. Now, lets see how to do it right.

Packing for NYC requires a good strategy. There is a reason why people hire professional packers. It is so easy to make mistakes while packing, and the reality is you won't even know you made them until it's too late. Whether you are relocating or going away on a trip, packing your possessions requires devotion and patience. The best way to help you learn how to pack is to analyze common packing mistakes.

I know that some of you might think that packing is always simple and easy. However, for some, it is their own version of hell. With that in mind, I will cover the essentials of packing, and also talk about different types of common packing mistakes you can expect when traveling to New York City. Going online and looking for perfect travel destinations is one thing. However, don't let sloppy packing ruin everything for you.

New York is a mixture of old, and new architecture. During the 1900s it showed the whole world what the human being can build. New York is thundering. Those buildings make you feel like a little ant. It is what people in the past dreamed about what a city in the future would look like.



Let's see what kinds of common mistakes you can expect when preparing for a trip to the Big Apple.

1. Do NOT buy a New York Pass

Do not buy a New York City Explorer Pass or a City Pass of New York simply because they offer all kinds of discounts or because everyone tells you you should do so. It makes much more sense to look at what you want to do in New York first and see if one of these passes will be profitable for you. The risk of looking at the passes first is that you get greedy.

You see so many cool activities, museums and sightseeing options that you feel you have to it all. Well, you haven’t. It is also really great to be in a city and to feel the vibes of it and not just tick off boxes on a list. Not everyone thinks alike though, so you may want to compare the three and see which one works best for you!

2. Do NOT go to Ellis Island

Do you have a tight schedule for your visit? Ellis Island offers a beautiful and very large museum on immigration. This attracts many visitors from both Europe (many immigrants came from the old world) and America (many American families have got European roots). This means that the museum is not just very large, but also very busy. We spent half a day on Ellis Island and have seen a lot, but by no means everything.

By the way, when you take the Staten Island Ferry to Liberty Island, you will pass Ellis Island and this will at least give you a good view on the outside of the museum.

3. Do NOT skip church on Sunday

Even if you’d hardly ever or never go to church, going to church will give you the opportunity to listen to a gospel choir performing for real (and not just performing for the tourists paying for some kind of tour). A great place to do so is the Tabernacle Church in Brooklyn. They offer 3 services each Sunday, so you can always find one that suits your time schedule.

4. Do NOT go to Central

Plan what you want to see. The park is huge and there is so much to do that it is easy to feel lost (literally and figuratively). You may want to see the famous boats and the boats house at The Lake or enjoy the beauty of the conservatory or get on top of Belvedere Castle to have a fabulous view over the park.

Maybe you are a Beatles fan and you want to go to the strawberry fields or you are a Shakespeare lover and you want to visit his statue and the garden full of beautiful plants and flowers mentioned in his works and those who he had in his own private garden in Stratford-upon-Avon. The choice is enormous, so plan ahead!

5. Do NOT order a whole pastrami sandwich at Katz’s

Unless you are very hungry, an enormous meat-fan (or both) or someone who simply eats more than average, the portions are huge, not so much the sandwich, but the pastrami filling certainly is! Please, do NOT try to imitate Meg Ryan when you are having lunch there. That would be very embarrassing, wouldn’t it?

6. Do NOT forget to dress in layers

Even with Summer temperatures you will be happy with a cardigan or jacket on the boat to Liberty Island and you may want to put them on later in the day and sometimes even in the underground, since temperatures vary extremely in the underground stations and trains. Americans like being comfortable, or in cases of skinny jeans, comfortable.

Many Americans will choose something more relaxed on days they do not work. Also dress shoes are a dead giveaway. Dress shoes are more for special events, work, and dates. Most men outside of work wear tennis shoes or sandals. Most women will wear boots, flats, heels, wedges, and tennis shoes.

7. Do NOT go to the Tenement Museum

Do you prefer exploring a museum on your own or are you someone who finds it hard to make choices? This museum, which aims at bringing immigrant and migrant experiences alive by tours through original apartments, can only be visited with a guided tour and the choice of interesting tours is quite a large one. FYI: the Tenement Museum is NOT included in any of the city passes.

8. Do NOT hesitate to ask for help

The New Yorkers are very friendly and helpful. Mind you, sometimes overly so for European standards, which can be charming or irritating. That’s up to you! If somebody says ‘how do you do’ just smile back and say good or whatever you want to reply. It’s rude to ignore a person.

9. Do NOT despair on how the underground works

In order to buy a 7-day metro card at the machine, you have to type in your postal code. Not your real one of course, but it took a while till we got the information that you should type in 00000. Well, now you know. You should also know that several trains follow the same line, but do not all stop at the same stations. That can be confusing at first, but you’ll get the hang of it pretty soon.

10. Do NOT forget to bring your walking shoes

You will walk a lot in NYC (it is called the BIG Apple for a reason). Walking offers you the possibility to explore and feel the vibes of a city. Walking 5th avenue is great for a lot of (window) shopping, the Trump tower with its famous waterfall, St Patrick’s (a Neo-Gothic cathedral amidst skyscrapers) and the central library, full of beautiful rooms, cards, globes and books.

Little Italy is an excellent choice for a walk when you are into good coffee, Italian delicatessen and Italian Gelato. Chinatown, especially when you walk far enough to leave the touristic part of it behind you, will give you a very Asian feeling. Brooklyn and the famous Brooklyn Bridge are fabulous too (good to do on Sunday and combine it with your gospel choir experience).

And don’t forget the financial district with Wall Street, the Bull (do NOT try to get a photo with just you on it, unless you are into long waiting for that rare opportunity) and the 911 memorial and museum. Another not to be missed walk is the High Line plus the Vessel. The High Line was once a rail track but went out of use in 1980. In 2009, they transformed a 1.45-mile-long strip into a unique park.

You find wildflowers, greens and art while enjoying superb views of New York’s skyline on the way. When you decide to walk in Central Park (cycling there is a cool option too), you will understand that this is a lot of walking, knowing how huge Central Park is. As you can read, lot of fabulous walks to do in NYC and as you will understand it also great to bring your walking shoes with you!

New York is a place where nobody belongs to, but at the same time everyone does. It’s hard to explain. The Statue of Liberty, Little Italy and Chinatown are proof that New York is a city. You can walk in Manhattan around 3:00 am on a Monday, and you would think is 8:00 pm. This city is 24 hours. New York offers SO MUCH.

There are restaurants from all over the world, many parks, events all the time in Central Park, Bryant Park not even to mention Broadway. New York is totally more vivid. Walking the streets of New York, who wouldn’t recognize those streets where Spiderman, Batman, the Avengers, and all these superheroes used to show us?

11. Do NOT be late

The first on our list of common mistakes to avoid doesn't have much to do with actual planning. However, it is one of the most common mistakes people make. They don't start planning on time! Being behind schedule is never good, and it creates a lot of stress. You start asking yourself if you will finish everything on time, and then you make a mess by planning in a hurry. Next thing you know, you forgot to plan something.

The best way to tackle this issue is to determine how many things you want to do in NYC. This information will help you determine the approximate time you'll need to plan. Furthermore, think about everything you have to do after planning. If you have a detailed plan, you can allocate enough time to finish everything. Always plan in advance, and you will save time instead of losing it!

12. Not having enough luggage

Ah, the wonderful feeling of finding out you don't have enough bags (in case you are planning a longer stay). Now you have to run to the store and buy more. But since you are trying to pack in a hurry, you won't stop to think about what to buy. You will buy anything as long as it serves the purpose.

That is the perfect recipe for spending money on purchasing overpriced luggage. Furthermore, you want to make sure you don't run out of bags, suitcases or boxes again. So, now you buy more than you need. If that isn't a foolproof plan for spending your hard-earned money, I don't know what is!

This is a packing pitfall you don't need. Carefully think about your belongings. Again, time plays an important part in this process. If you don't buy enough packing material on time, you will start rushing things, and that's not good.

13. Packing what you don't need

Here is where you lose the most money and time on packing for a trip. If you are staying in NYC for just one week, you won't need ten pairs of shoes, right? Besides, someone has to carry all that luggage. The more stuff you bring, the harder it will be to maneuver the suitcases through the busy streets of NYC.

When it comes to visiting New York, you should be even more careful with packing. We all have plenty of things we don't use any longer. However, we still keep them because of sentimental reasons. Sometimes, not even because of that, but we simply want to have something. That's called hoarding, the biggest enemy of all packers.

Get rid of things you don't need when packing and the entire process will be much simpler and quicker. Once you eliminate everything you don't need, you'll see how easy packing actually is.

First, you have fewer things to pack, which means you need less luggage. Second, fewer things to pack mean you will finish packing sooner than planned. Third, unpacking will be so easy once you keep only what you need. Voilà! By making the decision not to bring the stuff you don't need, you have saved space, time and money. Now that's a packing continuum I'd like to be a part of!

14. Not reading the Weather in New York

New York is continental and offers all types of seasons. You can even get to experience blizzards, and a beautiful Fall. Summers are normally humid, and Winters can be extremely cold. Those humid summers, those bitter cold winters, and the beautiful fall and spring are all you get to see in New York.

When packing, it is crucial you understand in which order to pack things. For example, if you are moving to Perth in Australia, you know that the weather is hot. While you don't have to throw away your sweaters and winter clothes, you can place them on the bottom. The same goes for NYC. Take the time of the year into consideration when deciding in which order to pack.

Also, your essentials box will have different content depending on the weather. Remember that NYC has hot summers and snowy winters. And the rain is also quite common. If you're expecting to sweat a lot, have a change of clothes within arm's reach at all times. In the same manner, if you are traveling or moving during the winter season, pack warmer clothes last so they are on top, and always have a warm jacket near you.

Of course, your passport, drivers' license, medications and other important items should always be easy to reach. When crossing borders, you might be asked to show a specific item to the border officers. If that happens, you have to find it and take it out of the bag. Imagine having to take everything out until you locate that item. Just no!

Packing electronics and other sensitive items requires the most concentration and planning. Be sure to wrap everything tightly, and use packing foam for added protection. Also, do not forget to label fragile when visiting NYC. If you packed yourself, but you hired a shipping service, they won't know what is inside the luggage unless you specify it.

One of the most common packing mistakes is that people forget to make a list of all the packed items. You have to know the location of everything you packed. This makes unpacking a lot easier and faster. Furthermore, if you need a specific item, you can locate it in no time.

15. Canada Goose in Winter

Almost the official uniform of NYC, Canada Goose is the go to parka for all winter walking. In most places spending $1,000 on a jacket would be a bit outrageous, but in NYC that is how you keep warm on your commute. Just like you might spend $1,000 to fix a broken heater in your car, we spend that much on a jacket to make sure we are comfortable walking in the snow.

16. Do NOT wear cameras around neck

Most Americans just carry cellphones, unless you are a vlogger or an old person.

17. Do NOT ask where to eat the best American food

Then they get confused when you ask what kind of food they are interested in. Describe what American food means to you because they can either point you to a burger place, Mexican, Chinese, Greek, chain restaurants. Many don't know what American food is except for apple pie, root beer, recess cany, butterfinger, hot dogs, and burgers.

It can be overwhelming but it also can be the time to experiment with new food. Spicy jalapeño red refried beans sound gross but don't knock it until you try it. Chicken tenders only go with ranch. Root beer is a delicious soft drink. Root beer floats are lovely. Also don't forget to have apple pies and pecan pies.

18. Do NOT use only cash

Cash is still OK but most Americans use debit cards/credit card. The reason? If you get your card stolen, it's easy to report, cancel your card, and get refunded if somebody used your cards. If you get cash stolen, you are out of luck. Also, going to banks to pull out cash takes time and it just makes sense to use your debit card than go to the bank.

19. Not knowing laws

No American unless a cheapskate or someone brand new to buying things (usually kids) complain because they are used to it. So if you hear a complaint, it's usually a foreigner. Even jaywalking can have consequences. Yes, in your country, the legal age is 16. Here it is 18. If you get arrested for sleeping or courting a underage, you will face criminal charges. If you are under 21, drinking is illegal.

If caught, you will face our criminal system even if it is legal to drink at 16 in your country. Playing naive will not prevent you from getting arrested or tickets. Always look up laws for USA and for the state you are visiting. FYI: in some states marijuana is legal and other states it's still illegal.

20. Do NOT litter or spit

There are trash cans for public use and a fine for littering. Americans may also separate recyclables from refuse, so it’s important to read which trash can you’re using. Some places have no trash cans, and it means you have to carry the trash with you.

21. Do NOT push through people

Americans like a good few feet or almost meter from someone, and always say, I’m sorry if you accidentally bump into someone or Excuse me to ask for walking space. You can learn about American etiquette by observing. For example, if everyone is quiet at a library, there’s a reason why. Also, when traveling in general, you want to blend into your surroundings so you don’t become an easy target.

22. Do NOT stand on the left side of the escalator

When you are exiting/entering the subway, do not stand on the left side of the escalator. Commuters walk up the left side, and stand on the right side. This is especially important to keep in mind during the morning rush (7–9am) and the evening rush (5–7pm).

Let people exit the subway car before you enter the subway car. Only take up one seat, and be sure to place your bags on the floor or in your lap. Do not lean on the poles, as people need to hold on to those. Do not eat smelly food. Do not play music or games out loud—use headphones. Be aware that (even on packed trains) part of American culture is the belief in personal space, so leaning on or touching someone should be avoided whenever possible.

23. Do NOT block the sidewalks

Almost no greater sin in the city that never sleeps than walking slowly on the sidewalk. Be courteous and quick. Most New Yorkers will say, “excuse me” or walk on the street to get around you, but (like with many cities) clogging up our sidewalks is considered poor form.

24. Do NOT eat at chain restaurants

If you’ve seen the restaurant in another town, avoid it. You are in New York City — one of the food capitals of the world! Explore. Use Yelp, Instagram, Open Table, or blogs to find tasty meals. Leave Time Square and check out the East and West Villages for coffee shops, wine bars, real Italian food, and live music.

25. Know your food or beverage order

Know your food or beverage order when you get to the counter, particularly at places like Starbucks. New Yorkers are in a rush—to get to work, to catch a train, to make a Broadway show. If you need help with English or currency, just ask! People in NYC are generally very down to help, as long as you keep that line moving.

26. Do NOT take a gypsy cab (an unmarked cab)

These are not regulated, and as a tourist, you will most likely be taken advantage of. It’s better to hop in a yellow cab in Manhattan, a yellow OR green cab if you are in the outer boroughs, or to download an app like Uber or Lyft. There are plenty of ways to get to your next destination, so don’t let someone bully you. Also, be wary of this at the airport and use the taxi line to be safe.

27. Do NOT take a free CD

Don’t take a “free CD” from someone on the street. It ain’t free, my friend. And if someone offers you a “free comedy show,” just know that you will probably be expected to buy 1–2 drinks per person.

28. Do NOT comment on clothing style

Yes, if you come from a modest country, sorry. Women walk around with low cut shirts and their legs and arms showing. Men walk around in shorts and can have tattoos and long hair. They really don't care what people dress like as long as privates are covered. You aren’t really concerned with what others are doing as long as it doesn’t directly impact you.

Someone on the subway is dressed funny, not dressed at all, or reading a crazy book. Its fine, you probably hardly notice or care.

Do not think you can pack everything on your own. While in most cases that can be true, having a helping hand is always useful. It can save you a lot of time. Just make sure to make a plan and divide belongings for easier packing. If you follow these simple suggestions, you will avoid common packing mistakes, and the entire process will be a piece of cake!

5 Most Expensive Chocolates in the World

Within gastronomic tourism, there are many travelers who are looking directly for a specific product and this article is dedicated to some of them, specifically to chocolate lovers. If you are one of those who, before starting to eat, are already thinking about dessert, if before traveling to a country you have already looked for their typical sweets, we are sure that you will want to visit the places that we are going to show you now.

The chocolate has always been known to be the best and our most favorite sweet of all time. The chocolates have a special place in our lives and we can eat them at any time of the day. The chocolates are also being used for the purpose of gifts. The custom chocolate packaging containing your favorite chocolate is the best gift you can give to someone.

Talking about perfect places for chocolate lovers and not starting in Switzerland is crazy. Chocolate is great alone, but if it is part of other elaborations it is also really delicious. A test is found in the delicious Sacher cake, one of the best known in the world. Nowadays imitations are sold all over the world, but if you want to taste the real one and enjoy the power of your chocolate, visit Vienna.

The chocolates are loved by everyone and we can never resist the delicious chocolates whenever we find them. The delicious chocolates that we buy from the market have different prices. The price of the chocolate is usually considered to be a standard for the good quality chocolate. The price varies according to the brand and the ingredients used for the manufacture of chocolate.

Although we always relate chocolate to Switzerland, the region in the world that knows the most about cocoa is Tabasco, in Mexico. Italy has some of the most prestigious, and some of the best chocolate also. That is not to say that you can necessarily visit their factories, but you can while your time away in Tuscany eating chocolate with a palate cleanser of gelato. If you travel there you can know from its cultivation to the elaboration of the rich tablets, in addition to trying the purest product you will find. There is everything dedicated to chocolate!

The chocolate boxes also plays a role in elevating the image of a chocolate brand. The packaging is one of the factors that can make a bar of chocolate famous with the help of the packaging. The prices may differ from chocolate to chocolate and each one is packed inside the unique printed chocolate packaging.



Some of the most expensive chocolates that you can find in the market are following.

1. Chocopologie Chocolate Truffle

This Chocopologie made by Fritz Knipschildt is the most expensive chocolate of all time. The price of this chocolate is so high that you can't enjoy it often. This chocolate has a price of $2,600 and there is no other chocolate as expensive as this one. The ingredients of this special chocolate include dark chocolate along with the flavor of vanilla.

The sugar and cream added to the delicious mixture can give it an extra creamy taste that you can never resist. The taste along with the chocolate boxes makes it different from the rest. The packaging of this chocolate is what makes it special. Once you buy this chocolate, it will take you a little time before you finish such yummy chocolate.

2. Wispa Gold Chocolate

This is the second most expensive chocolate in the world and it is made by the famous chocolate company Cadbury. The chocolates made by Cadbury have an exceptional taste which is unmatched till date. The special thing about this chocolate is that it is packed inside an edible gold leaf.

The extraordinary taste along with the special chocolate packaging printing is what makes it the most famous chocolate in the whole world. The price of this chocolate $1600 that is not affordable for most of us. This chocolate is so delicious that you can never stop yourself from eating it once you have tasted it.

3. Le Grand Louis XVI

The chocolate that comes on third in the list of most expensive chocolates is the Le Grand Louis XVI. The price of this chocolate is around $900 which makes it quite expensive than a bar of average chocolate. The recipe of this chocolate consists of 99% cocoa which makes it the best dark chocolate in the chocolate business.

Another special thing about this chocolate is their chocolate boxes that make it the most attractive chocolate in the whole market. The beautifully designed packaging of these chocolates makes it the best choice of chocolate for gift purposes. The box of these chocolates has small compartments that separate different small chocolate pieces and gives it an arranged look.

4. Chocolates with Edible Gold

The idea of eating gold is quite unusual for us but the chocolates made by DeLafee have made it possible. The main ingredient of this chocolate is the special cocoa beans which makes them one of the most delicious chocolates in the world. This yummy chocolate is then decorated with the eatable gold flakes which make it the most unique chocolate.

The custom chocolate boxes of these chocolates are also elegantly designed to impress the customers. The elegance of the packaging box with the chocolate bars inside can provide a very beautiful view. You can never control yourself from having this chocolate once you have tasted it for the first time.

The price of this tempting chocolate packed in beautifully designed printed chocolate boxes is $508. The high price of this chocolate is the main reason why it is enlisted in the world’s most expensive chocolates.

5. Amedei Toscano Black Truffles

This mouthwatering and famous chocolate comes on the fifth position in the list of most expensive chocolates. The taste of this chocolate is so special that no one has ever tasted such a bar of tasty chocolate. The recipe involves the mixture of truffles with the champagne and the addition of gold makes it even more special.

This delicious chocolate is packed inside the best chocolate boxes provided by one of the famous chocolate box suppliers in the world. The special appearance of the packaging box of this chocolate makes it irresistible for us. You can buy a box full of this chocolate in $300 making it an expensive choice of chocolate.

8 Festivals You Must Visit in London

Standing tall on the river Thames, London, the capital of England is the largest city of both England and the UK. London is home to some of the most famous attractions of the world such as the iconic timeless national timepiece - Big Ben and the Coca-Cola London eye. 40% of the city is covered in lush greenery, making it the greenest city of its size in the world. And the list goes on.

Considering that London is about 2000 years old, it isn't doing exactly terribly in the modern world. In one of the world’s fashion, culinary and artistic hubs, the British food isn't really as bad as everyone makes it out to be! From the outside, everything is beautiful. Buildings, monuments, bridges, parks and the classiest cabs on earth. It’s easy to fall in love with walks by the River Thames.

London has always got something new to offer and see. The world is your oyster. And of course, London is a marvelous city. Big cities like London are amazing and exciting places. It is a world city rivaled only by New York in its connectedness and cosmopolitan international vibrancy. All the iconography is there. They really do say mind the gap as you get on and off the tube.

The museums are great (and mainly free). The parks are lovely. The architecture is impressive. And - mainly - the buzz of the place - it may be a cliche, but it is one that rings true to many residents: when one is tired of London, one is tired of life.

But, one of the biggest deal-maker to visit London is the fact that it is one of the major music capitals of the world. It hosts the major music corporations- Universal Music Group International and Warner Music Group, as well as the countless bands and musicians.

One of the best cities in Europe for first time travelers, London has it all. A rich history, an eye on the future, a vibrant atmosphere and a list of attractions as long as the longest arm. The biggest city in the UK (and one of the biggest in Europe), London is a cultural melting pot. One of the major reasons to go to London is its museums – they are arguably the best in the world (thanks colonialism) and are totally, entirely, magnificently free.

Make your London bucket list if you love museums and galleries, you have a thing for the royals, you want to visit a city that never sleeps.



Here are some of the best festivals you must visit in London.

1. All Points East

All Points East is a music festival held over two weekends once a year in London's Victoria Park, run by AEG Presents. As of 2019, it consisted of 6 headline shows and 4 days of free activities during the week. All Points East may be a new addition but has clearly become a reputed festival. The ticket price is approximate £60 plus booking fee and line-up featured The Strokes, The Raconteurs, Bon Iver, Christine & the Queens, The Chemical Brothers, Kate Tempest and Fat White Family.

2. Field Day

First held in Victoria Park in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets on 11 August 2007, Field Day is a yearly festival in London celebrated outdoors. It has a legacy of showcasing the best alternative and hip-hop acts. The ticket price is approximate £67.50. Skepta, Jorja Smith, Diplo, The Black Madonna and Pusha T all featured on the 2019 line-up which carried on long until 3 am.

3. Bushstock Festival

If you are looking for fresh faces and sound, then The Bushstock Festival is the one you should be visiting. This one-day festival showcases both well known and new artist who are un-mainstream. Bushstock has a low ticket price comparatively. This year it started from £30 plus booking fee. Bushstock has a good track record as it sold out in advance once again in 2018 which consisted of 1750 music fans in the event. The capacity has grown steadily since 2011 when the event hosted just 700. It sure has come a long way.

4. Wireless Festival

The Wireless Festival is an urban music festival which celebrates the new and best of hip-pop and R&B. This year it is going to be celebrated at Finsbury Park. This year’s line-up features the big ones from the US including Cardi B, Migos, and Tyga alongside British stars Ella Mai and Bugzy Malone with a ticket prices starting from £65.

5. British Summer Time

Presented by Barclaycard, British Summer Time is a 10-day event which consists of six days of world-class music events and four days of free midweek community-focussed activities. Since 2013, BST has seen headliners such as The Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi, Lionel Richie, Kylie Minogue, Black Sabbath, Neil Young, The Libertines, Arcade Fire, The Who, Blur, The Strokes and Taylor Swift. This year Celine Dion, Robbie Williams, Florence + The Machine are there to own the stage.

6. Lovebox

This festival was founded 16 years ago by DJs Groove Armada. It is particularly famous for dance-music. But there's more to this festival with surprises of performance art, unique food, boutiques and much more. Tickets start from £58.50 plus booking fee for the weekend. Definitely not a bad deal for surprises.

7. Southport Weekender Festival

Want to go to something old-school? Well, these guys have been doing it for 29 years. Now it one of the well-established one-day outdoor London festivals which includes a celebration of house, disco, garage and R&B. Last year's included Sister Sledge ft. Kathy Sledge, David Morales, Hector Romero and Joey Negro. And, this year’s is bound to be better.

8. Citadel

Who doesn't love Sundays? To make your Sunday even better do visit this ultimate summer Sunday event which is a one-day festival which brings great music from independent artists, folksy variety, amazing food and lots of side events plus mass yoga and dance workshops.

The fun doesn't stop here. There are many more festivals to discover. Come live in London and experience these amazing festivals. But, accommodation in London can get quite confusing as there are so many options to choose from.

Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary - Things to do

Assam may be more famous for the Kaziranga National Park but today we are going to take you to an amazing wildlife sanctuary of Assam, which is the Nambor wildlife sanctuary. Wildlife always attracts people, no matter how old we are. Probably one can be a 60 year old person or a 10 year old little kid, but one thing which is very common to us all is that we all love to see wild animals and beauty of colorful birds. Isn't it?

A beautiful birdsong at dawn. Spotted deer with ears twitching, occasionally looking up to scan the wilderness. The whooping of monkeys. And the much awaited moment of screeching and high alert, announcing the predator on the prowl.



So, if you want to know about this wildlife sanctuary and explore its beautiful wild animals and birds then stay with us. We will help you to know all step by step.

Where is Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary Located?

Nambor wildlife sanctuary is located in Karbi Anglong district of Assam. There is also another wildlife reserve located with it; it is none other but the Garampani wildlife sanctuary. However, the Garampani sanctuary falls in Golaghat district, not Karbi Anglong but both of these are geographically connected with each other.

Nambor reserve covers land and water area of 37 km2. In the year 2000, the government of Assam declared it as a wildlife sanctuary of this state. Before the year 2000, it was only a reserve area.

What is Nambor Sanctuary famous for?

Here are a few major reasons, which is making it more famous among north-east Indian travelers. First of all the beauty of nature. Actually Nambor wildlife reserve is located in hilly areas of Karbi Anglong. If you haven't visited Karbi Anglong before then you can't imagine how beautiful it is.

On the other hand, it is the home of hundreds of species of flora and fauna. Here are some examples of floras and fauna found here:

Birds: Hornbill, Kingfisher, Greater Adjutant, King Crow, Jungle Flow, Eagle, Hill Dove, Magpies and more.

Animals: Asian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Local Assamese Macaque, Barking Deer, Wild Pigs, Gaur, Hoolock Gibbon, Fishing Cat, Slow Loris, etc.

Reptiles: Python, King Cobra, Monitor Lizard, Black Krait.

Flora: Azar, Gomari, Holokh, Hilikha, Hal, Segun, Bosum, Titasopa, and Kothal.

Best Time to Visit Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary

Due to poor transport and communication services, most of the wildlife reserve remains close in Assam during the rainy season. Therefore as per government recommendation, you can visit it from November to April month during the winter season.

How to Reach Nambor Wildlife Sanctuary?

Roadways are the only way to reach there because there is no direct airway and railway service to Nambor. The nearest airport Dimapur, Nagaland is 55 km from it. On the other hand, roadway services 35 km away from Golaghat town. Therefore whenever you visit there, you have to travel by bus from Golaghat town.

Other Destinations Near Nambor Sanctuary

1. Koka Falls: Koka falls located in the western part of Karbi Anglong and 75 km away from the Nambor sanctuary. This is especially a picnic spot. It has also two other different names. They are Amreng and Panimur. If you are photography lover then Koka falls will be proven as the heaven for you.

2. Garampani Wildlife Sanctuary: Garampani wildlife sanctuary is associated with Nambor's geography. As we have learned above Garampani sanctuary is a small wildlife reserve area, which is especially famous for ‘Hot water spring'. Each year thousands of local tourists come here to see this hot water spring and doing picnic parties.

If you do love to go for a picnic party then you can come here for once. It is the home of multiple species of animals and birds.

3. Diphu Botanical Garden: The Botanical Garden of Diphu is situated in Diphu (only 5 km away from the main town), near Marat Longri sanctuary. This is a semi-natural garden, which is developed to conserve some rare and uncommon species of orchids, and plants. There is also boating facilities available for its visitors.

4. Bhelughat Waterfall: The Bhelughat waterfall is the most beautiful waterfalls in Assam state. This is located in the western part Karbi Anglong district. It is also known as Paklongkam waterfall. This is located 30 km away from the Nambor wildlife sanctuary.

5. Arboretum: Arboretum is an ideal picnic spot located 8 km away from Diphu town. This is especially an artificial vegetation garden, comes under the control of Diphu local forest department. It is situated 50 km away from Nambor wildlife sanctuary.

Conclusion

Hope you will love this destination. The transport and communication services are a little bit weak here but when you will see the beauty of Karbi Anglong and its wild animals then all your difficulty will be forgotten.

7 Top Things to Do in Madrid, Spain

If you are planning your honeymoon or summer holidays in Spain, then Madrid should definitely be at the top of your list. Madrid is the heart of Spanish culture! The Spanish capital has hundreds of beautiful, couple-themed hotels lining up the street, a laid-back Mediterranean attitude to inject the right dose of romance in your honeymoon, and an affordable, flexible lifestyle for just any kind of budget.

Apart from so many things to do and see in Madrid, the energy in this city is unbelievable, and the security and safety mechanisms are extremely reliable. We recommend that you do your honeymoon here for at least 5 days in order to get the full Madrid romantic experience.

The country's capital is also famous for its many connections to fashion. Pack an extra suitcase when you’re going, because shopping is a popular activity here. Also, be sure to find a central place to stay in Madrid - that way, you can easily see everything within a week or so.

Madrid is the custodian of all of Spain's royalty. It is home to historic castles, palaces, and legendary Espanola culture. The theme parks, on the other hand, will indulge your romantic getaway instincts. Excellent shopping facilities, unlimited indoor adventures, lively markets, and elegant museums will all make your honeymoon in Madrid unforgettable.

If you want to get a real feel of all these attractions, it is best if you take a walking tour with a professional touring company, who will give you insights on all of the most renowned attractions. For your daytime outdoor fun, Madrid's fountain-filled plazas, grand churches and cathedrals, absolutely delicious street foods, and beautiful, ancient architectural wonders will sweep you off your feet.

Spain’s capital and biggest city is one of elegant boulevards, perfectly kept parks, and imposing, wonderfully maintained buildings. There’s arguably no better city in Europe to simply spend the day wandering round in. Madrid is known as one of Europe’s major repositories of fine art (the Prado Museum is a particular highlight), and it’s also home to two of Europe’s biggest football teams – Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid.

Go to Madrid if you like football (soccer), appreciate high art, simply enjoy wandering around a city and taking it all in. Madrid is a big city and naturally, there are numerous attractions to see there, however, since there are too many I can’t put them all here. I will stick to those that I personally visited and the ones that are really famous, but the full list of things to see in Madrid are easily found on Google.

Some of the most famous attractions are the Buen Retiro Park, Museo del Prado, Plaza Mayor, Royal Palace of Madrid, Puerta del Sol, Plaza de Cibeles, Puerta de Alcalá, El Rastro de Madrid, Parque de El Capricho and El Escorial.



Once there, be sure to visit the following places.

1. El Retiro Park

If you want a cultural trip, then go to Madrid. It's the largest city in Spain by far, so there's always something going on. During the months of May and August, there are lots of festivals in Madrid. For the rest of the year, you have attractions such as the Prado Museum, the Retiro Park, the Royal Palace of Spain, and the Real Madrid home stadium, Santiago Bernabéu.

With hundreds of acres of roses and glass palaces, you and your partner will have a chance to bask in nature and its beauty, while at the same time enjoying relaxed, cool weather of the park. The rose garden in El Retiro also boasts of over 4000 roses and is surrounded by a lake with rowboats. There definitely can never be a better place to celebrate love other than the land of boats and roses.

2. Museo Nacional del Prado

Madrid boasts of three state-of-the-art museums where you can visit to see some of the most exquisite works of art that you will ever see in your life. One of these museums is known as Museo del Prado. It is Spain's national art museum and is home to art collections that date all the way from the Middle Ages. You will also see art collections from the 19th century.

3. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

The second museum, the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, is home to private art collections and is ranked as the biggest of its kind in the whole of Europe.

4. Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

You can take your lover to the Museo Reina Sofía, home to more than 20,000 pieces of modern art. If you or your lover is a fan of Miró and Picasso, then you definitely visit this museum during your time in Madrid.

5. El Rastro flea market

This market will amaze you with its more than 3,500 stands that sell vintage treasures, foods, leather bags, clothes, and hand-made jewelry. Eat, shop, and mingle with the locals while here.

6. Calle de las Huertas

The city is also popular for its galleries, Tapas, and copas, all of which will excite you and your lover. Among things to do Madrid, mingle with a Madrilenian to enjoy tapas with them in a friendly atmosphere. It’s also home to the oldest still-existing restaurant in the world, Sobrino de Botín. So if you're wondering where to eat out in Madrid, that’s a pretty good option.

Madrid is also famous for providing some of the best nightlife in Europe. At the very least, it is the city with the highest amount of bars per capita among all European capitals. The night and party life in Madrid will knock your socks off if you are a party enthusiast. The inviting cocktail bars, moonlight dance parties, and lively nightclubs will not let you sleep at night.

7. Arabian Baths Experience at Almudena

The Hammam Al Andalus is in the Almudena neighborhood. Here, you can bath and get massaged in the legendary Arabic well, as you enjoy the intimacy of freshening up alongside your lover.

8. Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Escorial Palace is one of the best places to visit in Spain. Located inside the Spanish metropolis of San Lorenzo de Escorial, approximately 45 kilometers northwest of Madrid, the Royal Site of San Lorenzo de Escorial, or ‘El Escorial’ is a royal palace and monastery which dates back to the sixteenth century.

Hotels in Madrid

As we mentioned, there is a hotel for every budget in Madrid. The main characteristic of most of the hotels is their great views: You will be able to enjoy the great skyline of Spain while in your room, view the awesome traffic along the city's streets, and if your room is high enough, explore the entire length and breadth of Madrid’s beautiful structures.

The good thing about Madrid is that there are quite a number of English speakers, so you will not have to worry about language barriers. And what's more, nearly all hotels have spas that will give you and your lover professional facial therapies for a refreshing new look. And if you need to relax, Madrid boasts of many hotels with living-room inspired lobbies for that.

The cocktail bars, on the other hand, are up to international standards. For your entertainment, most hotels have in-house DJs who will not hesitate to play your music requests.

Bottom line: There is a hotel for all your relaxation, comfort, and budget needs in Madrid. All you need to do is find a suitable hotel for your tastes and preferences.

Best time to Visit Madrid

The best time to visit Madrid is September to November or March to May because these times of the year aren’t crowded, the hotels are cheaper, and the flights are very affordable. You can visit in December if you want to see the Christmas Markets in Madrid.

Madrid has inland Mediterranean weather also called dry Mediterranean or continental Mediterranean. You get 30ºC-40ºC in the summer and 10ºC-0ºC in the winter in Madrid. One thing that doesn’t change though is the sun, it is a weaker sun that doesn’t warm up like in the summer, but you’ll have a sun shining on the sky all throughout the winter, you don’t get the long cloudy weeks of Atlantic and northern Europe.

Winter in Madrid is a lot of fun anyway. It is a big city and in winter it is full of visitors from other parts of Spain, so it has even more people than usual. And there's lots of things to do in winter… all the Christmas activities of a large city and the Spanish Christmas traditions, plus all the university parties in my case.

Estacion de Atocha is the biggest railway station in Madrid. People can catch commuter, high-speed and regional trains here. The station was destroyed in a fire, and was rebuilt by Alberto de Palacio Elissagne and Gustave Eiffel, the designer of the Eiffel Tower. While this new and improved version looked great on the outside, the inside was still your run-of-the-mill, drab train station.

The owner of the station decided that the customer experience would be enhanced if the inside looked better too. So they added a 4000-square meter jungle to the inside. The jungle has over 500 species of animals and plants. Pretty cool, right? Atocha has two stations, and they didn’t do these renovations on both of them. The high-speed train station is like an airline terminal, but with more security.

11 Best Places to Visit in Croatia

Are you thinking of traveling to Croatia? You can visit Istria, Zagreb or even travel by car or train to Slovenia and learn more about this wonderful part of Europe. It's easy to fall in love with the country's small, pretty villages and beautiful archipelago. The food is inspired by the Italian cuisine with influences from the east - of course, often served seafood.

Enjoy the nightlife of Croatia, in its many pubs, discos or annual festivals. To enter the country you will need your passport and visa. Croatia is an amazing country to visit. You can never have enough of Croatia. Every time you leave Croatia, you will be left wanting to visit the country once again.



These are some of the places to visit for honeymoon in Croatia. It wouldn't be justice to give all these amazing places an order. They are all beautiful in their own way.

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Visit the Plitvice Lakes and admire the beautiful color of its waters. A UNESCO World Heritage registered natural park, Plitvice is just breathtakingly beautiful. There are more than a dozen lakes and waterfalls scattered all across the park, each surpassing the other in terms of natural beauty. One can spend an entire week just roaming around in Plitvice, and that will still not be enough.

The bad thing is that you cannot bathe. If you want to take a dip, you should visit Krka National Park.

2. Zagreb

Zagreb, the capital is quite far from the coast and most tourist areas but is one of the must-see trips to Croatia to know its history, enjoy nature or discover the nightlife. Hiking is a must in Zagreb. Since you're in Zagreb, make sure you walk a lot. After all, it’s one of Europe’s most lovely walkable cities. Also, there are numerous cafes in Zagreb.

In fact, the cafes outnumber the natives in some area. Therefore as a traveler, you have got to take a walking tour and munch your heart out at any cafe whose vibe attracts you. Ban Jelacic is the main city square. So start your walking tour from here. While at the Square, try to look for the statue of Ban Jelacic. and the Mandusevac Fountain.

Next move on to Dolac Market. It's a bustling farmer's market. Since its located in the lower part of the city, go on an adventurous Funicular ride. During that short ride, you'll get to see the entire city scape with orange ree roofs. Also, observe the Lotrscak Tower on your way. Spend some time in the upper town area.

Zagreb has some brilliant museums. unique reputation. Start with Museum of Broken Relationships. It includes mementos from failed relationships. Each item also includes a story - some funny and some really sad. Next, visit Museum of Naïve Art and the Museum of Torture. Once you're done exploring the collections in all of these museums, pay a visit to St. Mark's Church. Its nearby. End your day by eating at some lovely eatery.

3. Rijeka

Region with history that combines islands with many hours of sun, walks along the coast, striking parks with wide flora, the area of ​​Gorski Kotar is considered as the lung of the country. It is home to fascinating eagles, bears and wolves. Lubenice provides excellent views of the Adriatic Sea.

4. Istria

Discover the Euphrasian Basilica of Porec, declared a World Heritage Site. You cannot miss the old town and its coastal and relaxed atmosphere. Travel to the past in the Roman ruins of Pula.

5. Rovinj

Attend a week long Salsa festival in Rovinj, a sea port with a very vibrant Latin Dance scene. Around 5,000 dancers from all over the world gather in the town, dancing their heart out all through the day and all through the night. Every cafe and restaurant play Salsa songs, even early in the morning. People of all ages could be seen dancing on the streets.

6. Split

Wake up and take a ferry till Split. Split is a city in Croatia that mixes the historic center with modernity. One of the best plans is to walk along the promenade and have a drink in the tranquility, and if you want something more cultural you should visit some of its museums and Diocletian's Palace.

Sinj itself is not very touristy town nor it is on the seaside. However since it’s so close to major coastal city, Split, it can very convenient to visit it and it’s very nice. It’s small and cute with wonderful people. However main reason to visit it would definitely be on every first Sunday in August. Then when medieval game called Sinjska alka takes place.

The Alka itself is an equestrian competition in which various horsemen riding at full gallop aim their lances at a hanging metal ring (alka), and are awarded points according to which sector of the ring they are able to pierce.

7. Brac

Brac is one of the hundreds of islands that flood the Baltic Sea and during a trip to Croatia is an ideal place to rest and get away from tourists from the most visited areas.

8. Hvar

Move to any of the islands such as the Hvar island or the Korcula island. Hvar island is the longest island in the Adriatic and famous for being the island of lavender, rosemary and pine, plagued by virgin forests and white sand beaches. This idyllic place is located in front of the Dalmatian coast, surrounded by the sea routes of the Adriatic Sea and guarded by the archipelago of the Pakleni Islands.

In addition, it is easy to include it in your family trip through Croatia because from Split there are ferries and direct catamarans everyday and you can go with your rental car. From Italy there are several routes that connect Ancona with Split and Pescara with Starigrad. Stroll along its Riva. The highest point of Hvar is the Napoleon Fort.

After walking through its old town and buying some souvenirs you can go for a swim in one of its beaches, specifically in Zecevo. It is necessary to rent a boat from Jelsa, a coastal town that is in front of the islet. Another one of the beaches is the one of Stari Grad to the north of the island. Many travelers decide to snorkel in this place.

Southeast of Hvar is the Stari beach and on the Marinkovac island, which can be reached by boat from Hvar, there are the Stipanska and Min beaches. In the southwest of the island find the Palmizana beach and finally in the southernmost part is the naturist Zavala beach. Another option is to stay at a campsite.

One of the best naturist camping is Vrboska, surrounded by nature. Few travel magazines has chosen it as one of the ten most beautiful islands in the world.

9. Vis

The Vis island is 12 miles from the Hvar island. To travel from the city of Vis to Komiza, the other city of the islet use a bus that connects both sites. From Komiza to the sea, located on the Bisevo island, go by boat to Blue Grotto or Blue Cave, a light and water show. The sun reflects in the sea creating flashes that enter the cave, acquiring silver and mauve tones. In the excursions is also visited Green Cave or Zelena Spilja.

10. Korcula

Korcula, the sixth largest island on the Adriatic can be accessed from the Peljesac peninsula or from Split, Dubrovnik or Hvar. It is an ideal destination to spend a few days of vacation in Croatia. Vela Przina has one of the few sandy beaches on the island and in general of Croatia, a country where pebble beaches abound. In summer it is crowded, but in the low season it is a joy.

Korcula is like a fairytale city where you can wander aimlessly, where you can sit down and drink wine in a wine bar decorated with taste or enjoy a dinner while watching the sunset. Also in the square of the cathedral is the Abbey Palace now converted into the Riznica Museum (for those who want to see icons and Dalmatian painting) and just opposite the Gabriellis Palace, home of the Museum of the City.

Another place to consider is what is supposed to be the house where Marco Polo was born. Little remains of that house, just the walls and a nice Gothic window next to a tower that has little inside but to enter it you have to pay. In the city there is also the Marco Polo Museum, a very popular place especially for families with children.

11. Dubrovnik

Take a morning flight from Zagreb to Dubrovnik. It'll take about 1.5 hours. The only other way to travel is by taking the bus and that will take over 10 hours (Zagreb to Split and then from Split to Dubrovnik). Dubrovnik with its cobbled streets and orange roofs facing a turquoise sea makes it one of the favorite destinations. Enjoy a local red wine in the shade of its walls or on a terrace.

Go see Old Town. If you happen to be a Game of Thrones fan, then this place will turn out extra special for you. After all, this is the place where scenes from the Capital i.e. Kings Landing were shot. During your tour of Old Town, you should visit the city walls, palaces, churches, monasteries ,squares and monuments. Also, spend some time at Old Port.

Kayak around the waters of Dubronvik. If you don't want to do that, take a morning stroll on the Banje Beach. Next, head to Lokrum Island via a fun ferry ride. Spend the rest of the day here. Do visit Fort Royal on the island.

Interesting Reads: 7 days in Dubrovnik Itinerary

Top Xinjiang Tourist Attractions

Among the largest autonomous regions in Northwest China, Xinjiang has a lot to offer in terms of tourism. There are some absolutely awesome must-have experiences in Xinjiang that first-time travelers simply must not miss! A major highlight of Xinjiang is its amazingly diverse landscape. There are lush grasslands, snowy mountains, dense forests, sparkling deserts, and majestic glaciers among other things.

Besides exploring these, tasting the delicious local food is also a must when touring Xinjiang. Any Xinjiang introduction, however elaborate, is simply not enough to describe the beauty of this gorgeous place! Keep reading for a clearer idea of what to expect when visiting this lesser-known but equally awesome travel destination in China.



Top Xinjiang Attractions Not to Miss

We highly recommend that you not make the mistake of taking an unplanned trip to Xinjiang on last minute flights. There are simply too many awesome attractions not to miss! Listed below are some of the best and must-have experiences in Xinjiang. Take a quick peek now!

1. Kanas Nature Reserve

Exploring this stunning landscape is among the best must-have experiences in Xinjiang. Popularly referred to as the Pearl of Northern Xinjiang, Kanas features spectacular lakes, grasslands, forests, rivers, and glaciers among other things. The color of the water here changes along with the seasons.

There are scores of scenic hiking trails for hiking enthusiasts to explore. Among the most Insta-worthy places in Xinjiang, it's an absolute paradise for nature lovers.

2. Bayanbulak Grassland

One of the largest grasslands in all of China, Bayanbulak is among the most scenic places on the Xinjiang map. A typical savanna, it's dotted with sheep and cattle and is blessed with abundant rainfall each year. This has resulted in the lush greenery and scores of water bodies in the region.

If you visit during June-September, you can look at migrating Swans who come to relax and breed here. Bayanbulak Grassland offers you endless opportunities to take awesome Xinjiang pictures to document your trip.

3. Taklamakan Desert

Ominously dubbed the Sea of Death, the Taklamakan Desert is among the most unique albeit stunning places to visit in Xinjiang. Among the largest shifting-sand deserts in the world, it can be traversed via the long stretch of highway across it. Taking this path is among the most exciting must-have experiences in Xinjiang. October-November is the ideal time to visit this golden desert as there are fewer sand storms during this time.

4. Heavenly Lake

Exploring Heavenly Lake and its surrounding region is among the best must-have experiences in Xinjiang for families traveling together. Located at an altitude of more than 6,000 feet, the lake is pleasantly cool to visit during the summer. It's surrounded by spruce clusters and the majestic snow-clad Bogda Peak. Also, this is considered a holy place because according to Chinese legend, a Goddess used to bathe here often.

5. Uyghur Market

This is not the standard shopping in a mall or a high-end boutique experience. Uyghur Markets are noisy, vibrant, and crowded places that offer you the chance to see what everyday life is like in the region. Found mostly in villages around the old town of Kashgar, these markets deal in camels, sheep, donkeys, and other local necessities among other things. Take a leisurely stroll and pick up a souvenir or two.

6. Kashgar Old Town

Xinjiang travel becomes a lot more interesting when you visit important historical places in the region. With hundreds of years of history, Kashgar Old Town is one such awesome historical places to explore. It is the ideal place to learn about Uyghur culture and traditions. You can see scores of structures built in the fabulous Uyghur as well as Islamic architectural styles.

Popular attractions to cover include the Abakh Khoja Tomb and the Id Kah Mosque among other things.

7. Xinjiang Delicacies

Among the topmost must-have experiences in Xinjiang is to try the mouthwatering local delicacies. This will be the highlight of Xinjiang travel especially for foodies visiting the region. Rice, pasta, beef, and mutton are indispensable to the local cuisine. Some of the most popular food items to try include grilled whole lamb, baked mutton kebabs, nang, and rice cooked with mutton along with raisins, onions, and carrots among other ingredients.

Best Time to Visit Xinjiang

Travelers unbothered by stark weather differences can book business class flights to Xinjiang for a visit any time of the year. However, the best time to visit Xinjiang is generally believed to be from August to October. This is autumn in Xinjiang and the weather is most pleasant during this time.

You can enjoy the must-have experiences in Xinjiang without any worries during this time. Don't forget to take your camera along and snap the best Xinjiang pictures ever!

How to Reach Xinjiang

You can book cheap flights to China's Urumqi International Airport to reach Xinjiang. It’s an important international airport in China and is well-connected with major places like Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Xian, and more via regular domestic flights. So, after you've enjoyed the amazing must-have experiences in Xinjiang, you can take off to other major travel destinations from Urumqi Airport.

Budget travelers can use trains or buses to travel from Xinjiang to other parts of China. So, come and enjoy your most exciting Xinjiang travel yet!

10 Best Things to Do in Mumbai, India

Mumbai is heaven for travel lovers as there is so much to explore and learn. In Mumbai, you will find beaches, trails, and rivers and so on. There is so much to see that you cannot possibly cover the entire city in one trip. But you can cover most of the place if you go according to the plan. And… there are numerous other places to visit.

However, there is one thing that Mumbai offers which can’t be matched by any top city of the world, probably. We can find the best street food in Mumbai with ethnic food and delicacies of almost every culture around the world. So, don’t forget to visit the various eateries around Mumbai.

In Mumbai, use Google maps to know the route distances and different modes to travel. If there is a train available do use it. Take a first class ticket and ride during non busy times (avoiding 7-9 am and 6-8 pm). If you are visiting Sewri, for getting the most out of your trip, it is important to reach before sunrise because the high tide comes in by 10 am.

There is a reason Bhigwan is called Bharatpur of Maharashtra. The fields around Bhigwan offer plenty of other grassland species like Pipits, Larks, Shrikes, Hoopoe etc. Set sail for Kala Ghoda for a variety of museums, then continue your way to one of India’s most beautiful landmarks, the Hanging Gardens on Malabar Hill — the perfect place for a selfie, so go ahead lovers! — and then you can also run behind the pigeons around the historic Gate of India.

Of course, you can’t skip the famous markets, with all the curiosities and jewelry of the Colaba market that stand out in particular. You can see traditional Hindi performances at the Prithvi Theater in Juhu. If you want to go to the beaches, just go and watch people, skip the swim.



But these are superb places, and a MUST VISIT if you are in Mumbai.

1. Gateway of India

We went to the Gateway of India, where there is a large square with all kinds of vendors. The Gateway of India was built in honor of the visit made by Jorge V and Maria von Teca to India in 1911.

In front are the most luxurious hotels, such as the Taj Mahal Hotel and luxury shops. Suddenly the monsoon caught us but as we wanted to see more, we did not return to the hotel, and we got ourselves wet. We wore a raincoat, but this does not work with such humidity. It is best to use an umbrella, which is what locals use. By the way, I like how men and women dress. Everyone is different and always looks elegant.

We continue walking through streets crowned by huge trees and great historical buildings of the colonial era. We can get an idea of ​​what Bombay might have been like at the beginning of the 20th century. When we did not know what to do, we went to the Regal cinema, the most important one in Bombay, to see a movie. First, there were announcements, legal warnings such as do not download music from the internet, buy the CD.

Suddenly, the spectators rise to their feet and sing the national anthem of India, while a 3D flag wave on the screen.

The film turn out to be a good one. It had everything from action, love, jealousy, music, luxury, parties, chases, and fights. That's why it lasted three hours! A few months later, I would listen to the soundtrack of this film on the radio. I was very excited, I wanted to run to the studio and give a hug to the nice blokes that work there.

After this film break, we went to have some beer at a bar where we had to pay 10 rupees for each song we wanted to listen to. Beer by beer, song by song we were playing the fool until the dream was with us. On the way to the hotel, we talked about what we had seen during the day. there is too much information in such a short time. When we turned off the light, I received an SMS from my father.

I had passed all the subjects of my college exam. That means that I finished the race. The message had taken me out of Mumbai, to transport me to my world, the one in which all the needs are covered and we were happy for things like finishing the race. Let's go back to more joyful matters.

The next day I got up to buy something for breakfast and a guy stopped me to tell me if I wanted to be Bollywood extra. Mmmm, of course! Of course, I pointed to my friends and that is another story altogether.

2. Haji Ali Dargah

After this, we paid a visit to Haji Ali Dargah. The Haji Ali Dargah is a popular religious site and also a popular tourist attraction.

3. Elephanta Island

We then head to Elephanta Island, which is half an hour by boat, and on the way back, we sat down to watch the sunset on Chowpatty beach at Mumbai.

On the way back, the main road had been closed in both directions and an impressive traffic jam had been set up. If the people here are already so fond of honking their horns, yes, at that time you could not hear anything other than horns. I asked a couple the reason for this chaos and they told me calmly, that a politician was coming to speak near those stands.

As my friends were tired we did not stay to see the meeting, but I would have liked it. I meet two other friends who immerse us in the nightlife of Bombay, next to the Gateway of India.

4. Mahakali Caves

These are in western suburb of Andheri, and as old as the Kanheri caves.

5. Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum

This one shouldn’t be missed purely for the exhibits in the museum. Situated in the Jijamata Udyan in Byculla, this is the oldest museum of Mumbai.

6. Marine Drive

Walking from the concrete jungle of Nariman Point (the business district of South Mumbai), along the promenade of Marine Drive, through to Chowpatty is a must especially in the evening. The Marine Drive is also called the Queen’s Necklace. See the Marine Drive in the west and Wankhede Stadium on the North side, and Churchgate and the Azad and Cross Maidan in the east. Absolutely breathtaking.

7. Hanging Gardens

Although we may find such manicured gardens around the world, these have a special reason for recommendations. These two gardens are perched on Malabar Hill, and split by a road. From these gardens, we get a fantastic view of the sunrise and sunset. Secondly, we get breathtaking view of Mumbai skyline and the lit up Marine Drive along with Chowpaty beach.

8. Global Vipassana Pagoda

Near Gorai Beach, Mumbai. For those who love peace and meditation, this is a must place to go to. We can see classic example of Burmese architecture and arts.

9. Shri Siddhi Vinayak Ganpati Mandir

One of the most important Temples in Mumbai. Mumbai’ites have great faith and belief in this Temple of Lord Ganesha. Visited by almost all celebrities where people walk bare foot for long distances for ‘Darshan’. Tuesdays are considered extremely pious and so there are huge queues.

10. Juhu Beach

One of the most majestic sights is the silvery waves which hit the Juhu beach after 3 am in the morning.

Mumbai has advanced a lot, so traveling here solo is not going to be a problem. Yes, as a solo traveler you need to be extra cautious about your safety like anywhere in the world. Otherwise, it is an adventurous land, having mysteries and sceneries that will give you a lifetime of memories and experiences.

6 Best Things to Do in Manila, Philippines

Manila, capital of the Philippines, is on the Luzon island in Manila Bay, in the South China Sea. Pasig River flows through the city. Metro Manila is the metropolitan area with the most population in the Philippines, placing in the tenth position in the world ranking.

Little bamboo cycles, a ruined fort, a hidden city, fields of grass and a bustling town centre - all of this makes Manila as beautiful as it is. The city of Manila is in the Philippines and has become a popular vacation spot. Many Asian cities have been called Paris of the East but none more so than Manila.

Also called the Pearl of the Orient because of the country’s collection of islands that resembled precious stones, Manila was the envy of neighboring Asian countries because of its European-inspired structures.



Whether it's because of its aesthetic locales, or for its buzzing nightlife, there are places you need to head out to. Read below to know more about the historic city of Manila and plan your trip to Philippines.

1. Intramuros

One of the tourist enclaves of the capital is Intramuros, a popular walled and restored area, which clearly combines this fusion of the classic and the modern. In its gastronomy it is remarkable the great variety of fruits and also the Filipino food. The street food of Philippines cuisine is a great mix of Spanish, Malay, Chinese, Japanese and American food so do not miss trying its culinary riches.

2. Makati

Within Metro Manila, Makati stands out. Manila is a huge city and you are likely to be a bit lost with the area to choose to sleep. In general, the best area to stay in Manila is Makati, which is a very safe neighborhood, comfortable to move around, with many restaurants and shops and some bars to get to know a little bit of Manileño nightlife and enjoy a San Miguel.

From Manila airport to Makati, the time required is (without traffic) about 20 minutes. From Makati you can visit Intramuros. So it is a comfortable area to spend a morning or an afternoon seeing the historical area and return to do some shopping, have a massage, have dinner and have a drink. Drink in the trendy area contemplating the city skyline. In addition, there is a huge offer of hostels, and hotels where you can stay in Manila without paying a lot, but also hotels with swimming pools with views to enjoy a soaking sunset.

3. SM Mall of Asia

The Malls in Manila are unmatched, far better than any western mall or even malls in other south East Asian countries. SM Supermalls have everything you would ever want to do for a half the price you'd expect to pay. They have cheap clothes, endless supplies of restaurants, movie theatres, arcades, grocery stores, internet gaming cafes etc all in one building. Manila has mastered the mall game.

4. Eating Out in Baclaran Market

Manila has a ton of really cool markets, each catering to whatever need you may have. Here in the Philippines, common food are quick, cheap, tasty and most importantly heavy on the stomach, perfect for who are always on the go and are on a tight budget. They are easy to find because they are sold mostly in streets. Since rice is a staple in most South East Asian countries, almost all food here is paired with a cup of rice.

Borrowed from the Chinese are all sorts of congee type of dishes called lugaw or goto. Its basically a gruel made of rice, meat (either chicken or beef tripe), hard-boiled egg, seasoned with a dash of lemon, and sprinkled with fried crunchy pork bits and saffron threads on top. A bowl costs about P200. Another variation of this is called mami which is like a ramen dish with beef brisket, and also costs the same amount.

Meat dimsums served with rice is a quick fix for all. The price range of Siomai with rice is around P40-P50. Hard boiled eggs coated in batter and then deep fried. Together with a vinegar dip with onions, chili and other citrus, you can get Tokneneng at around P10–20. The smaller ones made from quail eggs (called Kwek Kwek) are priced at P5.

Marinated meat in sticks and then grilled can be paired with rice, it varies from pork cubes, pork blood, chicken feet or chicken innards. Commonly sold at night time, Beef Pares consist of braised beef stew paired with garlic rice. Can be topped with chives, extra fried garlic and a dash of calamansi, the rice can also be swapped with a bowl of noodles. Priced at around P35–P40.

Banana Que has plantain Bananas fried and sprinkled with brown sugar and served on a skewer. Banana covered in spring roll wrappers coated with a little bit of sugar and then deep fried. Other variations of this would be sweet potatoes called Camote Que that is basically prepared the same way.

Crisp when newly cooked, special turons has an added jack fruit strips inside for an extra sweet fruity taste. Sold at P20 per piece. Almost the same with Turon but bananas are sprinkled with sugar, deep fried and then put on sticks. Perfect for sweet tooths and a quick energy boost. You can buy Bananacue for P15.

One of the front face of Filipino street food, for P5 you can have 10 pieces of Fishball/Squidball, complete with a sweet sauce or a sweet vinegar. Fishballs has filleted fish, formed into balls, seasoned and deep-fried and served with a tangy sauce on top. This has other seafood variations too, like squid or lobster.

For the non-carb conscious, they have a ton of sweet desserts made usually with glutinous rice and coconut, like the sweet snack called palitaw. Its made of milled glutinous rice, sugar and coconut milk, steamed, and served on banana leaves with a sprinkling of grated coconuts and sesame seeds on top.

The Philippines is known for its blending of East and West, but after looking at many of the dishes of the Philippines, you can see so many equivalents throughout Southeast Asia. Let’s start with a giant communal feast. The boodle fight. A way of eating involving banana leaves and an assortment of rice, fruits, lumpia, and other foods. Eating with hands is a must when partaking, as eating kamayan style is a traditional way to eat.

Much like the rest of Southeast Asia, rice is a part of every meal! The Philippines has numerous rice based dishes, such as sinangag which is fried rice with garlic. Other rice based dishes that usually include meat can include the various Silog in the Philippines. Pancit refers to the various noodle based dishes of the Philippines.

Banana leaf is a popular wrapping in the Philippines, and is seen in puso from Cebu, patupat in Ilocos, pastil in Mindanao, and suman. Galapong is an example of a slightly fermented rice cake in the Philippines. Coconut milk is used in many dishes in the Philippines, and is also present in the cuisines of many Southeast Asian nations.

Whole roasted pig is known as lechon in the Philippines. Calamansi is a popular citrus fruit in the Philippines. Curry based dishes even exist in the Philippines, with kare-kare as the most known curry dish from the country. Fermented fish paste is a popular dipping condiment in the Philippines, as Bagoong is often eaten alongside chilis or mangoes.

Chinese influence is present in the cuisine of the Philippines, with examples such as lumpia, pancit, siopao, butsi, taho, and hopia. Shaved ice desserts are very popular in Southeast Asia, with halo-halo as the most famous of these desserts from the Philippines. Dessert soups in the Philippines include things like ginataang bilo-bilo which uses coconut milk, sago, glutinous rice and tapioca.

Rice cakes are a popular dessert in the Philippines, and they all fall under the umbrella term kakanin, including puto, biko, sapin-sapin, kutsinta, puto bumbong, suman, bibingka, and palitaw.

5. Quezon Memorial

Just an hour away from the country’s now-capital city - Manila, Quezon City was the Philippines’ official capital until 1976. Before Manila was designated capital, Quezon had been capital of the Philippines from 1948 to 1976. Founded in the early 20th century, this busy city was founded by the 2nd President of the Philippines, Manuel L. Quezon.

The Quezon Memorial Circle is another must-see sight while in Quezon, very representative of the city’s past. This shrine was built when Quezon was still the capital of the Philippines and holds the remains of former president, Manuel L. Quezon, and First Lady Aurora Quezon.

As the most populous city in the Philippines, Quezon City is a highly urbanized city in the northeast of Manila. Filled with entertainment, shopping, art, business, and nightlife venues and ventures, Quezon City has become a major metropolitan area in the Philippines.

This bustling city offers a nice balance of city life, wildlife, and marine life all within easy reach. The city’s epicenter is Eastwood city, a residential and commercial complex filled with business facilities and entertainment establishments for shopping, dining and other types of recreation for families, professionals and urbanites alike.

Popular as a top-employer and leading dollar-earner complex in the Philippines, Eastwood City is growing and gaining distinction as a tourist destination.

Its commercial center Araneta City is a continuously flourishing hub of retail, entertainment, residential, hospitality, and office developments with over a million visitors daily. Additionally, the SM City North EDSA shopping complex is one of the Philippines’ largest commercial centers with hundreds of shops and entertainment options.

Whether you’re visiting Quezon business or leisure, the Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA is within walking distance from this shopping complex and it is an ideal accommodation option in Quezon City. The hotel’s prime location is also within walking distance of a metro rail station so you can wander the rest of the city sites, tour Manila and easily access the Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL).

For a break from the Quezon city life and transport to the tropical life only a few kilometres away, you can visit La Mesa Dam and Reservoir. Also known as La Mesa Eco Park, this protected watershed is thought to be the last remaining part of the rain forest in Metro Manila.

Here, you can find a koi pond full of colorful fish, a Butterfly Haven, an Orchidarium, an archery station, a swimming pool, a flower terrace, and even a spot for fishing.

6. Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center

At the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Quezon, you can also enjoy 22.7 hectares of zoological and botanical gardens in the middle of the city.

Quezon City is the site of several government offices, including the Quezon City Reception House - the current seat of the Vice President of the Philippines, and the Batasang Pambansa Complex - the seat of the House of Representatives and the lower chamber of the Filipino Congress.

Quezon City has also gained recognition for being home to two of the country’s most renowned national universities - University of the Philippines Diliman and Ateneo de Manila University - and for being the birthplace to some of the country’s major broadcasting networks. Television companies, such as ABS-CBN, RPN, GMA Network, PTV, and IBC, all have their headquarters in Quezon City.