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Travel

Cities To Visit In The Concrete Jungle Of New York

December 23, 2022

When we hear the words “New York”, we often think of it as automatically a place filled with highrise buildings, much like how we would immediately think of Manhattan. However, considering the bigger picture, Manhattan is just one tiny corner of the state, and there are lots and lots of other cities that you can explore. This makes New York a great place for exploration and just going with the flow. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious night out or want to go on a laid-back, historical trip, New York will undoubtedly have something to offer.

In this article, we will talk about some of the best cities to visit in New York City, such as Kingston, Buffalo, Albany, Syracuse, and Long Island. Oh, by the way, if you’re planning on visiting Long Island, which is one of the top-rated cities included on our list, check out our recommendations for cabin vacation rentals in Long Island, NY. With that said, let’s get going with our list.

Kingston

Kicking off this list of the best cities to visit in New York is the city of Kingston. Only a handful of people know this, but Kingston is actually New York’s original capital. With a population of around 35,000 people, this neatly tucked away area in Hudson Valley is among the country’s top art hotspots. Even downtown Kingston features some of the most unique architecture and street graffiti and is home to lots and lots of extremely skilled local artists. As regards attractions and activities to do here, you can take a cruise down the river, visit the Rondout National Historic District or spend a day at the Trolley Museum, the Hudson River Maritime Museum, as well as the Performing Arts Center.

Buffalo

Buffalo is the state’s second-biggest city, and it is situated near the edge of Lake Erie. This city is packed with lots of places to have great food, and it is also home to the very popular Buffalo wings. In most cases, Buffalo City only serves as a stopover point for those who are traveling to Niagra Falls. However, you don’t necessarily have to cut your stay short when you’re in the city. We encourage you to take your time and explore the city. Eat some wings, enjoy a couple of craft beers, visit art galleries, and appreciate the city’s amazing architecture and design. If you’re into sports, this place is also working on a very busy live sports schedule. You can join in with the locals for the iconic tailgate cooking at a game with the Buffalo Bulls, or you can watch the National Hockey League get dominated by the city’s Sabres team.

Albany

New York State’s capital, Albany, offers a much more laid-back alternative to guests and visitors. It’s one of those places where you would really want to spend your day if you don’t have much else to do. Walk around leafy parks, take boat rides down the Hudson, and chill out with a glass of craft beer in your hand. Although the city does not have as much vibe as Manhattan would, it certainly is still a great place to be.

Syracuse

This next place is often the subject of many jokes around weather or cold. This is because Syracuse, having over 120 inches of snow per year, is at the top of the list for cities in New York that catch this much snow. As such, activities out in the cold are aplenty here. You can go skiing, build snowmen, carve up snow angels, and play snowball dodgeball. Once the snow melts, you can go boating or kayaking on the lakes and waterways surrounding the city. Trails are also available if you want to go hiking or mountain biking.

Long Island

Long Island is the tenth-largest island in the entire United States. Home to the Hamptons, this place is a great summer vacation spot. Apart from the luxurious beach houses, there are also other places of interest, including but not limited to the Montauk Point Lighthouse, Long Island Aquarium, and Fire Island. If beaches are your thing, then this is undeniably the place to go.

 

Filed Under: Travel

Dirty and Moldy Luggage Ruining Your Travels? 5 Tips for Storing Suitcases

December 15, 2021

For many travelers, a suitcase is a big investment. Even if you are a “once a year traveler” type of person, you probably own at least one travel bag. So, how and where should you store your luggage to keep them working in the years to come?

Consider following these smart cleaning and maintenance tips:

1. Clean Before Storage

Your luggage can get easily dirty while you’re traveling. Though luggage are made of different materials, all types require cleaning. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, then clean each part one by one. Start on the handle, then go to the bottom, the interior, and the exterior parts (hard-shell suitcases and soft-shell suitcases).

Look for active ingredients like bleach, phenolics, and hydrogen peroxide to disinfect the handle. Liquid hand soap can do the job for the bottom since it’s not a touching point, even if it’s the dirtiest part of a bag. On the other hand, the interior should be the most germ-free since this is where you store your clothes, cosmetics, etc.

You may use a dust buster or vacuum to remove crumbs and physical dust, especially in tight areas. For minor stains, like cosmetic stains, spot clean the area with soap and water. Use a stain remover for deeper stains. Make sure to leave the remover for five minutes before cleaning it out with warm water. If there’s a strange odor, consider using closet odor removers.

2. Store Your Luggage in the Right Place

Choose a place in your home that is cool and dry. Areas with high humidity can cause moisture buildup, allowing mold growth. This can completely damage the integrity of your travel bag or turn its elegant exterior ugly. Luggage with fabric-exterior and suitcases with a plastic shell and fabric zippers can be easily destroyed by mold and mildew. If you’re storing your travel bags in your closet, here’s a step-by-step guide to preventing mold growth.

Also, avoid areas that receive direct sunlight since too much sun can fade your bag’s material over time. On top of these, choose a location without bugs and pests and sharp objects that could potentially fall and rip it.

Under your bed is one of the most convenient and accessible spots to store your suitcases. If it’s high enough, you can place one or two carry-on or duffel bags. Put them inside a large trash bag to keep it clean and dust-free.

If you have to store your travel bags in high-humid areas in your home, like the basement or attic, put them near a full-size electric dehumidifier. If you can, buy silica desiccant packets to draw ambient moisture out of the air. Keep them inside your suitcase to help keep humidity under control.

3. Never Smash Your Luggage in Storage

While suitcases are designed to withstand pressure when loaded, stacking empty bags under heavy objects can damage fabric, zippers, internal structures, etc.

4. Store Your Carry-On Inside a Suitcase

Though it’s pretty obvious, use your largest suitcases to house your carry-ons to save space. You may even have medium-sized bags that can hold your carry-ons, which you can tuck inside the oversized bags.

If you have duffel bags, beach bags, or weekend totes, gently fold and put them inside your smallest carry-on suitcase.

5. Position Your Luggage Correctly

Pay attention to the position of your luggage when storing them. If they have roller wheels on the bottom, make sure to tilt them into the side before keeping them in storage. This is especially useful if you loaded your suitcase with travel essentials or items, which can cause premature wear and tear.

If you have a garage or utility pantry with available space higher up, you can install a sturdy hook or peg to hang your luggage if they have handles at the top. However, be sure to keep your bags as light as possible if you decide to hang them since all the bag’s weight will be concentrated on one point.

Filed Under: Travel

Rustic Life: Country Home Essentials You Need for the Great Outdoors

September 10, 2020

As we approach the cold months, more people are retreating their countryside homes. Many people take a trip to the mountains and forests for a camping getaway. Many find appeal in living in the countryside due to the simplicity of life.

The population of rural American areas has been rising since 2018. While many young adults move out to the city, many people in their 30’s and 40’s were moving in. They come to enjoy a slower and community-based life.

Here are some country home essentials you need for a life in the countryside. Whether you’re moving to the country or planning to redecorate your home, here are some great tips for designing your interior.

Add Stone Elements

Stone is a great feature to add to your country house. Any natural material helps you achieve a rustic look for your country home. Quartz and granite are a popular choice among interior designers.

Consider covering a wall with stone or adding a stone flagstone in your kitchen. You can also use stones to construct a fireplace hearth in your living room. You can incorporate stones into almost anything, including your floors and walls.

A Modern Twist

Modern rustic is a new trend in interior design. Many people embrace the rustic charm with a touch of modern twists. Most modern rustic homes consist of an open floor plan and modern furniture.

For a modern rustic look, add modern details. Pair your rustic style home with shiny modern appliances. Mix and match your furniture with your kitchen appliances.

Consider pairing polished granite countertops with wooden cabinets. You can accent your wooden elements with stainless steel items. You can also replace your cowhides with simple and natural fabric materials.

Use Simple Silhouettes

Pair your rustic textures with furniture that has simple shapes. This can also help you achieve a modern rustic look. Minimalist furniture allows you to see and appreciate each element.

Many country homes feature loud textures on floors and walls. Using simple silhouettes helps you to balance this out and create a more cohesive design. Keep your furniture simple and clean.

Consider getting items with clean lines. This is similar to Nordic designs and works well with rustic homes. Focus on getting furniture made of natural materials.

Placement is important with simple silhouettes. Make your furniture the focal point of a room. Center your furniture in every room and frame everything else around it.

Play With Angles

Exposed wooden beams are popular elements of a country home. If you’re remodeling your home with wooden beams, play with angles. Use geometric shapes and architectural details.

You can also use this technique when redesigning your windows. Give your windows tall frames. This also helps in adding a modern flair to your country house.

Soften your hard wooden surfaces with round shapes. You can use round mirrors or circular chandeliers. You can also use this in other design elements of your home like paintings.

Use Muted Colors

Muted colors are a common feature of rustic style homes. Colors inspired by nature help you achieve the coziness of country homes. Chalky white walls and warm taupe cabinets are a popular sight in country homes.

You can also try modeling your homes in neutral gray tones to add a modern touch. Pair your muted palette with a dark coffee table. You can also consider using patterned pillows to add interest in the room.

If your house has a unique architecture, you can use muted colors to accentuate them. Soft and understated colors allow architectural elements to stand out. Muted palettes include muted blues, greens, and yellows.

Use Classic Furniture

Using classic furniture are great elements that can give your home a more rustic vibe. If you don’t like the modern rustic look, ditch the midcentury modern style furniture. Opt for classic and traditional styles with plush upholstery and round edges.

Pair classic furnishings with antique decor. Look for aged items in a flea market or antique store. Avoid getting anything that looks new and shiny.

Find country home-appropriate items to finish your house. These may include metal signages and other vintage furnishings. You can also decorate your walls with antique artwork.

Have a Porch Swing

No country home is complete without a porch swing. Many residents spend hot summer nights outside looking at the stars and catching fireflies. Porch swings are fun and classic addition to your country house.

An attractive porch swing can even add value to your home property. It’s a small and simple addition that can increase your property value if you ever need to sell it. You can buy one from your nearest home depot or build your own!

Use natural wood for your porch swing seating. Layer your swing with soft cushions and textures. If you don’t have enough room, you can opt for a rocking chair instead.

Gun Safe

Over 46% of Americans who live in rural areas own guns. 75% of them own more than one. Most gun owners in rural areas use their guns for hunting.

Many also use their guns to protect their properties. Countrysides are more vulnerable to predators like wolves and bears. Many residents use their guns to scare off predators threatening their livestock.

Gun safes are popular in rural areas. If you have your own gun safe, make sure to move it as safely as possible.

Get These Country Home Essentials to Enjoy The Great Outdoors!

Now you know some great tips for styling a country home. Dress your home with natural wooden elements. Stone and modern furniture can add more interest and help your home look more cohesive.

Prepare for life in the countryside starting with your new home. Use these great country home essentials when you finally move in.

Why stop here when we have more guides to help you get the most out of your outdoor adventure? We invite you to check out more of our content right here to get the guides you need.

Filed Under: Travel

Finding the Best Price for Domestic Flights

March 27, 2020

Air travel is a necessity for many people but can get extremely expensive. However, a few tips and tricks can help reduce the costs and keep your domestic business trips affordable — or let you keep more of your vacation budget for adventures at your destination.

Book Early

The number-one tip for finding the cheapest fares on any flight is to book seats as early as possible. For instance, as of this writing, a flight with American Airlines from Nashville, TN, to Norfolk, VA, departing on a Friday and returning the following Sunday costs $212 if booked within two weeks of the trip. However, scheduling the flight one month in advance reduces the fare to $162 — a $60 discount. Clearly, planning ahead pays off!

However, a cheaper fare is not the only benefit of booking early. Airlines frequently overbook flights to ensure that all seats are filled even if each flight has a few no-shows. If a flight is still overbooked at departure, or if, for example, flight crew unexpectedly need to ride along, and not enough fliers volunteer to give up their seats, some passengers may be bumped from the flight involuntarily. Bumping often occurs on a last-on, first-off basis, with the latest-booked seats most likely to be bumped. Hence, by scheduling early, you are more likely to keep your seat in the event of an overflow.

Avoid Busy Dates

The day of the week you choose to fly out can also influence the price of your ticket. Due to the popularity of weekend travel, Fridays and Sundays are the busiest, and therefore most expensive, days to fly; Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, however, tend to be cheaper. Let’s return to that weekend in Nashville. Again, a round trip from Norfolk to Nashville departing on a Friday and returning on a Sunday costs $212 with American Airlines, but rescheduling the departing flight to Thursday reduces the price to $178 — a reduction of more than 16 per cent.

Consider Discount Airlines

If your trip is for basic necessity, a discount airline may be for you. Discount airlines, as the name suggests, emphasize price and efficiency over luxurious amenities and include Jetblue, Southwest, and Allegiant. For example, a round trip from Norfolk to Nashville, departing Friday and returning Monday, scheduled well in advance, may cost $211 with American Airlines but $185 with Allegiant. However, discount airlines may also have limited dates, times, locations, and seating — another reason why booking early is the best bet.

Use a Travel Booking Site

While the above three factors are the most important for determining the price of a flight, other special circumstances can result in cheaper seats. Finding the best price for your flight can take lots of research, but travel booking websites can help do it for you. Sites like Travelocity, Orbitz, and Expedia aggregate information from airlines across the country and can help you find the cheapest flight for your chosen date and time, along with hotel reservations and resorts. These sites can give discounts for package deals (of a flight and hotel) that are less expensive than both would have been by themselves.

However, these large sites may not list smaller or discount airlines. If you already have a hotel deal (or aren’t booking a hotel at all) and just want help finding the cheapest flight, CheapFareMart may be more helpful. CheapFareMart is a travel-booking site that specializes in getting you the lowest price for your flight. Click here for more information about CheapFareMart, and check out their website to browse all sorts of deals on domestic and international air travel.

Filed Under: Travel

3 of the Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

February 13, 2020

Traveling the world is one of the most satisfying and pleasurable things one can do. It’s an amazing opportunity to expand your horizons, experience different cultures, and even better your own health.

When it comes to traveling, there are few better places to visit than in Southeast Asia. There are so many different and equally amazing places and cultures to spend your time in the region.

If you’re unsure of where to start your travels, continue reading on. We’ll walk you through some of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia so that you can ensure your trip will be one to remember.

1. Sapa

Visting Vietnam should be at the top of your list when it comes to traveling to the southeast Asian region. As far as Vietnamese stops go, you could do much worse than the quiet town of Sapa.

Sapa is built at the base of surrounding mountains, making it a must-stop location if you want to do some hiking and exploring in this part of the region. The nature around the town is quite stunning and is really the central attraction, though the town itself boasts many pleasures as well.

You can gather at the town market for a wonderful selection of souvenirs from local tribes. There are also many beautiful French colonial sites that can be pleasant to walk through and enjoy during your stay.

2. Phuket

If you can get your giggling about the name out of the way, you’ll have an amazing time in Phuket, one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations. This is the largest island in all of Thailand, and locals have used that space to host a wealth of resorts, shops, hotels, and vibrant nightlife options.

You can spend your afternoon on the beach or pick out a few attraction tickets and explore the local scene. Even on the beach itself there’s a lot to do, from massage tents to breathtaking cliff-based hikes.

There are truly few cities in Southeast Asia as tourism-friendly as Phuket. It should be near the top of your list to visit.

3. Komodo National Park

If you’re a fan of big lizards, you might have already heard about this archipelago located near the island of Flores. There are thousands of giant Komodo dragon lizards located in this area and the only place in the world where they are found.

Visiting the island is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature and wildlife lovers. Getting to see these lizards up close and in the flesh can be thrilling. However, precaution should be taken.

You should go with an experienced guide because while instances of attacks on humans are rare, they have happened.

Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

The above are just three of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia. There are so many different cities and towns to pop into, but the above stops truly are a head above the rest. So what are you waiting for?

If you need more travel advice, tips, or tricks, just check out our blog for more.

Filed Under: Travel

Cost of Living in Peru: Why Moving to Peru is a Great Idea

December 31, 2019

Is it your dream to live in Peru?

With its low cost of living, beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and friendly people, it’s no wonder that you have a desire to live in Peru.

In fact, the idea to live in Peru as an expat is nothing new. Currently, about 100,000 foreigners live in Peru.

But, what exactly is the cost of living in Peru? And, why is living in Peru so great for foreigners?

Check out this guide to learn everything you need to know about living in Peru.

Cost of Living in Peru

If you’re thinking about moving to Peru, the biggest thing you’re probably wondering about is the cost of living.

If you’re coming from the US or any other developed nation, there’s no doubt that living in Peru will be much cheaper for you.

To make things simple, we’re going to talk about the cost of living in Peru vs the United States. According to Numbeo, consumer prices Peru are 46.09 percent lower than they are in the United States.

Rent prices in Peru are 67.99 percent lower than they are in the United States. Restaurant prices are 64.34 percent lower in Peru. Grocery prices are 50.03 percent lower in Peru. And, consumer prices including rent is 53.61 percent lower in Peru than it is in the US.

Let’s look at some examples to further highlight the cost of living in Peru compared to the US:

  • An inexpensive meal for two will cost you about $15 in the US, it’ll only cost you about $3 in Peru
  • In the US, a one-hour taxi ride will cost you about $28.00, whereas it’ll cost you about $6.00 in Peru
  • Utilities for a 915 square foot apartment will cost you about $151 in the US, and just $61 in Peru
  • Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a major city center in the US will cost approximately $1300, whereas it’ll cost you about $395 in Peru
  • Living outside the city center, you’ll pay approximately $1003 in the US for a one-bedroom, whereas in Peru you’ll only pay $255 (you can visit this site to find somewhere to rent or buy)

As you can see, it’s much cheaper to live in Peru than it is in the US. However, keep in mind that wages are also much lower in Peru.

In fact, the average monthly wage in Peru is around 1830 sols, or $550 USD. So, if you plan to work there (as an English teacher or other) you’ll need to factor in the local wages when figuring out your monthly budget.

Benefits of Living in Peru

So, we’ve definitely determined that you can save huge amounts of money by living in Peru instead of the US.

However, does the money you save make the move worth it?

Let’s take a look at the top benefits of living in Peru so you can decide for yourself:

Simple Visa Process

One of the biggest reasons that ex-pats are drawn to Peru is because of the simple visa process.

If you’re moving there to retire, you simply need to prove that you have a monthly income of $1000 (this can include social security) and a clean criminal record.

After living in the country for three years, you can apply for naturalization.

If you’re moving there to work or to study, the work and student visas are also very straightforward.

Best of all, if you’d like to test out living in Peru before making it your permanent home, you can travel there as a tourist for 6 months (183 days, to be exact) without a visa. This gives you plenty of time to get the lay of the land and figure out what city you want to live in.

The Weather

Another great thing about moving to Peru is the weather.

In Peru, there are three distinct regions with their own unique weather patterns.

The coastal region is mostly desert with a dry and hot climate. Inland, you’ll find the Andes and the highlands, and the weather is marked by a dry season and a wet season.

On the eastern border of Peru, you’ll find the jungle, which is marked by humid temperatures and rainfall year-round.

Basically, there’s something to suit everyone’s needs in Peru. And, the great thing is that the weather in Peru never seems to get too hot or too cold.

Rich Culture and History

Peru has a fascinating culture and history, and you simply won’t be able to fully appreciate it during a two-week vacation.

As you may already know, Peru is home to many ancient Incan sites (with Macchu Picchu being the most famous).

Plus, with the early influence of Spaniards and Incans and the later influence of West Africans and Asian immigrants, Peru has a rich cultural tapestry.

This cultural tapestry is definitely reflected in the country’s food, as here you can find everything from traditional Peruvian dishes to restaurants that serve Peruvian–Asian fusion.

The People

Of course, nice weather and great food don’t mean anything if the people are cold and hostile.

Luckily, Peruvians are extremely generous and friendly. In fact, they’re sometimes said to be the nicest people in the world.

And, in addition to the locals being incredibly friendly, there’s also a large ex-pat community that exists in Peru, particularly in larger cities like Lima and Cusco.

In Lima, the districts of Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro attract a wide ex-pat community, as does the coastal city of Mancora.

Are You Ready to Move to Peru?

Now that you know about the cost of living in Peru and all the great reasons to move there, it’s time to pack your bags and head out!

Remember, you can always test the waters by living there for 6 months before you take the plunge to live there permanently.

Also, if you liked this post, be sure to check back in with our blog for more info on what it’s like to live in other countries.

Filed Under: Travel

How to Enjoy a Quiet Vacation in Los Angeles

November 12, 2019

When most people think of Los Angeles, they imagine a glamorous city that is filled with movie stars, parties, and clubs. Imagine a bustling town that offers something to do all day and night. When you are hoping for a serene and relaxing vacation, this is typically not the place that is on your top pick list. But perhaps it should be.

Los Angeles is a big city and has many hidden and secluded areas that might be just perfect for a quiet getaway. And, there are lots of things to do if you feel the need to party. It’s no wonder that many people who vacation there want to stay there. Just check out some of these houses for sale in Los Angeles, and it’s easy to see why!

Visit Mt. Washington

There is a secret garden that even many natives don’t know about. This garden is maintained by SRF International Headquarters and is located on Mt. Washington. This is the ultimate area to sit quietly, reflect, and even practice meditation. There are beautiful paths that lead through the gardens and designated sitting areas so you can immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings.

Griffith Park

There is another beautiful garden for nature lovers located right in Griffith Park. This garden has been around since the early 1970s and was used as a rest stop for thru-hikers. The garden is entirely maintained by volunteers and is the perfect place to find some solitude. The garden spans 5 acres and is conveniently located on hiking trails. Pack a lunch and enjoy the views.

Japanese Garden

If you want the best of both worlds and crave city life, but want some relaxation, consider staying at the DoubleTree Inn. It is located right in downtown Los Angeles, right in the heart of the city. You can walk to almost anything you could imagine and check out all the sites and tours.

When you are ready to relax for the evening, head up to the rooftop. From there, you will be treated to a recreated ancient Japanese garden. The garden features flowers, waterfalls and of course stone paths. It is a beautiful, relaxing way to spend your evenings unwinding.

Peace Awareness Labyrinth

If you are looking for a better way to clear your mind, check out the Peace Awareness Labyrinth. This was explicitly designed with meditation and self-reflection in mind. You can take your time strolling through the outdoor stone labyrinth, or visiting the meditation gardens.

There are some fantastic koi ponds that you will have to see to believe. There are also classes available if you need some more guidance in meditation practices.

 

Conclusion

Los Angeles is a big city with a diverse landscape. You can visit ten times and have a different experience and vibe on every trip. It’s a great trip to plan as it offers something for everyone. Many families vacation here every year and have a great time with their kids.

 

Filed Under: Travel

Top Reasons to Stay in an Apartment Hotel

April 28, 2019

 

Apartment hotels, also known as aparthotels, and serviced apartments are becoming popular choices when it comes to accommodation for those who are travelling or looking to stay in the area for a specific amount of time. They offer the comfort and space of apartments with the service and amenities of hotels. Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider staying in an apartment hotel on your next trip.

It’s cheaper than a hotel

Hotels have a maximum number of occupants per room. Every excess person will pay extra, or you will need to get another room if you reach the maximum number of allowed guests per room. There are also additional fees that you may incur, such as fees for room service. With an apartment hotel, you will pay for the unit itself and not the number of people that will stay there. There are also no extra charges.

It’s more spacious

Apartment hotels are like usual apartments that have bedrooms, living rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. Most hotel rooms have a bed and a bathroom. You can move more in an aparthotel, and you can also comfortably entertain guests.

It feels like a home away from home

Serviced apartments are homey, so you will feel at ease; as if it’s your own space. Since they come with a kitchen, as well as equipment that you will typically see in homes, you can cook your food, which is also a money saver. This is cheaper than eating out in restaurants every day. However, if you prefer to eat in a restaurant, some apartment hotels also offer this service.

There is no contract

Staying in an apartment has a contract, so this is more likely for those who will be staying for an extended period. Serviced apartments offer the flexibility of staying in a hotel. There are no contracts; that’s why you can stay there for as short or as long as you want. You can check out any time you wish without having to worry about a contract.

It offers a 24/7 concierge service

Unlike a regular apartment that doesn’t have a concierge service, apartment hotels have the feature of hotels that provide a 24/7 concierge service. If you need their assistance, you can get that anytime, which is handy and convenient.

It’s secure

Security is vital during your stay, and apartment hotels have security personnel available round the clock to ensure the safety of the premises. Serviced apartments are also equipped with security features, giving guests peace of mind.

It has an ideal location

Those that plan and manage apartment hotels like Native Property Management take everything into consideration, including the location. They are easily accessible, and within proximity of main roads and various establishments, so you can quickly reach them.

These are some of the top things that you will enjoy if staying in an apartment hotel. Search for one for your next trip, to feel like being home while away, and at the same time have the services that you can also get from hotels.

To read more on topics like this, check out the travel category.

Filed Under: Travel

Falling in Love with Cuba

March 2, 2019

Latin America is a spectacularly beautiful place. When it comes to Cuba though, the level of tourism is upped.. When it comes to Cuba though, the level of tourism is upped. You get the chance to visit historical structures that are spread throughout the country as well, as live the beautiful Havana lifestyle that you’ve heard of and seen all life long.

Just book a hotel in the center of Havana, visit and drench yourselves in the nightlife and engage in exploration through the days. While, not as extreme as some of the other places in Latin America, Cuba offers plenty of adventure sports for people who’re out looking for thrills too.

Here are some places that you need to visit, which will make you fall in love with the country.

1. Malecon, Havana

Malecon is where Havana comes out to play. A stretch of private businesses, beautiful buildings and everything you might need besides the sea, this remains a top attraction for tourists as well as locals. Treat yourself at a Cuban cafeteria with the local delicacies and have a Cuban cigar to enjoy the atmosphere. Of course, you can’t go to see the famous Malecon of Havana without engaging in some beautiful salsa dances at one of the local clubs which comes alive at night.
Remember to take a stroll by the Malecon at night since it offers one of the best views of the city that you can get.

2. Old Havana

Havana has seen much change over the years, and the Old Havana remains a testament to that sentiment. Filled to the brim with neoclassical churches and highly decorated centers, this area has earned to the title of a UNESCO heritage site.
Every part of this area exudes charm, with the architecture dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries and having a host of beautiful selections that you can enjoy. Remember to visit the different Plaza squares and have a taste of the local cuisine that’s readily available here.
If you want to know more about Havana, don’t forget to visit the link.

3. Santa Ifigenia Cemetery

Cuba was torn apart by revolutions, and Castro found his last resting place in this cemetery. One of the most prestigious areas in Cuba, this cemetery should be on your itinerary simply because of how important it is for the local people, and how its legacy still stands.
Take along a guide to know about the historical context of the graves, and pay your respects before you move back to your daily work.

4. Churches and Cathedrals

While Castro was quick to say that religion is against the revolution, no churches were burned down or destroyed. Over the years these 16th-century cathedrals and churches have become a part of the history of Cuba through religious and cultural turmoil. Check out the haunting churches and cathedrals and the beauty of these old structures that have withstood everything that came its a way.

5. El Yunque

The famous tabletop mountain is a hotspot for biodiversity in Cuba. If you plan to check out the various wildlife and vegetation along the way, this is the place you have to visit. As with anything tropical, remember to keep a bug spray handy and take along a guide to put you in the right direction. It’s highly recommended that you start early since, the road is almost 8 kilometers long, and can take quite a while if you’re not experienced.

Filed Under: Travel

5 Artsy Travel Destinations To Visit This Year

August 2, 2018

If visiting art galleries and purchasing art are among your favorite travel activities, simply continue reading to discover 5 artsy travel destinations which are well worth visiting.

5 Artsy travel destinations to visit this year:

1. Barcelona, Spain

If you’re a fan of cubist art or abstract art and would love to see some of Pablo Picasso’s artwork in person, it’s well planning a trip to Barcelona, as it is home to the Picasso Museum Barcelona. Where you’ll be able to browse the museum’s permanent collection which boasts 4,251 pieces as well as the museum’s temporary exhibits.

Whilst in Barcelona, it’s also worth visiting Park Guell, which was designed by the prominent architect Antonio Gaudi and features colorful mosaic buildings and seating. When you enter the Park Guell, make sure to spot the gatehouses which Gaudi based off the witch’s house in the much-loved children’s fairytale Hansel and Gretel.

2. Prague, the Czech Republic

If you’d love to be able to pick up a unique piece of art on your travels, your first stop in Prague should be the Charles Bridge, a picturesque historic bridge which hosts a daily market, where you’ll find dozens of artists at work creating one of a kind pieces of art. If you’re interested, you’ll even be able to purchase a painting of the Charles Bridge itself!

Whilst you’re in Prague, it’s also worth visiting Prague’s top-rated art museum the Museum Kampa, which specializes in showcasing art from talented central European artists.

3. Amsterdam, the Netherlands

The Netherlands is known for producing a few of the world’s most famous artists, three examples of which include Vincent Van Gogh, Johannes Vermeer, and Rembrandt. So it’s well worth visiting the Netherland’s capital city if you’re interested in viewing original pieces from Dutch artists such as Van Gogh, Vermeer, and Rembrandt.

If you’re keen on learning about the Netherland’s most famous artists it’s well worth visiting the Van Gogh Museum, the Hermitage Amsterdam, the Amsterdam Museum and the Rembrandt House Museum.

4. Berlin, Germany

Berlin is known for its striking street art, so if you’re a fan of non-conventional forms of art, it’s well worth taking a stroll through Berlin’s city streets! If you’re interested in viewing street art whilst learning about Berlin’s chequered past, it’s well worth taking an escorted tour of the remains of the Berlin Wall, which once separated East Berlin and West Berlin and is now covered in creative street art.

Berlin is also home to a multitude of art museums and galleries. Two examples of which are the KW Institute for Contemporary Art and the Berlinische Galerie, which is housed in a converted warehouse.

5. Tahiti

While you may be surprised to see Tahiti feature on a list of artsy travel destinations, most of the revered artist Paul Gaugin’s paintings were painted in Tahiti and depict Tahitian natives and beaches. So if you’d like to see the inspiration behind Paul Gaugin’s paintings, which hang in some of Europe’s most prestigious art museums, it’s definitely well worth visiting Tahiti.

So if you’re compiling a list of artsy travel destinations which you’d like to tick off your bucket list, it’s well worth adding all five of the destinations which are featured above, to your list.

Filed Under: Travel

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Hi and welcome! I’m Lenny, and this blog space is my Internet home. I write, I cook, and I design. I love to take pictures of all things food and home décor.

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About

Hi and welcome! I’m Lenny, and this blog space is my Internet home. I write, I cook, and I design. I love to take pictures of all things food and home décor.

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