Arriving at Changi Airport is a simply magnificent and truly exhilarating experience. Singapore Changi Airport or often known as Changi Airport is the major aviation hub in Southeast Asia. The airport staff are helpful and are proud to belong to this country. The airport welcomes you to this beautiful country, as you can see in the adjoining photo, even before you have stepped outside of this airport to a tiny country, which has enough green space.
Singapore Botanic Gardens is spread across 183 acres and has more than 150 years of history. It holds a distinctive and important place in Singapore’s history and the region.
The main attraction is the National Orchid Garden that has over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids of orchids.
Gushing waterfall inside the Botanical Gardens
A small tropical rainforest inside the Singapore Botanic gardens is around 6 hectares in size.
Dolphin Lagoon Singapore If you like nature and wildlife, then you must not miss the Dolphin Lagoon at Palawan Beach. You can see the pink dolphins or Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphins.
Pink Dolphins with their trainer. You can also swim with these dolphins.
Jurong Bird Park –
Jurong Park is a world-renowned zoo with magnificent bird life from around the globe. This zoo has a large flock of flamingos and over 5000 birds of 400 species.
A beautiful bird perched on the tree
Dazzling waterfalls inside the Jurong Bird Park
African Waterfall Aviary has 30 meters tall Jurong Falls. The aviary spans across 4.9 acres with over 50 different species
Lovely birds perched on the tree.
A Flock of Flamingos
Images of Singapore on Sentosa Island is a remarkable historical museum. It has a good amount of artefacts and statues which takes one through a live presentation on how Singapore was formed and reached its present day. It is engaging, entertaining and interactive. It has won the prestigious Thea Award in the year 2006 for the best reinvention of a cultural heritage centre.
When we say Australia, tall buildings and modern cities will pop in our heads. Those are some of the most picturesque places in Australia and they are also the reason why so many tourists are frequenting the said country. But not a lot of people know the fact that there are still beautiful and enchanting unspoiled places in Australia that they should head to.
If you wanna know more about those picturesque nature places, see the list below:
Adelaide Hills
(photo source: sexton)
If you like Germany then visit the Adelaide Hills in Australia. Adelaide Hills is located in the Southernmost part of the beautiful country of Australia and it is very appealing to the eyes. Go here and explore with your family and friends and take photos as well.
Daintree Rainforest
If you are looking for a more daring adventure the Daintree Rainforest is the place to be. It’s a safe place and you and your kids will surely enjoy so you don’t have to feel threatened by the fact that you are in a forest.
Cape Tribulation
photo source: wickedwalkabout
If you happen to be in Queensland, Australia then you better head on to Cape Tribulation. Cape Tribulation is a remote island in northeastern Australia and there are so many things that you can do here: bird-watching, snorkeling, swimming, jungle zip-lining and many more. This place is truly picture-worthy!
The Blue Mountains
photo source: daily telegraph
The Blue Mountains is probably one of the most famous attractions in Australia. The Blue Mountains is located in New South Wales and many people from all around the globe are frequenting this place because of its beautiful and dramatic scenery. Better head here and do your own mini-photoshoot!
Margaret River
photo source: thinkingaustralia
For all the wine lovers out there, this is the place for you. Margaret River is located in the southern part of Perth and this place is known for its wineries and craft breweries. If you go here, you will truly enjoy not just the view but the experience with your family and friends. This place should really be a part of your bucket list.
Bay of Fires
photo source: gift by sea
If you are in Tasmania, the Bay of Fires is probably one of the places that you should put in your itinerary. The Bay of Fires is over 50 kilometers from Binalong Bay and it is considered as one of the most popular conservation reserves so if that’s your cup of tea, you better pack your bags and head to the Bay of Fires!
Author Bio: Mark is a daytime writer for Zapals, an internationally renowned global shopping website that offers extensive range of high quality products at the lowest prices for customers. Mark also helps consumers about the information they should know regarding new gadgets.
While traveling abroad could be fun and exciting, there are times when you will get exhausted too. During those times, you try to force yourself to go and try different extreme activities just so you can fulfill what’s written in your itinerary. You have to understand that there is no rush and that there are other alternative places to go to relax and reflect on life. Having a retreat is one of the best things you could ever do when you are in a different country.
If you are visiting Thailand, you have a handful of places to have a fun retreat as they also practice it with yoga, temple worship, and many more. See the list below to know more:
Try Yoga In The City
Yoga is widely practiced in Thailand and if you want to relax and have a soothing kind of retreat, you should try yoga. Yoga is a group of physical, mental, and spiritual practices and discipline. There are a lot of Yoga places to try in Thailand. Here are some of the best ones: Blooming Lotus Yoga, Samahita Retreat, Yoga Elements, Shambala Yoga, Absolute Yoga, The Yogarden, The Yoga Tree, Throughout Northern Thailand, and many more.
If you want to walk around and reflect on life at the same time, go to the city and visit the temples. The temples in Thailand are very picturesque but be sensitive as well because you do not want to disrespect other people’s culture right? Here are the temples that you should go to Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Suthat, Wat Benchamabofit, Wat Rong Khun, Wat Saket, Wat Mahathat, Wat Ched Yot, and many more.
Do Muay Thai
Muay Thai as a form of retreat may sound odd to some people but others will surely be able to relate. Some people find comfort and time to think when they’re doing sports and since muay Thai is the number one sport in Thailand, it is a must-try. Here are the best places to try muay Thai: Lanna Muay Thai, Sitmonchai Gym, Kem Muaythai Gym, Attachai Muay Thai Gym, Santai Gym, Sitjaopho, Hongthong Gym and many more.
Eat Streetfood
Thailand is known for having lots of street food stalls in key cities like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai. Eating has been proven to make people more relaxed and happy and it’s the kind of retreat that you will not take for granted. If you are eager to try out their local food, book those flights now. Here are the best dishes that you should try: Tom Yung Goong, Som Tum, Tom Kha Kai, Gaeng Daeng, Pad Thai, Khao Pad, Pad Krapoow Moo Saap, and many more.
Go To Beaches
Beaches in Thailand are very peaceful and you will be able to have time to think and reflect on your life. The idea of sitting by the beach and exciting so if you go to Thailand, make sure you put these places on your itinerary: Ko Tao, Ko Samet, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Samui, Ao Nang, Ko Yao Yai, and many more.
Having a fun retreat does not have to be boring. You can still do it while travelling in your favourite place just like Thailand!
Mark Aldrin Hipolito is a writer for Kims, one of Australia’s perfect beach retreat places that offers a cluster of deluxe timber bungalows and spa villas on the beach. Mark also gives out guides and tips for people regarding on how the can enjoy their vacation and trips around the world.
Croatia Is A Stunning European Destination You Can Visit For The Price Of An Asian Country
Croatia is a stunning eastern-European country, which has been around for only 25 years. Yes! A young country, thriving on tourism, Croatia needs to be on your bucket list.
On one side it is bordered by a long coastline, and on the other, it is dotted by the Dinaric Alps! Historic cities, picturesque coastal towns, unspoiled nature, and pristine beaches are some of the attractions that have put Croatia on the tourism map. The vibrant inland city of Zagreb has the country’s best museums, galleries, and bucket-list-worthy restaurants. And the coastal city of Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most glamorous city, which is centered around an old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With approximately 1,200 islands, azure waters, and picturesque villages rich in history, Croatia is a country that you just can’t miss. If you imagine your vacations to be spent sipping cocktails on the beach and enjoying the waves of the sea, Croatia is the place for you. If you want to marvel at European architecture and get lost in old historical cities, Croatia is the place for you. If you wanna just soak in the thriving culture and taste exquisite cuisines, Croatia is a must-visit. And if you want to walk the lanes where Game of Thrones was shot, well, Croatia it is for you.
>> How to reach
From New Delhi you can fly to Zagreb, the capital or Dubrovnik.
New Delhi to Zagreb – You may check exact prices here
>>> Visa
Croatia is not part of the Schengen countries and therefore you can’t visit it on a regular single entry Schengen visa. However, if you have a multiple-entry Schengen visa, you can visit the country. You can apply for a visa to Croatia from VFS Global here.
The following is an itinerary to follow for your 9 day duration in Croatia
DAY 1
Zagreb
Croatia’s capital is an underrated destination waiting to be explored. It is not as popular as Dubrovnik or Split, but is a quintessential metropolitan city combining elegant 19th century buildings with plenty of cultural divisions and a vibrant cafe life. It is a great place to discover charming boutiques selling unique dresses, shopping for souvenirs, and tasting local delicacies. It is also a good place to visit undulating hills and charming villages nearby.
Zagreb skyline Image credit – Ivan Antolic
What to see
1. Start you day at the main city square and check out the Ban Josip Jelačić Statue and fountain.
2. Visit the Antiques and Flea Market on the Britanac Square and pick up cheap vintage accessories, books, clothes or pottery.
3. Visit the Museum of Illusions and the Museum of Broken Relationships, both unique and original museums that will test your perceptions about things.
4. Take the Funicular Railway to the Upper Town, and visit the Lotrscak Tower, where everyday at noon a cannon is fired to commemorate Zagreb’s victory over the Turks.
5. While still at the Upper Town, visit the Dolac Market, the best place to buy fresh fruits, local flowers and souvenirs.
6. For a fun night, visit Lemon Bar, in the centre of town or Katran, a club which has four dance floors.
Some tips
1. Use public transportation, it’s cheap and efficient. If you are stuck somewhere and don’t know how to go about using public transport, there is Uber and Cammeo Taxi that you can use.
2. Euro is not widely accepted in Croatia, so get it converted before you venture out.
Credits- Kristina
Costs Per Day
Local Transport (Bus & Metro): Rs. 476 (47 Croatian Kuna)
Taxi Starting Tariff: Rs. 60/km
Hotel Stay: Average price for a night per person is Rs. 3000 (300 Croatian Kuna)
A Meal: A lunch or dinner without alcohol will cost you around Rs. 1000 (95 Croatian Kuna), and with alcohol around Rs. 1500 (150 Croatian Kuna).
DAY 2
Plitvice Lakes National Park
On day 2, you can either drive down to Plitvice National Park or take a public bus (one way ticket will cost around 9-10 Euros).
Credits- Good Free photos
The collection of lakes and waterfalls in Croatia’s most popular national park are a marvel to see. The 16 crystalline lakes that fall into each other via a series of waterfalls is a sight that draws many visitors every year. You can either see this park on your way to Dubrovnik, if you are driving down, or can go visit it as a full day tour from Zagreb. It takes a minimum of four hours to fully see and experience this beautiful place.
Image credits Dormidon
On the morning of day 3, you can either take a short flight, about an hour-long, to Dubrovnik (one way will cost you around 75 Euros) or take a bus, that will take around nine hours, to Dubrovnik (one way will cost you around 30 Euros).
Day 3 to Day 7
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a unique and bewitching coastal town that has become the crowning glory of Croatia in recent years. The city is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also the place where parts of super popular TV show Game Of Thrones are shot. However, it’s not just a famous shooting location; Dubrovnik has much more to offer. It is a glittering jewel in the Adriatic Sea bordering Croatia and it holds the power to leave you asking for more. The city’s white limestone streets, buildings from the Baroque era and the shimmering Adriatic Sea will leave you mesmerised.
One can spend a week, a month or even a year here and not get tired of this city, but for those who are on a tight budget, dedicate at least three days to see this city.
What to see
1. Walk along the Old City, Dubrovnik’s best feature. It is the perfect place for a casual stroll to enjoy excellent views over the Adriatic Sea and the Old City centre.
2. Walk on Stradun Street, the most famous street within the Old City. It is lined with shopping stalls and cafes on both sides and a great place to grab a cup of coffee and just relax.
3. Don’t miss out on Walking The Walls, a great architectural site in the city, and also the place where Game Of Thrones is shot.
4. Take a cable car ride to Srđ Hill for the most amazing aerial views of the city.
5. Visit Fort Lovrijenac, dubbed as ‘Croatia’s Gibraltar’, and Croatia’s most prominent fortress.
6. Visit the beautiful Dominican and Franciscan monasteries.
7. Spend a day visiting the Elaphite Islands surrounding Dubrovnik.
8. Take a Game Of Thrones tour and visit all the spots where the show is shot.
credit Dennis Jarvis
Some tips
1. Prices around Old Town are really high, so try and negotiate and go in a large group rather than alone.
2. Public transport in Dubrovnik is also cheap and efficient.
3. You can reach the top of Srđ Hill by taxi as well if the line to the cable car is too long.
credit Jennifer Boyer
Costs Per Day
Local Transport (Bus & Metro): Rs. 500 (50 Croatian Kuna)
Taxi Starting Tariff: Rs. 60/km
Hotel Stay: Average price for a night per person is Rs. 4500 (450 Croatian Kuna)
A Meal: A lunch or dinner without alcohol will cost you around Rs. 1500 (150 Croatian Kuna), and with alcohol around Rs. 3000 (300 Croatian Kuna).
On the morning of day 7, leave for Split. The best and easiest way to reach Split is by bus. It will take around five hours by road and cost around 22 Euros one way.
Day 8 and 9
Split
The remains of Diocletian’s Palace in Split is the heart of the city. A main getaway to the south Dalmatian islands, Split in itself is a city that you must stop and explore. Always buzzing, always alive, this city is a perfect example of a seamless blend of old and new; and this blend is clearly shown by bars, restaurants and shop hidden in between ancient columns, temples, walls.
What to see
1. Start your day by visiting Diocletian’s Palace, the ancient Roman ruin that was built-in 305 AD.
2. Cathedral of St. Domnius is recognised as the oldest cathedral in Croatia and one of the most well-preserved Roman buildings in Split. Visit this cathedral and then climb the bell tower for the most beautiful panoramic view of the city.
3. Visit the Riva Waterfront and promenade for some relaxing time and to pick up souvenirs. This is the place to try delicious ice creams and enjoy a hot cup of coffee while staring at jewelled waters.
4. Climb up the Marjan Hill for some amazing views of surrounding islands on one side and imposing mountains on the other.
5. After that tiring climb up and down the hill, relax at Bačvice Beach and spend the evening enjoying the sunset.
6. For a fun night out, check out Ghetto Bar, famous for its delicious cocktails or just chill at the Bačvice Beach shacks with a pint of beer or two.
Some tips
1. Almost every bar and coffee-house has free wi-fi. The passwords are generally written on the receipts, but if you don’t get one, ask the waiter and he/she will happily provide you with one.
2. Public transport is almost non-existent, but the cabs here are cheaper compared to the rest of the country, Uber being the cheapest option.
credit Maria Michelle
Costs Per Day
Local Transport (Buses): Rs. 1000 (90 Croatian Kuna)
Taxi Starting Tariff: Rs. 60/km
Hotel Stay: Average price for a night per person is Rs. 4000 (400 Croatian Kuna)
A Meal: A lunch or dinner without alcohol will cost you around Rs. 1400 (140 Croatian Kuna), and with alcohol around Rs. 3000 (300 Croatian Kuna).
For travelers seeking an active holiday visit the islands and national parks of Croatia for exhilarating outdoor experiences.
