Best Places of Interest - Page 76 of 183

February 21, 2018 Travel, Round the world

4 Kinds Of Short-Term Australian Visas For Tourists

Flying to a foreign land is a rewarding activity each one of us wants to experience. We’d love to see new sights, delve into a different culture, learn a different language, taste different cuisines, and for some, earn foreign currency of a greater value. But before you dream about these fun things, there are a lot of not-so-fun things you have to go through – including your daunting visa application.

One remarkable country to visit is Australia. The country welcomes immigrants with open arms, and this multicultural environment is apparent wherever you go. If you are planning to visit Australia for various reasons an Australian visa is the first thing that you should be working on.

If you just want to travel as a tourist and have no plans to study, work, or live in Australia for a long time, getting a tourist visa is perfect for you. There are several subcategories within the tourist visa, which would depend on your nationality and the duration of your stay.

Electronic Travel Authority visa (subclass 601)

ETA is requested by people who wish to enter and leave the country within a period of 12 months to see relatives, do business, study for no more than three months, or simply explore tourist destinations. With the ETA, you can visit as many times as you want, for up to a year, and stay in the country for up to three months for each visit. You just have to be a passport holder from a certain country.

As its name suggests, ETAs are electronic, which means there’s no stamp or label attached to a passport. The airline staff may confirm electronically if a passenger is eligible for boarding a flight to Australia. You can apply through many travel agents in a number of eligible countries worldwide, including European countries like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and the UK.

Cost: There’s an AUD20 service charge for this visa.

eVisitor (subclass 651)

The requirements and features of eVisitor are similar to ETA. This visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to three months at a time within a 12-month period. Under certain circumstances. you may also study in Australia for up to three months. Likewise, this type of visa can only be requested by citizens of specific countries.

The main difference is where you apply and how much they cost. With eVisitor, you can apply online for free for at least two weeks before traveling.

Cost: There’s no application cost for this visa

Visitor visa (subclass 600)

A visitor visa allows you to stay in Australia for a tour, family visit, and business purposes. You may stay for up to three, six, or 12 months. Citizens of countries that do not hold an eVisitor-eligible passport will have to apply for a Visitor visa, which is not free and cannot be processed online.

Cost: The base application charge for this ranges from AUD140 to AUD1020.

Transit visa (subclass 771)

A transit visa allows you and your dependent children to transit through Australia for no longer than 72 hours. It is acquired if you need to pass through Australia in order to reach another country or join a ship as a member of the crew. You must only hold either a booking or relevant documentation to access another country or hold a subclass 988 visa and some relevant crew documents.

Cost: There’s no application cost for this visa

Be aware of migration fraud and scams, claiming that you can travel while earning using only your visitor visa. Remember that you can NOT work in Australia holding any of these visas. You have to apply for visas with work rights.

Carmina Natividad is a resident writer for Four Points Immigration, a team of registered migration agents, assisting individuals and employers with their successful Australian visa application. Writing a wide variety of interesting and informative articles about immigration and travel is her cup of tea.

February 19, 2018 Round the world, Travel

Five Must-See Unspoiled Places In Melbourne

In the Australian state of Victoria, Melbourne is considered as a state capital. It is also the most populous in Victoria and the second-most populous in the country of Australia and Oceania. Melbourne is filled with great sceneries, wonderful and tall buildings and they also offer different kinds of food for the tourists. The people in Melbourne are also hospitable and nice. Melbourne is becoming one of the top places to visit in the world because of all the activities that can be done. Visiting Melbourne, Australia is not really that expensive. You just have to be mindful of your expenses so that you will be able to spend on the things that you really need.

There are a lot must-see unspoiled places in the city of Melbourne

To know more, continue reading:

Queen Victoria Market

Victoria Market, Melbourne Australia — photo source: queen victoria market

Queen Victoria Market may be already famous to some and it is even considered as a major landmark in Melbourne but it’s still not as frequent as the markets that can be found in Sydney. If you love shopping in the market then this is the place that you should visit because there are a lot of authentic Australian food and things that you can buy. Treat yourself and put the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere in your itinerary and you will surely not regret it.

Warrook Cattle Farm

Warrook Cattle Farm is one of the best farms in Melbourne, Australia. It is underrated but throughout the years, it’s starting to become more known to tourists because of word of mouth through social media. If you love animals then Warrook Cattle Farm should be part of your list. This is really a great place because you can spend time with animals! The place is also open 7 days a week.

Peninsula Hot Springs

Peninsula Hot Springs is considered as the very first natural hot spring in Melbourne. This place is around 1.5 away from the city of Melbourne so if you’re planning to have a relaxing time, better visit Peninsula Hot Springs. There are also other great relaxing places outside of Melbourne like Kims that offers romantic getaways in Sydney.

Harbour Town

Sea Pines Resort, Melbourne, Australia — (photo source: sea pines resort)

Harbour Town Melbourne is a place where you can relax and still have a feel of the city. There are stores, restaurants and different outlets that you will surely enjoy. It’s definitely a mix of everything you need. The place also offers a mix of fashion, housewares, pieces of jewelry, sportswear, general merchandise and many more. The Harbour Town is open from Mondays to Sundays so better put this on your itinerary as well. It will surely be worth it!

Melbourne Aquarium

Do you love the sea? Do you want to visit a place where you can feel like you are under the sea? If the answer is yes then you should definitely visit the Melbourne Aquarium. Come up close to see the amazing water creatures like turtles, sea snakes, baby sharks and many more. Explore a world unlike any other and visit Melbourne Aquarium!

You may like to read Six hippie hotels in Melbourne

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 they can enjoy their vacation and trips around the world.

February 15, 2018 Adventure

Staying Safe On Your Next Cross Country Road Trip

Are you planning a road trip with friends or family?

If so, getting there is half the fun. While you may have the itinerary all planned out for where you’ll be stopping at and what you’ll be doing once you’ve reached your destination, what about safety? Trip safety while you’re driving and arriving at each location is vital to having a successful vacation.

Cross country trip in America — America Car Map Road Trip Atlas United States
Image credit- Max Pixel

If you’re planning on venturing off the main trail a little bit, you’ll also have to be prepared for that. Here are a few things to plan ahead in regards to your overall safety while you venture away.

Having The Right Auto Insurance

Getting behind the wheel is a lot of responsibility. Not only are you in control of how you handle your vehicle and keep your passengers safe, but you are responsible for the safety of others on the road. No one can predict when an accident will happen, or maybe you’ve had a few legal problems in regards to your driving in the past. This can make it harder for you to obtain auto insurance.

Be sure to stay legal. Seek out a reputable SR22 insurance carrier. They specialize in helping people who are high risk, who maybe had a DUI or several traffic violations in the past. This will allow you to stay legal as you cross state lines and hit the open road. It also makes sure that you are properly covered should you get pulled over or the inevitable happens and you have a car accident.

Check The Weather Thoroughly

Check weather before going on cross country trip — Nature Sky Clouds Dramatic Sunset Panorama
Image credit-Max Pixel

Before hitting the road, consider what the weather conditions will be like along the way. Just because the weather is perfect when you embark on your trip, doesn’t mean it will be good as you continue driving. Driving through mountains or low-lying areas can make it more susceptible to face foggy conditions, which will limit your visual ability and depth perception.

Use a weather app to check the weather where you’ll be traveling through. This will allow you to adjust your trip accordingly and promote a safer, more effective driving experience. Also, check for traffic backups. This can be done through the U.S. Department of Transportation website in the state that you’ll be going through. From there, you’ll be able to see pre-planned construction work going on as well as any detours that you are recommended to take. This can save you time and gas money in advance.

Tell Someone Where You’re Going

Whether you are staying on the main road or highway throughout your trip, you should still let someone not going with you know where you’re heading to. Because cell phone coverage can be impaired in certain areas, especially while driving, it’s important that someone knows where to look for you and your party, should you not arrive when you’re supposed to. If you’re planning a backcountry hiking or camping trip, you should definitely let someone know exactly where you’ll be heading. This is because severe weather conditions can negatively impact your activities, and even put you in danger. Letting a park ranger know your information and also telling someone back at home is very important for optimal safety.

Pack Some Safety Gear

Making sure you have your clothes, toiletries and other essential is something at the top of your to-do list before you leave on your trip. While these things are important, so is some essential safety gear to have in your car. Here are just a few suggestions:

Keep a first aid kit in your glove box.
Pack a flashlight and a flair gun in case you breakdown alongside the road.
Have plenty of water and non-perishable food on hand.
Bring plenty of charged backup batteries for your phone and flashlight.
List of emergency contacts in case you lose your phone and numbers.
A paper map of the area you’ll be traveling through.

Staying safe means being prepared by packing your car with the essentials should you wind up being lost or unable to utilize your cell phone.

Safety is important for your entire group as you venture out into the world. Making sure you’re insurance has the right coverage and you are well prepared for any emergency is the best way to ease any worries.

So, stay safe on your next cross-country road trip.

February 13, 2018 Events and Festivals, Travel, Within India

Unique romantic destinations in India for Valentine’s Day special

Cuddling up with your special soul is an integral part of Valentine’s Day. How about doing it in the best environment that Mother Nature could provide? Therefore, it would obviously be Ooty, Darjeeling, Jaipur, Kashmir, or Andaman. Are you fed up with these cliché Valentine’s Day destinations? India has many hidden geographical treasures that serve as excellent Valentine’s Day destinations.

We have listed the top unique romantic destinations for Valentine’s Day Special that are overseen by most tourists.

Auli, Valentine's Day Travel — Image credit- http://www.visittnt.com

If you love snow, mountain, and adventure activities, Auli is the right place to be. Surrounded by skiing routes and trekking trails, this extraordinary location is famous for its natural scenic beauty. Located near Rishikesh, this destination is known for its cool climate and adventure activities.

Tips for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day at Auli

Skiing and other snow activities for budget travelers and a luxury ski resort stay for luxury travelers
Trek through the snowy trails early in the evening to catch a glimpse of the setting sun.
Jungle trekking through oak and deodar forests for a picnic or trekking
Cable car travel to enjoy the enchanting Himalayan ranges
Visit Clifftop for a romantic view of the nature around you.

Khajjiar

Khajjar, Valentine's Day travel — Image credit http://www.visittnt.com

Located along the slopes, this is the bubbling spot of Himachal Pradesh. Sprouting with green life throughout the region, this is the nature lover’s spot with numerous tourist attractions. This destination is filled with a fusion of attractions during February.

Tips for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day at Khajjiar

Romantic nature walk at Kalatop wildlife sanctuary
Horse riding at Khajjiar Lake and a picnic lunch along the grassy slopes
Camping near Kailash village and an early morning visit to any apple orchards
Hiking at Dainkund Peak in the afternoon
Nature bath at Panchpula Waterfalls

Parwanoo

Parawanoo is a small hill village situated at the border of Haryana. It is famous for apple orchards, exotic lakes, pleasant climates, and cherishing nature. This place is a gateway for nature lovers to get their love kindled.

Tips for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day at Parwanoo

Exotic trekking through timber trail or enjoy a cable car ride through the Shivalik range
Early morning visit to the orchards in the Shivalik range. Choose apple and peach orchards, as they will be at prime beauty with many fruits ready to harvest in February.
Sightseeing and exploration of colonial buildings, Gorkha Fort, and others.

Imphal, Valentine's Day travel — http://www.visittnt.com

The northeastern part of India is the most unexplored natural Narnia. If you want a unique celebration, you need to choose destinations that are not tainted with crowded places. Imphal is the capital of Manipur. This is a cultural land to enjoy blooming valleys, orchids, market visits, and much more.

Tips for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day at Imphal

The climate will be very pleasing during February. You ought to take a romantic stroll, early in the morning.
Trek through hillocks and spot rare birds and exotic flowering plants. You might even spot a couple of deers during this season.
Enjoy a romantic evening as you stroll through orchids. Choose the orchids that are in bloom during February.
Enjoy the exotic Thaba Changba folk dance at night to enjoy the culture of the land.
If you love to enjoy more time in nature, visit Keibul Lamjao National Park which is a little away from Imphal
Visit Tengnoupal for a panoramic view of the surrounding regions. Visit during sunset for a romantic time.

Poovar Island

Located in the honeymoon state of Kerala, this serene beach location is famous for the privacy that is essential for Valentine’s Day celebrations. Poovar Island is an admirable destination for all kinds of travelers. The pleasant weather and the exotic spice plantations make your memories unique here.

Tips for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day at Poovar

Enjoy a romantic beach picnic with sunbathing, hammock time, water activities, and others
Backwater ride in a country boat for a romantic evening
Fishing with the locals
Visit the lake early in the morning for spotting birds
Enjoying exotic adventure activities like paragliding, surfing, and others.

Why choose the same destination repeatedly, get lost in the crowd of fellow romantic couples and wait in queue for enjoying a single romantic moment? Have the whole destination to yourself by choosing exotic places that are hidden away from commercial tourism.

Happy Valentine’s Day to all