Destination PDF

2010
175 Inspirational Travel Secrets

From the Top Travel Bloggers on the Internet Today
www.tripbase.com
Front Cover Main Index
Foreword
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Best Kept Travel Secrets 2010

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Main Index
Africa 5 94 Middle East
Asia 12 104 North America
Australia & South

Pacific 42 119 South America
Central America & Contributing

Caribbean 55 131 Authors
Europe 59

Tripbase.com 4
Africa
Nigeria 6 10 Tunisia
Rwanda 7 11 Zambia
South Africa 8

Tripbase.com 5
You get to witness some of the most spectacular, mist-like sunsets
West Africa has to offer
Photo by: markhillary
Main Index Africa
Nigeria
Surreal Sunsets Along the Lekki Peninsula

Rush hour traffic in Lagos is brutal, and one must slip into a "certain" frame of mind to survive it. A
one-way 25-minute drive takes three hours to complete, and Nigerians handle it with style. Sitting in
traffic along a barrier island separating the lagoon from the ocean as the sun dips for the night means
you get to witness some of the most spectacular, mist-like sunsets West Africa has to offer. Mist-like
because the mix of emissions and humidity with the natural colors produces a wondrous, hazy effect.
Photo by: Lola

. Lola, Geo Travelers' Niche
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Why pay $700 or more to see Silverback gorillas when, for a third of
the cost, you can hire a private driver and guide for a personal safari?
Photo by: CIAT - International Center for Tropical Agricultu
Main Index Africa
Rwanda
Akagera National Park Safari

An offbeat, cheaper alternative to the traditional African safari. From Kigali, Rwanda's capital city,
Akagera National Park is only a few hours away. Why pay $700 or more to see Silverback gorillas when,
for a third of the cost, you can hire a private driver and guide for a personal safari? Last February, I
found a hotel employee in Kigali that had access to a four-wheel drive vehicle and negotiated a $200 day
trip to Akagera. We left at 6am, and upon arrival at Akagera learned that the $30 entrance fee included a
complimentary guide. SWEET. The safari was amazing. We drove around for around five hours and saw
a herd of elephants, a Masai giraffe, several Cape Buffalo, Reedbuck, and an Olive Baboon that tried to
Photo by: Alan climb into our car! If you have more time, you can arrange to stay overnight too. Lion spotting anyone?
. Alan, The 9to5 Alternative
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This beach may be one of the few places where you can interact with
wild animals on their own ground
Photo by: Arno & Louise
Main Index Africa
South Africa
Penguin Beach
A 45-minute drive from Cape Town, South Africa, this beach may be one of the few places where you
can interact with wild animals on their own ground...without adult supervision and without worrying about
being mauled or eaten. Isn't that nice? Watch out for the beaks though! It's the code of Penguin Beach:
You don't bother me, I don't bother you. That means no attempted petting or picking them up. The colony
of African penguins are lounging around and living life as if you weren't there. The water on the beach is
cold given the relative proximity to Antarctica. EX-tremely cold. I heard the stories, but when I dived into
the water I shivered for a good 10 minutes, my teeth chattering so loud you could send an SOS
Photo by: Brian message. Eventually your body adjusts and you enjoy the cold water, especially when the summer sun
is bearing down on you.
About the only thing you have to avoid is the penguin waste on the beach. They are not cute and cuddly stuffed animals so they have to do their
business somewhere. Just tiptoe around it and enjoy the sights.
One thing that can be creepy/fun: If you stand in a spot and don't move, you could hear a pin drop. You see all these penguins around you and
they are not making a single solitary sound. You feel like you've landed on an alien planet.
. Brian, No Debt World Travel
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To visit the Karoo is to visit the heart of South Africa
Photo by: Arno & Louise
Main Index Africa
South Africa
The Karoo
I first visited the Karoo between destinations, having little idea at the time that it would become my
favourite part of South Africa. It's an evocatively desolate landscape of golden, dusty desert and
shadowy valley towns. The best way to enjoy the region is to visit some of its towns, whose sedate
avenues with early 20th century homes are steeped in retro charm and soaked with Afrikaner culture.
Some of the best spots to visit are Barrydale, a suprisingly artistic community with an offbeat gay vibe,
Prince Albert, with it's storybook houses and untamed surrounds, and Nieu Bethesda, home to the Owl
House, a surreal museum dedicated to one local woman's mania. These are all great places to try real
Photo by: Alexander South African cooking, as well: succulent grilled lamb, creamy milk tarts, and artisinally made cheeses,
breads, and preserves. Karoo is certainly not a secret to South African travellers -- most of the region's more attractive towns are well set-up to
accomodate visitors. But the region mostly remains just off the maps of most international visitors to South Africa, most of whom are more
interested in visiting Cape Town and Kruger National Park. A shame, because to visit the Karoo is to visit the heart of South Africa.
. Alexander , Primative Culture
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Dougga in Tunisia gives Ephesus in Turkey a run for its money when
it comes to impressive Roman ruins
Photo by: mcaretaker
Main Index Africa
Tunisia
Dougga
Dougga in Tunisia gives Ephesus in Turkey a run for its money when it comes to impressive Roman
ruins. It is not quite as grand, but it's also not nearly as crowded with tourists. Since it is inland - away
from any conceivable cruise ship route - it will probably remain that way. When we went there in January
2007, we encountered maybe a dozen other tourists and we could wander about the crumbling ruins and
immerse ourselves totally in the magic of the place.
Photo by: Niltiac1

. Caitlin, Roaming Tales
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You will see some of the most beautiful and pristine views of
Southern Africa
Photo by: Sara&Joachim
Main Index Africa
Zambia
The Train from Kapiri-Mposhi to Dar Es Salaam

I count this as a destination, because anywhere that you have to remain for 45 hours (up to 88 if it
breaks down, allegedly) can surely be thought of as a destination. During the course of your travels on
this train, you will see some of the most beautiful and pristine views of southern Africa and have no
choice but to start conversations with your cabin-mates that you will remember years down the line.
Photo by: Richard

. Richard, Where the Road Goes
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Asia
Armenia 13 30 Nepal
Borneo 14 31 Singapore
Cambodia 15 32 Sri Lanka
China 17 33 Taiwan
India 19 34 Thailand
Indonesia 22 38 Turkmenistan
Japan 24 39 Ukraine
Kyrgyzstan 25 40 Vietnam
Laos 26 41 General
Malaysia 28

Tripbase.com 12
Geghard in Armenian means "spear," and it is said that the spear used
to wound Christ on the cross was brought and kept there among other
relics
Photo by: retlaw snellac
Main Index Asia
Armenia
The Geghard Monastery

Most people would never think of going to Armenia for tourism. Most people wouldn't even be able to
place it on a map! And many others have never even heard of that country.
But if you enjoy authentic old culture, diverse beautiful landscapes, friendly people away from tourists
and visiting old worship places (Armenia has some of the most oldest churches in the world, as it is the
first country that became Christian in 301 AD), Armenia is the place to visit!
One of the monasteries that I particularly enjoyed is the "Geghard" Monastery. Geghard in Armenian
Photo by: Daniel means "spear," and it is said that the spear used to wound Christ on the cross was brought and kept
there among other relics. The complex was founded in the 4th Century and is partially carved in a mountain, surrounded all around by cliffs. Many
prayer chambers have been carved on the cliffs and used by monks as a retreat. It is interesting to notice the contrast between the finely detailed
facades of the outside chapel and the rough cave-like interiors carved inside the rock. If you truly want to experience a magical moment, wait for a
choir of young teenagers to sing inside the chapel: The acoustics are impressive and the echo inside is unbelievable (and lasts for a veeeery long
time!). There are also many beautiful "khatchkars" all around (crosses carved on a rock in traditional Armenian style).
. Daniel , The World Trail
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Picture a stone forest of white and grey limestone jutting out of the
earth in razor sharp formations nestled amidst emerald foliage
Photo by: tylerdurden1
Main Index Asia
Borneo
Pinnacles of Borneo
Everyone seems to know about climbing Mount Kinabalu in Malaysian Borneo, but one of our favorite
adventures of all time was trekking to the Pinnacles of Gunung Mulu in Sarawak. Picture a stone forest
of white and grey limestone jutting 45 metres out of the earth in razor sharp formations nestled amidst
emerald foliage. Just getting there is a huge part of the adventure! It takes two days to trek all the way to
the pinnacles. First you fly into Gunung Mulu National Park on a twin-engine airplane, and then you take
a two-hour boat ride to the start of an eight kilometer trail. Then you spend the day hiking through the
jungle and finally arrive at Camp 5. Here, you have a beautiful night beneath the stars to rest and
Photo by: Deb and Dave prepare for the summit push the following morning. The steep climb is exhilarating, and to finally reach
the summit and witness this rare and awe-inspiring site is an incredible life experience.
. Deb and Dave, The Planet D
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Home to a unique floating village, almost everything can be found
floating on the waters
Photo by: Mendhak
Main Index Asia
Cambodia
Chong Krea Floating School

People from near and far come to Siem Reap to visit the famed Angkor Wat. But besides the famous
ancient site, there's a little secret I uncovered in the outskirts of Siem Reap, where the Tonle Sap Lake
lies. Home to a unique floating village, almost everything can be found floating on the waters. During a
trip through the floating village of Chong Krea, I boarded a floating school, got to meet the children and
learned about their lives. It's an emotional trip, but as a visiting traveler, you rarely get the chance to get
this close to the rural communities. I highly recommend this genuine experience.
Photo by: Nellie

. Nellie, Wild Junket
Take the Train from Bangkok to Cambodia with the Locals

Traveling along the long road from Bangkok to Siem Reap requires a lot of avoiding scams. After hearing
all the horror stories my traveling companion Geof (aka Curious George's owner) and I decided to take
the train to the Aranyaprathet, Thailand/Poipet, on the Cambodia border. At first it doesn't appear
appealing as it's a 6am start on a third-class, five-hour long train, but you cannot beat the price of 48
Baht.
This was one of the most memorable experiences of the trip. Although we were the only non-local,
English-speaking travelers, it didn't stop others from sitting with us, offering us food, insisting that we
Photo by: Ayngelina
hold their babies. They wanted to look at our passports and were excited that we were Canadian.
Somehow we communicated without a common language.
. Ayngelina , Bacon is Magic

A combination of factors make Phnom Penh a perfect place for some
serious retail therapy
Photo by: Mendhak
Main Index Asia
Cambodia
Handmade, Homemade Shopping, Phnom Penh

A combination of factors make Phnom Penh a perfect place for some serious retail therapy. First,
Cambodian silk from nearby towns and villages like Takeo feature heavily in the city's many tiny
boutiques. The silk is of high quality and great value for money, with some places (like Sentosa Silk and
Tabitha) selling rough or smooth varieties in a rainbow of colours for US$8-10 a meter. Cushions,
bedspreads, bags and clothing made of Cambodian silk are all fantastic and unique buys. The
proliferation of NGOs in the city who engage Cambodia's needy with crafty pursuits means there are lots
of unique, handmade items for sale, like wallets and bags made of recycled rice bags, handsewn soft
Photo by: Liz toys for children and all things rattan for very low prices. Then there's the influx of talented foreigners
who have set up shop in the capital, resulting in some gorgeous boutiques combining European style with Cambodian artistry. Street 240 is the
place to head (especially clothing and homeware store Bliss, which also houses a spa, and Waterlily for creative handmade jewellery). I could go
on and on, but you'll have to explore for yourself!!
. Liz, A Girl in Asia
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The more I travel, the more I realize how exquisite the smaller, less
discovered places are
Photo by: Chi King
Main Index Asia
China
Chengdu, Sichuan
OK, so maybe it's not a big secret. After all it's a major gateway to Tibet and the place to go if you want
to interact with pandas. But aside from those things, Chengdu also offers beautiful temples and lively
neighbourhoods. The Wenshu Temple dates back to the Tang Dynasty and is Chengdu's largest and
best preserved Buddhist temple. But if you're an early riser and looking for a relaxing way to spend your
morning, then this is the place to go. The grounds are vast and utterly breathtaking. I'm always amazed
at how peaceful temple grounds are -- especially when they're in the middle of a large city like Chengdu.
The best part is relaxing near the temple or writing in your travel journal while monks chant in the
Photo by: Pam background.
. Pam, Spunky Girl Monologues
Kaifeng
Popular tourist attractions come with high expectations. The more I travel, the more I realize how
exquisite the smaller, less discovered places are.
Kaifeng, China was a place where I had no expectations. It was also a place that blew me away. It was
here that I discovered Chinese Jews, people of Jewish descent living in China, and their fascinating
history and community. It was also here that I realized this: the beauty of traveling through China is that
sometimes I feel like I'm in two places at once - the past and the present.
Photo by: Monica

. Monica, A Pair of Panties and Boxers
Climb the Great Wall in the Snow

Everyone knows the Great Wall is impressive, but if you're climbing it during the summer you'll be
sweating buckets. In spring and fall, you'll be throwing elbows. I'd recommend visiting in the winter,
preferably when it snows. Why? Because...you'll see the Great Wall frosted in snow. You'll have the
Great Wall all to yourself. You'll see the rolling mountains and the vastness of the surrounding land. You
can even build a snowman on the Great Wall of China! And, the snow makes it ridiculously fun to glide
down the descending slopes. Plus it's cool to be able to say you've played in the snow on the Great Wall
of China.
Photo by: Jabari Bell
. Monica, A Pair of Panties and Boxers

Constructed for the Tang Emperor Suzong (who reigned 756-762), the
Spirit Road of the Jianling tomb is difficult to find in the middle of
terraced farmland and the figures are all partially covered in soil
Photo by: Chi King
Main Index Asia
China
China's Spirit Roads, Jianling Tomb

A unique element of the Chinese funerary complex, the "Spirit Road" is a line of statues leading up to an
imperial mausoleum. Some date back to 450 CE and they can extend up to one kilometer and include
hundreds of statues. Several Spirit Road sites are easily accessible to tourists, but our favorite was just
North of X'ian and required a short hike to reach. Constructed for the Tang Emperor Suzong (who
reigned 756-762), the Spirit Road of the Jianling tomb is difficult to find in the middle of terraced farmland
and the figures are all partially covered in soil. The Tang championed realism in all of their sculptural
depictions so they are drawn from real life and reflect specific individuals rather than general types.
Photo by: David and Jennifer
. David and Jennifer, Approach Guides
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Early in the morning there aren't that many visitors around, so you'll
be able to shoot some pics without hordes of people in front of them
Photo by: CellarDoor
Main Index Asia
India
Visit the Taj Mahal at Sunrise

Visit the Taj Mahal early in the morning about 5 or 6 am. You'll see one of the greatest and most famous
buildings of the world and how it looks in different colors when the sun rises.It's one of the most
photographed sights in the world and when you see it for yourself, you'll know why. Early in the morning
there aren't that many visitors around, so that you'll be able to shoot some pics without hordes of people
in front of it. But even if you don't make it that early, the people are so small compared to the building
that they'll look like ants on the photos.
The building is completely made out of white marmor on the outside and in the early hours, this will
Photo by: Melvin
glimmer in a light sunny red. Awesome! You'll see how it changes to grey, yellow, and beige until is
completely white.
The Taj Mahal was build by Shah Jahan in 1632 (finished 1653) for his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to her 14th child. At
least 20 000 people from all over asia worked to build the Taj. Besides the marmor, it's decorated with corals, jade stones, pearls, crystals and
other similar attractive decorations from Persia, Russia, Afghanistan, Tibet, China and the Indian Ocean.
The gardens around the Taj are also extremely beautiful and were build as a symbol of paradise.
There are three entrances. In the West, South (main entrance) and in the East. I would recommend you to stay in the Sheela guesthouse right at
the east entrance. There it's not so busy and you are situated right at the entrance (200m).
The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays, but open on all other days from sunrise until sunset and the entrance costs around RS 750 per person (incl.
levy = Rs. 500 per day). You are not allowed to bring food or drinks in the area, so eat and drink enough before you go in. The moment you leave
the area, the ticket is no longer valid and you will have to pay again for the next visit -- even if it's the same day!
On a positive note, there are no nappers, guides or salesmen allowed in the areal itself! So you can easily relax for awhile on the lawn and enjoy
the unique and great atmosphere.
. Melvin, The Travel Dudes
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We are in a wooden boat, drinking cold beers (Kingfisher) and
listening to two local musicians playing classical strains that reflect the
mood of the fading light
Main Index Asia
India
India's Festival of Color, Holi

Holi is a Hindu festival that takes place primarily in the north of India, but also regions all over the world
with large Hindu populations. This Festival of Color celebrates the end of winter's sorrow and the start of
spring, with all of the joy that spring entails.
One of the rituals of the holiday is celebrated by exchanging colored powder with your neighbors on the
morning of Dhulendi...and by exchanging I mean they throw buckets of colored water on their neighbors,
rub highly pigmented powder on cheeks and foreheads and the kids roam the streets with huge water
guns, ready to soak unsuspecting people playing Holi. Holi's Festival of Color was incredibly fun to
Photo by: Shannon
celebrate with the Indian people and will forever bring a smile to my face when I think about the country
and its warm and joyous people.
. Shannon, A Little Adrift
Sunset on the Backwaters, Kerala

The day is winding to an end. We are in a wooden boat, drinking cold beers (Kingfisher) and listening to
two local musicians playing classical strains that reflect the mood of the fading light. We watch locals
heading back home on their own tiny boats. They smile and wave. The sun begins to set.
Photo by: Vivek

. Neha, Flying Suitcase
Kerala
One of the most memorable trips I've ever taken was aboard a houseboat, adrift in the backwaters of
Kerala, one of India's most southernmost states. If you are fortunate to go to India and have time to
make it to the South, do not miss the opportunity to ride aboard a kettuvalam (rice boat). I'm sure that
with 3G networks these days, you can take this trip without unplugging from your phone and internet. But
take the opportunity to disconnect completely, with only books and scheduled meals to interrupt your
quiet contemplation.
Photo by: Melanie

. Melanie, Miss Adventures

The homestay in Kewzing was the highlight of our trip to Sikkim a
few years back
Main Index Asia
India
Lost in the Smaller Villages of Sikkim

Kewzing in Sikkim is just another small hill town. But go beyond the market area, and you'll find that
some locals have opened their homes to travellers in order to give you a taste of their lives. The
homestay in Kewzing was the highlight of our trip to Sikkim a few years back. We went on hikes, sat
amidst hidden stupa ruins, watched Mt.Narsingh as we sipped morning tea, ate wholesome healthy
meals, and sang in front of bonfires. These homestays are a way for these villagers to generate income
to support themselves, but are still not mainstream tourist traps, which makes them an ideal
off-the-beaten-track stop. There are homestays in the area of Dzongu (also in Sikkim).
Photo by: Neeraja
. Neeraja, As I See It
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They turned the outdoor courtyard into a private outdoor restaurant for
us complete with a fountain and small pool full of scented candles and
fresh flower petals floating in the water
Photo by: tropicaLiving
Main Index Asia
Indonesia
Nefatari Villas, Bali

Imagine staying in a private villa set amongst lush green rice paddies deep in the heart of Bali. Nefatari
Villas has a small but extremely efficient set of staff on hand, and they made our time there
unforgettable. Our breakfast was served to us on our private outdoor terrace each morning, our private
plunge pool was cleaned and swept each day, and they provided us with a car service that was available
on demand. The icing on the cake though, was the special meal they put together for us when they
learned that my boyfriend was going to propose. They turned the outdoor courtyard into a private
outdoor restaurant for us complete with a fountain and small pool full of scented candles and fresh flower
Photo by: Nefatari Exclusive Villas petals floating in the water, a beautiful cloth gazebo laced with fresh orchids, romantic music, and a
homemade Balinese meal served by candlelight. It was the most romantic night of our lives! Three reasons to stay at Nefatari Villas: 1. Your own
private plunge pool and sun terrace 2. Traditional home-cooked Balinese meals delivered right to your door 3. Relax in complete and utter
isolation.
. Carrie, My Several Worlds
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Your new view of this amazing place will begin to form as you learn
about the Hindu religion, cultural practices and local foods
Photo by: tropicaLiving
Main Index Asia
Indonesia
Experience Bali on the Morning Journey, Ubud

Many people go to Bali for the beaches, but having had plenty of beach on our Southeast Asia trip, we
chose to spend three nights in the arts and cultural center of Ubud. Yes, the center of the city is still
highly touristy, but if you want to get a sneak peek of real life there, make your way over to Tegal Sari
and sign up for the Morning Journey. You can participate even if you aren't staying at the hotel. A mere
15 USD per person will enlighten you and inform you about the Balinese culture more than you ever
thought possible. A local guide will take you to a village outside Ubud, where you will visit many housing
compounds, including a local art school. There, your new view of this amazing place will begin to form as
Photo by: Lori you learn about the Hindu religion, cultural practices and local foods. Speaking of local foods, the second
half of the experience involves a rather rugged hike through the rice terraces and forest. You'll learn about rice production, identify fruit trees and
may even get lucky enough to have a local farmer climb a massive palm tree barefoot to cut you a coconut for a mid-afternoon refreshment. The
day lasts from about 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and you'll finish up with a lunch provided by the hotel. You'll leave wishing you had a few more days
to spend with these wonderful people learning more intimate things about their intriguing culture.
. Lori, The 3 Star Traveler
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Mount Koya, the secluded mountain temple complex of Esoteric
Shingon Buddhism in Wakayama Prefecture, is a hideaway for a more
authentic, massive temple experience
Photo by: thinboyfatter
Main Index Asia
Japan
Mount Koya
Everyone visits the major temples in Kyoto and Nara, but these days they are little more than tourist
attractions -- albeit pretty ones. They lack that lived in, struggle for enlightenment feel. Mount Koya, the
secluded mountain temple complex of Esoteric Shingon Buddhism in Wakayama Prefecture, is a
hideaway for a more authentic, massive temple experience. Located in the heart of the Kii mountains, it
was founded in 816 by the monk Kukai, the mythical founder of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. The complex
houses 100 temples, many offering lodging, and the most famous cemetery in Japan leading to Kukai's
tomb. A walk through the cemetery is an otherworldly experience dominated by centuries-old cedar trees
Photo by: Aschaf and hundreds of moss-covered stone Buddhas playing hide and seek in the mist.
. Todd, Todd's Wanderings
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Remote, desolate, dramatic, and thought-provoking, travel through the
Pamirs feels like a real adventure
Photo by: Robert Thomson
Main Index Asia
Kyrgyzstan
Overnight in a Yurt on Lake Issyk-Kul

Get an authentic feel for the nomadic lifestyle by spending a night or two in a yurt on Lake Issyk-Kul.
These yurts come with bedding, and for a small price, a feast (no less) for dinner and breakfast! If you
don't know what plov is, you will get your fill here. Laze the day away on the beach, and relax under the
clearest night sky watching falling star after falling star.
Photo by: Brooke

. Brooke, Brooke vs the World
Best Road Trip: Pamir Highway, Kyrgyzstan to Tajikistan

Remote, desolate, dramatic, and thought-provoking, travel through the Pamirs feels like a real
adventure. There are few restaurants and even fewer hotels; leave the agenda behind. Thankfully, the
hospitality in this region is such that you may not really need any infrastructure aside from transport.
Locals will invite you into their homes for tea. They'll take you in at night for a token amount and give you
a tour of their symbolism-rich Pamiri homes. The setting is otherworldly and if you choose the right time
of year (autumn), it can be wildly colorful. Horses graze in the shadow of 22,000 foot (7,000 meter) Peak
Photo by: uncorneredmarket.com Lenin, and donkey caravans make their way in the shadow of the Hindu Kush.
Go soon, for if this is any secret, it may not be so for long. Earlier this year, we helped another travel writer plan his trip to the region for a New
York Times travel article.
. Audrey and Dan, Uncornered Market

Cresting the mountain and looking down to Luang Probang sat on the
mighty Mekong is something you'll never forget
Photo by: dalbera
Main Index Asia
Laos
Halfway Between Vientiane and Luang Prabhang

I am not entirely sure what its name was - or whether that name has yet been reliably transliterated into
English, but the halfway stop point between the capital city of Laos, Vientiane and the popular
backpacker destination of Luang Prabhang is definitely a favourite. The full story of ending up there in
transit is covered here, and while it is not a place to really explore or to overnight in, I have not since
been through an ordeal that more powerfully drove home the realisation that I was a million miles from
home in an utterly fascinating and new world.
So if you take the Vientiane-Luang Prabhang bus, be sure to get off wherever it stops and look around.
Photo by: Richard
Take in your surroundings deeply and see if they look anything like the masthead of my blog (the photo I
snapped quickly before boarding again and have treasured ever since).
. Richard, Where the Road Goes
Motorcycling on Highway One

This is another one that most tourists in Laos will pass by but almost none will stop. For me, the part of
the road between Vang Vieng and Luang Probang is just breathtaking, I've heard it gets better the further
north you go but if you rent a motorbike and ride it yourself you will see just what I'm talking about -
doing this made me re-evaluate the way I travel and made me wonder what I had missed while on tourist
buses thundering through the heart of a place. Three reasons to ride Highway One: 1. The scenery is
epic and the road passes through some beautiful villages, 2. A night in Phou Khoun will open your eyes
to what real Laos village is like before the tourists arrived, 3. Cresting the mountain and looking down to
Photo by: Aaron and Georgie Luang Probang sat on the mighty Mekong is something you'll never forget.
. Aaron and Georgie, Happy Time Blog

Though you can get a feel for the culture in Loas' small cities, the real
heart of the country exists in the remote villages
Photo by: dalbera
Main Index Asia
Laos
Trekking in Remote Laos

Laos ranks as one of my favorite countries to visit. The culture is incredibly relaxed and Laotians are
generally friendly and warm. And though you can get a feel for the culture in Loas' small cities, the real
heart of the country exists in the remote villages. The small town of Hongsa is hard to get to, and once
you do, there aren't many people who speak English.
But that's essentially the charm. Trekking within the remote areas of Laos gave me a window into the
unique Hmong culture and a deeper appreciate for the basically silent struggle this ethnic group has
faced in the past several decades. I found the journey into this remote and more poverty-stricken region
Photo by: Shannon
one of the most humbling of my trip.
Vientiane
Vientiane is the capital of Laos, not exactly a secret, but often overlooked and quickly passed through. A
city with a desire to develop is what I found, the center has modern cafès serving fantastic French food,
inexpensive guesthouses, a long religious history and there is a strong sense of future about the place.
Photo by: Rob

. Rob, Adventure Rob

You can get the lowest prices in Malaysia here
Photo by: keithusc
Main Index Asia
Malaysia
Best Shopping Mall, Kuala Lumpur

The best mall for small electronics like digital cameras, laptops, computer accessories, handphones,
memory cards or camera bags is Low Yat Plaza, the biggest IT mall in Jalan Bukit Bintang. You can get
the lowest prices (or at least low prices) in Malaysia here. It's located along Jalan Bukit Bintang next to
Sungei Wang Plaza and Imbi Plaza. It is also two blocks opposite the Time Square KL. Low Yat Plaza is
the only one-stop shopping mall for electronics in Kuala Lumpur. Not only is it the cheapest, but you can
also find the latest IT gadgets here. I bought my HP laptop and SDHC cards here. Prices are mostly
shown on tags so you don't have to worry about being swindled. You may try your luck by bargaining to
Photo by: miusam-ck get even lower prices too.
. Cecil, Travel Feeder
Best Kuala Lumpur Transport

The Kuala Lumpur "Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour" double-decker bus is the most comprehensive transport
for tourists to go, see, eat, shop and photograph the whole area. Buses are running seven days a week
from 8:30am to 8:30pm with continuous circular rides and 30-minute intervals between each tour bus.
These tour buses cover over 40 city attractions, including nearly 100 in Kuala Lumpur. KLCC, Twin
Tower, Bintang Walk, Merdeka Square, KL Tower, Bird Park, Petaling Street (China Town), Jamek
Mosque, Royal Palace and so on. Tourists can buy tickets on the bus or at the station and can "hop on"
and "hop off" the bus whenever and wherever they desire at any of the 22 bus stops. Along the tour,
Photo by: NTLam travellers are guided through the history of KL and upcoming destinations in eight languages. Prices are
from RM36++ per passenger for the whole day. You can even buy one or two day tickets. So, you can either hop off at KLCC twin tower to take
photos and hop onto the next bus in 30 minutes time or, if you want to do some shopping at Bintang Walk, hop off at Bintang Walk and spend
three or four hours before hopping back to the tour! The best day for this tour is on Sundays, when the road traffic is the least congested.
. Cecil, Travel Feeder

Although developed, Sandanka still maintains an almost untouched
heritage, hosts a world class orangutan rehabilitation centre, beautiful
countryside and has excellent food everywhere
Photo by: keithusc
Main Index Asia
Malaysia
Labuan Island
The connecting island between Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia and Brunei is often quickly passed through,
but this tax free island is a great place to walk about, get some good food and cheap alcohol for a party
on the beach.
Photo by: Rob

Sandakan
Sandakan is in the far east on Malaysia's half of Borneo Island. It played a strong role for the Japanese
during World War II. Although developed, it still maintains an almost untouched heritage, hosts a world
class orangutan rehabilitation centre, beautiful countryside and has excellent food everywhere.
Photo by: Rob


The opportunity to bathe the elephants was enough to make me feel
ten years old again
Photo by: ` TheDreamSky
Main Index Asia
Nepal
Chitwan National Park

Nepal's Chitwan National Park lies within the southern region of Nepal and near the border with India;
the National Park contains a wide range of indigenous animals from the single-horned Indian rhino to
Bengal tigers, monkeys, and elephants. The eco-tours through the park offer an incredibly up-close
experience with the animals.
The opportunity to bathe the elephants was enough to make me feel ten years old again. Because the
elephants have to be bathed in the river on a daily basis, the mahouts (the elephant trainers and
caretakers) allow tourists to play with the elephants in the water while they cool off. The bath session
Photo by: Shannon
ends with the elephant unceremoniously dunking you in the water so that you can swim to the shore and
then rub her down and massage the dirt out of her tough skin.
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It was a place more for peace, silence and introspection if you will
Photo by: williamcho
Main Index Asia
Singapore
The Armenian Church

It was a hot day. I was walking around the so called 'civic district,' using a tripod to take photos of myself,
(and yes, timer poses are funny!). My friend had mentioned a big church in the center of Singapore, and
I thought this one was it. It is a white building, and could easily have been a bungalow. The main room
was circular broken by long rectangular windows with wooden shutters, revealing the hot day outside. A
ceiling fan whirred slowly. A painting of Jesus was the only thing indicating that this indeed was a church.
It was a place more for peace, silence and introspection if you will. A place one could contemplate time
in...
Photo by: Neeraja
. Neeraja, As I See It
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Most visitors to Sri Lanka head up to the large tea plantation areas, but
Dikoya delivers on scenery, tea trail hiking and is close to Adam's Peak,
Sri Lanka's best known pilgrimage
Photo by: hashmil
Main Index Asia
Sri Lanka
Castlereigh Reservoir, Dikoya

I couldn't possible live with myself if I didn't include a stay at Castlereigh Family Cottages in my list of
best kept secrets. Not that I want to fight the crowds to visit, but they do such a wonderful job they
deserve my unabashed fawning. Two small cabins sit in the middle of a working tea plantation, right on
the reservoir, with amazingly large porches where you can while away a relaxing day soaking in the
scenery. One cabin can sleep four while the larger one sleeps up to ten wanderers. Add the genuine,
friendly staff that wait on you hand and foot, delicious BBQs and the incredibly cheap prices and I
wonder why I ever left. Most visitors to Sri Lanka head up to the large tea plantation areas, but Dikoya
Photo by: Todd delivers on scenery, tea trail hiking and is close to Adam's Peak, Sri Lanka's best known pilgrimage.
. Todd, Todd's Wanderings
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Famous for its natural hot springs and aboriginal culture, any visitor
will love a day or two in the aboriginal village of Wulai
Photo by: williamcho
Main Index Asia
Taiwan
Wulai Hot Springs

Famous for its natural hot springs and aboriginal culture, any visitor will love a day or two in the
aboriginal village of Wulai. It has everything you could possibly want for a fun day outdoors, including
stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and a waterfall. There are plenty of hotels, spas, and hot spring
resorts in town, but why pay when you can experience it for free? Down by the river, visitors can enjoy
open-air bathing in a natural hot spring . Cool off with a relaxing swim in the river afterwards. Three
reasons to go to Wulai: 1. The gorgeous mountain scenery 2. Natural outdoor hot spring baths 3. Learn
about traditional aboriginal culture in Taiwan.
Photo by: Wikipedia
. Carrie, My Several Worlds
Taiwan
Clearly Taiwan isn't a secret place -- everyone alive in the1980s saw the name printed on the bottom of
their plastic products, right? But what seems to be a secret is that Taiwan is an unbelievable,
unforgettable destination. It's a quirky island, whose sometimes bleak cities are brightened up by
frenzied night markets and funky local fashions. Packed in within the confines of this tiny island, there is
an astounding array of different places to go. Fast-paced and fashionable Taipei, engaging Hsinchu,
romantic and sultry Kaoshiung. Amazingly, the island also has incredible natural beauty: the low areas of
rice paddies give way to towering peaks cloaked in bamboo; on the east coast, the scenery is even more
Photo by: Alexander spectacular, epitomized by the dramatic valleys and mountains of Taroko Gorge. People are friendly, the
food is fantastic (every city and region have their own delectable specialties to search out). And with the high speed rail draped along the whole
west coast, getting around the island is easy, comfortable, and incredibly fast.
. Alexander , Primative Culture

Lub*d is the best hostel in Southeast Asia, if not the world
Photo by: Dennis Wong
Main Index Asia
Thailand
Lub*d, Bangkok
Lub*d is the best hostel in Southeast Asia, if not the world.
Granted I haven't stayed in any other hostel, Lub*d came highly recommended and there's even a
Matador article about it. When I went, there was a "buy one night get one free" offer, so I was able to get
a two person room for the cost of one. At the time I didn't have my net book, so the computers in the
lobby with free internet came in handy.
Photo by: Abbie

. Abbie, Miles of Abbie
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If you take advantage of the Elephant Owner for a Day program, be
ready to work
Main Index Asia
Thailand
Patara Elephant Farm, Chiang Mai

Thailand is not without plenty of tours that involve elephants, but none of them are like what you will
encounter when visiting the Patara Elephant Farm. Let's just say you will be doing a bit more than patting
them on the trunk, and your ride won't involve one of those saddles that look like it was pulled straight
from the circus. If you take advantage of the Elephant Owner for a Day program, be ready to work. Your
day will begin in the middle of a gorgeous rice paddy where you will hear a story about the importance of
the elephant in Thailand and just how shockingly close this creature is to extinction. You'll be assigned to
a trainer who will be with you for the day and finally, you'll get to meet your elephant. After feeding him or
Photo by: Lori her and performing a daily health check, you'll climb into the creek and give the equivalent of a sponge
bath.
Next you are up, riding them bare-back throughout the forests of northern Thailand. Up and down mountains, through clay-like mud and down
primitive roadways. You'll stop for lunch next to a creek while the elephants play in the water. Your feast will be some of the most traditional and
authentic Thai foods you will likely have on your entire trip. Next, you can swim with your elephant before you ride back to the farm. The farm's
web-site states, "Yes, we are different!" and that could not be more accurate. This Thai-owned and managed farm focuses on health-care and
breeding management to ensure that the Asian elephant does not become extinct. They act as a rescue organization as well, taking in elephants
that have been mistreated through their use as a tourist attraction on the streets of Thailand. The funds generated from visitors help keep the farm
up and running. The tour lasts an entire day, from about 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and is truly a life-changing experience. I would, however,
recommend a few things. Do a couple weeks of core strengthening workouts to help your back during the ride (I'm really not kidding), wear bug
spray and stay hydrated, but don't drink too much as potty breaks are few and far between
. Lori, The 3 Star Traveler

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Travel by train in Thailand is really a great way to get from A to B
Main Index Asia
Thailand
Travel by Train in Thailand

Travel by train in Thailand is really a great way to get from A to B. You can reach any destination with an
overnight train. The central departure of Thailand is the main station in Bangkok -- Hua Lamphong,
where several trains leave the city in all different directions every day.
There is a class for every type of traveler. Here are the three most important ones for sleeper wagons. I
hope this gives you a good impression what to expect.
3rd class - woodclass: This is the absolute lowest-budget solution. The comfort is zero. Llike the name
Photo by: Melvin implies, you'll be sitting on wooden benches. You won't find many western travelers here. This class is
mainly used by locals, and it's a very cheap way to travel. If you give it a try, you might find it's also a great experience. But I wouldn't recommend
it for a long train ride. I've experienced the woodclass on the ride from Bangkok to the Cambodian border, but not for an overnight ride.
2nd class: This one deserves a special recommendation for the price/performance rating. It's often used by locals on overnight rides, but also by
backpackers and other travelers. It won't get boring here! The sheets are changed on the beds by the conductor in the evening. There is an upper
and a lower bed to choose from when you make your reservation. The lower one is much better. The light in the aisle of the train stays on all night
and the curtains of the upper bed won't really help to make it dark. You've got also a choice between a wagon with aircon (higher price) or without.
I personally recommend the non-aircon wagons, as it gets cool enough in the night. If you choose a wagon with aircon and an upper bed, you'll
properly get a headache or a cold. The aircon stays on the whole trip and blows the cool air to the upper bed. I've tried to put many towels in the
ventilation slot... that helped. Otherwise, a hooded sweatshirt might help,too.
1st class: Here you'll get high comfort with your own cabin, two big beds and your own washing basin. On the other hand, you are pretty much on
your own. So if you like to socialize, the first class comfort isn't perfect as you won't meet many other travelers here. A big plus compared to the
second class is that you can adjust the aircon yourself. That way you'll get your own 'feel good temperature' and no headache or cold. Altogether I
would give the first class a 'pretty nice, but not my way of traveling' rating.

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At Khao Sok National Park, situated in Southern Thailand, you can
visit the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world
Main Index Asia
Thailand
Khao Sok National Park

At Khao Sok National Park, situated in Southern Thailand, you can visit the oldest evergreen rainforest in
the world. Huge limestone khast mountains emerge from the trees with networks of tunnels running
throughout.
Photo by: Ben

. Ben, Backpacker Ben

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The mind-clearing desert solitude is so calming that many visitors stay
up all night
Photo by: flydime
Main Index Asia
Turkmenistan
Best Camping: Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenista

Set in the middle of the Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan, the Darvaza gas crater is just cool. Well, hot
actually - as hot as Hell you might say. As you approach the 60 meter wide crater at night (usually, in
some romantic fashion, like in an old Soviet van), you'll notice that its active flicker is visible for up to an
hour. The closer you get, the more its surreal immensity becomes apparent.
Watching the flames from the cool comfort of the surrounding dunes is beautifully tranquil. The
mind-clearing desert solitude is so calming that many visitors stay up all night. It's that captivating.
Photo by: uncorneredmarket.com The journey to the crater from Ashgabat is an adventure itself. Nomadic desert village stops feature
scruffy children, even scruffier camels and aging yurts. The entire scene - including the old metal gas cans, motorcycles and derelict Soviet veh
icles - makes for an ideal Turkmen still life.
In 1971, a Soviet engineer decided to set fire to a collapsed natural gas pit in order to exhaust the remaining fumes. Though he only expected it to
burn a short while, more than 35 years later Darvaza's flames are still flickering.
. Audrey and Dan, Uncornered Market
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Chernobyl is the wildest and most fun tour I have ever taken
Photo by: Olduser
Main Index Asia
Ukraine
Chernobyl Day Tour, Outside of Kiev

An intimate, exotic and informative tour of the world's most infamous radioactive disaster zone. Many of
you out there have taken a group tour. I'll go ahead and say it -- Chernobyl is the wildest and most fun
tour I have ever taken. For $180 you can hitch a ride from Kiev with Solo East Travel. During the one to
two hour drive, you'll watch an American-made documentary about the Chernobyl disaster. The tour
group was small -- no more than 17 people. We drove into the zone of exclusion to take pictures and to
Pripyat, the ghost town next to Chernobyl known for its abandoned school, hospital and playground.
Photo by: Alan

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An unlikely afternoon in Hue was the unexpected high moment
Photo by: Lucas Jans
Main Index Asia
Vietnam
Afternoon Motorcycling in Hue

Angkor Wat was the expected high moment of my 2008 southeast Asia trip. But an unlikely afternoon in
Hue was the unexpected high moment. After the drivers picked us up, it wasn't long before we were out
of the nondescript city center and zooming through tiny tree-lined alleys and paths on the outskirts.
Our drivers stopped in the middle of the woods. We loved it. But we weren't quite there yet. We walked
through the gates of one of the loveliest places I've ever seen, the Tu Hieu Temple. We took off in
different directions and were brought together again by the wonderful sounds of gongs and singing. We
had arrived at the perfect time to see the monks' daily chanting.
Photo by: Christian Haugen
Another stop was a cliff high above the Perfume River. We explored a former U.S. Military bunker near our lookout spot. Standing in a place so
beautiful and tranquil, it was hard to imagine that it was fairly recently the site of an ugly war. We hopped back on our bikes and zigzagged across
a narrow path with flooded rice paddies on both sides. Motorcycle riding is thrilling in itself, but this took exhilaration to the next level.
. Ekua, Girl, Unstoppable
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I say get on the next long haul flight and head to Southeast Asia
Photo by: skyseeker
Main Index Asia
General
Southeast Asia
Everyone wonders where to go if they are traveling for the first time. Or traveling by themselves. Most
people consider Europe right away. Not sure why. Sorry my European friends. Super expensive. Maybe
they think it is 'easy' and familiar because it's Europe. I say get on the next long haul flight and head to
Southeast Asia. The region consists of Thailand, Cambodia, the Philippines, Laos, Singapore and more.
Why go there? I'll tell you!
1. Cheap Prices: this is the biggest reason to head there. I talked extensively about my $7US HOTEL
room in Cambodia (yes I contradicted myself from above, but $7 is $7). Prices even cheaper than $7 for
Photo by: Brian
rooms can be had.
Cheap food does not necessarily mean bad-tasting food. Thailand has such great, tasty eats. Street food is amazing all through the region. But
always look for LOCALS on line for street vendors and in crowded restaurants. These are the places you want to eat. There is a reason there is a
line...and even more so if there is NO line.
2. Safety: especially for solo female travelers, I think SE Asia may be one of the best places on Earth to get your feet wet. In fact, from what I saw,
I would say females may have more to contend with from OTHER travelers than locals in Southeast Asia. Ladies please chime in here.
3. Weather: being near the equator means tropical weather year-round. Of course, this means you might have to contend with a typhoon/cyclone
or hair frizzing and sweat-inducing humidity. Some of you may like the cold weather. Give me hot temperatures anyday -- especially if I have to
walk around.
The weather is also conducive to outdoor activities -- SCUBA diving in the Philippines, playing with elephants in Thailand, motorcyles and
motobikes all over (make sure your travel insurance is up to date).
Be forewarned however, the poverty you'll see in Southeast Asia can be intense if you've never been in that type of environment. Cambodia struck
me in particular. People tend to be apprehensive, but generally come out for the better after leaving and then being able to reflect on what they
experienced. Don't be afraid!
. Brian, No Debt World Travel
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Australia & South Pacific
Australia 43 51 New Zealand

Tripbase.com 42
The 32 kilometer Thorsborne Trail runs along the island's east coast
and combines some toughish inland walking with wonderful rain forests,
inspiring waterfalls and out of this world beaches
Photo by: judepics
Main Index Australia & South Pacific
Australia
Thorsborne Trail, Hinchinbrook Island, Queensland

Hinchinbrook Island, one of Australia's largest island National Parks (39,900 hectars), is off the north
Queensland coast between Townsville and Cairns in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. The 32
kilometer Thorsborne Trail runs along the island's east coast and combines some toughish inland
walking with wonderful rain forests, inspiring waterfalls and out of this world beaches.
Why?
Freshwater swimming holes that take your breath away. Huge isolated beaches where you can walk or
Photo by: Frank swim at the end of most days. Only 40 people are allowed on the trail at any one time. Beautiful tropical
island hiking with terrific vistas. Off "the beaten track", isolated and wild.
Why not?
This is crocodile country and you need to be careful when swimming in the ocean. It's usually well signposted if there is one about ....but keep your
eyes open! Sandflies can be viscious, you really need to be well protected and have a lot of "bug stuff."
. Frank, Our Hiking Blog
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Famous for its gorges, they are the highlights
Photo by: judepics
Australia
Karijini National Park

The Karijini National Park is my favorite insider travel tip for Australia! You'll find it in Western Australia
around 300 kilometers south of Port Hedland, east of the city Tom Price. The highways between Port
Hedland and Tom Price are paved, but the street (Banjima Drive) to the park itself is a dirt road.
Famous for its gorges, they are the highlights. At the eastern end of the Banjima Drive, you'll find the
Dales Gorge with it's Fortescue Falls and the Circular Pool. Here you'll find water all year round. Here
you'll also find the Fern Pool, a spiritual place for the Aborigines. You can have a quiet swim here, but
please respect this spiritual place and don't jump from the rocks.
Photo by: Melvin
Close by is also a really beautiful lookout... the Oxer Lookout. Here you'll see four gorges meeting each other. This spot is especially nice at
sundawn. The gorges are called Hancock Gorge, Joffre Gorge, Red Gorge and Weano Gorge and they will offer you some great experiences and
adventures!
The Joffre Gorge and the Hancock Gorge have the famous Miracle Mile. You should only do this walk if you are really fit and if you're not afraid of
heights etc. You have to pass 20-meter high walls with just a bit of space to put your feet on and you have to jump into a pool about ten meters
below you. If you want to do this walk, you have to get information from the rangers!
The Weano Gorge is also a great experience, but a bit easier and you don't need any further information. Walk into the gorge and keep right to
enter the path to the Handrail Pool. You might have to walk through knee-deep water (or higher) and it will also get smaller. Later there will be just
a meter to walk through. Then you'll get to a big natural pool with high walls around it. There are just two possibilities to continue. First, jump into
the water, but I would suggest using the metal handrail as you don't know how deep the water is and I'm sure you don't want to break your legs in
this part of the world.
Once you are in the water, there is only one way to keep on going... to swim through the pool to the other end. There you can keep on for
another...100 to 200 adventurous meters! Definitely worth it!
Another great adventures track through a gorge takes you to the Kermit Pool. But before you get there, you have to pass the Spider Walk! Guess
why it's called like that? No, wrong. OK, you'll find many spiders, but that's not where the name comes from. At some points, the walls get so close
that you can only pass through them like a spider, with your legs and hands outstretched and the water beneath you. Really great!
To start the spider walk you have to climb into the Hancock Gorge then follow the stream to the left. You might even have to swim through a few
passages, so beware to take some water-proof bags with you for your cameras. Then you'll find the Amphitheatre, where you can rest a bit, but
please, don't forget to take your rubbish with you again. If you keep on walking, and you should, the spider passage will have to be managed. It's
easier than it sounds. Right afterwards, surrounded by 20-meter high walls, you'll reach the Kermit Pool. Take a nice bath, but check the water
level and rocks beneath the water before you jump into it.
I've heard of travelers who even kept on for another couple of meters from this point. Officially, the walk ends here and you're only allowed to
continue with a guide and special equipment.

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Spend an hour wandering through the therapeutic gardens, gushing

waterfalls, graceful arched bridges, elegant pavilions and peaceful lakes
of the Chinese Gardens
Photo by: judepics
Australia
Myrtleford, Northeast Victoria

While most of the Australian population lives in cities along the coast, travelers really must visit the
interior to truly experience "the land down under." One day on a group bus just isn't enough. Once a
bustling tobacco center, the city of Myrtleford has calmed down since the Australian government banned
the production of tobacco. But it has kept its unique charm. The small town along Great Alpine Road is
an ideal stop or starting point for winter sport enthusiasts and nature lovers.
It has very few commercial businesses, and the tiny bakeries and coffee shops are largely family-owned
and operated. Women carry baskets instead of purses and tiny cottages on back streets are surrounded
Photo by: Bobbi Lee
by rose bushes.
The tiny town is also an up-and-coming Australian wine destination. Visit the town information center on Great Alpine Road to learn more about
local wineries as well as other town activities. While travelers won't find many of their kind their, it's easy to fit in with the friendly locals.
How to get there: The best way is by car, via Great Alpine Road, the Great Ocean Road of the mountains. By car, tourists can stop in the city, but
also visit surrounding attractions and nature reserves. By public transportation, travelers can take a V-Line train from Southern Cross Station in
Melbourne. Get off at Seymour and take a bus to Wangaratta. At Wangaratta, board a bus to Myrtleford, which drops passengers off in the town
center. It sounds confusing, but it's fairly simple and the bus drivers are very helpful.
. Bobbi Lee, Heels and Wheels Online
Chinese Gardens, Sydney

For a tranquil escape from the Sydney rush, spend an hour wandering through the therapeutic gardens,
gushing waterfalls, graceful arched bridges, elegant pavilions and peaceful lakes of the Chinese
Gardens. Located in Sydney's Darling Harbour and built as a bicentennial gift by the Chinese in 1988,
giant weeping trees and richly coloured buildings leave wonderful reflections in the enchanting lakes.
Littered with evocatively named features, including the Water Pavilion of Lotus Fragrance and Lake of
Brightness, finish in the teahouse with a tea or coffee and a slice of calorific cake.
Photo by: Mark

. Mark, Travel Wonders of the World

Venturing a little out of the touristy sights can reap rewards while
offering a different point of view
Photo by: judepics
Australia
There's More to Sydney than the Harbour Bridge and Bondi

Beach
Let's face it. To the world, Sydney is a remote place to visit. It can take up to 24 hours to reach from
certain destinations, which makes it a low priority city on travel itineraries. Many tourists visit the Sydney
Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and may even catch a bus out to Bondi Beach. Venturing a little out of
the touristy sights can reap rewards while offering a different point of view.
Take a ferry out to Watson's Bay for another view of the harbour where you can enjoy a drink or eat fish
Photo by: Ms. Gourmantic
and chips by the water as you watch ferries glide by. If you're a foodie or if you enjoy fresh seafood, visit
the Sydney Fish Markets and have a takeaway lunch. Try alternatives to the iconic Bondi Beach, which
has become so overly touristy that you can't even spot the locals sometimes. On the eastern side, there's Bronte Beach, spilling with cafés.
Tamarama Beach has stunning views of the fickle surf and Coogee Beach offers a serene promenade at sunset. On the northern side, catch an
express bus all the way to Palm Beach and marvel at the many northern beaches as the bus meanders past many stretches of sand such as Curl
Curl Beach and Bungan Beach.
. Ms. Gourmantic, Gourmantic
City Hiking in Sydney

Sydney might be a big city of over four million residents, but it's also a metropolis with pockets of national
park bushland scattered throughout the city and around the harbour. On a sunny day, one of my
favourite things to do is to go to the Spit Bridge and walk around to Manly via the bushland trail. You can
stop for a refreshing swim in one of the little sandy coves along the way and grab an ice cream in Manly.
From there, you can either take the bus back to your parked car, or if you caught the bus in the first
place, you can take the Manly Ferry back to the center of the city.
Photo by: Linh_rOm

. Caitlin, Roaming Tales

Jasmin is clearly popular with every Arab in the Punchbowl vicinity
Photo by: judepics
Australia
Jasmin, Sydney
Ever spent time in Syria or Lebanon and then returned home to Australia and yearned for the authentic
cuisine? Here's where you find it. It's a classic case of follow the locals and eat the food they eat. Jasmin
is clearly popular with every Arab in the Punchbowl vicinity, and why not? They have all the classics:
hummus, babaghanoush, grilled chicken with divine garlic mayonnaise, pink pickles, kebabs, fattoush,
kofteh ... all the staples. And the BBQ plate is perfect for feeding a family of four for lunch for under $20.
But it's the fateh that got me - that fabulous brunch dish of grilled meat, pine nuts, tahina, yoghurt and
toasted Lebanese bread. I felt I was once again in the Hotel Sham in downtown Damascus, with a short
Photo by: mugley Arab coffee at my side and a hukkah pipe not far away.
The food is spectacular, but the interior decorating is also fantastic, with faux marble and outstanding murals of the Cedars of Lebanon and the
Sydney Opera House. You'll wonder if you have fallen into a black hole and popped out in Beirut. This is the perfect lunch stop on the way into
Sydney from Canberra. Look for the Boulevarde in Punchbowl and you can't miss it. You park at the railway parking opposite and enjoy the local
ambiance.
. Don, Kidaddle
Historic Houses, Sydney

Only $30 (half that with a hostel or student pass) buys a three-month ticket to 11 historic properties
around Sydney. Places include an original convict barracks on the city's Hyde Park, the Museum of
Sydney on the site of the first Government House or two stunning early 19th-century colonial homes. At
one of Australia's oldest houses on Elizabeth Farm, visitors can sit in the chairs, lie on the beds, test the
kitchen utensils and touch the various recreated furniture from bygone days. Susannah Place Museum in
the middle of the historic Rocks District in the center of Sydney features four working-class houses next
to each other alongside a 1915 shop that sells products from that era.
Photo by: Mark

Every Thursday, the drinks were cheap, the music was awesome and
the dancing was fun
Photo by: judepics
Australia
Purple Sneakers, Sydney

I lived in Sydney for four months during the summer/spring of 2006. Live music in Sydney is expensive
(they're on an island and international bands just don't come around as often), so finding a venue that
played all the trendy, hipster songs I wanted to hear was always tough. My friends and I went to a lot of
bars that played a lot of 80s music and Top 40's (I'm looking at you, Three Wise Monkeys), which were
always fun, but sometimes I'd just rather listen to some authentic Australian indie tunes.
That's where Purple Sneakers comes in. If I remember correctly, it was a $10 cover to get in (that was
enough to deter some of my friends, but I pressed onwards). Every Thursday, the drinks were cheap, the
Photo by: Boundary Sounds
music was awesome and the dancing was fun. Purple Sneakers is no longer hosted at The Abercombie,
but a quick Google search should let you where it is these days.
. Adam, Travels of Adam
Balls Head and Berry Island Reserve, Sydney

North of the harbour, a short walk around Balls Head and Berry Island (no longer an island) are
preserved headlands that offer wonderful views of Sydney Harbour, the famous bridge and the city
skyline. Along with the views are a couple of old aboriginal rock engravings (a little worn over time), a
quiet park for picnics and some short walking tracks to explore. It is hard to believe that you are only four
kilometres from the centre of Sydney.
Photo by: Mark


This 65km (40 mile) track is a spectacular bushwalk through the
Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area
Photo by: judepics
Australia
The Overland Track, Tasmania

This 65km (40 mile) track is a spectacular bushwalk through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage
area. Hikers generally take five nights to enjoy the isolation, wonderful scenery, basic facilities and many
side trips. It's a life-changing experience, and it gives those who complete it a huge sense of
achievement. Why do it? Because it offers pristine wilderness, incredible scenery, fantastic sidetrips to
mountains, lakes and waterfalls, a chance to see wombats, platypus, tasmanian devils or wallabies in
their natural habitat, a sense of accomplishment after having hiked a "tough" trail in Tasmania's wild
conditions, and you can take a guide or do it yourself depending on experience, time, confidence and
Photo by: Frank budget.
Why not do it? It can be very tough conditions, with snow in the summer and rain at any time. You have to carry all your own gear so packs can be
heavy. It's Isolated -- without phone service, internet, or power and you have to know how to deal with untreated water.

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Instead of just driving along the Great Ocean Road, you can enjoy 100
kilometers of beautiful coastal trekking
Photo by: judepics
Australia
The Great Ocean Walk, Victoria

This terrific, newly-developed coastal walk ends near the 12 Aposles, a "must visit" attraction in Victoria,
Australia. Instead of just driving along the Great Ocean Road, you can enjoy 100 kilometers of beautiful
coastal trekking. Why? Here are just a few reasons: Coastal scenery to die for, isolated camp sites in
some spectacular locations, only eight camp sites are available each night , it's un-crowded, it's easy to
do in sections if you're short of time, you can stay in B&B's or luxury accommodation nearby, go walking
each day and relax at night, the animals are spectacular (echidnas, kangaroos, koalas, and whales
during the season). Why not? I can't think of one reason. You can "tent it" or stay off the beaten path.
Photo by: Frank The only reason not to go is if you don't like walking.

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It took a long slog to get here, but when we crested the top of the hill
and saw this view of Titirangi Bay, our jaws dropped open
Photo by: PhillipC
New Zealand
Titirangi Bay, South Island

It took a long slog up a dirt road to get here, but when we crested the top of the hill and saw this view of
Titirangi Bay, our jaws dropped open. Here, at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, you can
savour this landscape mostly on your own. The majority of tourists don't come to the top of the
Marlborough Sounds or, if they do, they don't stay the night. There's only a rustic campsite (cold water,
no showers) but you get the use of a stunning beach and plenty of inquisitive weka birds circling your
tent.
How to get here: Go to Kenepuru Head in the Queen Charlotte Sounds and follow Titirangi Road to the
Photo by: Andrew and Friedel
very end.
. Andrew and Friedel, Travelling Two
Abel Tasman National Park

During my entire month-long stay in New Zealand, few places rivaled the natural beauty of Abel Tasman
National Park. Here you are free to canoe, sea kayak, hike and generally traipse about feeling fantastic
to have survived your previous adventures. As New Zealand's smallest National Park, Abel Tasman is
like the Mona Lisa of parks - it captivates everybody with its beauty, but is actually smaller than you'd
expect.
It is also a great place to take some time and explore the local flora and fauna. New Zealand is home to
many endemic species - those that live there and only there - so grab your camera (bring extra batteries
Photo by: Jessica
and memory cards) and snap to your heart's content. Close by and not-to-miss is also a sculpture park
and natural garden center with mind-blowingly beautiful natural artwork.
. Jessica, Wild Earth Integration

Along the beach you'll see hundreds of seals basking, barking, and
frolicking
Photo by: PhillipC
New Zealand
Watching Seals in Their Natural Habitat, Cape Palliser

Cape Palliser is located on the southernmost tip of the North Island, New Zealand. It's rocky, remote,
isolated, and beautifully scenic. It's about a three hour drive away from Wellington, but it feels like you've
reached the end of the earth. Along the beach you'll see hundreds of seals basking, barking, and
frolicking. You can get pretty close to them, but be careful that one doesn't sneak up on you while you're
distracted. You also need to drive carefully as they can wander out into the road. There's one lonely
red-and-white striped lighthouse perched on the edge of the rocks peering out into the foggy ocean. It's
258 steps to climb up to the base of the lighthouse but well worth the climb as the view is beautiful.
Photo by: Dina and Ryan
. Dina and Ryan, Vagabond Quest
Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier is one of a handful of temperate glaciers in the world. This means it's situated in a
rainforest, but is somehow still a frozen block of ice that can be seen year-round. This is one not to miss
on your trip to New Zealand because of its sheer awesomeness. I mean that in terms of its actual size
and its badass-ness.
When you glacier hop, you're given a pair of metal spike attachments for your boots. These will not only
make you feel like a superhero, but will help you out immensely in those moments of sheer terror. (Did I
mention I have a bit of a fear of heights?)
Photo by: Jessica
While climbing Franz Josef, you will learn you have muscles in places you only dreamed of. This glacier is a bit of an optical illusion - while
climbing (and looking only at the white in front of you), you don't realize how high you are. It is only when you arrive at the top and look out over the
landscape that it hits you. For me, this realization was a mix of awe and 'oh $#!t how am I going to get down?!'. Luckily, you have your superhero
boots on and are free to enjoy the view.
Why it's worth it: the paradox of being surrounded by snow while feeling hot is out of this world.

When black-water rafting to see glowworms, there is no raft
Photo by: PhillipC
New Zealand
Walk and Sketch in Thordon

One of the first settled areas of Wellington, Thordon is well-preserved and has remained low-key with
travelers but not with artisans, who enjoy capturing its lines, angles and light. It's a private
neighbourhood with steep hills and terraced housing, often inaccessible from the road. The city's
information centre has trail maps to guide visitors through famous streets and places of interest, such as
Katherine Mansfield's home. Although I suggest getting lost, the area is safe and full of cafes where you
can refuel.
Photo by: JR May

. Cate, Caffeinated Traveler
Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Glowworm cave exploring sounds like a nice, safe adventure doesn't it? That's exactly what I thought
when a feisty little tour guide named Snappy was describing our task. (Looking back, her name should
have tipped me off).
I'll let you in on a secret - when black-water rafting to see glowworms, there is no raft. Instead, you are
given an inner tube and propelled into the deep, black abyss of glow worm caves. You are told to hang
onto your partner's hand (if you don't, you could actually float away) and that the water is quite cold, so
don't be surprised if you lose feeling in your hands. Yes, the very hands that are meant to keep you
Photo by: Jacques Marier
attached to your peers. Excellent.
The most harrowing part of the adventure is reaching an underground waterfall. Here, you are told to "turn around, face your butt (contained in said
inner tube) away from the falls, and jump off backwards." Of course, you can't actually see the falls because of the inky blackness, nor can you
judge exactly how high you are jumping from. At this point, I was considering how quickly one must get medical attention after a concussion. What
do you do? You take a deep breath, listen to Snappy and jump! I promise, this adventure is one for the books!
Why it's worth it: Glowworms are nature's reply to the constellations in the sky.

Some of the garden's best native flora and fauna secrets lie off the
main trails and usually go unnoticed by those who don't explore or have
inside knowledge of the area
Photo by: PhillipC
New Zealand
Botanic Gardens, Wellington

True, Wellington's public gardens are no secret and get busy in summer. Travellers take the cable car
ride to the top and meander their way back down to the main road or come bundled in tour buses to visit
the zen garden. Some of the garden's best native flora and fauna secrets lie off the main trails and
usually go unnoticed by those who don't explore or have inside knowledge of the area. One of the best
times to visit the gardens is during the summer evenings or when there's a seasonal festival on. If you
love flowers, the Spring Tulip festival is your thing and wonderful to photograph. In November, the
festival moves onto the Rose garden, where every woman called Rose gets a free coffee from the café.
Photo by: JR May And the coffee is good!!
If flowers don't interest you and music does, the gardens celebrate summer with a series of evening performances during the Christmas-New Year
period - free. Jazz, classical, pop, rock, comedy, and Elvis renditions can be heard around the streets from dusk till sunset. The concerts are
popular with Wellingtonians who come with chairs, rugs, wine and good food.
. Cate, Caffeinated Traveler
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Central America & Caribbean
Costa Rica 56 58 Honduras
Cuba 57

Tripbase.com 55
Enjoy a great deal at Didi's in Manuel Antonio
Photo by: Wha'ppen
Main Index Central America & Caribbean
Costa Rica
Didi's B&B, Manuel Antonio

The average price for a room at a top hotel in Manuel Antonio is nearly $300 per night. But my wife and I
paid about $65 per night at Didi's. We enjoyed great personal service, and good food too.
Photo by: Steven

. Steven, Travelojos
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I guarantee that you'll come back from Cuba a changed person, one
who has begun to understand what a complex nation it is, one that exists
outside of all the polarized rhetoric about it
Photo by: kooklanekookla
Cuba
Cuba
First, understand this: Cuba is not closed. It's very much open for tourism and business and even if
you're an American you can go there. I explain how in How to Travel to Cuba and Why You Should Do It
Now. I guarantee that you'll come back from Cuba a changed person, one who has begun to understand
what a complex nation it is, one that exists outside of all the polarized rhetoric about it. And if you don't,
well, I'll take you out for dinner and we can talk about it.
Photo by: Brayan Collazo

. Julie, Collazo Projects
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It's obviously nowhere near as well-known as the Amazon and this
makes it far less visited and much more authentic
Photo by: BlogMama
Honduras
La Mosquitia
La Mosquitia is an inhospitable place. It covers 32,500 square miles and to get there you have to get on
a tiny plane that lands on a strip of grass in the middle of nowhere. From there, the only way to travel
into its bowels is on a cayuco (a dugout canoe) and you can do this for days on end without seeing
anyone at all. It's the ultimate jungle trip.
It's obviously nowhere near as well-known as the Amazon and this makes it far less visited and much
more authentic. The indigenous people you find in the tiny villages dotted along the riverbanks are not
set up to receive tourists, they are simply friends of the cayuco owners who transport you from one end
Photo by: Tom
to the other. This makes for an incredible journey that exposes you to real indigenous people going
about their daily lives as well as an amazing amount of wildlife and environments. One minute you're in your canoe in the pitch black of night
crocodile-spotting, the next you're drinking pure water out of a tree branch.
There's no other experience like it and while it's not an easy ride, it's certainly worth the effort.
. Tom, Top Backpacking Destinations
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Europe
Austria 60 74 Lithuania
Croatia 61 75 Malta
Czech Republic 62 76 Norway
France 63 77 Portugal
Germany 67 78 Slovenia
Greece 68 80 Spain
Iceland 71 84 Sweden
Ireland 72 85 Switzerland
Italy 73 86 United Kingdom

Tripbase.com 59
Advent is especially magical in Austria's romantic capital, with
Christmas markets and huge bells of lights suspended from above
Photo by: joiseyshowaa
Main Index Europe
Austria
Hall, Austria
Thanks to Rick Steves, we never made it to Innsbruck, Austria. Traveling in Austria with two 2-year-olds,
we found the note in his guidebook about Hall. It mentioned a unique and inexpensive salt mine tour,
complete with wooden slide at the end. We loved the authenticity of this small village immediately and
decided to skip Innsbruck and find a hotel for the night. A local wine festival taking place in the square
contributed to our delight at finding this gem! We never even made it to the salt mine and slide, but did
enjoy sitting in the square, sampling Austrian wine, touring the church and generally relaxing with the
locals in this wonderful mountain village.
Photo by: Dee
. Dee, Travel and Travails
Hallstatt
Hallstatt is still the travel destination that I remember the most fondly. What captured my attention is that
I stumbled upon it quite by chance and found it to be so lush, green, and tidy with a dollhouse
atmosphere within the village. The surrounding mountains and lake looked nothing like what I am used
to seeing back home in Australia.
Photo by: Kirsty

. Kirsty, Travel Tips Plus
Pension Nossek, Vienna

Pension Nossek at 17 Graben Street in Vienna is one of my favourite B&Bs anywhere. It's very old-world
and Viennese, with high ceilings, wooden floors and Persian carpets. Just metres from Stephansplatz,
it's simply not possible to be more centrally located in Vienna.
Advent is especially magical in Austria's romantic capital - with Christmas markets and huge bells of
warm lights suspended from above. With the elegant baroque edifices and magnificent gilded statues
along pedestrianised Graben, the effect is stunning. It might as well be 1781. That's when Wolfgang
Amadeus Mozart walked along this street to his home at no. 17, passing the markets on his way. I adore
Photo by: Anne-Sophie
opening the large, wooden door to that very same house with my own key, then climbing the winding
stairway, thinking about how he must have done just that 230 years ago.
. Anne-Sophie, Sophie's World

Escape busy cities and even busier beaches with a weekend in Vela
Luka, located on the island of Korcula on the coast of Croatia
Photo by: 29cm
Main Index Europe
Croatia
Vela Luka on the Island of Korcula

Escape busy cities and even busier beaches during the summer in Europe with a weekend in Vela Luka,
located on the island of Korcula on the coast of Croatia. A tiny shore town, on a tiny island, it's one place
on the Adriatic Sea that hasn't been invaded by cruise ships and day trippers.
Arriving in the port, travelers will see placid green and blue waters lining a mountainous green
landscape, speckled with clay-orange houses.
The island is a best-kept secret for scuba divers as well. The calm, clear waters are a great place to
Photo by: Bobbi Lee learn how to dive. Croatia Divers offers open water, advanced and other certifications. Divers are
unlikely to see any sharks, but will spot a lot of squids, octopus and other sea life.
There are only a few shops and restaurants in town, but they offer an array of international cuisines and authentic merchandise. Expect fresh
seafood daily, friendly locals and beautiful sunsets. Being in Eastern Europe, Vela Luka is more affordable than well-known beach destinations in
Western Europe and not too far away. At dusk, the sky turns pink as the sun sinks away to reveal a perfect starry night.
How to get there: Ferries from Split, on the coast of Croatia, usually run at least once a day, but check the times before arriving. Purchase tickets
online or at the port. Visitors can reach Split by train from Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. The train ride alone is a great travel secret as passengers
get the chance to see Croatia's beautiful landscapes.
. Bobbi Lee, Heels and Wheels Online
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The moment you step into Cesky Krumlov, you feel as if you've been
dropped directly into a wild fairytale
Photo by: kruhme
Main Index Europe
Czech Republic
Cesky Krumlov
The moment you step into Cesky Krumlov, you feel as if you've been dropped directly into a wild
fairytale. With the mysteriously magnificent and massive Cesky Krumlov Castle rising straight out of the
rocky cliffs above the 13th century town, the sight of Shrek or Snow White walking through the central
plaza would not seem out of place at all.
Medieval, renaissance and baroque buildings, many displaying beautiful external frescoes, are packed
into the enigmatic maze of narrow cobblestone lanes. One could spend hours wandering around, with
eyes open wide and a sense of awe that intensifies with each step. Old wooden bridges span the narrow
Photo by: Earl
Vltava River and the gothic St. Vitus church stands impressively tall in the center of town.
Surrounded by rolling hills and forest, just as any fairy tale town should be, Cesky Krumlov offers more than just fine architecture and an
extraordinarily inspiring castle. It offers a glimpse into the life of South Bohemia, a lifestyle that is simple, traditional and community-based, where
locals gather in small cafes every evening and welcome visitors as instant friends.
Long before I spent time in Cesky Krumlov I had heard about its magical vibe, and sure enough, I encountered it first-hand during my visit. And I
still continue to feel that magic every time I think about the existence of that living, breathing, fairy tale town.
. Earl, Wandering Earl
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From the shores of Calvi to the mountainous region around Corte, the
island really did have that separating effect, isolating and cutting me off
from any connection with other lands
Photo by: flickrusertest2
Main Index Europe
France
Cerbere
On our way back to the Netherlands from a trip to Spain, my friend and I narrowly missed our connecting
train in Cerbere, France (Languedoc Roussillon region). All we wanted to do was get home, but the next
train wasn't for a few hours. Tired and disoriented, we wandered towards the sparkling blue water that
caught our eye beyond the train tracks. Always up for an adventure, we decided to follow a narrow trail
etched into the side of a cliff along the shallow water, which to our surprise, led to a stunning little cove
resembling a small lagoon. It was a gorgeous day, and after swimming in the cove we picnicked on
some sunny rocks. Munching on fresh sandwiches, we smiled at each other as we realized that missing
Photo by: Mike our train was surely worth this delightful detour.
. Mike, Europe Up Close
Corsica in Low Season

My sister and I embarked for Corsica a few years ago. Most people do not even know where Corsica is.
The island rests above Sardinia and is considered a part of France. What is probably quite popular with
Italians and the French was dead in early spring. We found ourselves the only people, it seemed, in most
towns. While this can have an isolating and boring effect, we both felt just the opposite. I sensed I was a
part of something secret, as though I was let in on the mystery of traveling through Corsica in the
off-season. Part of that discretion I think came with the languages I heard around Corsica. You know a
place is heavily visited when you hear English every other minute. I did not hear English spoken once, a
Photo by: Suzy true rarity these days. Well, that is not entirely true. Our bus driver enjoyed singing Avril Lavigne. From
the shores of Calvi to the mountainous region around Corte, the island really did have that separating effect, isolating and cutting me off from any
connection with other lands.
. Suzy, Suzy Guese

It was our own private adventure and it was a beautiful way to spend a
few hours in the South of France
Main Index Europe
France
Ile De Frioul
My friends and I were in Marseille for a couple days and weren't sure what to do in town. We went down
to the harbor, the center of town, and bought a ticket for a boat ride to Ile de Frioul. The island was very
quiet and so we felt like the only three people exploring its many paths up hills and into hidden coves. It
was our own private adventure and it was a beautiful way to spend a few hours in the South of France.
Photo by: Joy

. Joy, Be a Travel Bee
Lyon, the 'Other' Paris

Travel to France usually means Paris, a few chateaux in the Loire Valley, usually Provence, and a quick
trip to Reims or Burgundy for... you know... the best champagne and wine in the world. But who goes to
Lyon? It's even spelled differently in English - Lyons - and for most people, it's a backwater.
It's not! Here are my three reasons why you should go:
1. Lyon is known as the Food Capital of France, home to Paul Bocuse and birthplace of the Nouvelle
Cuisine. You won't be hankering for seconds in a typical 'bouchon Lyonnais' and it's a meal to
Photo by: JR Guillaumin remember.
2. A large part of the city's core is a Unesco World Heritage Site, complete with winding streets and traboules (alleys connecting streets used in the
past to carry bolts of silk or for smuggling), roman ruins, art deco and futuristic architecture, Basilica, Renaissance courtyards...
3. You'll find some of France's more unusual museums here: Fabrics, Miniatures, Gallo-Roman, Urban, Resistance and Deportation, Film Sets,
Printing and Puppets, not to mention the world-class art museums you'd expect to find in France's second-largest metropolitan area.
. Leyla, Women on the Road

Montpellier is a cosmopolitan town filled with universities to which
students from around the world flock
Main Index Europe
France
Montpellier, France
Whenever I tell someone I lived in France during my junior year of college, they assume I lived in Paris.
No, mes amis, I lived in Montpellier in the Languedoc region of Southern France. The lan-gue-what?! Not
many Americans make a point to visit Languedoc - a region perhaps best known as being the worst for
growing wine in all of France.
But here's what the French know. They know Montpellier is a cosmopolitan town filled with universities to
which students from around the world flock. They know Montpellier's very walk-able downtown is filled
with shops with the latest fashions. They know the town's large center square, La Place de la Comedie,
Photo by: Colleen
is one of the prettiest you'll find in all of Europe. The square is surrounced by cafes perfect for
people-watching and is flanked by a gorgeous opera house at one end and the tree-lined Esplanade Charles de Gaulle at the other. In the
summer, the beaches just outside of town are filled with French and foreign tourists seeking sun and sand at a more affordable price than what can
be found to the East along the French Riviera.
If you want art and monuments, go to Paris. If you want history, head to Normandy. For castles, the Loire Valley. For wine, Burgundy or
Champagne. Skiing, Grenoble. Posh beaches, Cannes. But if you want to visit a French city with a youthful vibe and an international flair, where
old-world tradition and architecture collide with modern day, you must go to Montpellier.
. Colleen, Travel Mamas
The Mona Lisa Sucks

It's small. It's covered in glass that reflects your own photo back at you even if you don't use a flash. It's
surrounded by hundreds of people jockeying for position, like she's a slow bartender at a busy nightclub.
And come on, she's kind of an uggo.
Photo by: Werner William

. Joel, Freedonia Post

While most tourists focus on the Alps, the nearby Jura -- older, lower,
and greener -- sits almost empty
Main Index Europe
France
Winged Victory, the Louvre

How many people in this photograph are actually looking at Winged Victory? It's like she isn't even there.
Invisible in plain sight. The Winged Victory of Samothrace is that one piece of art in the Louvre that is
constant. Throughout the years, as the museum has undergone its changes, while pieces have moved,
as pyramids have been built, Winged Victory has always remained in the same spot at the entrance to
the Denon wing of the museum. I always look for her on my visits to the museum. She serves as a
touchstone, a centerpiece, a starting point.
Photo by: Kimberly

. Kimberly, Notes to Self
The Jura Mountains

When it snows, I can put on my snowshoes and walk straight up the Jura Mountains behind my house. If
I really wanted to, I could go on for days. While most tourists focus on the Alps, the nearby Jura -- older,
lower, and greener -- sits almost empty. It's ideal for those who like the wild outdoors.
Why should YOU visit the Jura?
The Jura stretches from my corner of France all the way across Switzerland and into Bavaria. If you love
nature, depending on the season, you can travel for days on end, on foot, ski, horseback, snowshoe or
Photo by: Altair Vega Deneb bicycle. While everyone heads for the cities, the beach or Alpine resorts, you can have a mountain range
almost all to yourself.
The Jura is nature at its best. If you love France but want to wander away from the tourist hordes, you can lose yourself in these mountains for as
long as you want. They're a honeycomb of ski and walking trails, waterways and protected areas, whose military history reminds travelers that
since Roman times, these mountains served as a bulwark against invasion.
It offers lesser-known but much-appreciated food and wines. After a day of snowshoeing, there's nothing like a rib-sticking 'croute' or raclette to
warm you up and get you ready for another day. Leave the Alps to everyone else and head off the beaten path.

The Bayerischer Wald (Bavarian Forest) has some of the prettiest
countryside in all of Germany
Photo by: Trodel
Main Index Europe
Germany
Bayerischer Wald
Hike, swim and rodelbahn in the summer. Ski, tobaggan and snow shoe in the winter. Enjoy traditional
Bavarian hospitality year-round. Eat well - and drink even better. The Bayerischer Wald (Bavarian
Forest) has some of the prettiest countryside in all of Germany - and I keep returning. It manages to be a
place where I discover new things every time I visit - and yet I still always feel right at home.
Photo by: Kayt

. Kayt, Travel Savvy Mom
Great Off-the-Beaten-path Hotel: Inn-Berlin

This small hotel in hip Berlin is shiny, bright, modern, and spotless, and its owners, Ralph and Yvonne,
are extremely friendly and helpful. The rooms are bright and clean, and all have fluffy down comforters
encased in colorful duvets. The style is Ikea-minimal with clean lines. Rooms have cool and whimsical
murals on their walls, and most importantly, they all come with their very own good-luck gnomes! The
Inn-Berlin is located a bit north of central Berlin, but the trip to most of the city's main districts can be
made in just 15 minutes on either the U-Bahn or S-Bahn.
Photo by: Lisa

. Lisa, LL World Tour
Erfurt
Erfurt is a beautiful, culturally rich city, set smack dab in the center of Germany. The capital of
Germany's Thuringia region, Erfurt boasts one of the best preserved historic centers in Germany. The
old town is built around the Dom Platz, a huge square dominated by the Cathedral of St. Mary (
Mariendom) and the St. Severus Church (Severi-Kirche), a former Benedictine Abbey. The Rathaus (City
Hall) is located on Fischmarkt square and is really worth touring. The interior is decorated with historical
frescoes depicting the lives of Martin Luther (who lived in Erfurt for awhile) and others. The Anger
Museum houses a collection of important German paintings.
Photo by: Terri
While we spent a full two-plus days in this charming, historically significant city, we were not able to see
and do all we wanted. We only scratched the surface and look forward to a return visit to Erfurt.
. Terri, Europe Up Close

I couldn't believe my luck at being able to walk in the path of Plato
Photo by: Wolfgang Staudt
Main Index Europe
Greece
The Kerameikos Cemetery, Athens

Starting in 1980, friends suggested I go there, people who lived in Athens said it was one of their favorite
sites, and still I hesitated. Not that I have anything against cemeteries, but there is SO MUCH to see in
Athens. Last year, I finally walked the short distance between my Syntagma hotel, past the Monastraki
metro station (you can take the metro from Syntagma to Monastraki if you're a real wimp). Everything
they said was true. For 1000 years, Athenians were laid to rest here. The ancient markers include some
gorgeous carving. The small museum's display about the mass graves during the plague brought me to
tears. I could not believe my luck at being able to walk in the path of Plato. OK, Matt Barrett, finally went.
Photo by: Vera And now I'm telling others and they are probably saying, "but there is SO MUCH to see in Athens.
. Vera, A Travelers' Library
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You don't want to be the American who floods the bathroom
Main Index Europe
Greece
Flushing is Forbidden
It may not be guaranteed in the Constitution, but Americans take their right to flush used toilet paper
down the toilet very seriously. Here in the U.S., I've seen plenty of signs requesting that nothing other
than toilet paper be flushed, but never a request not to flush toilet paper. Nor had I encountered
non-toilet-paper toilets throughout my travels all over Europe, the Caribbean or Mexico.
I first learned that you couldn't flush the toilet paper in Santorini when I was researching my trip in the
Tripadvisor.com forums. I saw some people complaining about the toilets, so I asked the people in the
forum to recommend a hotel that had better flushing toilets. I then learned that the plumbing system
Photo by: Liz
there just isn't equipped to handle toilet paper. (I actually think that a lot of American toilets aren't
equipped to handle toilet paper either, which is why when you go into a public restroom there are so many disgusting clogged toilets.)
So when you're in Greece, you will see a bin next to the toilet and that is where you are supposed to put the paper. Usually there won't be a sign,
as the presence of the bin says it all. Some people (especially Americans), don't realize that's why the bin is there.
OK, so no one is going to prevent you from flushing toilet paper when you're on the john. But you don't want to be the American who floods the
bathroom, do you?
. Liz, Travelogged
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You'll have amazing views without the crowds and you can easily
walk to Fira
Main Index Europe
Greece
Stay at Firostefani in Santorini

Santorini is the one of the most beautiful places on earth, and that's no secret. But once you make the
excellent decision to go there, you're going to have to decide where to stay. For most islands, I would
say stay by the beach, but this is not most islands. The whole point of Santorini is the magnificent view
over the caldera, so you need to stay cliff side (West Coast) as opposed to beach side (East Coast).
The two main towns in Santorini are Ia and Fira. Ia is picture-perfect. It even has a windmill. But it's all
the way up on the northern tip, so exploring the island will be difficult. And you won't want to miss Red
Beach, which is all the way to the south. Fira is the capital, and it's right in the middle of the West Coast.
But it can get very crowded.
I recommend that you stay just outside Fira in Firostefani. You'll have amazing views without the crowds and you can easily walk to Fira. When I
was there, I stayed in Villa Ilias, and I highly recommend it as a reasonably priced hotel with an outstanding location. If you continue north along
the coast you'll reach Imerovigli, which also has great views and some more upscale hotel choices. But it's a longer walk to Fira, and one that I
wouldn't want to do late at night after dinner (not for safety issues, but because it gets very dark).
. Liz, Travelogged
The Mani Peninsula

The Peloponnese Peninsula of Greece teems with variety. The ancient sites of Mycenae (where
Agammemnon hung out), and Olympia (where you can run on the ancient track, just not in the ancient
dress style, which was nude), beach towns, Kalamata olives, mountains and rushing streams -- and the
strangest bunch of domiciles I have ever seen. In the Mani, you will spot clusters of tower houses --
square, one room atop another with no door on the ground level. It looks like a medieval attempt to
protect against another kingdom, but in fact it is 19th century attempts to protect against neighbors.
Photo by: cantaloupe99

. Vera, A Travelers' Library

Suddenly the powerful dogs began to run across the glacier, whipping
us along at the whistling, song-like commands of their handler
Photo by: o palsson
Main Index Europe
Iceland
Dog Sledding in Iceland

Seat belted tightly inside a Hummer, I traveled from Reykjavik along frozen, isolated roads that were
eventually so full of potholes that our driver had to stop and let almost all the air out of the tires to make it
through to the end. After several hours of bone-rattling, head-hitting-the-roof travel, we arrived at a
glacier, where scores of white huskies awaited in the icy snow. I climbed into a sled along with four other
people, one behind the other, legs stretched out in front of us. Suddenly the powerful dogs began to run
across the glacier, whipping us along at the whistling, song-like Icelandic commands of their handler.
Surrounded in all directions by sheer white we glided out into the middle of just about absolutely
Photo by: geofthref nowhere. Several years have passed since I experienced this, and the name of the outfit with which I
traveled on this dog sledding excursion as well as the name of the location in Iceland where we traveled is lost in time --- making this experience
all the more secret.
. Sabina, Solo Female Traveler
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My first night in Dublin was the most memorable of my semester
abroad
Photo by: Godo-Godaj
Main Index Europe
Ireland
Don't Walk Barefoot in the Rain Through the Streets of Dublin

My first night in Dublin was the most memorable of my semester abroad. My friends and I participated in
a pub crawl led by a rowdy Aussie, partied in ten different bars and made a dozen new friends (although
I know only two of them now). But by the end of the night, my shoes were chafing and I ditched them to
go barefoot. Not even bums do this because a) the streets are filthy and b) they're smarter than I am. My
lack of shoes plus other careless acts led to a violent case of gastroenteritis, which caused me to miss
all my field trips for the week and destroyed the rest of my time in Ireland.
Photo by: Candice

. Candice, Candice Does the World
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Italy
We have an entire eBook dedicated to Italy.

Download it here.

Near this lovely, artistically painted house in Vilnius lies a secret
garden... full of phallic statues
Photo by: txd
Main Index Europe
Lithuania
Phallic Statue Garden, Vilnius

Near this lovely, artistically painted house in Vilnius lies a secret garden... full of phallic statues. And, it is
not so much secret as it is just off the road a bit. Either way, it is still an interesting place to chill out next
to, perhaps with a snack, in view of a small flowing creek and these lovely odes to manhood. With
landmarks such as these, it is no wonder that Vilnius was voted the 2009 European Capital of Culture.
Yet, even without these phallic statues, I would recommend it as a European stopover to anyone.
Photo by: Brooke

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On the small island of Gozo is the fishing village known as Xlendi
Photo by: MacUK
Main Index Europe
Malta
Xlendi Bay, Gozo

On the small island of Gozo is the fishing village known as Xlendi. Its focal point is the small sea-inlet
'Xlendi Bay' with its deep turquoise waters, sandy beach and surrounding cliffs. The bay is often dotted
with the traditional fishing boats displaying the bright colours of blue, red and yellow, adding to the
beauty of this town.
Photo by: stevesheriw

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Filled with glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, and jagged mountains, it's a
haven for rock climbers and mountain hikers
Photo by: kennymatic
Main Index Europe
Norway
Kjøsterudjuvet Gorge, Drammen

Last, but not least, is Kjøsterudjuvet Gorge, practically in my back yard. Well, not back yard exactly, but
a mere ten minutes from home. Kjøsterudjuvet was formed during the last Ice Age and not much has
changed over the last 10,000 years. You have to know about it, as the entry to this ancient canyon isn't
apparent.
Once you find it, you'll be enthralled, ascending the 1300 meter peak hidden by steep 60-meter-high
walls on either side. Along the watery path, hopping from rock to rock, you'll pass 1000-year-old trees,
left to decompose naturally. Halfway up, a rope has been tacked along the moutain side, helping you
through a particularly challenging passage. But don't worry, this is not a demanding climb. In fact, it's a
popular school outing, so you might just bump into a class of local 3rd graders. Near the top is a waterfall. And an iron ladder, bolted into the rock
face. Climbing the ladder to the top, the water will probably hit you right in the face. Exhilarating! On top, idyllic Lake Gamledammen and a
well-deserved rest awaits.
Jotunheimen National Park

The Jotunheimen in southern Norway are home to the tallest peaks in the country. Filled with glaciers,
lakes, waterfalls, and jagged mountains, it's a haven for rock climbers and mountain hikers. I would of
course recommend going in the summer when Norway is blessed with sunshine most of the day and
enough snow has melted that everything is green, flowing, and not bitter cold. It's easy to stumble upon
glaciers...and waterfalls...and small Norwegian villages nestled among the many lakes. If visiting the
national park, stay at Turtagrø -- the perfect place for an evening of rest after hiking, climbing, or
cross-country skiing. The lounge downstairs is full of large couches, books, maps, and a fireplace.
Photo by: Adrienne Dinner at the Turtagrø was an amazing spread of mountain trout, a thick meaty stew, and roasted root
vegetables, all served community style with the other guests. Jotunheimen National Park is close to some of the western fjords in Norway. The
Turtagrø has quite a history and is about 300km from Bergen and 400km from Oslo.
. Adrienne, Gastroanthropology

I sucked every last drop out of the single day in Porto and a big part of
what made the stay so memorable was Guest House Douro
Photo by: Fr Antunes
Main Index Europe
Portugal
Guest House Douro, Porto

The colorful city of Porto, Portugal is itself underappreciated, and within the Ribeira district an excellent
guest house operates: Guest House Douro. It's probably a good thing that I didn't know how enchanting
this city and guest house would be as I probably would have trashed the remainder of the Portugal
itinerary. As it transpired, I sucked every last drop out of the single day in Porto and a big part of what
made the stay so memorable was Guest House Douro and its super-friendly proprietors, João and
Carmen.
When I stayed there, the guest house had been open for less than a year. The owners had moved from
Photo by: Keith
Montreal, casting aside their comfortable lifestyle, and bought a ruin of a building in a perfect location
overlooking the Douro river. The wonderful Guest House Douro finally emerged after a lot of hard work and bureaucratic red tape. Over a glass of
his mother's homemade aguardiente (the local firewater), João and I talked about the process of renovating the guest house and doing business in
Portugal. It was a fascinating conversation, and the openness with which Carmen and João spoke to me made me feel like a long lost friend.
. Keith , Traveling Savage
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Set around the stunning emerald lake, the town oozes charm and you'd
be happy just to kick back and soak it all up forever
Photo by: Rosino
Main Index Europe
Slovenia
Be Awed by kocjan Cave

Slovenia has a unique geography that includes an extensive underground cave system. The Postojna
Caves are better known and easier to reach, but the less touristy kocjan is a truly amazing experience as
well. kocjan is an extensive network of huge connected caves and is an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The 90 minute guided tour into the partially-lit caves feels like a Jules Verne novel or a descent into
Middle Earth. The highlight is walking across a tiny bridge that spans an epic underground canyon while
an invisible river rushes some 45 meters below. Not for the faint of heart, but if you are brave enough, it's
strange, beautiful and bizarre.
Photo by: Stephanie
. Stephanie, 20 Something Travel
Lake Bled
Eastern Europe has become more and more popular as a place to go travelling so this probably isn't as
much of a secret as it once was, but Lake Bled is a must visit for any traveller worth their salt. It has all
the benefits of any Eastern European destination: easily accessible, great value and good beer! But Bled
has even more on top of this.
Set around the stunning emerald lake, the town oozes charm and you'd be happy just to kick back and
soak it all up forever. But there's too much else on offer to just laze around. You can rent a boat and row
your way out to Bled Island, a tiny piece of land set it in the middle of the lake with just a church and a
Photo by: Tom
few trees to keep you company. Or if you're feeling especially active there's incredible hiking, rafting and
skiing in the surrounding mountains, which provide a jaw-dropping backdrop to the beauty of the lake.
One thing's for sure, Bled is less of a secret than it once was. Get yourself there before the hoards ruin it.

Slovenia's Soca River takes top prize for the most beautiful river
we've seen anywhere, and the variety of activities you can do in this
corner of Slovenia is impressive
Photo by: Rosino
Main Index Europe
Slovenia
Kobarid on the Soca River

Slovenia's Soca River takes top prize for the most beautiful river we've seen anywhere, and the variety
of activities you can do in this corner of Slovenia is impressive. Go hiking, rafting, rock climbing, diving or
just visit the local towns. Kobarid has a great museum. It's just across the mountains from Italy. Why
don't more people come here?
How to get there: Take Route 52 out of Amaro, then the SS646 in Italy, up and over the mountains to the
small town of Kobarid. Just beware the hills after Lischiazze!

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Carmona is a snug and atmospheric Andalusian town that clings to a
cliff-edge and overlooks the region's capital, Seville
Photo by: Reinante El Pintor de Fuego
Main Index Europe
Spain
The Seven Lighthouses of Menorca

Menorca is a small, Spanish island that is near and dear to my heart. No, I said Menorca, not Majorca.
Menorca is the smaller and less-visited neighbor, but I happened to spend an entire month there while
taking part in an archaeological field school. There are seven lighthouses spread around the outskirts of
the island that make great sightseeing points. Simply rent a car for the day and off you go!
Photo by: Brooke

Moorish and Roman Carmona

Carmona is a snug and atmospheric Andalusian town that clings to a cliff-edge and overlooks the
region's capital, Seville. Its narrow streets have both Roman and Moorish features, but the highlight is
the Carmona Parador - a luxury hotel with clear fountains, tiled interiors and romantic views across the
olive groves. Anyone can stop in for a drink...
Photo by: Abi

. Abi, Cheap Weekend Breaks
Village Festival, Triacastela and Preparation of Queimada

Triacastela is a village along the path of the "Camino de Santiago", a pilgrimage route. On the 11th of
October, a big village festival is celebrated among the locals and any guests (mainly pilgrims) are
allowed to participate! What's the plan? Stuffing your face with free food like chorizos, salchichon, paella
and flowing wine... as much as you want! Dancing like crazy to Spanish songs next to a Transformer-like
truck that turns into a huge stage with laser and light shows. Assisting in the ritual of preparing an
alcoholic beverage that dates back to the time of the Druids -- The Queimada. Oh, and getting drunk.
Photo by: gazpa


Preserving age-old architectural styles and countryside charm, these
little towns exude natural beauty and thick Spanish history
Main Index Europe
Spain
Mountain Towns of Alpujarras

Few tourists know about these white-washed villages hidden away in the Sierra Nevada mountains of
Southern Spain. An hour's drive away from Granada, over 30 traditional villages are scattered over the
Alpujarras. Preserving age-old architectural styles and countryside charm, these little towns exude
natural beauty and thick Spanish history. Wander through the narrow alleys and you might bump into
friendly locals or herds of sheep. These days, the Alpujarras is becoming a hippie hangout and many
nomads are setting up shop here. Some of my favourite villages include Capileira and Pitres.
Photo by: Nellie

Extremadura Region
Barcelona, Madrid and Andalusia get so much tourist traffic, but it's the little-visited Extremadura region
(one of Spain's least-visited regions and the birthplace of Cortez, Pizarro and other Spanish
conquistadors) that provides so much inspiration for me. Its rural landscapes are full of olive trees and
Holm oaks, its craggy mountainsides are coated with pine and chestnut trees and its historic towns --
Guadalupe, Merida, Trujillo, Zafra and Caceres -- are laced with labyrinthine streets. Each has a distinct
character and is worth a visit to see palaces bearing the prominent families' coats of arms. Guadalupe is
known for its massive monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and wealth of museums with
Photo by: Jeanine elaborate embroidered vestments, reliquaries, and ancient books of Gregorian chants. Merida has some
of the most complete Roman ruins around -- so massive that I was able to jog along the periphery of the Roman Circus, where chariot rides once
took place. Every June Caceres, the capital of the province and another UNESCO World Heritage site, hosts the Classic Theater Festival, where
the works of gold age artists can be experienced.
In whitewashed Zafra, you'll find one of Spain's most impressive paradors housed in a 15th-century fortress-palace. I didn't stay there, but I
enjoyed the property's best feature: it's white marble Renaissance patio where I dined one evening on guinea hen in puff pastry. I stayed at Hotel
Huerta Honda, the next-door property that was once the site of the castle's farm. In fact, the hotel's restaurant retains the original brick archway
that was part of the fortress in the late 1400s. I also was lucky enough to visit during an annual event, De La Luna Al Fuego, when I took a historic
tour of the fortress' impressive ramparts.
. Jeanine, J The Travel Authority

Too small to get lost in but just right to lose yourself in
Main Index Europe
Spain
Vejer De La Frontera, Andalusia

Andalusian Spain is filled with beautiful white-washed towns, and the hilltop village of Vejer de la
Frontera -- less than an hour southeast of Cadíz -- is no exception. When I arrived in early June, the sun
seemed to come from all directions. Our abode, an open-air B&B named El Cobijo, turned out to be a
gorgeous spot to look at the stars before turning in. The excellent communal breakfasts carried us
through to the later meals, where we enjoyed traditional Moroccan cuisine at El Jardin de la Califa and a
variety of hand-crafted rums and tapas at La Chozita.
Vejer's incongruous passages made exploring the city exciting. The town was too small to get lost in, but
Photo by: Keith
just right to lose yourself in.
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You are not "teaching" English per se, you just have to speak it
Main Index Europe
Spain
Volunteering in Valdelavilla
I did this program in 2006 after a semester of studying in Denmark and before a summer of teaching
English in Poland. The basic premise is that Spanish companies pay to send their employees on a week
of English immersion, and the English immersion is provided by volunteers. You are not "teaching"
English per se, you just have to speak it. In my experience, every one was nearly fluent in English.
Each morning is spent in one-on-one pairs that switch every hour. There were 36 people in my program,
so you were paired with each of the Spaniards multiple times over the course of the week, but you
weren't repetitively with the same people. It was a nice mix and it helped to get to know everyone. You
Photo by: Elizabeth
are free to discuss whatever you like - families, jobs, hobbies, etc. After a three-course lunch with wine
and the requisite siesta, there are group activities, followed by a three-course dinner with wine.
I was at Valdelavilla, which I believe is the most rural of the four Spanish locations. We were literally in the middle of a beautiful nowhere - there
was nothing except the villas where we were staying, so the focus was truly on the program and each other. (There is also a site in Italy, but it is by
invitation-only to veteran volunteers).
For my program, I was the youngest person in the group by at least a decade. (Most participants were middle-aged and the oldest was in her
eighties). I didn't mind and neither did anyone else, but I note it because this wouldn't be the most appropriate option for younger travelers who
want to be surrounded by their peers.
The accommodation, food (and wine), and people were all amazing. Pueblo Ingles also provides transportation to and from Madrid, so all you have
to do is find your way to Madrid!
. Elizabeth, Go With the Ebb
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Take in the soothing sounds of cold water lapping against shiny gray
rocks
Photo by: *_filippo_*
Main Index Europe
Sweden
Our Rock in Lidingö

Just one of 28,000 islands in Stockholm's archipelago. Hiking along the waterfront on a narrow cliff trail
bordered by vegetation and water. Finally reaching our rock. Taking in the soothing sounds of cold water
lapping against shiny gray rocks. Sipping coffee poured from a tin canister. Biting into warm cinnamon
rolls (kanelbullar). Small white boats with blue and yellow flags sailing by. Hours frozen in time and spent
just existing in one space.
Photo by: Lola

. Lola, Geo Travelers' Niche
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Here is an itinerary of a circular road trip that hits some of
Switzerland's best spots
Photo by: harshilshah100
Main Index Europe
Switzerland
Western Switzerland Road Trip

Here is an itinerary of a circular road trip that hits some of Switzerland's best spots. This road trip takes
you through the Swiss and French Alps so take note that some roads may be closed during the winter
months.
You can fly into Geneva easily from the US. There are direct flights from New York and connections with
every major European city. Geneva is part of the French-speaking area of Switzerland and right on the
western edge of Lake Geneva or Lac Léman. It sits just under the Alps, and glacier skiing is a mere 45
minutes away by car. Geneva is a charming town with cobblestone streets running through the old town
Photo by: Adrienne
and clocks and chocolate in abundant supply.
From Geneva, head northeast along the lake towards Montreux. There are multiple towns along the way that are worth a stop. Just past Montreux
is Château de Chillon. A tour of the castle on the lake is absolutely worth it. Look for Lord Byron's name in the dungeon -- he etched it into one of
the pillars when he was held captive there in the 1500s.
From Montreux head north to Bern, stopping at Gruyère along the way. Park at the base of the old town and walk up, checking out the lovely cows,
who even have the Swiss bells tied to their necks! They are responsible for the milk that makes the lovely Gruyère cheese for the best grilled
cheese! Make sure to tour the Old Town.And, visit the Château de Gruyère for its wonderful views. Eat lots of cheese and continue on to Bern.
Bern is home to a gorgeous medieval old town and a famous, 800 year-old clock tower. From Bern head south towards Thun to get to Interlaken.
At Interlaken head into the Alps taking both forks to Grindelwald and Gimmelwald. Definitely take the train up to Wengen for this amazing view -
From Gimmelwald take the series of cable cars up to the Schilthorn. From here you can see the Eiger and Jungfrau. After you return back to
Interlaken, head east and then south towards the Grimselpass. This is the famous Swiss mountain pass, with amazing views. The Grimselpass is
closed during the winter months. After crossing the pass, head west towards Brig. Just past Brig is Visp. From Visp you can take a train to Zermatt.
Visitors can not drive into Zermatt. This is in an effort to protect the air quality, reduce congestion, and provide a better view of the Matterhorn.
Once you have collected your car at Visp, continue west towards Sierre and Sion. In Sion, visit the Château de Tourbillon for a great view of the
town's fortified church, the Basilique de Valère. Continue west towards Martigny.
You have now entered the region from where the Swiss mountain rescue dogs - St Bernards - come from. You can take the Great Saint Bernard
Pass back towards Lake Geneva, but I suggest continuing west towards the French Alps. You could take the road a bit and backtrack. You will be
treated to some quintessential Swiss landscapes. And, you may also get a chance to see a few of the St Bernard's born and bred here. Continue
west towards Mont Blanc. Ski Chamonix or any of the many surrounding ski areas for glacier skiing. After you've had your fill of skiing and hiking
the alps, treat yourself to a large, hot pot of Swiss fondue! For a relaxing reward after all this roadtripping head to Lake Annecy. During the warmer
months of the year you can swim in the lake. The town is beautiful and peppered with many fabulous restaurants. Nate and I often traveled in
Switzerland without booking in advance. We figured worst case we would sleep in the car. This allowed us to take more time in the places we liked
and to quickly visit the places that didn't interest us as much. We always found a place to stay, but it also meant not being picky, or driving on to
the next town. If you must plan in advance and are taking this roadtrip, I would recommend staying a few nights (2-3) in the Interlaken area, one
night in Zermatt, one night in the Martigny area, one night in the French/Swiss (Bernese) Alps (more if you are skiing or hiking), one night at Lake
Annecy, and one night in Geneva (possibly two if you are there during Summer).
. Adrienne, Gastroanthropology

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Named Postman's Park because it was the former location of the

General Post Office, the park is the location of the Monument to Heroic
Self-Sacrifice
Photo by: Lincolnian (Brian)
Main Index Europe
United Kingdom
Postman's Park, London

This is one of the most beautiful things I've seen in my travels. Even though it's little known and I
consider it a secret, I'm happy to let many people in on it because it should be seen. Located just up the
street from St. Paul's lies a park that was a former burial ground for the city of London. As such, it's
elevated above the street level. Named Postman's Park because it was the former location of the
General Post Office, the park is the location of the Monument to Heroic Self-Sacrifice. The designer of
the park decided to honor those who had given their lives to save others but would otherwise have been
forgotten in history. There are over a hundred tiles like the ones below, the latest added in 2007.
Photo by: moxxo
. Dan, Eight Hour Layover
London's Lesser Known Museums

For places to visit in London, I'd hesitate to suggest that these are secret, but they are things I really
enjoyed and are missed by most travellers if they're only visiting London for a few days. If you have more
time, or regularly get to London, then do seek them out, as they'll give you a real insight into London life
and English society and culture. The Geffrye Museum is set in an old Almshouse in East London, and
you'll find room sets, each filled with the domestic interior of English homes through the ages, giving a
glimpse into the society of the time. There's a wonderful cafe in a modern glass annex, and at the back
there are a series of gardens with the style and plants of different eras. And it's all free, although there's
Photo by: Heather a small charge for the audioguide. At the Denis Severs House in Shoreditch, you can step into a
townhouse owned by an 18th-century family of prosperous silk weavers. Everything is just as they might have left it -- you're in a stage set for a
costume drama, where the characters have just left the room. You'll breathe the air, take in the smells and sounds of life at the time as you tour the
house in silence by candle-light. The house is open only at certain times and days, but worth planning a visit if you can. Check their website for
details.
. Heather, Heather on her Travels

London has a huge music scene and I found that I learned the most
about new and up-and-coming bands by going to as many indie dance
clubs as possible
Main Index Europe
United Kingdom
Indie Dance Club Nights in London

Panic! @ the roxy - an awesome Indie/Electro/Pop night - from a flyer that was handed to me on the
street. I think I had also seen it written about in the always useful Time Out magazine. London has a
huge music scene and I found that I learned the most about new and up-and-coming bands by going to
as many indie dance clubs as possible. At one point, I think I had found one to go to each and every
night of the week. White Heat (also every Tuesday), Club NME at Koko (every Friday), and whatever
else I saw posted in Time Out were my regular hang-outs.
The best part about all these great indie nights in London? The price! Almost always these were my
Photo by: Adam
cheapest nights out in the city and I always met new people - Londoners, each and every time! The
drinks were cheap (I seem to remember £2 tequila shots), the crowds were INSANE (always left smelling like beer) and the people were all young
and local hipsters. If you like good music and a fun time, these London clubs are not to be missed!
. Adam, Travels of Adam
Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archeology

The British Museum in London gets millions of visitors every year, and understandably. It has excellent
exhibits. But sometimes, don't you just wish you could see the exhibits minus the crowds? If Egyptian
antiquities are up your alley, try the lesser-known Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archeology instead, which
is located at the University College London, Malet Place. This free museum is small, but it's not crowded
(in fact, I had the whole place to myself when I visited), and it's nice and cool when the weather outside
is hot. The Petrie is a teaching museum with an extensive collection of 80,000 Egyptian artifacts. The
collection includes hieroglyphs, sculptures, papyrus, amulets, weapons, tools, and textiles so old you
Photo by: Gray would think they would have disintegrated by now. The museum was named for William Flanders Petrie
(1853-19420), a prominent Egyptian archeologist. A new, larger museum is scheduled to open in a year or two, allowing for the entire collection to
be on display at once. The entrance to this museum is not easy to find as it's set back away from the main street, but it is worth the effort.
. Gray, Solo Friendly

Nowhere is the rich history of London more apparent than by the
River Thames -- the major artery that pumps through the city's heart
Main Index Europe
United Kingdom
Play Archaeologist on the Banks of the Thames

Nowhere is the rich history of London more apparent than by the River Thames -- the major artery that
pumps through the city's heart. The Thames is a tidal river and the strong waters stir up the bottom silt to
wash all sorts of interesting tidbits from the past ashore. At low tide, a walk along the banks of the old
river is an opportunity to discover all sorts of interesting debris: old bricks, shards of pottery, and bones
of indiscriminate origin. On a fifteen minute scavenge along the shore I found an interesting looking
(possibly Victorian) bottle top, the lid of a clay jug and countless painted tea cup shards. Hardly priceless
artifacts, but who knows where they started life. The make neat, free souvenirs!
Photo by: Stephanie
. Stephanie, 20 Something Travel
Change Your Money at M&S on Oxford Street

The best currency exchange rate in London is generally inside Marks and Spencer's big Oxford Street
store at Marble Arch. It's usually better than any bank or bureau de change and if you carry your receipt
with you, almost anyone else in and around London will match their rate, if you find yourself needing
more pounds during the day. (Good thing they didn't unite in the Euro, huh?)
Photo by: fabbio

. Lisa, Travel Dreams and Moonbeams

Life at the Sanctuary is like a reality show combining elements of the
Animal Planet, the Real World, and Iron Chef
Main Index Europe
United Kingdom
Volunteer at the Monkey Sanctuary in Looe

I spent two weeks volunteering at the Monkey Sanctuary this past September. The Sanctuary is on the
grounds of a sprawling Victorian mansion facing the ocean in Cornwall, and is about five hours from
London by train. The trip from Looe to the Sanctuary is a 15-minute (£10) cab ride or an hour-long walk
(uphill both ways). Looe is an adorable (albeit small) town to explore and there are plenty of places to
enjoy Cornish pasties and cream tea (tea with scones, Cornish cream, and jam). On your days off, it's
easy to catch a train to explore another part of Cornwall.
Volunteer duties include food prep (baking a cake for the monkeys, chopping vegetables, collecting
Photo by: Storm
leaves), working in the kids' activity room or the café (usually comes with delicious cake), and yes,
cleaning up monkey poo. The latter really isn't that bad, especially if you have pets and are used to cleaning up after them. You even get to
pretend you're a hazmat officer, since you wear a jumpsuit, rubber gloves, and wellington boots while cleaning.
Volunteers aren't actually allowed to touch the monkeys, but there are usually a few dogs around the house if you're yearning for a furry friend.
There are plenty of human friends - there were six other volunteers at the Sanctuary when I was there, along with twenty keepers, at least half of
whom also live on the premises.
The accommodation is rustic and carnivores beware - the Sanctuary maintains a vegetarian kitchen. You are free to use whatever's in the kitchen
to make your own breakfasts and lunches. (The pantry was well-stocked and there was always a variety of vegetables.) Dinner duty rotates among
the keepers, with the volunteers responsible for making dinner one night per week. Consequently, life at the Sanctuary is like a reality show
combining elements of the Animal Planet, the Real World, and Iron Chef.
The minimum volunteer commitment is two weeks. Looking over my information, I think they do ask for a small donation (£35 or so per week), but
no one ever collected this from me. (While I enjoyed my experience, the Sanctuary can be a little disorganized at times; another example is that
despite being told I would be picked up at the train station, I had to take a taxi.)
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The Isle of Wight is a little hidden gem that's well worth the detour
Main Index Europe
United Kingdom
The Isle of Wight

This isn't exactly on my doorstep, but with budget airlines I can be there in just a few hours these days.
Plenty of British tourists visit the Isle of Wight, but it's a little hidden gem that's well worth the detour, as
the Michelin Guides would say, not only for its unique attractions but also because it provides the
quintessential British seaside holiday, sailing, sandy sandwiches and all.
What's special about the Isle of Wight?
The Isle of Wight Festival is back after more than 30 years. In the 1960s, the festival boasted such
Photo by: Garry Knight legends as Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix. After its last hurrah in 1969, the festival reopened in 2002 with
Robert Plant. It has been drawing world class acts ever since, slowly regaining its former grandeur.
Speaking of grandeur mixed with a giant pub crawl, Cowes Week, the world's oldest regatta, takes place in early August with nearly 10,000
competitors and 100,000 visitors, all of whom join in the fun, food, drink and partying and oh, a spot of sailing.
Some call it the world's most haunted island and at times, it seems every corner just might be -- from the lighthouses to manor houses to guest
houses. If you can't find a ghost yourself, take one of the many tours on offer. You'll be certain to uncover a spook!
Stourhead Garden, Wiltshire

For a period of six months I lived and worked in Shaftesbury, England. Every weekend was spent
exploring the surrounding areas and the National Trust property of Stourhead Garden was a place I
frequented. For a short period of time, I worked as a groom just down the road. What a divine area of
Wiltshire it was to work! I don't expect, as a passing traveller, I would have had the time to have
Stourhead on the itinery but as a 'local', I got to truly explore the majestic, 18th century garden with its
bridges, grottoes and temples.
Photo by: BethM527


There is a stunning walkway running along the water of leith in
Edinburgh that not even many locals have seen
Main Index Europe
United Kingdom
Dunkeld
Deep in the heart of Perthshire lies what may be my favorite place in Scotland: Dunkeld. Nestled in the
Tay river valley between Perth and Pitlochry, the tiny town of Dunkeld could be like any other town just
off the A9 en route to the Highlands. Except it's not. As I planned the first extended trip to Scotland with
my wife, Dunkeld looked like a pleasant place to stay. It was well-known for its traditional music and was
well-situated as a stopping point on our round-the-country jaunt.
We had left Edinburgh and enjoyed a few stops in Fife before cruising through the leafy countryside and
crossing the Tay river to see an ancient cathedral amidst a quaint town. We parked the car in a gravel lot
Photo by: Keith
abutting the river and carried our packs into the Taybank Hotel. That night we tucked into some classic
Scottish pub food, downed our fair share of pints and drams, and listened to some of the best traditional Scottish music I've ever heard.
We made our way back to Dunkeld last summer with my family and repeated the experience. Perhaps it was the whisky or the ceilidh or the
setting, but there's a sense of community in the pubs and lanes of Dunkeld. One of the highlights of any trip to Scotland.
The Water of Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland

There is a stunning walkway running along the water of leith in Edinburgh that not even many locals
have seen. You can enter it half-way along in the picturesque area of Stockbridge, and walk along past
the historical St Bernard's Well and tranquil Dean Village. There is an exit a few miles along that will take
you up to the the Dean Gallery (my favourite gallery in Edinburgh) and the nearby Gallery of Modern Art.
The best part about this walkway, though, is the fact that you can be just a few miles away from Princes
Street (Edinburgh's busiest street), but feel like you are miles away in the countryside.
Photo by: Jane

. Jane, Runaway Jane

Hamish is actually one of Scotland's biggest celebrities
Main Index Europe
United Kingdom
Carbisdale Castle, Culrain, Scotland

I had to tell the conductor ahead of time that I wanted to get off at Culrain so I could get off. Leaving the
platform with my backpack, I headed for the crossroads, looked up and made my way towards the castle
on the hill. I was kind of excited about staying at HI Carbisdale Castle. Although the walk up the hill/
mountain to Carbisdale Castle almost killed me at the time, I loved it. The castle itself is small, secluded
and a great place to relax and unwind. It's also a short train ride from Dun Robin Castle, former home of
Clan Sutherland, which has a great beach behind the castle walls.
Photo by: Pam

Hamish the Cow, Killmahog, Scotland

Hamish is actually one of Scotland's biggest celebrities so he may not be that much of a secret. Almost
any tour you take in the Scottish Highlands will make a stop in Killmahog to visit Hamish and feed him
some carrots. He's big, hairy, and basically just sits there in the rain, sleet, hail and whatever other
weather Scotland decides to throw at him. What's not to love?
Photo by: Joy

. Joy, Be a Travel Bee
Linlithgow Loch, Scotland

Linlithgow is where I grew up as a kid. Anytime I'm back home and missing life on the road I always take
a walk around the beautiful Linlithgow Loch. We do get some tourists here due to the history of the town
and it being the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, however if you take a walk to the outskirts of the
town there is a second entrance to the Loch which offers a much more scenic and secluded path. The
entrance at Blackness Road offers views of the loch, palace, and the outer lying countryside and farms.
It is possibly the only thing that keeps me sane when I am not travelling and is a peaceful place to have
a picnic in summer or bring out the sketchbook.
Photo by: Jane
. Jane, Runaway Jane

After entering the village through a Michelangelesque archway
reminiscent of the Sistine Chapel, everything is magic: a piazza with a
pool, a fountain and golden statues on tall pedestals
Main Index Europe
United Kingdom
The Leaning Tower of Caerphilly Castle, Wales

Just north of Cardiff, right in the centre of town, Caerphilly Castle lumbers and leans like the battle-worn
giant that it is. Built in the 13th century, this huge complex still has a moat and most of its walls.
Caerphilly also produces a tasty, salty cheese.
Photo by: Ahisgett

. Abi, Cheap Weekend Breaks
Portmeirion, Wales
The seaside village of Portmeirion was conceived by eccentric architect and conservationist Clough
Williams-Ellis. Although architect is perhaps not the correct title. After three months of studies, he
decided he had learned enough. Firmly believing a planned community could be beautiful, he created
Portmeirion. It's an absolute masterpiece. And probably unlike anything you've ever seen.
After entering the village through a Michelangelesque archway reminiscent of the Sistine Chapel,
everything is magic: a piazza with a pool, a fountain and golden statues on tall pedestals. Turn a corner,
and you'll see houses with lofty bell towers and odd little balconies, statues in niches, a Gothic pavilion,
secret grottos, a gazebo, a bandstand, gargoyles, even a giant golden Buddha in a temple.
Heaps of flowers are everywhere, along with tall firs, oaks, willows and a giant sycamore. All is vibrant, lush. As is the bright turquoise of the pools,
the houses painted in warm lavender, rich persimmon, shimmering cerise and golden honey. In the woods immediately outside the village is the
slightly spooky Castell Deudraeth. Portmeirion is a fairytale!

Middle East
Egypt 95 100 Oman
Israel 98 101 Syria
Jordan 99 102 Turkey

Tripbase.com 94
It may look like a multi-storey car park from the outside, but inside
are some of the most gorgeous bas-reliefs in the whole of Egypt
Photo by: doneastwest
Main Index Middle East
Egypt
Abydos Temple, Luxor

A few hundred kilometers north of Luxor, Abydos is - in my opinion - the coolest temple in Egypt. It may
look like a multi-storey car park from the outside, but inside are some of the most gorgeous, delicate
bas-reliefs in the whole of Egypt. And the colours are exquisite.
It also contains the most important in situ Egyptian king list, a record of all the pharaohs that ruled Egypt
since the time of Menes. There are, of course, some notable exceptions. Akhenaten and his heirs
(including Tutankhamen) were scrubbed from history because he was a troublesome heretic who sacked
the priesthood and instituted a new, monotheistic religion. Queen Hatshepsut, who ruled Egypt as
Photo by: Charlie Phillips
pharaoh during the 18th Dynasty, is also missing. Everyone knows you can't be a real pharaoh unless
you have a beard.
And like every Egyptian temple worth its salt, Abydos is replete with mysteries. There are hieroglyphs here which some people claim show
fabulous flying machines, such as the so-called Abydos Helicopter.
The area around Abydos is also said to possess immense spiritual power. From 1946 to 1981 an English woman named Dorothy Eady lived in the
temple. She believed she was the reincarnation of a temple priestess, and the lover of Seti I (the pharaoh who built the main temple). Rather
worryingly, given that she was meant to be his lover, she took the name Umm Seti, which means mother of Seti.
. Nick , Delicious Chaos
Gayer Anderson Museum, Cairo

This museum is definitely one of Cairo's most overlooked sites. It's also a great place to head to if you're
feeling all "pharaoh'ed out" and want a change from the typical tourist fare of ancient Egyptian sites.
Located next to the Ibn Tulun mosque, in the Sayyida Zeinab neighbourhood, the Gayer Anderson
Museum is a traditional 17th century house restored and occupied by Major Gayer Anderson in the
1930's and 40's. The house itself is an architectural gem, but even more so is the huge collection of
period furniture, carpets, art work and knick knacks displayed throughout the multi-storied building. If you
go, don't miss the amazing views of Islamic Cairo from the lovely mashrabiya adorned rooftop.
Photo by: Francoise
. Francoise, Cult of Travel

Make your way out to Egypt's interior and you will witness a true
natural wonder
Egypt
The Solar Cities Urban Eco Tour, Cairo

This is the perfect travel secret to give away because it shouldn't be a secret, yet hardly anyone knows
about it yet.
Solar CITIES is an NGO that works directly with poor communities in Cairo, helping them design and
develop sustainable technology solutions for their everyday problems and needs. To date, and with very
limited funding, they have built and installed over 30 solar water heaters, and a handful of biogas
generators on houses in Darb al-Ahmar and Manshiyat Nasser. Other current work includes converting
small generators to run on biogas rather than kerosene.
Photo by: Nadia Maanani.
Manshiyat Nasser is where Cairo's Zabaleen community of garbage collectors live. One of the cool things about the project is that it makes use of
locally available, mainly recycled, materials. Also, it's a bottom-up, participatory approach to development that taps into the collective intelligence
and ingenuity within the communities, and therefore addresses their actual rather than perceived needs.
If you come to Cairo, Hana Fathy (a remarkable young man from Manshiyat Nasser who has been involved with the project since the start) can
give you a tour of their work. You walk through one of the most fascinating areas of Islamic Cairo, and head via al-Azhar Park into Manshiyat
Nasser, where the majority of Cairo's mountain of rubbish is manually sorted, processed, re-used and recycled. Along the way, you can visit
families that have been involved with, and have benefited from, the project, and learn how some of the poorest people, in one of the most crowded
and polluted cities on the planet, are using home-grown green technology to improve their lives.
You can learn more about the project on the Solar CITIES blog.
. Nick , Delicious Chaos
The White Desert of Egypt

Everyone thinks of the great Pyramids, the Sphinx, Abu Simble and the Luxor Temple. But make your
way out to Egypt's interior and you will witness a true natural wonder. Book an overnight safari where
you will camp Bedouin style among giant monoliths scattered throughout the barren landscape.
Centuries of erosion have shaped these chalk formations into gigantic mushrooms, camels, hawks and
mountains. It is one of the most unique and thrilling opportunities a person can have in their life.
Photo by: Deb and Dave


The funerary complex of Sultan Qaytbay (1472-74) offers a supreme
example of the sophisticated use of overlapping arabesques and
geometric patterns to decorate dome exteriors
Egypt
Cairo's Northern Qarafa (Cemetery)

Numerous emirs and sultans built there funerary complexes here in Cairo's Northern Qarafa (cemetery).
Our favorite is the funerary complex of Sultan Qaytbay (1472-74), which offers a supreme example of
the sophisticated use of overlapping arabesques and geometric patterns to decorate dome exteriors.
This dome represents the high point of the Bahri Mamluke Dynasty's (1250-1382) architectural legacy.
Photo by: David and Jennifer

. David and Jennifer, Approach Guides
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In Israel, they get into the water and travel through it, no matter how
deep, no matter how long, no matter how treacherous
Photo by: Beny Shlevich
Israel
Hiking Streams in Israel

A popular Israeli pastime is hiking streams. I am not talking about walking alongside streams, enjoying
the trickling waters from ashore. In Israel, they get into the water and travel through it, no matter how
deep, no matter how long, no matter how treacherous. On my last solo trip to Israel, my Israeli friend
insisted I experience this activity. We first waded up to our chests through water at the base of Mount
Gilboa, where at two points we encountered drainpipes blocking our path. No problem. Like everyone
else ahead of us, we simply grabbed ahold of the top of a drainpipe, positioned our legs out in front of
us, then let go, allowing the water to sweep us through and shoot us out on the other side - -natural
Photo by: dodkedi water slides far more fun than anything I've ridden at any amusement park. We next traveled to a stream
located in the Bethsaida Valley, where, along with a hundred or so Israelis, we waded on slippery rocks for hours, finally encountering water so
deep we had to swim our way to the end. Both of these experiences were an absolute blast and left me wondering why we don't hike through
streams in my own country.
. Sabina, Solo Female Traveler
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Peculiar rock formations, red-rose sand and roaming Bedouins make
exploring this unique spot quite an unforgettable experience
Photo by: Charlie Phillips
Jordan
Camping with Bedouins in Wadi Rum

The desert of Wadi Rum covers an extensive area in Jordan, but few travelers make it here. Peculiar
rock formations, red-rose sand and roaming Bedouins make exploring this unique spot quite an
unforgettable experience. Deep in the Wadi Rum desert, you can sleep under the stars in Bedouin tents
with hosts who serve up authentic Jordanian food and tell tales of growing up in the desert. Imagine a
warm fireplace, chilling desert wind and sweet Arabic tea brewing a magical concoction like no other.
Photo by: Nellie

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It is truly one of the jewels of the Oman Sultanate
Photo by: storymary
Oman
Jabal Shams and the Wadi Nakhr

Rising 3048 meters above sea level, Jabal Shams (Mount of the Sun), is part of the Jabal al Akhdar
mountain range (The Green Mountain). It is truly one of the jewels of the Oman Sultanate.
Located only a two-hour drive from Muscat, this impressive 600 kilometer stretch of mountains is home
to some exciting activities too, like canyoning in the Snake Gorge (yes it's called Snake Gorge because
there are snakes), trekking in the wadis or climbing up to the highest peak to view the most beautiful
canyon in the gulf region: Wadi Nakhr (also known as the Grand Canyon of the Middle-East).
Photo by: Daniel Tourism is almost non-existent here, and it's a good opportunity to meet and chat with the locals in the
tiny villages vertiginously hanging on the cliffs.
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Get lost in the narrow and twisting conduits of colors, smells and
shops
Photo by: Taras Kalapun
Syria
Old City, Damascus

This is the most vibrant and dashing city I've ever visited. Get lost in the narrow and twisting conduits of
colors, smells and shops. Become wildly intoxicated with the periodic call of the muezzin -- an exotic
soundtrack of sorts, a strange, permeating presence you have to hear to really..well..feel. Take a trip to
Damascus' Old City, the oldest continually habituated place on Earth. Syria is an enigmatic country,
psychologically inaccessible to most Westerners. Hop off the beaten path and travel to one of the world's
most interesting places, bar none. Take it from me; the culture is overwhelming in the most pleasant
ways and the food (and sheesha) is ambrosial.
Photo by: Alan
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Head inland to Aphrodisias and enjoy the peace
Photo by: urbanlegend
Turkey
White Garden Pansion, Antalya

Lodging in Turkey can be pricey, with many double en-suite rooms costing over $50 a night. This is
especially true in the bigger cities. One of the best values we found while in Turkey for lodging was the
White Garden Pansion in Antalya. At $34 per night for a double en-suite room with A/C, this was an
affordable and attractive lodging option. Located in the heart of the old city, it is quite an easy walk to all
of the tourist attractions. The best part may have been the breakfast buffet, which was included in the
price of the room. Most places we stayed in Turkey included a typical Turkish breakfast of a hardboiled
egg, bread, processed cheese wedge, olives, cucumber and tomato. While quite good, the spread at
Photo by: Keith and Amy White Garden put all the rest of them to shame. With real Feta and Gruyere cheeses, fresh fruit
(including pomegranate and cereal, it was a great and filling start to the day. A final plus for this hotel is that the breakfast is served in a beautiful
interior garden courtyard. White Garden Pansion is a corner of tranquility within the busy streets of the old city.
. Keith and Amy, Green Around the Globe
Aphrodisias
Most tourists in Turkey head straight for Troy and Ephesus, the archaeological sites along the coast. But
when we tried to visit, we were overrun by tour groups who kindly made sure they also provided
entertainment in the form of actors dressed as Romans (in fetching plastic capes), jumping off the
amphitheatre and just being generally annoying. The solution? Head inland to Aphrodisias and enjoy the
peace. The amazing theatre and stadium are some of the best we've seen anywhere and you can
marvel at the architecture in silence.
How to get there: Highway E87 leads from the coast towards Nazilli. In Nazilli, head south briefly, then
east on a back road that goes through many small villages (Pirlibey is one of them and has a shop and
cafe) before hooking up with the D585, which will take you straight to Aphrodisias. Nearby is the village of Geyre, where you can camp and get a
room or a meal.

The Hippodrome beside the mosque is transformed into an amazing
carnival city full of tents, food stalls, souvenirs, toys and shisha
Photo by: urbanlegend
Turkey
Blue Mosque's Ramadan Night Bazaar, Istanbul

If you are lucky enough to be in Istanbul during the Ramadan month, be sure to go to the Hippodrome
beside the Blue Mosque in the evening for the Ramadan night bazaar! Every evening this bazaar is full
of people: locals and tourists from Turkey and neighbouring countries. They start arriving before the
sunset, and many stay past midnight. The Hippodrome beside the mosque is transformed into an
amazing Turkish carnival city full of tents, food stalls, souvenirs, toys, and shisha. There's Turkish music
and dance performances, including the famous whirling Dervish! Feeling peckish? You can find various
types of kebabs, colorful sweets, various types of Turkish snacks, and my favourite one: chewy ice
Photo by: Dina and Ryan cream!
Blue Mosque Ramadan night bazaar's ice-cream is not your typical ice-cream, and it's not served by your typical ice-cream man! This ice-cream
man will perform tricks with your ice-cream before you can have it. He lifts up the whole ice-cream bulk from the container using a spatula, and
swings it over his head. He hands you the ice-cream, and as you hold the cone, your ice-cream disappears! Then you will see your ice-cream
actually stuck to the spatula that he swings around above you. It's so much fun! The ice-cream itself was a new experience for me. The texture is
like what I imagine a frozen chewy marshmallow would be, but it melts and drips like regular ice-cream. Very fun to chew!
After enjoying the bustling carnival atmosphere at the Hippodrome, go to the bench area in front of the mosque, the one that is facing the Hagia
Sophia, for a calming moment. You will hear these quick chants "Chai, chai, chai, lira, lira, lira...." from the tea sellers. A lira for a cup of tea, served
with sugar cubes. Sitting in the benches, enchanted by the beauty of the illuminated Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, with a modest cup of hot
sweet tea in my hand, was one of my favorite travel moments.
. Dina and Ryan, Vagabond Quest
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North America
Canada 105 118 United States
Mexico 110

Tripbase.com 104
A drive or a hike through this area will take your breath away any
time of the year
Photo by: laszlo-photo
Main Index North America
Canada
Hike and Camp in Glacier National Park, British Columbia

Visit during the summer or winter to experience some of the best views of the Canadian Rocky
Mountains. There are some amazing hidden hiking trails here, and three locations for camping. The
Glacier National Park area is dense with lush forests, however it is prone to avalanches and the
occasional rock slides. Glacier National Park is also a critical habitat for threatened and endangered
wildlife, including the mountain caribou, mountain goat, and grizzly bear. Despite the dangers, a drive or
a hike through this area will take your breath away any time of the year.
Three Reasons to check it out: 1. Great camping 2. Over 400 glaciers sculpt the landscape 3. Crystal
Photo by: Corbin
clear rivers
. Corbin, ibackpack Canada
Mabou, Nova Scotia

Linger at the Glenora Inn and nearby regions of Mabou. It's magical there -- the beaches, the nature
walks, and the forests.
Photo by: Lorraine

. Lorraine , Keeps Me Smiling
Mayne Island, Eco Camping, British Columbia

A few years ago, some friends and I discovered Mayne Island Eco-Camping and Tours. Camping on an
island? Loads of people do it, and British Columbians are no different.
Mayne is a member of the Southern Gulf Islands, a quad of islands southeast of Vancouver Island. What
might be a restrictive location is actually not. We did small hikes, explored conch and polished rocks on
Seal Beach, or gathered at the picnic table for chats and meals.
Since the Tsawwassen ferry route passes by Mayne, we caught a few majestic ferries in Milner's Bay
Photo by: Jeannie and best of all: Whale sightings! My senses overloaded with smell, touch and sound. The result was
falling into a sweet bliss. The highlight of my trip has to be the outdoor hot/cold shower constructed around a tree!
After that first experience, anywhere I travel now my nose is sniffing out outdoor showers. Maybe I'm an exhibitionist? With an emphasis on
eco-camping, Mayne Island truly reveals the breathtaking landscapes of British Columbia.
. Jeannie, Nomadic Chick

Tofino is the best place in Canada to surf
Canada
Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

Drive the Cabot Trail, one of the most scenic drives in North America.
Photo by: Lorraine

. Lorraine , Keeps Me Smiling
Outdoor Adventure in Tofino, Vancouver Island

Home to surfers, hippies, eco-activists, and people just looking to let their hair down. Hands down,
Tofino is the best place in Canada to surf. Tofino is a youthful town with plenty of things to do -- from
kayak to whale watching tours and hiking trails to some great swimming beaches. It's a great place to
spend a week or two and shows the spectacular beauty of Vancouver Island.
Three reasons to check it out: 1. Canada's best surfing, 2. Massive, beautiful beaches, 3. Cool cafes.
Photo by: Corbin

Learn About the Doukhobors in Veregin, Saskatchewan

This national historic site has some great stories to tell. In 1899, over 7400 Russian Doukhobors
immigrated to Canada to claim their stake in the Canadian government's promise of land and religious
freedom. The Doukhobors were persecuted in Russia for their beliefs. They completely rejected the
secular government, the Russian Orthodox priests and all church rituals. Their pacifist beliefs led to an
exodus to Canada. One of the coolest facts of all is that Leo Tolstoy, (the famous writer who wrote War
and Peace and Anna Karenina) was one of the main benefactors of the Doukhobors journey. Well worth
the day trip out there, be sure to check out the cemetery and take in the museums and period-style
Photo by: Corbin furnished houses. Show up around lunch for free home-made Doukhobor baking. Verigin is located
50km North East of Yorkton, and 10km west of Kamsack. Well worth the drive
Three reasons to check Veregin out:1. Great history and stories of the Doukhobors, 2. Awesome statue of Leo Tolstoy and great view of the
prairies 3. Can't go wrong with the price ($5).

A UNSECO World Heritage site and the Canadian half of the
Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton is a great place to
visit any time of year
Canada
Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta

Unlike Banff, Waterton Lakes National Park still has a very local feel to it. A UNSECO World Heritage
site and the Canadian half of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton is a great place to
visit any time of year. Waterton has great hikes (Crypt, Carthew-Alderson, Bears Hump), yummy pizza
(Pizza of Waterton), and one of Canada's oldest and most famous hotels, the Prince of Wales. Although
Waterton is mostly a summer destination, with many businesses closing after Labour Day weekend,
Waterton is still a great pick in winter. If you're looking for a great vista, hike Bear's Hump. It only takes
about 30-60 mins, but it can be a little steep towards the top. Don't worry, the walk is easy and the view
Photo by: Pam is amazing! If you're not into a steep hike, head over to the Prince of Wales Hotel and stand on the cliff
behind the hotel. Although it can be really windy, it's a great view of Upper Waterton Lake, the townsite and surrounding mountains.
Taking the Train Across Canada

It's not just for the elite any more, and it's the greatest way to see Canada hands-down. Canada is so
large that you'll be hard pressed to drive across even a quarter of it. The bus will be only moderately
comfortable, and air travel gives you little more than a metropolitan sense of a country that has so much
more than metropolitan areas to offer.
But the train is both cheap and cheerful. You can book a 30-day pass with Via Rail that allows you to hop
on and off the train (totaling 12-15 train travel days) as you wish. You'll become a part of remote
landscapes where the only sign of human presence is the train itself, you'll tunnel through mountains,
Photo by: Nora
and scoot across lakes. If you book in the off-peak seasons (May and October would be my months of
choice), you'll still get a great ride...and for less than $600, it's a steal.
. Nora, Professional Hobo

Getting to Battle Harbour requires a long ferry ride and several days
on remote roads so we feel like we are on the far edge of the earth
Canada
Battle Harbour, Labrador

An hour on a small boat on rough seas brings us to the centuries-old fishing villiage of Battle Harbour,
now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We walk around for hours not seeing another person, and it is
difficult to imagine that this was once the unofficial capital of Labrador. Battle Harbour was an active
fishing village from the 1770s until the East Coast fisheries closed in 1992.
Getting to Battle Harbour requires a long ferry ride and several days riding on remote roads so we feel
like we are on the far edge of the earth. Once we arrive, we feel cut off from the outside world, with no
phones or Internet. It almost feels like we have stepped back in time, since many of the buildings are
Photo by: Scott and Becky
restored to the way they would have been in the 1700s, 1800s, or 1900s.
We first heard about Battle Harbour from the friendly folks at the Labrador Visitor Centre in L'Anse-au-Claire. We were sold on a trip to Battle
Harbour when they told us that unlike the rest of Labrador in July and August there are no vicious Labrador flies - a tiny black fly that takes a chunk
out of you when it bites, making it impossible to be outdoors without protection. After several days of riding in clouds of flies, we were ready for a
break!
Amenities at Battle Harbour range from the dorm-style bunkhouse heated with a wood stove to cottages and homes. Some buildings have
electricity, but others are more historically accurate, with oil lamps and wood stoves, and all are furnished in the traditional Newfoundland and
Labrador style. You can self-cater or join the staff for wonderful home-cooked meals and post-dinner entertainment in the Dining Hall. We took
advantage of dinner and enjoyed roast turkey, mashed potatoes, peas, salad with partridgeberries and baked apple cheesecake for dessert.
Partridgeberries and Bakeapple berries grow wild all over Newfoundland and Labrador, and are still a common component of the diet here.
The staff provide a history-filled tour of the town every day. Our guide was Cyril, who grew up and lived in Battle Harbour for much of his life.
Hearing from him about the changes brought by joining Canada, by the snowmobile, and the collapse of the Cod fishery was fascinating - huge
changes in less than half a century. We were fascinated by the huge salt-house, which stored 1.4 million pounds of salt for preservation. For
centuries, until the advent of freeze-drying, drying and salting fish was the main method of preservation. We reflected often on just how lucky we
are to have been born when and where we are. We spent hours exploring the old buildings and hiking around the islands many trails. We have
included a few photos of some of the stark vistas of the surrounding landscape.
We were very happy to spend two nights at Battle Harbour, and could probably have spent longer soaking in the isolation there.
. Scott and Becky, Going East
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It's like having your own personal shopper with exquisite taste
Canada
Jeans Jeans Jeans, Montreal

Montreal is one of my favorite North American cities for its semi-European vibe, excellent dining options,
sightseeing, and of course, shopping. If you are in Montreal to indulge in the shopping part of this, head
to the garment district. There you will find a gem of a store called Jeans Jeans Jeans (5525 Avenue de
Gaspe the cross street is Rue St.-Viateur East) that sells designer jeans at half the regular price. If you're
taking the metro, get off at the Laurier station and walk from there. The neighborhood might feel a little
sketchy at first, but it's perfectly safe.
Jeans Jeans Jeans is located down a narrow set of stairs in an industrial-looking building. Once down
Photo by: Gray
there, it's like a Home Depot for jeans, but with a twist: The best customer service I've ever experienced
in a clothing store. Don't even try to find a pair of jeans by yourself. It will take you forever. Approach one of the sales people, all of whom are more
than willing to assist you and know where everything is. Tell them what you're looking for, and they'll set you up in a changing stall and keep
bringing you jeans to try on until you have what you want. They will also tell you what looks good on you and what doesn't. I'll let you in on another
little secret: I hate shopping for clothes with a passion. But if every store had this kind of service, I would love it. It's like having your own personal
shopper with exquisite taste.
. Gray, Solo Friendly
Montreal Drum Circle at Mount Royal

For the past three years I've partied at the Montreal Jazz Festival, but last year was the first time I
experienced the drum circle (run by Tam Tams Montreal). Imagine a modern-day hippie festival
occurring every Sunday from spring through fall. Hundreds congregate on the grass with blankets, food
and plastic cups filled with various alcoholic drinks to listen to the bongos and djembes that surround the
angel statue, also known as the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Monument. If you want to lounge around for
the afternoon, buy some cheap reggae-inspired trinkets and dance to the rhythm, you shouldn't miss this
event.
Photo by: Ayngelina
. Ayngelina , Bacon is Magic

Cuetzalan is the kind of place you can spend the whole day exploring
Photo by: Wonderlane
Mexico
Cuetzalan, Puebla
I love this town. It's the kind of place you can spend the whole day exploring -- from the huge
marketplace to the picturesque restaurants with their delightful menus and wonderful views of the town
streets. There is an impressive variety of handcrafts (easy on the purse), the people are so friendly and
they really appreciate your visit. The best coffee I ever had was from Cuetzalan, and I'm planning to go
there again soon to get some more, as well as an incredible liqueur known as Yolixpa, which is a mixture
of alcohol and herbs native to the area, a truly exotic drink which gives you an incredible feeling of being
peacefully at one with the universe. This might be the reason its nickname is El Todopoderoso (the
Photo by: RussBowling all-powerful drink). Believe me, a little goes a long way!
. Minshap, Minshap - Both Sides of the Coin
Apulco
The first place that comes to mind is Apulco, near Cuetzalan, Puebla. The waterfall there is called La
Olla. It is so impressive! I remember that we had to get a little boy from the town of Cuetzalan to lead us
there. That was many years ago, but I never forgot that first glimpse of the waterfall. My son has camped
out on the river near the waterfall, but I've heard from others that the Hacienda is extremely nice and not
expensive.
Photo by: RussBowling


You won't find many tourists here, but on Sundays the local families
fill the rocks around this natural pool
Mexico
Cenote Azul
Cenotes are becoming more and more popular with tourists, especially with the development of
eco-parks like Hidden Worlds and Aktunchen. For those who don't know, a cenote (pronounced
"seh-noh-tay") is a natural sinkhole in the limestone, usually filled with fresh water. They were the main
source of water for the ancient Mayans and considered to be sacred places. Quintana Roo and Yucatan
are chock full of these wonders, many of them still undiscovered. Cenote Azul is still a local secret! While
you'll pay $50 USD (or more) to go to the cenote parks, Cenote Azul is a mere 50 pesos to enter. Take a
walk down a rocky jungle path and before you even see the cenote the aroma of "fresh" will hit you. At
Photo by: Kelly the end of the path you'll discover a little Eden, a great place to swim and refresh, investigate the
beautiful jungle fauna and even snorkel and chase the abundant little catfish that thrive there. Jump off the cliff if you dare! You won't find many
tourists here, but on Sundays the local families fill the rocks around this natural pool.
. Kelly, Cancun Canuck
Guadalajara
If you're looking for a taste of city life and culture in Mexico but haven't worked up the nerve to visit
Mexico City yet, Guadalajara might just be the place you're looking for. Despite being Mexico's second
largest city with a population of about 5 million ( compared with Mexico City's 21 million), most
guidebooks devote little attention to it. Like most under-appreciated destinations, Guadalajara's
pleasures come cheap.
Photo by: Steven

. Steven, Travelojos
Maya Ruins
Yes, yes, Chichen-Itza is now one of the seven wonders of the world, but there are many Maya
archaeological sites in southern Mexico and Central America that remain almost in isolation even though
they've been "discovered," uncovered and are ready for visitors. If you've only been to Chichen-Itza, you
haven't yet been really immersed in the ancient culture of the Maya. Or at least not in its archaeology.
Beautiful, mysterious, and full of mythology, there are numerous sites where you can walk alone, or
almost alone, through the jungle.
Photo by: Kimberly

. Kimberly, Notes to Self

If I could have any job other than the one I have, it would be as a
full-time evangelist for Mexico City
Mexico
Mexico City
If I could have any job other than the one I have, it would be a full-time evangelist for Mexico City.
Seriously, this is THE most exciting city on the planet, and if you know me or read my writing regularly,
you know I don't use words like "most" or "must-see" frequently.
I will spend my life trying to write a more persuasive, poignant description of Mexico City than David
Lida, but until then, I'll simply cite him with gratitude for articulating my exact feelings about "el DF":
"I had been utterly seduced by the constant sensations of contrast, surprise, even tumult."
Photo by: Francisco Collazo
"It has absorbed and swallowed all the centuries of its history, yet most of them are still in evidence in some regurgitated form on the streets."
"Mexico City is constantly improvising a new invention of itself."
I could go on and on, but do yourself a favor and read Lida's book, First Stop in the New World: Mexico City, The Capital of the 21st Century. Start
reading his blog. And then, put Mexico City on the top of your travel list.
And once you're there, make sure you witness the daily flag ceremony in the Zocalo. Go to a lecture at Casa Lamm and then visit their restaurant
for an overpriced but totally worth it martini (try carambola). And throw yourself into a visit to Mercado San Juan like it's the most important thing
you'll do all year. Just don't forget your camera.
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Just 20 minutes south of Cancun, this small fishing village feels
worlds away
Mexico
Puerto Morelos
My family and I have taken more than a dozen trips south of the border in the last ten years. Coming
from a land-locked state, we crave sun/sand/surf for our annual beach fix. We've vacationed in some of
Mexico's major coastal cities - Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Playa del Carmen - but I have
fond memories of our stays at some smaller towns outside of these bigger resort areas. In fact, we like to
split up our time during a Mexico vacation - perhaps three nights at an oceanfront all-inclusive resort and
then three or four nights in a vacation rental in a small town.
Puerto Moreles is my recommendation for a slightly more off-the-beaten-path (but by no means remote)
Photo by: Kara
Mexican destination. Just 20 minutes south of Cancun, this small fishing village feels worlds away; this is
where the Riviera Maya (which stretches down the coast to Tulum) begins in the north. We spent our time in Puerto Morelos lolling on the beach in
front of our condo, which was within walking distance to the the lively town square, lined with a spot to get ice cream (which we did at least once
daily), a bookstore owned by ex-pats, and a number of seafood restaurants. The Crococun Zoo, where you can handle lizards, snakes and other
creatures, is a short taxi ride away.
. Kara , The Vacation Gals

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This is a peaceful village, set along a stunning bay that offers long
stretches of un-crowded beaches, where the water is warm and the waves
are perfect for surfers of all skill levels
Mexico
Sayulita
Located on the Pacific coast of Mexico about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta lies a small village of
approximately 1500 inhabitants. This is a peaceful village, set along a stunning bay that offers long
stretches of uncrowded beaches, where the water is warm and the waves are perfect for surfers of all
skill levels. In this village, palm trees and chickens seem to outnumber humans, and the handful of
cobblestone streets see little more than a light trickle of traffic most of the year. It's also a remarkably
safe village, where few people lock the doors of their homes, there are no police officers and the most
common crime is forgetting to take an afternoon swim in the ocean.
Photo by: Earl
Every day begins with a brilliant sunrise and every night is welcomed with an even more impressive
sunset. The lush jungle surrounding the village offers hiking trails that lead to hidden beaches with water the color of emeralds and chances to spot
some wildlife, such as Lilac-Crowned Parrots, iguanas and armadillos.
In the evenings, life focuses around a central plaza, where locals strum on their guitars as birds sing from the tree branches above. Simple
festivals are held here too and small restaurants and food stalls serve tasty local specialties at prices too cheap to be noticed.
In this village, stress and anger are practically unheard of, but friendliness and generosity are abundant. It is a place where shoes are seldom
worn, shop owners let you buy now and pay later and you can rent a one-bedroom apartment, complete with swimming pool and ocean view, for
around $500 per month.
This ideal village is Sayulita.

. Earl, Wandering Earl

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It's not unusual to see chickens making themselves at home on the
cobblestone streets
Mexico
Sayulita
This coastal town about 45 minutes north of the Puerto Vallarta airport draws lots of surfers - in fact, I
took my first (and only) surfing lesson here. It's not unusual to see chickens making themselves at home
on the cobblestone streets, and you'll find plenty of gringos who have relocated to the laid-back spot to
open vacation-rental businesses, restaurants and shops. We visited in October, when it was crazy-hot -
at least 90 degrees Fahrenheit every day. So, we spent plenty of time in the ocean and in the refreshing
pool at our apartment rental at Los Delfines, a small gated complex seven blocks from town. A highlight
for all of us: watching turtles being released into the ocean after a local environmentalist group had
Photo by: Kara protected the eggs by burying them and fencing them in on the beach. It was a nifty serendipitous
moment we stumbled upon, and the kids talked about it for days!
. Kara , The Vacation Gals

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All along the valley, we cycled through small, historic towns every 15
or 20 kilometers
Mexico
Sonora River Valley

Why don't you ride through the Sonora River valley?" a cyclist we met on the side of the road in Mexico
asked. "I just came through there and it was great!"
The Sonora River valley? Where is that? The tiny road snaking alongside the Sonora River between
Douglas, Arizona and Hermosillo, Mexico in the Mexican state of Sonora wasn't even on our map. In
Google Maps online, you have to zoom in nearly all the way before you even see the towns, and the
road still doesn't show up. Even so, it was a delight to cycle like we had never found before. All along the
valley, we cycled through small, historic towns every 15 or 20 kilometers. The people had smiles ready
Photo by: Nancy
and beers in their hands. They invited us to lunch and to spend an afternoon in a hot spring. We were
welcomed by hundreds of cattle ranchers at their annual meeting, party, and rodeo. We spent a night with one of those backcountry Mexican hicks
like you see in the movies -- and this one was real. In the morning, he caught a raccoon for his lunch. With exotic names like Aconchi, Banamichi,
and Bacoachi, the towns were nothing but a sheer delight. Each pueblo revolved around a central plaza with an old church dating back to the
1500s. The villages were clean and cheery places filled with friendly people just waiting for a family of cyclists to come passing through.
. Nancy, Family on Bikes

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A temazcal is a traditional sauna, an ancient ritual that began with the
Meshicas in reverence to Mother Earth
Mexico
Teocelo
My travel secret is a coffee region in Veracruz. It's a place called Teocelo. The drive to get there (going
south from Puebla on the autopista to Xalapa, Veracruz) in itself is breathtaking. You go through the
coffee belt, and the landscape is so richly green and brown... deep forests and green meadows. Before
you even get to Teocelo, there are places to stop and vist, but then, you'll know when and where! The
town of Teocelo is very colonial. We stayed in a lusciously green, extremely inexpensive outdoor area
called Rancho San Gabriel. Since our main objective for making the trip was to taste as many different
coffees as needed in order to find the best ones, we didn't take the opportunity to experience a temazcal,
Photo by: RussBowling which they offer there, and I always regretted that. A temazcal is a traditional sauna, an ancient ritual
that began with the Meshicas in reverence to Mother Earth. It uses the four elements of earth, water, air and fire to purify and harmonize body,
mind, and spirit. I'm not sure of the particulars, but it leaves you feeling cured of all your ailments. Anyway, during our search for coffee, we found
three that we considered exceptional and bought them right from the growers. We also went to see the incredible waterfall in Xico, which is near
Teocelo. You can find your way around quite easily once you're there. Everyone knows what you're looking for and they are ready and willing to
help you find it!

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United States
We have an entire eBook dedicated to the United States.

Download it here.

South America
Argentina 120 126 Peru
Brazil 122 129 Venezuela
Colombia 123 130 General
Ecuador 125

Tripbase.com 119
If you plan on taking the bus, you will need this and it's in high
demand and short supply
Photo by: thejourney1972
Main Index South America
Argentina
Bring Toilet Paper in Buenos Aires

There won't be any in most of the places you are going and fear of dirty toilet seats causes much
hovering and splattering. I recommend carrying tissue with you at all times to be sure you won't have to
drip dry and that you follow the example of those who went before you and hover. Also, watch the length
of your skirts. If they hang at toilet seat height, see to it that you steer your hem clear or you'll be adding
a little character to your apparel.
Photo by: stevendepolo

. Kate, Yes There is Such a Thing as a Stupid Question
Monedas/Change, Buenos Aires

If you plan on taking the bus, you will need this and it's in high demand and short supply. I hear some
businesses pay more than the change is actually worth to have it on hand.
You can get it in the bank in the morning 10 pesos at a time. Go in the afternoon and you'll wait all day.
You will be asked by store clerks to pay the small change on purchases. If you can understand them, lie
about having it. Pay for your subway trips with two and five peso bills. You can almost always get
change in the subway and when trips cost $1.10, that means 90 centavos per trip in your pocket.
Photo by: marfis75

Caca De Perro (Dog Poop), Buenos Aires

Watch where you step. Looking at the sidewalk more than you normally might will serve the dual
purpose of saving you from cleaning yucky dog poop from your shoes and keeping you from looking like
a starry-eyed tourist gorging your eyes on the beautiful city. There is dog shit everywhere. Remember,
you were warned.
Photo by: Kate


This remote, dusty village is a bit off the beaten track but has one of
the best hostels we've stayed in
Photo by: thejourney1972
Argentina
Tilcara
This remote, dusty village is a bit off the beaten track but has one of the best hostels we've stayed in.
Situated on a hill looking over the village, it's a bit of a puff to get there if you're not used to the 2500m
altitude. Shopping for vegetables from the morning markets and barbequing steak chosen from one of
the many butchers remains a warm memory.
Photo by: Ben

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Tourists tend to flock to the Pelourinho district, a historical hotbed of
colonial structures ranging from municipal halls to churches gilded in
gold leaf
Photo by: Kopfj
Brazil
Hostel Albergue Porto, Salvador

Salvador is the tip of Bahia state, a city echoing ghostly remnants of the Portuguese slave trade, married
to a blissful, laid-back attitude. I have vivid memories of music spontaneously bursting from street
musicians or busloads of laughing children in lime green soccer jerseys streaking past me.
Tourists tend to flock to the Pelourinho district, a historical hotbed of colonial structures ranging from
municipal halls to churches gilded in gold leaf. I purposely stayed clear of Pelourinho, for some reason I
felt a different experience was in order. Pelourinho is aptly named "upper city." Prices are often higher,
and the experience a bit contained. Where did I go? Why, the opposite of course. That's when I headed
Photo by: Jeannie
for the "lower city" and Hostel Albergue.
Many travelers can relate. Accommodation can set the tone for a destination. Hostel Albergue did that for me. Nestled one block from Porto da
Barra Beach, it's an unusual building, because literally it's an office plaza! Ah, but like many things in Brazil, what seems dodgy is usually not.
Cassio, the owner, is Brazilian, but mainly lives in the States, so his sensibilities are a lovely combination of the two. He understands good
customer service but knows how to maintain a chilled-out atmosphere. With the recent addition of a game room, laundry facilities and a gym, this
hostel offers a little sanctuary after battering around a day of tourist sites.
What I enjoyed most is that Hostel Albergue mingles within the neighborhood so I never felt trapped in a gated tourist community. And Pelourinho?
A ten-minute bus ride away.
. Jeannie, Nomadic Chick
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Colombia's legendary river, the Magdalena, runs right through the
town, which is rumored to be the inspiration for novelist Gabriel Garcia
Marquez's imaginary town of Macondo
Photo by: lastquest
Colombia
Mompox
You've got to be determined to get to Mompox. You have to cross a river in a sketchy boat, then take a
motorbike or sturdy vehicle to this UNESCO World Heritage site. But if you do get here, it will be worth
the effort -- especially if you plan a visit of a week or longer. Colombia's legendary river, the Magdalena,
runs right through the town, which is rumored to be the inspiration for novelist Gabriel Garcia Marquez's
imaginary town of Macondo. There's not a raucous nightlife here, nor will you find dozens of museums,
but there are lots and lots of stories.
If you visit, book a bed at Matador, contributor Richard McColl's "La Casa Amarilla."
Photo by: Francisco Collazo
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We didn't expect the full-blown Colombian beach resort, sloths in the
trees, delicious street food or bicycles built for 15
Photo by: lastquest
Colombia
Tolu
It was one of those days. Hot and sticky. The humidity level was about as high as the space shuttle. We
were traveling through the northern plains of Colombia dreaming of the Andes -- beautiful mountain
views, cooler temperatures, and interesting scenery. Not this drab, boring, grassy plain by the ocean.
We pulled into Tolu looking for a bed and a shower. And a bit of food. We didn't expect the full-blown
Colombian beach resort, sloths in the trees, delicious street food or bicycles built for 15. We quickly fell
in love with the town and stayed five days.
Photo by: Nancy Our first stop in town was the central park. My husband and the boys stayed with the bikes while I went
out in search of a hotel. When I returned a few minutes later, I found them all standing under a massive tree in the middle of the park, craning their
necks gazing into the tree. "A sloth, Mom!" Daryl cried. "Come look!" In Costa Rica we had wanted to see sloths -- I had never seen one in the wild
before -- so we paid a visit to the touristy Manuel Antonio National Park, where sloths abound. We saw them -- way up high in the trees looking like
dark lumps. And now, here they were -- four of them -- just above our heads. I decided I liked Tolu.
We spent five days in the resort. We just couldn't seem to pull ourselves away. Every night we tried different varieties of street food and watched
all the bicycles ply the streets. Bicycles built for one, two, three, six, and twelve. Huge caravans of bikes of every size and variety parading around
town each night -- riders laughing and shouting and having the time of their lives. During the day, we hung out in the water, relaxing and talking
with Colombians who had come for the weekend. We ate ice cream. And we sat under the tree and watched sloths. Tolu was heaven on earth.
. Nancy, Family on Bikes
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Between the months of June and October, Humpback Whales head
there for mating season and they're not shy
Photo by: Carlos Adampol
Ecuador
Whale Watching in Puerto Lopez

Puerto Lopez isn't much to shout about as a place. It's a small, coastal town with a mediocre beach and
a couple of nice restaurants (and one particularly nice pizza place!). Fishing boats are strewn along the
beach, bobbing on the water's edge. It's all nice without being incredible. You can easily arrive there one
morning, leave the following evening and do everything there is to do. So why is it a travel gem?
Puerto Lopez has a secret. Between the months of June and October, Humpback Whales head there for
mating season and they're not shy. Backpackers can take a boat out with one of the many local
fishermen and get a front row seat of the action. The whales put on quite a show; jumping out of the
Photo by: Tom
water, slapping their fins and generally having a merry old time. The best bit is you're almost guaranteed
to get a sighting as there are so many tours out on the water and they all communicate to ensure they all get a piece of the action. And the even
better bit is it will only cost you about 5 English sterling for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If that's not a gem, I don't know what is.
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Venture down into the bottom of the Colca Canyon to the Sangalle
Oasis, something that if you don't mind a hike and roughing it for a bit is
well worth it
Photo by: epicxero
Peru
Cumbe Mayo
The hills above the Cajamarca Valley are rich with water - the porous volcanic rock soaks it in during the
rainy season and releases it during the dry in a multitude of springs. The Cajamarca people (200-1300
AD) took advantage of this, carving over 20 kilometers of perfectly square channels through solid stone,
diverting water that once would have run west into the Pacific east over the continental divide to irrigate
the Cajamarca Valley. The site is somewhat remote, a 45-minute drive from Cajamarca city, set amid the
stone forest Los Frailones, where rain has worked over the centuries to shape marvelous natural
sculptures.
Photo by: Jessie
. Jessie, Unpaved South America
Nazca Aqueducts
When the Incas first arrived in the Nazca desert they found it so inhospitable that they named it with a
word normally associated with pain and heartbreak. The native Nazca people, however, had thrived
there since 1000 BC, in part through an ingenious system of underground aqueducts and wells (thought
to be built around 500 AD). Since the seasonal rivers couldn't be relied upon for irrigation, they took
advantage of the water flowing from a fault beneath nearby Cerro Blanco, the world's highest sand dune.
These aqueducts are still in use today, although the increase in population and the growing number of
wells being dug are now decreasing the farmers' water supply. The most intriguing aspect are the spiral
Photo by: Jessie
wells (puquios) that farmers use to access and clean the aqueducts.
Sangalle Oasis
Most people who visit Peru will visit the Colca Canyon to see the Condors, I'm not sure, however, how
many people venture down into the bottom of the Colca Canyon to the Sangalle Oasis, something that if
you don't mind a hike and roughing it for a bit is well worth it.
Photo by: Ben


Relaxing is nice, but all the fun starts when you take a dune buggy
ride out to race through the giant dunes
Photo by: epicxero
Peru
Hostal El Santuario, Cuzco

If you are determined to find a five-star luxury mega residence, forget Hostal El Santuario. El Santuario
doesn't offer luxurious facilities. However, its strength is a view that will undoubtedly take your breath
away. It lies at the feet of Machu Picchu and is dominated by the overwhelming mountain topped by an
ancient "ghost" town. Looking out the window, you'll gaze out at the unforgettable scenery of the river
Urubamba. This adventure will take you back in time. Three reasons to stay at Hostal El Santuario: 1.
You will breathe river air first thing in the morning 2. You can enjoy a truly breathtaking view 3. It's cheap.
Photo by: Angela

. Angela, Travel Calling
Huacachina, Peru
Peru is choc full of famous sites that have intrigued and fascinated the world for centuries. It is home to
well-known wonders like Macchu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, the Andes Mountains and many more. However,
for us, one of the most exciting and adventurous destination was in Huacachina. Located in the Ica
Province, here you will find some of the largest sand dunes in the world as you enjoy this beautiful oasis.
Relaxing is nice, but all the fun starts when you take a dune buggy ride out to race through the giant
dunes. It is more exciting than a roller coaster as the skilled drivers climb steep hills only to fly down near
vertical drops. Sandboarding is also a must, and it can be done either out in the middle of the desert on
Photo by: Deb and Dave your excursion or by grabbing a board from a guesthouse in Huacachinna and making the hike on your
own to the top of one of the surrounding dunes. There is not a more beautiful sight than the one you see as you stand atop a giant peak at sunset
while looking out over the endless desert sands that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Visitors can hike along an aqueduct which runs 1400 meters up from
the ruins to the walled remains of what may have been a fortress
Photo by: epicxero
Peru
Tipón
While all of Peru's ancient cultures consistently went out of their way to create works that were not only
functional but also beautiful, the Incas are the most renowned for their obsession with aesthetic. Tipón is
no exception -- with its symmetrical terraces, unique vertical irrigation channels, and typical stunning
view of the valley far below.
Archaeologists believe that these terraces, built high in a ravine just outside of Cusco, were a sort of
agricultural research site. Water flows from a natural spring through a beautiful series of cascading
channels and fountains in order to irrigate their crops, and visitors can hike along an aqueduct which
Photo by: Jessie
runs 1400 meters up from the ruins to the walled remains of what may have been a fortress. The
aqueducts are in remarkably good condition even almost 500 years after the collapse of the Inca empire.
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El Congo Venezuela is the most other-worldly places I've ever been
Photo by: M
Venezuela
El Congo
The story goes that when Europeans first arrived in what is now Venezuela, they came to the Lake
Maracaibo villages, perched on stilts amid the marshes and water. Watching the village folks traverse
the "streets" in handmade rafts reminded the Europeans of Venice - so they dubbed it Venezuela.
El Congo, Venezuela is the most other-worldly places I've ever been. It's only reachable by boat, a
30-minute ride through the hazy flat expanse of water, and you've gotta book a tour to get there. But
surprisingly, the town isn't the main draw of the tour. The Catatumbo Lightning phenomenon is what
draws most people - mysterious, thunderless lightning that occurs almost nightly in the skies over Lake
Photo by: Lauren
Maracaibo.
The road to Los Llanos was flooded when I was in Merida, so I opted to take the Catatumbo tour in its place. I hadn't heard of El Congo, but it
ended up being the highlight of the tour (the lightning didn't really happen that night). The town had everything - a school, a fire station, a
convenience store, even a Plaza Bolivar - all erected on stilts. Rumor had it there were a couple old folks still living in the town who'd only stepped
foot on dry land to bury relatives.
It wasn't an untouched Eden: El Congo is extremely isolated, making inbreeding a huge problem, and the town was quite poor. Sanitation was a
major issue, with most refuse and human waste going directly into the water. Owning an actual boat was a sign of privilege. The less well-to-do
had to construct their own floatation devices - this girl tied a piece of wood to some leftover styrofoam, dug a stick down into the mushy lakebed,
and propelled herself along that way.
The thing that really bummed me out were the poor yapping dogs chained to the "front porch" of some of the houses. So much for getting a walk,
little buddy. But hands down, El Congo is the most unusual place I've ever traveled to - and so far off the beaten path that there wasn't a path at
all.
. Lauren, Lonely Girl Travels
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This website lists a wide variety of free and low-cost volunteer
programs spread throughout South and Central America
Photo by: CURZU@
General
Volunteersouthamerica.net
I admittedly have never done any of the programs on this website, but I have spent time looking through
it. It lists a wide variety of free and low-cost volunteer programs spread throughout South and Central
America that focus on a number of different causes -- from kids to the environment. Some have
minimum commitments of only a week or two, while others require a longer stay.
Photo by: Genista

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Contributing Authors
This Travel Secrets eBook is the result of a unique collaborative project, the first of its kind to take place on the Internet. It would
not have been possible without the amazing community spirit and unrivalled travel knowledge of the talented writers and bloggers
listed below. Take a virtual world tour around their inspiring travel blogs.
What are your Best Kept Travel Secrets? Join our team of travel writers and become a Travel Secrets Author.
Liz A Girl in Asia Shannon A Little Adrift

Monica A Pair of Panties and Boxers Vera A Travelers' Library
Rob Adventure Rob David and Approach Guides
Jennifer
Neeraja As I See It Ben Backpacker Ben
Ayngelina Bacon is Magic Joy Be a Travel Bee
Brooke Brooke vs the World Cate Caffeinated Traveler
Kelly Cancun Canuck Candice Candice Does the World
Abi Cheap Weekend Breaks Julie Collazo Projects
Francoise Cult of Travel Nick Delicious Chaos
Dan Eight Hour Layover Terri Europe Up Close
Mike Europe Up Close Nancy Family on Bikes
Neha Flying Suitcase Joel Freedonia Post
Adrienne Gastroanthropology Lola Geo Travelers' Niche
Ekua Girl, Unstoppable Elizabeth Go With the Ebb
Scott and Becky Going East Ms. Gourmantic Gourmantic
Keith and Amy Green Around the Globe Aaron and Happy Time Blog
Georgie
Heather Heather on her Travels Bobbi Lee Heels and Wheels Online
Corbin ibackpack Canada Jeanine J The Travel Authority
Lorraine Keeps Me Smiling Don Kidaddle
Lisa LL World Tour Lauren Lonely Girl Travels
Abbie Miles of Abbie Minshap Minshap - Both Sides of the Coin
Melanie Miss Adventures Carrie My Several Worlds
Brian No Debt World Travel Jeannie Nomadic Chick
Kimberly Notes to Self Frank Our Hiking Blog
Alexander Primative Culture Nora Professional Hobo
Caitlin Roaming Tales Jane Runaway Jane
Sabina Solo Female Traveler Gray Solo Friendly
Anne-Sophie Sophie's World Pam Spunky Girl Monologues
Suzy Suzy Guese Lori The 3 Star Traveler
Alan The 9to5 Alternative Deb and Dave The Planet D

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Contributing Authors
This Travel Secrets eBook is the result of a unique collaborative project, the first of its kind to take place on the Internet. It would
not have been possible without the amazing community spirit and unrivalled travel knowledge of the talented writers and bloggers
listed below. Take a virtual world tour around their inspiring travel blogs.
What are your Best Kept Travel Secrets? Join our team of travel writers and become a Travel Secrets Author.
Kara The Vacation Gals Daniel The World Trail

Todd Todd's Wanderings Tom Top Backpacking Destinations
Dee Travel and Travails Angela Travel Calling
Lisa Travel Dreams and Moonbeams Cecil Travel Feeder
Colleen Travel Mamas Kayt Travel Savvy Mom
Kirsty Travel Tips Plus Mark Travel Wonders of the World
Keith Traveling Savage Andrew and Travelling Two
Friedel
Liz Travelogged Steven Travelojos
Adam Travels of Adam Audrey and Dan Uncornered Market
Jessie Unpaved South America Dina and Ryan Vagabond Quest
Earl Wandering Earl Richard Where the Road Goes
Jessica Wild Earth Integration Nellie Wild Junket
Leyla Women on the Road Kate Yes There is Such a Thing as a
Stupid Question

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Best Kept Travel Secrets 2010

Africa 5 94 Middle East

Asia 12 104 North America

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Surreal Sunsets Along the Lekki Peninsula

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Akagera National Park Safari

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. Alexander , Primative Culture

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The Train from Kapiri-Mposhi to Dar Es Salaam

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Cambodia 15 32 Sri Lanka

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The Geghard Monastery

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