May 18, 2012

Top Tips for Things to Do in Ybor City, Tampa

Ybor_City_12

Known as the cigar capital of the world for many years, the century-plus-old Latin district in Tampa, Florida known as Ybor City has much to offer the urban traveler.

Sponge Docks, Greek Restaurants and a Sense of History Part of Tarpon Springs Walking Tour

Tarpon_Springs_17

Those Visiting the Tampa – St. Pete – Clearwater area shouldn’t miss the chance to visit the great Greek heritage resource right at our doorstep. I’m talking about sponge docks of Tarpon Springs, and the surrounding neighborhood bursting with Greek restaurants, heritage venues and funky Mediterranean atmosphere right here on Florida’s nature coast.

Appreciating Autumn in New England

Foliage

Photo credit: nealaus New England is a great place to visit year round, depending on whether the tourist is looking for beach, skiing, sightseeing, history, or whatever.  Autumn, however, is the natural tour de force up here.  We do it really well, in many ways, and not like anywhere else. FOLIAGE Viewing autumn foliage in [...]

The Nazca Lines, Juanita the Ice Maiden and Other Cool Things to See in Peru

Peru_15

Touring Peru is a life’s dream for many travelers, and no small feat for those who actually manage to make it happen. Rugged terrain and transport logistics, along with long international flights to even arrive in the nation of the Peru can make following this particular travel dream seem daunting. For those that are willing [...]

Experience the Uros Islands, the Yavari and Nearby Sillustani from Puno on Lake Titicaca

Lake_Titicaca_18

One of the most famous locations in South America, Lake Titicaca is visited by most vacationers to Peru via the port town of Puno.

Sacsayhuaman, Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu: All Accessible from Peru’s Sacred Valley

Sacred_Valley_24

After seeing the sights and attractions in Lima, Peru, many tourists head directly to the Sacred Valley. With the town of Cusco as your base, experiences such as the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman and Pisac are all within easy reach.

Wondering What to Do in Lima, Peru? The Pachacamac Ruins, Shopping in Miraflores, and the Colonial Zone of Centro de Lima Offer History, Culture and a bit of Modern Convenience

Lima_19

Your first time in the city can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to go.

Winning Ways to Experience Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok_6

If you’re a frequent world traveler, you’ll end up in Bangkok at some point or another. It’s a major regional hub in Asia, and a relatively affordable city.

Top Tips for Touring Ayutthaya, Thailand

Ayutthaya_5

Easily accessible from modern-day Bangkok, the former Siam capital of Ayutthaya, Thailand has a number of cultural locations to tour, including an historical archaeological park which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit Jordan for Nature Reserves, Nabataean Ruins, Roman Antiquities and More

Jordan_8

If you’re planning to visit Jordan, rest assured there will be plenty there to keep you entertained.  While Petra is perhaps the most well-known of all the Jordan attractions, the truth is there are a myriad of things to do in Jordan, including a collection of impressive castles, an entire Roman city preserved for exploration, [...]

Souk Shopping, a Roman Theater and the Temple of Hercules Part of the Amman Travel Experience

Amman_12

One of the oldest, continuously-inhabited cities on Earth, the Jordanian capital of Amman is considered by many to be simply a stopover on their way to more famous in-country destinations such as Petra, the Dead Sea, Madaba or one of the numerous crusader castles in the kingdom. But there are several things to do in [...]

Jebel Haroun, the Nabataeans and Indiana Jones: Petra, Jordan Brings Movie Magic and History to the Middle East Travel Experience

Petra_38

One of the New Seven Wonders, the rose-red city of Petra, Jordan has hosted the filming of Indiana Jones, countless tourists and a number of notable international celebrities.

Mosaics, Fireside Meals and Daytrips of a Lifetime in Madaba, Jordan

Madaba_7

Managing a multi-day stopover in Madaba on your way to Petra means amazing mosaics, dinner at the atmospheric Haret Jdoudna and quite possibly crossing a number of daytrips off your personal bucket list.

Camping in Jordan’s Wadi Rum: Petroglyphs, Lawrence of Arabia, Stargazing and More

Wadi_Rum_13

Our first night in Jordan’s magical Wadi Rum began with a sky-high bon fire, exotic Arabic music and a food table piled high with hummus, olives, lamb and rice.

Making the Most of Your Holiday in Cambodia

Cambodia_18

Setting aside references to the cult classic song by The Dead Kennedies, taking a holiday in Cambodia is a life’s dream for many travelers.

Siem Reap: Cambodian Silk, Angkor Wat and Great Thai Food?

Angkor_Wat_3

Chances are, if you’re heading to Siem Reap, Cambodia, you’re going to see Angkor Wat. The subject of numerous documentaries and travel articles, this ancient and massive set of Khmer ruins is on the bucket list for many travelers.

So You’re Heading to Guayaquil, Ecuador?

Guayaquil_4

Many travelers find themselves in Guayaquil, Ecuador due its popularity as a jumping off point for touring the Galapagos Islands.

Quiet Getaway in Ayampe, Ecuador

Ayampe_4

If you’ve found Guayaquil to be a little too industrial for you, then consider heading up the coast a bit for a quiet getaway in Ayampe, Ecuador.

Israel Offers History, Waterfront Fun, Nature Experiences and Pilgrimage Opportunities

Israel_15

It’s no secret to those who know me that I’m a huge fan of Middle East travel. While it’s true I’ve spent more time in other countries throughout the region, David and I did have a chance to visit Israel several years ago.

Via Dolorosa, the Israel Museum and Other Things to Do in Jerusalem

Jerusalem_17

Jerusalem is on the life list for many travelers, and has been on the international events radar for thousands of years. If you’re finally planning a trip, there are a number of things to do in Jerusalem that you definitely don’t want to miss.

Trek Hound Tips for Things to Do in Haifa, Israel

Haifa_8

Haifa, Israel is a picturesque port town in the northern part of the country. Located on the slopes of Mount Carmel, it’s home to the University of Haifa, and believe it or not a selection of nature areas.

Cheap and Fun Things to Do in Tel Aviv

Tel_Aviv_8

If you’re looking for a break from the old-world feel and slower pace of some of the other towns throughout Israel, Tel Aviv is the place to head.

A Seaside Stroll to Old Jaffa: Israel Unplugged

Jaffa_3

Old Jaffa is a pleasant daytrip from nearby Tel Aviv, and a popular tourist excursion.

Italy’s Lake Garda Offers Windsurfing, Archaeology and More

Lake_Garda_9

Slightly south of Bolzano and about a half hour west of Verona is the Italian wind-surfing destination of Lake Garda.

5 Great Ways to See Sirmione

Sirmione_1 rszd

Towards the southern end of Lago di Garda lies the picture-perfect town of Sirmione, Italy. Accessible through castle walls and a foot bridge, this strollable town celebrated by the Roman poet Catullus is worth a daytrip for the discriminating tourist.

How to Plan a Perfect Day in Pisa

Pisa_12 rszd

Historically a maritime rival with the likes of Venice and Genova, Pisa, Italy gets its current fame from a failed, but phenomenally beautiful architectural project. The leaning tower of Pisa is certainly the attraction that draws most foreigners to this Italian city, but there is definitely more here to explore.

Popular Things to Do When Visiting Venice, Italy

Venice_4

The Venice carnival may be what puts this city in the international news every year, but it’s a highly sought-after tourist destination at any time.

Top Things to Do in Verona, Italy

Verona_14 rszd

Slightly south of Bolzano, in the northern part of Italy is a centuries-old town whose name we all grew up knowing. Verona. Historically referred to as Little Roma and the setting for Shakespeare’s famed Romeo and Juliette, Verona is not only a great jumping off point to explore several other Italian and European destinations, it’s [...]

Top Tips for Enjoying the Venice Carnival

Carnival_in_Venice_25

There are few cultural festivals more elaborately celebrated than the Venice carnival in Italy. People from all over the world travel to this annual event. Some to participate in the costumed revelry, others to sight see and troll for photo opportunities. The city is picturesque enough in its own right. Add in the gilded masks, [...]

Phenomenally Fun Things to Do in Sarasota, Florida

Sailboats

For those who enjoy a little more than beach combing during their vacation time, it’s nice to know that there are many fun things to do in Sarasota, Florida.

Daytrip from Quito: Saquisili Market and Hacienda La Cienega

Saquisili 1

When you’ve seen and experienced all of the things to do in Quito, you’ll be ready to start incorporating a daytrip or two into your Ecuador excursion.

Visiting El Oriente: Ecuador Unplugged in Misahualli

El Oriente 1

Encompassing Andean slopes, rainforest and the headwaters to the mighty Amazon river, El Oriente in Ecuador is one of several ecological destinations the country has to offer. During our trip there, we stayed at an affordable eco lodge on the river called France-Amazonia, took a river tour and checked out a great animal rescue project. [...]

Hotel Review: France-Amazonia in Misahualli

France Amazonia

On our journey to El Oriente in Ecuador, we stayed in small, developing town known as Misahualli. While the selection of places to rest your head was somewhat slim, we did manage to secure lodging at a small eco lodge called France-Amazonia.

Otavalo: Ecuador Indigenous Style

Otavalo Women

Otavalo is more than just a fun daytrip from Quito, Ecuador. It’s the premier place in the country to purchase indigenous handicrafts, get out of the city’s hustle and bustle and a seriously scenic drive.