Month: November 2024

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Destinations

Mini travel guide to the Philippines, useful tips and information

Have you ever dreamt about spending time in sublime beaches without being surrounded by hundreds of other tourists? After traveling in Southeast Asia for almost a year, we can definitely promise you that the Philippines is the country that will fulfill the most easily these dreams of yours. But sure, how could it be not like this in a country that consists of an archipelago of more than 7000 islands and where almost the whole country is a beach? Apart from having first class beaches, hidden corners and fascinating locations for divers, there is one thing that will let you find your own paradise in this country: there are much less tourists in the Philippines than in other beach destinations. The amount of foreigners you find in this country can’t be compared to the mass tourism that you can find when you travel to Thailand, for instance. In addition to travel to the Philippines is also very special because of the people you will meet there. It might be because of the Christian heritage and the fact that their culture is much more similar to the European than in other places in Southeast Asia, but it is so easy to connect with the Filipino who start talking to you in any moment (most of them speak good English) or they just want to take a picture with you.

There are several reasons for that you will meet less tourists. Flying to Manila, the Filipino capital is not as easy and cheap as it is to other major cities in SE Asia. Then, traveling in the Philippines means taking other flights or boats, which make the trip slower, less comfortable, and sometimes even a bit unpredictable. Moreover, there are certain areas in the country which are considered dangerous because of the presence of fundamentalist religious groups.
Therefore, traveling to the Philippines requires good planning. In order to help you with the preparation of your travel to the Philippines, we prepared this brief travel guide for you with lots of useful tips.

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How to organize your trip to the Philippines

Looking at the map will immediately make you understand that organizing your travel to the Philippines is not something very easy. It is a country that consists of a lot of islands, which means that you will have to fly or travel by boat quite often. We strongly recommend you not to include too many islands in your trip to the Philippines, since you will easily get frustrated. Try to pick a couple of island groups at most, and focus your trip on those. In addition, flying to Manila is not as cheap as it is to Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur. Nevertheless, if you want to save money you’d rather fly to one of the previously mentioned cities and then take a low-cost flight (AirAsia, CebuAir, etc.) to enter the Philippines.

When to travel to the Philippines

The best time to travel to the Philippines is between December and May, which is the dry season, while during the European summer it’s the rainy season in the Philippines. During the wet months it rains almost every day, but you can still enjoy many sunny hours most of the days. Nevertheless, during these months you have to consider that your travel to the Philippines can coincide with one of the typhoons that hit the country every year. These typhoons cause quite a lot of damage usually, and they can ruin your trip, too. The Visayas Islands in the center of the country are the most protected islands from these huge storms.

Travel insurance

In the Philippines, just like traveling in the rest of Southeast Asia, it is very important to have a good travel insurance. You can get infected by different tropical diseases, and to have a good insurance is crucial for these cases.

Visa to travel to the Philippines

If your travel to the Philippines will last less then 30 days, you don’t have to bother too much. When you enter the Philippines, your passport will be stamped, which will let you stay one month in the country (not 21 days as it was before). You won’t have to pay any fees for that. If you want to stay more time, you can extend your stay for another month in the offices of immigration. This second month is not free any more, the current fee is 3.130 PHP (around 60 euros). More information on Visa issues.

Vaccines and medicine to travel to the Philippines

The only vaccine that you need to have, if you want to travel to the Philippines is the yellow fever, but only if you travel from an endemic area. Other vaccines that are usually recommended are: typhoid fever, diphteria, Japanese encefalitis and hepatitis A/B. As usual, we recommend you to visit a travel clinic in your country, where they will provide you with all the necessary information.

You have to consider that in most parts of the Philippines health care is pretty basic, hence it is quite important to have a complete first aid kit with you. In some areas of the Philippines there is also a possibility of getting infected by malaria, hence we recommend you to get informed on the current situation. Use of a good mosquito repellent is certainly necessary.

Time Zone

The Philippines is found in the UTC + 8 time zone.

Language

In the Philippines the official language is the Filipino (Tagalog), but there are many other languages spoken in the country. English is also a co-official language, hence much more people speak English than in other countries in Southeast Asia. In fact, to travel to Philippines is also a great opportunity to practice your English, if you are not a native English speaker. If you listen to Filipino people talk, you can also recognize many Spanish words, which was quite funny for us to hear.

Currency

In the Philippines the local currency is the Philippine peso (PHP). The current exchange rate is 1 euro = 52 PHP. In most bigger cities and tourist spots you will find ATM machines to withdraw money. Most local banks charge you 200 PHP as a commission (Citibank does not, but it is not so easy to find ATMs of this bank), so it is better to withdraw larger quantities.

WI-FI

In the Philippines, just as in most part of Southeast Asia, you will find free Wi-Fi in most of the accommodations. Even on islands that seem to be far from everything, you won’t have any problem in finding internet connection.

Safety

The Philippines is one of the countries where we would really like to go back soon. Nevertheless, we have to tell that the Philippines is not the safest country is Southeast Asia. In bigger cities (especially in Manila) thefts are quite common, whereas in more remote islands (especially in Mindoro) several tourists have been kidnapped by fundamentalist groups. It is always better to get informed before you travel to the Philippines, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas.

Where to sleep in the Philippines

In the Philippines it is not always very easy to find cheap and nice accommodation. Nevertheless, with some effort, you will always find something decent.

How to get around in the Philippines

Traveling in Southeast Asia, one gets used to traveling in local buses or by minivan most of the time, whereas your travel in the Philippines will include more trips by boat and by plane than on land.  This makes traveling more complicated, which also makes many people stay away from this country.

If you plan to fly, there are several low cost companies you can use for that. With AirAsia and Cebu Pacific you will find great deals most of the time.

Between islands that are close to each other, traveling by boat is the best option, although these boat services can have pretty unpredictable timetable. Sometimes they don’t leave until they have a certain number of passengers, they get canceled because of a breakdown, they don’t let you on board, because there is no more space, etc. When you travel to the Philippines, you need a good amount of patience, too.

Where to eat in the Philippines

Food is not the strongest point of the Philippines. There isn’t a perfect country, so we have to say that food is pretty disappointing in the Philippines, especially compared with the culinary delicacies in the neighboring countries. They eat a lot of bread, burgers and other not very healthy stuff. At least it’s inexpensive, and you will easily find food stalls to buy a sandwich or something similar for very little money. It’s also possible to find local restaurants, where you can try typical Filipino food. The most typical dishes are the filipino spaghuetti (with a sweet tomato sauce and sausage) or the caldereta (a kind of stew that we liked a lot).

Budget for your travel to the Philippines

We spent around 15 € a day each when we traveled in the Philippines. Nevertheless, we had to stay for 6 days in the same place, since Gábor was sick. Therefore, we can say that traveling in the Philippines is somewhat more expensive than traveling in the rest of Southeast Asia, but you can still make it on 20-25 € per day.

We hope that our short guide will be useful to organize your travel to the Philippines.

The major attraction in the Philippines are the beaches and marine life, especially the beaches in Coron and Palawan are breathtaking.  Nevertheless, there are also interesting natural and cultural sights to visit. Amongst them we especially recommend the famous Banaue Rice Terraces and the hanging coffins of Sagada.

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Destinations

What to do and see in Bangkok

Bangkok is one of those cities that instantly seduces you with its colors, sounds and odours. It’s one of the largest cities of Southeast Asia with so many different sides and faces, and most travelers love to return there every now and then. Bangkok has a lot of ancient monuments, fantastic gastronomy that gives you new impulses even after a lot of time you spent there. It’s also an ideal place for all sorts of shopping and everything is integrated together to such extent that in this city even the shopping malls seem to be monuments that have to be visited.

Here, we just give you a shortlist of what to see and do in Bangkok, the “must stuff” from our point of view.

VISIT TEMPLES AND OTHER MONUMENTS

Without any doubt the Grand Palace and the huge temple complex Wat Phra Kaew, are amongst the essential places to visit in Bangkok. The temple of Wat Pho is also indispensable with the famous golden reclining Buddha-statue in its interior. In addition, we really recommend you to visit a place that is not in all tourists’ agenda, that is climbing the Golden Mount, where you will find a beautiful golden stupa and you can enjoy the most spectacular views of the city.

Another not so touristic, but very authentic and somewhat peculiar location is Erawan Shrine, a holy place where locals say thanks to the Gods, which is situated between skyscrapers and skytrains. A strange encounter of modernity and tradition.

WALK IN SOME OF THE NICE PARKS

Despite the huge traffic in Bangkok, which you will notice everywhere, there are places in the city where you can escape from the hustle of the city. Our pick would be the Lumphini Park, where apart from a nice pond you can also meet some really huge lizards walking around (which are by the way completely harmless).

ENJOY THE COLORS OF CHINATOWN

Chinatown is probably the most vivid part of the city, where you can find endless variety of street food, small markets and shops, where you can buy all that you can imagine. At night street life becomes even more lively, and experiencing it is something that you really have to live at least once.

VISIT THE SOI COWBOY STREET

We included Soi Cowboy amongst the things that you have to see and do in Bangkok, because it’s a very peculiar place, which many of you will find funny and strange. A street with lots of lights, a little bit in Amsterdam style, a very small “red light district” with girls inviting you inside the bars to see the shows, where who knows what’s going to happen.

EAT, EAT AND EAT

If there’s something that especially makes worth visiting Bangkok, for us these are the food stalls, which you can find everywhere. It’s funny to see local businessmen waiting in line for a piece of fried chicken. We really tried to taste as many different kinds of things as possible, and we spent basically the whole day eating, since these food stalls are just everywhere and they make you feel like trying these delicacies.

If you are vegetarian or vegan, you will also find a bunch of great places to eat. Here’s a great guide for you about vegan Bangkok.

DO SOME SHOPPING

Apart from the famous MBK shopping mall, where you can find technological products of all famous brands (phones, laptops, etc..), we also recommend you a walk in the Terminal 21 shopping mall. The latter has a very original design: it’s like an aiport where all floors have the name of a famous city and the design is related to that particular city.

Another must visit place is the Chatuchak Market, which is the largest market in Thailand, and where you can buy absolutely everything you can think about, while you enjoy the great food you can taste there.

ENJOY THE VIEW OF BANGKOK FROM THE SKY

And finally we left one of our favorite places to the end, which really can’t be left out from the list of what to see and do in Bangkok, and that’s the impressive Sky Bar. They have a strict dress code, it’s very overpriced, but the views you can enjoy from there are unbelievable and compensate for everything. It opens around sunset, so it’s worth going there early to enjoy the day view, the sunset and the lights of the city at night, too.

We returned to Bangkok several times during our travels around Thailand, and we really fell in love with the city. It is so vibrant, it never makes you feel bored and wherever you go, you will always find surprises and new things to see and do.

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Destinations

How to travel cheaper? Our 3 golden rules

I am often asked what my tips are for traveling at the best price! That’s how I came up with the idea to write this article. So I’m sharing with you our tips for traveling cheaper, because we all dream of being able to take the trip of our dreams without breaking the bank.

1. Organize everything yourself to travel cheaper

The first and most important rule when you want to travel at the best price is to organize your trip yourself! For example, before booking our road trip to Canada (cancelled due to covid) , we compared the prices of a travel agency  with our own research. The agency had given us a quote of €12,000 for a family of 4 (2 adults + 2 children). By organizing everything ourselves, the trip cost us €6,000. The figures speak for themselves. Organizing your trip allows you to make huge savings and adapt your choices (accommodation, transport, etc.) to your budget.

However, you should know that wanting to take charge of organizing your trip requires a lot, a lot of time. I spend hours finding the best prices, the must-see places, planning the itinerary… For my part, I love it! Almost as much as the trip itself. For those who like to travel without taking their heads, a travel agency or a travel planner remain ideal solutions.

2. Book in advance to travel cheaper

Some will say that last minute can be a great deal but we have never tried this option. I like to take the time to organize and plan everything in advance before discovering a destination. But I am sure that the unexpected and the unforeseen must bring a certain excitement to the trip and sometimes even be a good surprise on the budget side.

When you want to go outside Europe, you look at the prices of plane tickets between 6 and 9 months before the desired travel date . And once again, after doing a few tests, we realized that the price went from single to double (or even triple). And this, for the same date and the same destination but by booking barely 2 months in advance. So we never took this risk because our travel plans are not flexible and we never leave on a whim. In addition, booking in advance allows you to have a wider choice in terms of accommodation. And if you like to visit like us, some emblematic places require booking months in advance!

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3. Compare prices to travel cheaper

Here is what takes the most time but is essential when you want to travel at the best price: COMPARE prices. By doing this kind of exercise (Excel spreadsheet in front of you!), you will see that you can find all the prices and especially very good prices if you are looking for the best deals!

PLANE TICKETS 

First step of a travel project: book plane tickets. And there our best ally is the Skyscanner flight comparator . As parents and employees, we have date constraints. So we are not really flexible when it comes to our trips. For our romantic city trips we always leave during the weekend and when we leave with the children, it is during the school holidays. Obviously, these are not the most recommended periods to find the cheapest tickets. However, the flight comparator allows us to find the most competitive airline and the cheapest flight times.

On the other hand, if you are flexible and can leave at any time (during the week and off-season), you can get great deals. Another super economical tip that we have never used, and if you don’t have a particular plan, adapt your destination to the price of the tickets! And finally, to save a few more euros, and if you can, don’t take hold luggage. Traveling in cabin luggage when you are leaving for a few days is rather easy (but paying on some low-cost airlines) . On the other hand, when you are leaving for a long trip, it is more difficult to apply this tip especially with children!

ACCOMMODATION 

Whether you choose a hotel or an apartment, here too you have to compare prices. Besides, it is often more interesting for the budget to rent an Airbnb . I am not talking about youth hostels which are also a great option because it is not at all our thing. With our 40 years and some, we like our comfort but also to please ourselves! If you prefer to stay in a hotel, review the price offered on Booking and that offered by the hotel that interests you. Even with a Genius status, Booking is not necessarily the cheapest. It is often more interesting to go directly through the hotel and sometimes even to get a discount.

CAR RENTAL 

During our city trips, we like to do everything on foot. For us, it’s the best way to discover a city. Sometimes we save our legs after long days of walking by using public transport. When we go away for longer, we rent a car to be able to get around easily. For this, we use the Rentalcars comparator to find the most suitable car at the best price.

On the other hand, be careful because choosing the cheapest rental company is not always the best option. The first thing to do is to check if they take debit cards. They represent the majority of cards that the French have. However, and very often, low-cost rental companies require credit cards. Then, you have to be careful about the amount of the deposit which can be exorbitant. There are also additional insurances that you may be forced to take out. Finally, the price will also be higher if you prefer to pick up your vehicle directly at the airport. Look at everything in detail and don’t be afraid of sometimes losing a few euros because some rental companies have very dubious practices and you can easily get scammed!

THE PARKING 

To park our car at the airport, we often use Onepark which is a comparator and an online booking site for parking spaces. It allows you to make huge savings because it offers parking spaces in hotels near train stations and airports with free shuttle service. And the good deal is that if you click on this link you can save 10% on your first reservation!

THE VISITS 

When we go to discover a European capital, whether as a couple or with family, we love visiting museums. Once again, we compare prices before booking our tickets. We have noticed that those sold on official websites are often cheaper. On the other hand, they cannot be canceled or changed. If you are cautious, sites like Civitatis or GetYourGuide often offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the visit but also a more varied choice of visits.

It is very interesting for some destinations to take Tourist Passes such as Go City. This is what we did during our getaway to New York that we talked about in our article on our budget for 5 days in New York . We found it very interesting because this kind of Pass allowed us to see the must-see places of the city while saving money.

Finally, depending on the day or time of year, some museums offer free entry. The only drawback for very touristy monuments is that this free entry attracts a lot of people. You will not be alone and you will have to be patient.

THE FOOD 

Finally, there is a budget that can literally explode, it is that of food. Some destinations are more expensive than others. You will pay almost nothing to eat delicious tapas in Spain but you will ruin yourself in New York! So you have to know how to adapt. When you stay in hotels with breakfast included, you often skip lunch, otherwise it is often lunch on the go. I can tell you that in New York we ate slices of pizza for 1 dollar!! For the evening, we go to a few restaurants because we also like to treat ourselves but we eat local. We look for good affordable addresses by reviewing the reviews on Tripadvisor. In Airbnb, we go to the market, do some shopping and we cook!

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Destinations

Traveling to Australia: Mini Travel Guide with Lots of Tips

Before travelling to Australia, we all realise the huge distance between Spain and Australia , but perhaps fewer people understand the dimensions of this country . The distances are huge, so planning an itinerary requires good organisation. It is impossible to see everything important in Australia in one trip and it is always better to focus on a specific part of the country. Many people dream of living in Australia for a while , as salaries are very high in any sector and you can save money in a short time to then take a nice trip around the country. Here is our mini guide to travelling to Australia with lots of information and many useful tips.

How to travel around Australia

Australia is like a continent . Apart from the huge distance between Spain and Australia (it takes at least 24 hours to get there), you will also have to consider the distances within the country itself . We recommend choosing just a few places to visit during your trip to Australia, otherwise you will spend all your time on the road and all your money on petrol.

Most people travel along the coast of Australia where there are plenty of things to do, but if the country’s interior, the famous “Outback”, calls to you, you need to be well prepared. In the Outback, distances between places are huge , mobile coverage is scarce and you may soon find yourself in a place far from civilization. You will need to bring plenty of water (and gasoline) and if possible, inform someone of your itinerary, because if your car breaks down, you may find yourself without help.

Requirements for traveling to Australia

For Spanish citizens (and those from the European Union) there  is no visa requirement for travelling to Australia if the purpose of the trip is tourism. You will simply have to go to the Australian consulate’s website, enter your details in the appropriate eVisitor form and you will normally receive approval within a few minutes. If you are unlucky, like Gábor at the time, they will ask you for more information. Apart from that, you will only need to have a valid passport and you will be able to enter the country.

The documentation is simple, but there are other requirements to consider if you want to travel to Australia . This country protects itself from diseases in the world, so you cannot enter with fruit, vegetables, meat and other products of this type . They carry out quite serious controls at customs and if you get caught, you will have problems, so it is better to declare everything.

Traveling to Australia: Mini Travel Guide with Lots of Tips

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Requirements to live and work in Australia

It is the dream of many to go and live in this country , since salaries in Australia are really high . However, it is very difficult to get a work visa if you do not have a profession that is in demand in the country. You can find out about the possibilities on the  Australian immigration page .

For those under 30 years of age, there is the option of obtaining a Working Holiday Visa and the good news is that just recently (in July 2017) the number of places for Spaniards has been increased from 600 to 1500. This visa allows a 1-year stay in Australia, of which you can spend 6 months working. From 1 January 2017, it is possible to request an extension of the visa for another year.

The best time to travel to Australia

As we have already mentioned before, Australia is like a continent with very different climates in different parts of the country . Therefore, there is no best time to travel to Australia in general . We traveled in August during the southern winter and although we were cold in some specific places, in the Northeast of the country at this time the climate is much milder and drier.

Therefore, for us, the European summer is a better time to travel to Australia than the high season (December to February) , since in the high season not only will everything be more expensive, but it also rains a lot in the north and even the roads can flood. The European summer is the holiday season, but considering the huge distances between Spain and Australia, in this country it is unlikely that you will feel surrounded by Spaniards or other Europeans no matter what time of year you travel to Australia.

Security

Australia is one of the safest countries in the world . The quality of life that most people have means that crime is very low in Australia. We lost a mobile phone in the car park of a shopping centre and when we returned a few hours later, we got it back because someone found it and left it at the reception desk. Every traveller comes back with stories like this.

However, travelling around Australia will not make you feel as safe, not because you are afraid of the Aussies, but because of other elements of nature such as the hostile climate of the interior that we have already mentioned and all the dangerous animals that are there, so you have to do things with caution.

For example, driving at night on Australian roads can be very dangerous , as kangaroos suddenly appear in front of you and a crash is guaranteed. In fact, many insurance companies do not cover these types of accidents after dark.

If you want to enjoy Australia’s best beaches or swim in a lake or river, you’ll need to do your research before you do so. The small irukandji jellyfish are very dangerous , so if you see a sign on the beach that says “stingers”, you’d better swim somewhere else. Then there are crocodiles and sharks , whose attacks are also quite frequent, and some of the most poisonous snakes and spiders in the world are hidden in the sea . However, there’s no need to panic, just have a little common sense.

Just by considering all these natural dangers, you will understand why good travel insurance  is essential when travelling in Australia. 

How much does it cost to travel to Australia?

If you want to travel to Australia, unless you find a very special offer, you will have to spend a lot of money on the plane ticket , since the distance between Spain and Australia is huge. The country itself is also expensive, but you can do a lot to reduce your expenses.

In the big cities you can use Couchsurfing or another tool of this type to host other travelers, while traveling around the country you can rent a van, which is the cheapest option . This way you will not only be able to experience Australia in a more authentic way (visiting towns and other places where public transportation does not reach), but you will also save a lot on accommodation and food by cooking.

Where and what to eat in Australia

We didn’t really enjoy the typical food in Australia, as it is a rather expensive country and we travelled in a van that allowed us to cook our own food . However, in Sydney we were able to enjoy Asian food for very little money (there are many Asian immigrants in Sydney). The only typical Australian food we tried was kangaroo meat, which we bought several times.

Where to sleep in Australia

In Australia’s larger cities, there are plenty of hostels and hotels to suit any budget, although prices are quite high . The best way to save on accommodation while travelling around Australia is to rent a van. This way you won’t have to pay for accommodation, as there are plenty of places where you can stay with your van overnight.

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Destinations

Canada: a dream destination for Christmas and New Year

Everyone has their own perfect plan to spend a memorable Christmas and welcome the New Year in the best possible way: with family, friends or in a place where they feel calm and comfortable. To spend a warm Christmas, we can choose countries in South America such as Argentina, Chile or Uruguay, where the New Year is welcomed in the middle of summer, or any tropical country. But those who have lived warm Christmases all their lives usually have the fantasy of snow and everything that it implies .

If this is your case and you are one of those who are looking for an impressive setting where you can live an adventure in the snow, there can be no better place to make it a reality than in Canada. And yes, we are talking about Canada as a country because during the winter months any corner of the country is tinged with white and it is possible to enjoy unparalleled natural landscapes : natural ski slopes, snow-covered pine forests, frozen waterfalls… You name it, Canada can certainly offer it to you.

Canada is a country with a very large surface area, which means that it has different climates throughout its territory. It has coasts on the Pacific where the climate is usually cold and foggy and a part of the country that borders the Arctic North, a practically frozen territory, but despite these extremes, the seasons are very marked, with summers of up to 30º (somewhat short, yes), and winters with temperatures below zero.

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That said, if you are one of those who is going to travel to Canada to celebrate Christmas or are planning to do so next year, these places that we are going to mention below should be on your list of destinations and plans to do.

Canada: a dream destination for Christmas and New Year

Go to Mont-Tremblant, in the province of Quebec

This small town of just over 9,000 inhabitants is located at the foot of the Laurentians mountain range, and lends its name to the ski resort that sits on one of the spectacular mountains that surround it. What does this mean? Exactly! It is the perfect place to spend a snowy Christmas and welcome the New Year in the tranquility that comes from being away from it all and surrounded only by a few people who, like you, come to Mont-Tremblant looking for that postcard-perfect place to end the year.

The biggest attraction of this small town is the ski resort, which in winter becomes a real amusement park for lovers of snow and winter sports. Mont-Trembant has 96 ski runs, 14 ski lifts, a panoramic gondola and more than 400 instructors available to guide and teach those who are not as experienced on the snow . Ticket prices range from 98 CAD per day to 59 CAD for a multi-day pass.

As for the experience in the village, it is lovely. Being a small place, its inhabitants are very hospitable to visitors, who can enjoy more than 30 restaurants, cafes and bars with a festive atmosphere. The Christmas decorations are especially charming: the lights, the decorated pine trees, the general feeling of gratitude and sharing… A whole experience that we recommend you live if you have the opportunity.

Banff, a town in the middle of a national park

We don’t know if the park gives its name to the town or vice versa, but Banff is the most important town in Banff National Park, which is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains . If Mont-Tremblant seemed small and sparsely populated to you, Banff is even smaller: due to its geographical nature, the process of urbanization occurs in a controlled manner, but being one of the most important and visited tourist destinations in the country, it has a large number of hotels. It is the oldest national park in Canada and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

As you might imagine, being located in the heart of a natural park, Banff has some amazing scenery to offer, starting with the number of lakes that during the summer have a penetrating aquamarine colour and, with the arrival of winter, freeze completely and become natural ski slopes . For suggestions, visit Lake Louise or Peyto Lake . Banff is an ideal place for lovers of the cold and snow sports. Among the many options offered by the park are ice climbing, sledding, snow slides or snowboarding.

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria is considered the most British city in Canada, and one of those places that offer adventure, parties, dreamy winter landscapes, all in one package. It is located in the south of Vancouver Island and is a true gem. Its most famous postcard is that of the Butchart Gardens, probably the most colorful place in the entire country , which throughout the month of December and until January 6 is illuminated with hundreds of Christmas lights, in what is known as the “Twelve Days of Christmas.”

As for the city, it has a characteristic Victorian architecture that contributes to this whole Christmas postcard setting. During the holidays, the most emblematic places in the city are filled with lights and allusive decorations: Bacon Hill Park, Government House, Craigdarroch Castle and the Inner Harbor , among others. In Victoria, it is possible to fulfill the most cliché Christmas fantasies (which there are simply part of their set of traditions), from singing carols in front of a Christmas tree to ice skating under the stars.

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Destinations

What to see and do in Thailand – Itinerary and travel guide

Are you thinking of travelling to Thailand and don’t know which places to visit? We can understand you, it’s difficult to decide what to see and do in Thailand if you only have 15 days. We have visited the tourist sites in Thailand in different stages during our trip around the world and we would return to this country many more times. It’s a place that we love, a place where we have spent quite a lot of time on several occasions and that we love very much. To help you put together your itinerary here we give you ideas for several possible routes with the most essential places. We hope that this way it will be easier for you to decide what to visit in Thailand . In addition, in the second half of the post we have also included a very complete guide to help you organize your trip to Thailand .

What to visit in Thailand

Bangkok

Bangkok is a big city, full of hustle and bustle but also of charming places. It is certainly one of the most touristic places in all of Thailand, because its atmosphere and nightlife attract everyone. For us it deserves at least 4-5 days, we recommend spending the last day in Bangkok to buy gifts before returning home.

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What to visit in Central and Northern Thailand

Lopburi

It is not essential, but if you have 1 day to spare,  Lopburi is a small town with few tourists, but with some very particular things like a temple full of monkeys.

How to get to Lopburi:

The best option is the train from Bangkok.

Sukhothai

We recommend staying for a couple of days including Si Satchanalai.

In the Sukhothai Historical Park  you will find some of the most important ruins of the Sukhothai Kingdom. To explore the whole park by bike you will need one day.

How to get to Sukhothai:

By train from Bangkok or continuing from Lopburi. Once at the station, hire a tuk-tuk to get to the centre, the hostel area.

Yes Satchanalai

Near Sukhothai, it is also worth visiting one of the least touristy places in Thailand, the ruins of Si Satchanalai, which are impressive and much less visited than those in Sukhothai.

How to reach Si Satchanalai:

By bus from Sukhotai, it will take you about an hour to reach Si Satchanalai . Once there, rent a bike and enjoy the place.

What to see and do in Thailand – Itinerary and travel guide

Chiang Mai

We recommend staying at least 3 days

Chiang Mai  is definitely one of the places that everyone should visit in Northern Thailand. It is a city that we loved for its wonderful temples, its lively markets, its atmosphere, the massages, the food and I won’t go on any further because I’m going to buy a plane ticket right now. It is worth being there on a Sunday as there is a very nice market in the centre.

How to get to Chiang Mai:

From Sukhotai you can take a bus.

From Bangkok, by low-cost flight, train, bus or minivan – there are many alternatives. The bus is the most comfortable option.

Chiang Rai

We recommend staying for at least 1-2 days.

The city of Chiang Rai itself may not be the most impressive, but the White Temple of Chiang Rai located on the outskirts of this city has no equal.

How to get to Chiang Rai:

From Chiang Mai the best option is to take a bus.

Tourist places in Southern Thailand: The best beaches and islands

And now we move on to the wonderful beaches:

Depending on the time of year, choose the East or West coast.

The best beaches and islands on Thailand’s east coast

Koh Tao

Of the three most popular islands (Koh Tao, Koh Samui and Ko Pha Ngan) in the Gulf of Thailand, we chose Koh Tao. We recommend staying at least 4 days.

Koh Tao is a great place for snorkelling and scuba diving. Koh Tao Island is famous for being an island with many diving schools and for being one of the cheapest places to get the “Open Water” certification. Koh Samui is the island for families and Koh Pha Ngan is the island for parties, with the Full Moon Party taking place every month, a total mess.

How to get to Koh Tao:

From Chiang Mai there are direct flights to the south, you can also take the train, or go through Bangkok and then continue south.

The cheapest option is to take the train to Surat Thani and then take a ferry from there.

The best beaches to visit on the West Coast of Thailand

Ao Nang (Krabi)

Ao Nang beach itself is nothing special, but there are some nice excursions to be made from Krabi around the area. You can visit the beautiful Railay beach or take a tour of the 4 islands . We recommend staying for at least 2 days.

How to get to Ao Nang:

From Koh Tao you have to take the ferry to Surat Thani and from there a bus to Krabi (changing in Hat Yai) and then a bemos to Ao Nang.

The Phi Phi Islands

Who doesn’t dream of seeing the blue waters of Maya Bay? Perhaps this island along with Phuket is the most touristic place in all of Thailand. We advise visiting it outside of the high season when you will be able to experience much more of the magic of the place.

How to get to Phi Phi Islands:

We recommend taking a day trip to Phi Phi  from Ao Nang so you can enjoy Maya Beach without having to stay in Koh Phi Phi where there are many tourists and prices are more expensive.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is an island of peace and tranquility, a natural paradise and for us it is home to some of the best beaches in Thailand. We recommend staying at least 3 days.

How to get to Koh Lipe:

From Bangkok you can take a bus to Satun (we recommend at night) or the train and get off at the station in Hat Yai. The other option is to take a Bangkok -Hat Yai flight.

From Krabi: This is the best starting point to reach Koh Lipe. There are two options, the first is a direct boat (which operates only in high season), the second is to reach Satun by land by bus, take another bus to Pak Barra and then take the boat to Koh Lipe (this type of connection is available all year round).

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Destinations

Visit Barcelona in 2 days: what to do in a weekend?

With the end of year rush, we wanted to disconnect for a weekend and we went to Spain to visit Barcelona in 2 days . Less than 2 hours flight from Paris, we found the sun, the sea and the tapas! Here is our itinerary and our ideas for visits to see the must-see places in Barcelona in a weekend!

Our Itinerary to visit Barcelona in 2 days

DAY 1

THE RAMBLA

Barely awake and after a good breakfast, we head towards La Rambla. 300 meters from our hotel, this emblematic avenue of Barcelona connects Plaça de Catalunya (to the North) to Port Vell (to the South) over 1.2 km. Largely pedestrianized, the rather touristy place is very lively day and night. We take the time to stroll to discover the Catalan atmosphere!

BOQUERIA MARKET

Going down the Rambla, you reach the famous Sant Josep Market, better known as the Boqueria Market. This market was inaugurated in 1840 in a former convent . This market is definitely worth a visit! The choice of products is impressive: fish, meat, vegetables, fruit, cheese, etc. You can also taste many local specialties, ideal if you’re feeling peckish. It’s a gourmet and very colorful market that we recommend visiting in the morning to avoid the crowds. The market is open every day from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., but be careful, it’s closed on Sundays!

Visit Barcelona in 2 days: what to do in a weekend?

GOTHIC QUARTER

Now head to the Barri Gòtic where the historic heart of Barcelona is located. The only and best advice I can give you is to get lost in its medieval streets. We really loved walking there far from the hustle and bustle of La Rambla.

You may also like: 10 Best Hotels for Families with Children in Barcelona

DAY 2 

PARK GUELL

For this second and last day in Barcelona, ​​we go up a little in the Gràcia district . After walking 18 km the day before, we save ourselves by taking the bus to go to Parc Güell, another work of the Catalan artist Gaudí. This very lush garden of almost 20 hectares located on a hill offers a breathtaking view of all of Barcelona . We find Gaudí’s modernism there with colorful sculptures. It is a very pretty park where it is very pleasant to walk without being exceptional.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION:

  • Reservation required (choosing the day and time of the visit) on  the official website  where you will get the best price.
  • Opening hours: open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. ( 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in winter)
  • Standard entry prices: adults €10 , children €7 (ages 7 to 12), free for under-6s

ROVIRA TURTLE

We continue our climb to reach the Rovira hill which is just over 1 km from Parc Güell. It’s quite a climb to reach the Buncker Del Carmel but the 360-degree view quickly makes us forget our efforts! From this viewpoint located at an altitude of 262 meters, we can enjoy the most beautiful panorama of the city. Free access.

BARCELONA

After this sporty climb, we take the bus again to enjoy the beach and the sun. It is mid-December and it almost feels like spring. We go to Barceloneta Beach, the closest to the city center. It can be reached on foot in 15 minutes from the Rambla. We stroll through the alleys of this old fishing district before taking a walk along the beach. You can’t miss the view of the futuristic architecture of the W Hotel in the distance. It is a very nice area where it is good to relax in the sun in one of the many beach bars and restaurants.

CIUTADELLA PARK & EL BORN DISTRICT

Before collecting our luggage from the hotel, we take advantage of the afternoon to stroll in the Parc de la Ciutadella in the heart of Barcelona. This park of about a hundred hectares built for the Universal Exhibition of 1888 is the largest park in Barcelona. With its waterfall, its pond and its many wooded and shaded areas, it is a real haven of peace in the middle of the city. Continuing our stroll, we admire the Arc de Triomf which was the former entrance gate to the park. Admission is free. 

Then we finish our discovery of Barcelona with the El Born district where there are many museums (Picasso Museum, Palace of the Catalan Museum, etc.). The prices of visits being particularly high in Barcelona, ​​we had to make choices and in 48 hours it was not possible to do everything.

Where to sleep in Barcelona?

My first question before planning our itinerary was which neighborhood to stay in Barcelona? Since we like to walk and we do most of everything on foot, we needed a central neighborhood. So we chose the Eixample neighborhood where the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló are located among others. This neighborhood is rather residential but still very lively and not far from La Rambla and Passeig de Gracia. It is the perfect neighborhood if you are a fan of architecture but also shopping or gastronomy.

So, we booked 2 nights at the Jazz Hotel located in the Eixample district, which is ideal for visiting the city and is therefore close to everything (buses, metros, shops, visits, etc.). Despite the lively area, the hotel was very quiet. The spacious and modern room was spotlessly clean. The breakfast was varied. Its little extra: its rooftop with its swimming pool which offers a superb view especially at sunset!

Where to eat in Barcelona?

We only stayed 2 days there but we absolutely wanted to eat local! Many addresses had been recommended to us but here are the ones that we had time to try and that we appreciated:

1) EIXAMPLE DISTRICT

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Hotels

Where to stay in Toronto: the 5 best Hotels

In this post we tell you in detail which are the best areas to stay in Toronto , and what you can expect in each of them. The vast majority of these are clustered in the city centre or around it.

The best areas to stay in Toronto

1. Downtown, the best area to stay in Toronto

Downtown is the heart of the city . Many of the main attractions are located here , it is an ideal place for shopping, enjoying good restaurants, and it also has a good range of leisure activities.

To begin with, we must mention the CN Tower, which was completed in 1976 and was 553.3 m high , the tallest free-standing structure in the world until 2007.

Visitors can look out over the city from 1,150 feet up , dine in the revolving restaurant and test their mettle on the tower’s Edgewalk (only suitable for those with a good tolerance for heights).

When you’re walking through Old Toronto, be sure to visit the Royal Ontario Museum, a treasure trove of historical and natural wonders.

Another popular place to visit in the area is the St. Lawrence Market which features over 100 vendors and offers everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses, meats and homemade baked goods to antiques and artisan goods.

After a stroll through the market stalls, why not visit Ripley’s Aquarium , which features 10 different galleries, 450 different species and more than 20,000 aquatic animals?

There’s also the Art Gallery of Ontario , famous for its continuous rotation of top-notch exhibitions.

In downtown Toronto, entertainment is the order of the day, and its offerings include theatre and shows.  

For film lovers, the Lightbox, home of the Toronto International Film Festival, offers year-round screenings of independent, blockbuster and classic films. Another must-see address is the impressive Film Reference Library.

Comedy fans won’t want to miss Toronto’s premier comedy club, Second City , which has hosted the likes of Tina Fay, Bill Murray, Amy Poehler, Stephen Colbert and Steve Carell. (Visitors can even sign up for improv workshops and classes.)

And for the most theatre-loving, there is the Winter Garden Theatre , where you can see shows such as The Phantom of the Opera and Wicked.

Another attraction of this area is the possibility of shopping. For this you should not miss the exclusive shopping district of Bloor Street , as well as the enormous Eaton Centre shopping centre .

In terms of accommodation, there are many hotels, hostels, and apartments for holiday rental . The offer in all price ranges is wide, however, as it is one of the most popular areas to stay in Toronto, the average is higher than in other neighbourhoods.

Where to stay in Toronto: the 5 best Hotels

RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN DOWNTOWN

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2. Chinatown, a central neighborhood ideal for experiencing the essence of Asia

Founded in 1878, the vibrant Chinatown neighbourhood has an identity all its own and is a perfect area to stay in Toronto for those who, like me, are fans of Asian food and also want to be in the heart of the city.

Here you can explore the rich world of Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, with restaurants ranging from traditional to fusion, and plenty of Asian markets and shops.

Spadina Avenue is full of fresh produce, souvenirs and special herbal remedies, plus plenty of street food stalls for a quick bite to eat along the way.

Chinatown hosts two notable festivals each year: the Toronto Chinatown Festival and the Chinese New Year celebration.

The Toronto Chinatown Festival features traditional and modern Asian dance groups, solo musicians and marching bands, live performances, and all kinds of Asian food, art and fashion.

Although it is possible to find accommodation in Chinatown, the offer is quite limited . This is not a problem since this neighborhood is inserted in the larger area that makes up Downtown, an area with plenty of options.

RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN TORONTO IN CHINATOWN

3. Financial District & Entertainment District, where to stay in Toronto to go out

Both districts are neighbours and by staying in either one you can enjoy the best of each with a short walk.

The Financial District, one of Canada’s most important financial and business centres , has been one of Toronto’s busiest areas since its relocation from Montreal in the 1960s. 

Choosing to stay in Toronto has huge advantages. This centrally located area is close to many major attractions and plenty of clubs, bars and restaurants.

Here visitors can admire the impressive architecture of buildings such as Royal Bank Plaza, Brookfield Place and Union Station , and dine at high-end restaurants.

Visitors to the Financial District won’t want to miss the nearby Hockey Hall of Fame , a fun, family-friendly museum dedicated to the history of ice hockey.

The Entertainment District , on the other hand , is often difficult to know where one ends and the other begins. It is an ideal place to go out to dinner, and then have a few drinks in its many bars or go out dancing until the early hours of the morning.

The entire area comprised of these two neighborhoods is home to a good selection of luxury and boutique hotels , making it the perfect luxury destination during your stay in Toronto.

RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN ENTERTAINMENT AND THE FINANCIAL DISTRICT

4. Harbourfront, where to stay in Toronto for families

Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Ontario, the Harbourfront area offers stunning views of Toronto and a unique experience for visitors looking to live like a local. 

Harbourfront is an especially ideal place to stay in Toronto for families as in addition to being centrally located, the area offers parks, beaches, trails and events to keep all members of the family entertained.

Harbourfront Centre is known as the hub of Toronto’s waterfront, with food, art and music events throughout the year, especially in the warmer seasons. 

From this point you will have easy access to boat rentals and ferries that take visitors to the Toronto Islands. 

Meanwhile, the pubs and restaurants on the waterfront offer the best views of Lake Ontario.

And for those traveling with children, a must-see attraction is Centreville Amusement Park , which features a petting zoo, a hedge maze, a splash park, a haunted lighthouse, and a charming Edwardian carousel built in 1907.

Another attraction in the area worth visiting is The Power Plant, a contemporary art gallery that turns its artificial pond into a fantastic skating rink.

If your trip coincides with the summer months, you can enjoy one of Harbourfront’s beaches , from the smallest at HTO Park to the largest Sugar Beach (easily recognizable by its bright pink umbrellas). 

The Harbourfront area is also popular for cycling and hiking , and tandem and ATV rentals are available on Centre Island.

All of this makes this area one of the best places to stay in Toronto for everyone, but especially for families with children.

RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN TORONTO ON HARBOURFRONT

5. Yorkville, the best place to stay in Toronto for shopping

Located at the intersection of Yonge and Bloor in downtown Toronto , this neighbourhood is known for its trendy boutiques, cafes and restaurants , and for its “Mink Mile” of Bloor Street, famous for its galleries and design studios. 

With its elegant tree-lined streets and charming Victorian mansions, Yorkville offers visitors an exceptionally picturesque experience during their stay in Toronto.

Art lovers and shopping addicts will find Yorkville an area with plenty of appeal. Not only that, there are also some interesting sights to see from a tourist point of view.

The Gardiner Museum , Canada’s national ceramics museum, was established in 1984 and offers a specialized insight into the ceramics-making process as well as its role in various civilizations throughout history. 

Shoe devotees won’t want to miss the Bata Shoe Museum , which houses the world’s most extensive and detailed collection of footwear and related objects. It boasts a collection of over 13,000 items spanning nearly 5,000 years of history.

Yorkville Park is particularly interesting. It is designed with different sections that represent the diverse landscapes of Canada, 

A special point of interest is the 650-ton rock on display in the park, which comes from the Canadian Shield, a geographic area located in eastern and central Canada and is more than a billion years old.

Yorkville hotels are as stylish and luxurious as the neighborhood itself, and if you don’t mind spending a little extra on your accommodation, you’ll definitely enjoy the area.

Recommended hotels in Yorkville

Categories
Hotels

The 5 Best Luxury Hotels on Times Square in New York

Times Square, named after the famous newspaper “New York Times”, is located in the heart of Manhattan at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. The square is one of the most spectacular places in New York City, especially because of the colorful lights and the renowned Broadway musicals. In keeping with this, some of the best luxury hotels in New York City are located right on Times Square and offer an incomparable view of the hustle and bustle. We’ll show you the five best hotels on Times Square and some tips for your luxurious trip to the famous square.

General information about a stay at Times Square

Times Square, also known as the “Crossroads of the World”, is probably the most visited square in Manhattan. With around 40 theaters, numerous upscale restaurants and fast food chains and various shops, it combines all facets of New York . In addition to the right accommodation, there are of course other things that are important for a successful stay. Below we have summarized some important information for you.

The 5 best hotels directly on Times Square at a glance

Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel – Casual luxury in the heart of the city

The upscale high-rise hotel is impressive just because of its location right on Times Square. You can also look forward to a wide range of offers and luxurious amenities inside. The rooms and suites welcome you with modern and casual furnishings and, not least thanks to the soundproof windows, become cozy retreats right on Times Square.

In terms of culinary delights, this luxury hotel on Times Square has a lounge with a panoramic view of the city, which will spoil you with creative cocktails and sophisticated appetizers. In the immediate vicinity of the hotel there is also a large selection of high-class restaurants and American fast food restaurants. An extensive fitness area is also part of the offerings of the Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel.

5-best-luxury-hotels-on-times-square

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Destinations

New Year’s Eve in Dubai: Best Places to Watch the New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Dubai

Dubai, the city of Gold and Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world, makes celebrating New Year’s Eve in Dubai more festive than anywhere else in the world. If you want to create memories of the fantastic New Year’s Eve, come to Dubai and experience one of the most unforgettable moments of your life. Whether you are looking for fun, adventure or just a memorable getaway, there are plenty of ways to let off some steam all year round in the city that never sleeps. Fantastically decorated with trendy fireworks at various locations in Dubai, it is what makes Dubai one of the most exciting New Year’s Eve destinations. The Burj Khalifa tower surrounded by millions of lights leading into the New Year; this is something that has to be seen to be believed!

Here is a list of places that are great to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Dubai. These landmarks have hosted grand events for many years, so you can have fun, spend quality time with your friends and family at any of these places to ring in the New Year.

Top 10 places to spend New Year’s Eve in Dubai.

1. Burj Khalifa

There’s no denying the stunning beauty of Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. It’s a huge attraction for tourists and a top-class entertainment venue for locals, having been the site of some of Dubai’s most popular New Year celebrations. At midnight on December 31, fireworks light up the sky above Downtown Dubai, drawing people from all areas, including Mirdif and Downtown Dubai Mall, to watch the elaborate laser show that accompanies them. You might think it’s impossible to buy a ticket before all the seats are taken! But don’t worry, watch the epic show from anywhere in Downtown Dubai, from Mirdif or Downtown Mall and enjoy a feast for your eyes.

2. Atlantis the Palm Dubai

Where is the best place to celebrate New Year’s Eve 2022 in Dubai? Atlantis, of course! One of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, you can experience three unforgettable nights at this resort over New Year’s Eve weekend. Crowds are always bustling during these times, but it’s worth the bravery to see mind-blowing fireworks displays and entertainment at midnight. There are several exciting ticket options available, but be sure to book in advance to access both the beachside cabanas and the world-famous Palm Island bungalows. The gala dinner will give diners an elevated dining experience with exclusive nightlife shows hosted by Cirque du Soleil artists.

You may also like: Where to stay in Dubai: Best areas and hotels

3. Burj Al Arab

We recommend that you pay close attention to the details when visiting the Burj Al Arab in Dubai on New Year’s Eve. This year, the hotel will host a grand celebration that includes an exclusive fireworks display and a gala dinner with an extensive menu of 12 different culinary stations prepared by world-class chefs headed by Pierre Gagnaire. After this extravagant event, there will be a DJ playing upbeat music with a view of the spectacular fireworks in the background, making the evening in Dubai truly memorable.

4. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Souk Madinat is not only a famous and popular place to host New Year celebrations, but it also has an alluring ambiance that makes the occasion memorable. This market stands out as one of the best places to shop for authentic souvenirs and art pieces from around the world. Just head there early so you can check out the amazing deals before midnight strikes, to ring in the New Year! Based on King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Road, Souk Madinat is easily accessible for tourists in Dubai.

5. Amazonico Dubai on New Year’s Eve

If you are a party lover then you must head to Amazonico, Dubai’s premier Latin American inspired restaurant in the DIFC Pavilion for the Amazonico Club New Year’s Eve celebration. You will have everything you need including dancing under the mirror ball in the lounge where bossa nova is played along with live Brazilian dancing with glitter, neon lights and disco galore to complete the scene. There will be a live disc jockey before midnight in true Studio 54 style before you head to the buffet at the restaurant. Located in the DIFC Pavilion in Dubai.

6. Dhow Cruise Dinner on New Year’s Eve

If you are looking for something cozier to enjoy New Year’s Eve in Dubai, consider trying the Dubai dhow cruise. This venue allows you to enjoy New Year’s Eve from the comfort of air-conditioned luxury vessels with an open deck on board that offers spectacular views of the Dubai skyline at night. The deck allows for outdoor seating during the day so you can enjoy unobstructed views of Dubai’s attractions with the rest of your group without being too crowded in small spaces or boats unless you want to be.

7. New Year’s Eve in Dubai Desert Safari

If you end up celebrating this year’s New Year’s Eve in Dubai, you can consider visiting the golden sands of the desert because it will be less crowded with all the usual excitement of the city. You will have a splendid time watching the sunset in peace without being in constant noise pollution. To enjoy in style, there are plenty of activities to take part in such as sand play, motorcycling, and various other adrenaline-inducing games. For the evening festivities, bring your tents or get ready to rent one because you could have an extraordinary experience sleeping under the sky while enjoying a traditional dessert, coffee that comes with an amazing belly dance. This event will surely close your year on a high note!

8. New Year’s Eve celebrations in Dubai

Dubai welcomes people for New Year’s Eve. If you’re among the revelers and want to start the New Year off right, head to Barasti Beach – this shore is decorated in an ugly coyote theme. Dubai also has Atlantis the Palm with a KISS Rock Band and Warehouse party. For a Gatsby-themed party, check out The Penthouse or head to Jardin Desedo at the top of Town Square. For some casually dressed fun, you can attend one of the many parties – each of these will let the kids join in on your fun too!

9. Global Village

Come enjoy the festivities at The Global Village as they celebrate New Year’s Day in style! Every year, this is a very popular spot for locals and tourists alike to celebrate the exciting transition from one year to the next. Whether you just want to explore and soak up the different international cultures present, or you want to have a fancy dinner to kick off the celebration, you’ll feel right at home here. You could even stay up late into the night and do a countdown with everyone else as everyone counts down to midnight. Kids will enjoy watching music and fireworks shows, as well as taking part in fun activities like Carnival so the kids have a blast too.

10. New Year at Hatta Adventure

If you are a nature-loving person and don’t mind the hustle and bustle of city life, we highly recommend renting a car and visiting Hatta on New Year in Dubai. Located on the border between Oman and the UAE, this wonderful mountain town offers stunning views and opportunities to take part in a number of exciting outdoor activities such as kayaking, ziplining, mountain biking – just think of all the adventures! If you are looking for something more serene, we can point out picturesque places such as Hatta Heritage Village or Lake Hatta that might give you the chance to slow down and enjoy some peaceful moments. Have you ever spent the night in a chic desert camp? There’s nothing better than pitching your own tent when travelling, so we suggest checking out Chic Hatta Damani Lodges – another one of our favourite recommendations when in the UAE!

Here we will sum up our details of the best places in Dubai to celebrate New Year’s Eve. All these places are amazing and you can choose any of them as per your mood and nature. Just keep in mind that you need to make the hotel and flight bookings in advance to avoid the messy crowd. Happy New Year in advance!