10 CITIES TO VISIT IN SPAIN

Spain consistently ranks among the top 5 or top 3 most-visited countries in the world. The main reasons are its coast and islands, but its cities are also magnets for cultural tourism. From some of the world's greatest art collections, to innovative cuisine and vibrant street life, the country offers urban sophistication with a relaxed and welcoming attitude. 
Flights and trains make it easy to travel between its largest cities and smaller towns, and these are the ones you should place in your itinerary: 

1 | BARCELONA

 


It's not the capital, but it's the one city you should not miss in Spain. Stylish Barcelona has transformed itself into not just one of Europe's must-go destinations, but also into a major world city. It's a busy Mediterranean port mixing historic architecture and some of the world's greatest Modernist buildings (including Gaudi's Sagrada Familia), but it's essentially its energy and creativity that make it such a captivating place. Experience its street life, enjoy some of the world's most creative food, and spend some time at the beach, and it will undoubtedly be your favorite urban Spanish getaway. 

2 | MADRID

 

Madrid is placed on the world travel map for its outstanding world-class museums. There's the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, but in between are buzzing squares, wonderful parks, great shopping, and an unbeatable nightlife. 

3 | SEVILLE

 

Seville is postcard Spain, a city of Flamenco, bullfighting, and extraordinary Moorish architecture. Its oldest neighborhoods are a picturesque mix of white alleyways and ornate buildings, including Europe's largest cathedral. Most impressive of all is the Real Alcázar, a royal residence dating all the way back to the late 1300s. 

4 | VALENCIA

 

The country's third-largest city has always been known for its street life, lively during the day and night, thanks to a pleasant climate. Today, it's being discovered as a city break destination, thanks to impressive modern architecture by local world-renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. It's a pleasant place to walk around, with most of its sights found within walking distance. Beyond the center are the beaches, and the impressive Ciutat de les Arts complex with its collection of futuristic buildings. For many, best of all is that this is the birthplace of paella. 

5 | BILBAO

 

Bilbao was placed on the map due to just one building -- the iconic Guggenheim. But this port city surrounded by hills has much more to offer. As an industrial city, it is not the prettiest urban destination in the country, but it's a lively place with old alleyways where you can try some of the flourishing Basque cuisine. 

6 | GRANADA

 

One of the world's cultural centers for over two centuries, starting in the 1200s, this is still one of Europe's most splendorous cities. It's home to one of the world's most spectacular monuments, the Alhambra, and to several other dazzling buildings from that time. 

7 | CORDOBA

 

It was once one of the greatest cities in the world, and many of its treasures can still be admired today. Its former Jewish and Moorish quarter is made up of narrow cobbled streets, and that's where most of the sights are found. That includes the royal palace-fortress and one of the world's greatest mosques, the Great Mosque, originally built in 785. 

8 | TOLEDO

 

Built on a hill not far from Madrid, historic Toledo offers a rich collection of monuments. It was home to El Greco, so today it's home to many of his works, including a major masterpiece at the church of St. Thomas. But the one must-see monument is the magnificent cathedral, one of the largest in Christendom. And as a former melting pot of Jews, Christians, and Muslims, you'll also find a curious variety of architectural styles as you explore its medieval streets on foot. 

9 | SALAMANCA

 

Spain's great university city has some of the country's greatest architecture (mostly Renaissance and Plateresque). In addition to seeing one of Europe's oldest universities, spend some time at one of the continent's grandest squares, admire two extraordinary cathedrals, and wander around an old town rich in golden stone buildings that make the city glow. 

10 | SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

 

It's not a big city, yet it's a destination that many include on their must-go travel list. It's one of the most important places of pilgrimage for Christians, but people of other faiths and atheists will also enjoy its narrow streets, squares, and granite architecture. In addition to the towering landmark cathedral, two other highlights are Plaza do Obradoiro (one of the world's finest squares, which the cathedral faces) and the baroque Convent of San Martiño Pinario.

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10 Places to Retire in Asia

Offering everything from lush, tropical rainforests to bustling mega-cities, Asia is one of the world’s most varied and interesting places to retire. With an increasing number of Western retirees seeking an ‘escape’ from the fast-paced life that they are used to, and Asia offering a cultural experience that’s second-to-none, the number of retirees seeking peace, comfort, and financial security in Asia has continued to increase.

These ten locations offer a great mix of modern conveniences, creature comforts, an affordable cost of living, and a unique look on life. From mega-cities to small towns, these top ten places to retire in Asia should be at the top of your list when you’re on the look for a great place to retire.

1. Phuket, Thailand

Known as Thailand’s capital of adventure, beach life, and summer sports fun, Phuket is a large island off the coast of Thailand’s Andaman Peninsula area. Connected with the mainland via a large road bridge and a bustling international airport, the island is easy to reach and well connected to the rest of the world.

While Phuket may be best known for the party hotspot of Patong, the rest of the island is warm, quiet, and remarkably peaceful. With a year-round tropical climate and some of the world’s most stunning beaches on its shores, this tropical island is a hotspot for retirees in Asia.

2. Penang, Malaysia

Malaysia’s northern cultural capital and foodie paradise, Penang is an interesting island for those seeking a more cosmopolitan beach experience. Home to some of the world’s best street food – including famous Laksa and Char KuayTeow – this bustling island is renowned as one of the world’s best places to eat out.

With some picturesque beaches of its own, Penang is no stranger to tourism and foreign retirement. Large condos line many of the island’s top beaches, while new shopping malls and commercial developments make this island a convenient place to live.

3. Singapore, Singapore

Singapore is one of Asia’s most livable large cities – an international community on a small island south of Malaysia. Home to a robust and powerful economy, a financial sector that’s ranks amongst the world’s biggest, and a variety of parks, natural areas, and gorgeous nature, this city of five-million is highly livable for retirees.

Despite its high cost of living, Singapore offers a great deal for those on a pension or fixed income. While real estate is expensive, food and drinks are very affordable and hired home help – maids, service people, and so on, are very inexpensive. Singapore is undoubtedly the perfect location for those seeking familiarity and comfort in Asia.

4. Sapporo, Japan

Japan’s cool northern city is one of the world’s best places for fans of winter. Home to some of the country’s best ski resorts and natural areas, this largely industrial city is one of Japan’s most affordable cities. The harsh winters, while off-putting for some guests, are a blessing for those seeking a cooler change of pace.

Well connected with the rest of Japan via air and rail, Sapporo is a unique city that’s worth the investment for those interested in learning more about Japan. With some of the country’s most inexpensive urban housing and a great deal to offer fans of winter sports, this city is undoubtedly Japan’s winter paradise.

5. Huahin, Thailand

While the Thai beach resorts of Phuket and Pattaya may have more in the ways of name recognition, it’s HuaHin that offers the most for retirees. Home to a large and clean beach that wraps around the city’s main commercial district, this coastal town has grown into a hotspot for retirees from Western countries and Thailand itself.

Home to one of the Thai Royal Family’s largest residences, HuaHin is a luxurious and peaceful beach town that’s focused on the higher end of Thai tourism. There are no sleazy beach bars or nasty nightlife here – only a relaxing, peaceful community that’s perfect for retirees, families, and holidaymakers.

6. Nhatrang, Vietnam

Vietnam’s primary beach resort destination, NhaTrang receives hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Despite its popularity, however, it’s maintained much of the charm that made it such a popular destination in the first place. A coastal city with some of the country’s best beaches, NhaTrang attracts retirees seeking a warm, peaceful place to stay in their later years.

With a beautiful beach of its own and air connections to the rest of Asia, NhaTrang is an easy city to access and a great ‘base’ for exploring the region. Inexpensive and peaceful, this beach resort is highly recommended for visitors to Vietnam seeking a fun, relaxing, and enjoyable experience.

7. Taipei, Taiwan

Taiwan’s capital and largest city is an economic hotspot for the region, and also a fantastic place to retire to. With a relatively inexpensive cost of living, particularly for a city of its development level, this affordable city is a great destination for those seeking an East Asian experience that’s less costly than that offered by Hong Kong.

With some of the world’s best dining opportunities, an orderly and peaceful society, and a fantastic public transportation network, Taipei is a great city for exploring the world of East Asia. Despite political issues with the People’s Republic of China, this destination remains a secure place to store your finances and other assets.

8. Sai Kung, Hong Kong

Think of Hong Kong and you’ll invariably picture huge high-rise buildings, bustling streets, and markets extending as far as the eye can see. However, while the city’s central districts may be some of the most dense in the world, its outer areas and small coastal towns offer a more relaxing lifestyle for those looking to retire.

Sai Kung is a small coastal town in Hong Kong close to the region’s border with China – a unique outpost in an otherwise bustling city. Quiet and easy to live in, retirees are drawn to Sai Kung for the lower cost of living and more peaceful way of life. Despite this, it’s only a half-hour from Hong Kong city by train and public bus.

9. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand’s ‘second city,’ Chiang Mai is a more relaxed alternative to the bustling capital of Bangkok. With a large range of businesses and restaurants catering to foreign expatriates, this city is an easily accessible destination for retirees that are interested in a more quiet, relaxed way of life.

Inexpensive and reasonably developed, Chiang Mai is home to international condo developments and many of the services that you can find in Western countries. The low cost of living, pleasant climate, and friendly atmosphere have made this city a top destination for retirees seeking a peaceful retirement location in Asia.

10. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysia’s capital city is significantly less bustling than many visitors expect. While the inner city is fast-paced and frantic, many of the city’s outer suburbs offer a great opportunity for retirees to enjoy peace, quiet, and tropical warmth. Inexpensive and convenient, this city is a great destination for those seeking to retire in Asia.

Backed by a fantastic transportation network and a strong international community, Malaysia is an underrated retirement destination in Asia. If you’re on a limited budget yet seek a combination of quiet relaxation and big city life, Kuala Lumpur may be the destination that you’ve been looking for.

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Best Ultimate Road Trips in the World

Get inspiration for your next holiday with this list of ultimate destinations to explore by car.

Broken up by region, these killer road trips also make for some pretty good arm chair viewing for those who can’t take the time off for an actual getaway.

Africa: Skeleton Coast, Namibia

Difficulty rating: Advanced

This rugged shoreline covers a third of Namibia’s coast, stretching some 650km from the seaside town of Swakopmund to the Angolan border. The scenic but demanding stretch of road is so called for its tragic past – as a magnet for shipwrecks. It’s not an easy drive so mind your speed on unsealed roads and never drive off the road on fragile salt pans and lichen fields.

Asia: The Grand Trunk Road

Difficulty rating: Intermediate

The Grand Trunk Road is one of the longest – and oldest – major roads in Asia. It has connected the Indian subcontinent from east to west for more than 2000 years. The route runs from Chittagong in Bangladesh all the way to Kabul in Afghanistan, and passing through India and Pakistan on the way.

Australia: The Great Ocean Road

Difficulty rating: Easy

This nearly 250km stretch of road along Australia’s south east coastline is also the world’s largest war memorial. Built by returned soldiers and dedicated to those who fought in World War I, the road has become an important tourist attraction for the region with several key sights spread along the coastline. The stretch from Lorne and Apollo Bay is said to be the most picturesque, with towering cliffs, beautiful beaches and lots of opportunities to stop for surf.

Europe: Basque Circuit, Spain and France

Difficulty rating: Intermediate

A circuit of just under 500km, the loop will take you through Spain’s Basque country and on to the Pyrenees in France. Head south from Bilbao on the B1623 and turn east towards Pamplona, before taking the N135 through the Pyrenees. At this point the drive becomes more demanding, but it’s well worth it for the spectacular views. After a brief sojourn in France you’ll head back west towards Bilbao along the stunning Cantabrian Corniche, offering dramatic views of the mountains above on your left and the sea below to your right.

Middle East: The King’s Highway, Jordan

Difficulty rating: Intermediate

This ancient path, stretching 280km through Jordan’s countryside, is a more scenic alternative to the modern Desert Highway. A trade route in the ancient Middle East, the road is steeped in history. It takes at least six hours to drive the windy road but the reward is great. Motorists get a glimpse into rural life in Jordan while en route to one of the country’s most famous sights – the archaeological city of Petra.

The Americas: The Pan American highway

Difficulty rating: Depends on location

Stretching from Alaska to Argentina, this 48,000km network of roads will take you through almost all countries in the Americas. It is estimated to take more than 200 days to complete. Don’t forget to investigate special requirements for international driving permits and border crossings. But be warned: due to a 100km stretch of rainforest and swamp land between Panama and Colombia known as the Darién Gap, it is not possible to cross between South and Central America by car.

If you’re in the market for a suitable car, Carmudi has some great deals on offer.

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10 Things To Do in South Africa

South Africa, the beautiful country, full of surprises. It is diverse country, about the size of France and Spain combined or duble the size of Texas. Its varied cultures, intriguing wildlife, stunning scenery, and remarkable beaches make it a haven for travelers from around the world. My list of top 10 things to do in South Africa includes riding an Ostrich, Sandy Beaches, Dive With Great White Sharks, spending the night in a tree-house, Visit a Game Reserve, playing golf, Hike the Wild Coast, Surfing in SA and Go on a Soweto Tour.

Here is list of10 Things To Do in South Africa.

10. Dive With Great White Sharks

Just when you thought it was safe to go into the water. South Africa has an incredibly diverse shark population. A quarter of the world’s shark species (98 to be precise) dwell in South African waters and around 40 of these call the waters around Cape Town home. If you’d like to see the Great White Shark without losing a leg then let me introduce you to the wonderful world of cage diving. Cage diving with the Great White Shark is a relatively new adventure sport in South Africa. There are several operators who offer cage diving packages and most of them concentrate around an area known as “shark alley” in Gansbaai, just 2 hours drive from Cape Town. Great White Shark diving is the marine equivalent of seeing the Mountain Gorilla in its natural environment. It’s an adventurous and unique opportunity to spend some one-on-one time with a magnificent animal.

9. Sandy Beaches

Want to whip off all your clothes and hangout naked in front of strangers? Sandy Bay beach is the only beach in South Africa where it is (unofficially) considered acceptable to tan and bathe completely naked. Going to the beach should be first priority when visiting sunny South Africa. There are various Blue flag beaches to choose from; from Clifton in the Western Cape to Kelly’s Beach in Port Alfred, you have to spend a day at one of these gems. If it’s too chilly to lie on the beach, there is always the option of sailing. Learn to sail at one of the many training centers.

8. Hike the Wild Coast

The Wild Coast, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape region, is one of the most beautiful coastlines on earth and much of it is only accessible by foot. There are fantastic natural sights including waterfalls, isolated beaches, untouched forests and rivers. The hike also offers the chance to mix with locals like the Xhosa and the amaPondo.

7. Go on a Soweto Tour

Soweto is a township brimming with culture and history. The half and full day tour offers you the opportunity to meet some of the locals who are happy to show you around their basic home structures. Soweto is inhabited by over two million people, with homes ranging from extravagant mansions to makeshift shacks. Soweto is a city of enterprise and cultural interaction. It is a popular tourist destination with sites such as Kliptown, the home of former President Nelson Mandela, the Hector Petersen Memorial site, restaurants and shopping. Go out with a local guide for a cycling tour around the community and get to know what makes this township unique.

6. Surfing in SA

The South African coastline is defined by a series of points and bays, technically logarithmic spiral beaches, because of their mathematically determined shapes. And, as any surfer worth his or her bar of Mr Zogg’s Sex Wax knows, points and bays are the salt and water of surfing. What you may also know is that the quality of the surf depends on the size of the swell and the direction of the wind. For that latter reason, the Cape Peninsula (with Cape Town at its northern end) is pretty much a 360 degrees, 365 days a year ride.

5. Stay in a Tree-House

Tree-house lodging is a fantastic eco-friendly idea and there are several options to choose from. Just like Teniqua Treetops is a tented tree-house resort in the Western Cape, not far from the beach. The Jaci’s Tree Lodge with individual houses on stilts built around giant Leadwood trees in the heart of the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. The Sycamore Ave and Pezulu Tree-House Game Lodge in Timbavati, the luxurious thatched tree-houses where you can get eye to eye with passing giraffe.

4. Cango Caves

If you are in the Karoo region there is another thing except Ostric Riding, you simply cannot miss out on, the Cango caves. Less than 30 km from Oudtshoorn, at the head of the picturesque Cango Valley, lies the spectacular underground wonder of the Klein Karoo – the Cango Caves. Explore the dripstone caverns, with their vast halls and towering formations in a limestone ridge close to the Swartberg Mountains. The principal cave is one of the country’s finest, best known and most popular tourist caves and attracts many visitors from overseas. Although the extensive system of tunnels and chambers go on for over four kilometers, only about a quarter of this is open to visitors.

3. Ride an Ostrich

How many people can say they’ve ridden an ostrich? If you visit Oudtshoorn in the Karoo, South Africa, and if you dare, you could try to sit on an ostrich, ride the ostrich and perhaps even take part in an “Ostrich Derby” . Riding an ostrich takes a lot of skill but amateurs are welcome to try their luck in Oudtshoorn, in the Karoo. Ostrich farms abound in this semi-desert area of South Africa, there are hundreds of them. Oudtshoorn is the place to master riding this ungainly but strangely attractive, non-flying bird. If you’re feeling very confident, there are regular races to be enjoyed as well but you should probably leave those to the professional ostrich jockeys.

2. Playing Golf at a Top Resort

South Africa is covered in golf courses. It is almost perfect golfing country, ideal weather, plenty of space, wonderful scenery and a population obsessed by sports and the outdoor life. Add in one of the world’s all-time great champions, Gary Player – as a national sporting hero, and it is little wonder that South Africans and tourists alike flock to play on some of the world’s best and most affordable courses. There is even the option to mix it up a little – golf, spa and safari.

1. Visit a Game Reserve

Kariega Game Reserve is a family-owned and operated private game reserve in South Africa stretching across 10,000 hectares of pristine wilderness in the Eastern Cape. The Kurger National Park, Agulhas National Park, Tsitsikamma National Park, Umgeni Valley Reserve and a number of other game reserves each offer a unique experience showcasing Africa’s most beautiful and majestic animals. Go on a safari and stay in a family lodge. See the stars at their brightest in the open field where fireflies are the only source of light.

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10 Most Beautiful Places To spend This Summer 2014

Every year the arrival of summers make us unhappy as we start thinking of the long hours load-shedding, non-stop sweat production and hectic daily routine which are likely to make us feel irritated in summer season. But sometimes when you can manage some extra spare time to go for a luxurious summer holidays with your friends or family members, then obviously you want to select the cool and peaceful lands. Let me tell you that not all the vacation places in the world are ideal to spend summer holidays in terms of their beauty and luxurious weather as well as meeting your standard requirements. In such case, making a wise selection of the best and most appropriate summer holiday place becomes quite tough. Not to worry at all because we are here to give you an overview of the 10 most beautiful places to spend this summer 2014 so that you can plan your dreamy trip conveniently.

10. Ontario, Canada

It is a sunny and hilly area. No wonder if its beauty keeps you occupied while you check on its pictures online to finalize the decision. Ontario is a small city of Canada with sufficient facilities and fun-filled spots to make you feel proud of while you are here in summers.

9. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is a small town of France; the local people also name it to be a land of wonders and spectacular beauties. There are various reasons for you to plan spending summers here, the first and most significant is its natural beauty. The nature has gifted this place with lots of spectacular monuments and green areas.

8. Maldive Island

Maldive Island is a place of dreamy holiday lovers. This small yet refreshing island is all surrounded by crystal clear water and green hills. A lot of resorts and hotels can be found here to stay at during your holidays.

7. Dubai, UAE

Dubai is a land of fun and shopping. It is especially a favorite tourist destination due to its awesome and spectacular shopping malls. Not only in summer, but also throughout the year, Dubai is doubtlessly a stunning and one of the beautiful places to spend the vacations at.

6. Nile Valley, Egypt

Nile Valley is a small valley of Egypt, popular for its rich historical and cultural values. Here the beauty of nature and the charm of night life is enough to keep you occupied during the holidays. I am sure you would not at all regret your decision of visiting and living in this beautiful place.

5. Pristine Coastline of Croatia

Don’t get surprised if you haven’t heard the name of this place, just believe me its beauty and wonderful resorts are what made me enlist its name here. Pristine Coastline of Croatia is a small valley situated close to Mediterranean Sea. Here the beauty of nature and wonderful historical monuments are what would add a plus to your level of experience and joys. The fabulous beaches and hilly areas in this valley look like the pride of the city.

4. Ishikawa, Japan

Japan is not only a developed and well versed nation but also a beautiful and awesome land for tourists to come and stay at. Ishikawa is the proud city of Japan and no doubt one of the stunning tourist attractions in the world. This city is not only famous for what the nature has gifted it but also is spectacularly named for its rich traditional values.

3. Cape Town, South Africa

Who wouldn’t like to visit Cape Town, a dreamy and gorgeous place of South Africa? This is especially famous among the newly married couples to come and enjoy their summer vacations. If you feel tired and want to enjoy the company of nature friendly atmosphere, then come to Cape Town and bless you with the natural and man-made beauty.

2. Dolomites, Italy

Dolomites is one of the major tourist points in Italy. This wonderland is famous for its natural beauty of gardens, trees, waterfalls, hills and parks. But another factor to add a plus to its standard is the delicious cuisine. You would not love to miss tasting the sea foods and various other traditional cuisines while you are in Dolomites. I am sure every moment you spend here, would definitely be enjoyable and wonderful for you this summer.

1. Balearic Island, Spain

For me, the heaven on the earth lies in Spain. This is doubtlessly a worth seeing land of the world. In addition to various other charms for the tourists in Spain, Balearic Island is a flavored and value added place to spend both winter and summer holidays at.

This is a small yet very pretty and gorgeous island, surrounded by green and blue crystal clear water. Here the people are very friendly and definitely you would not be short of residential or eating facilities. This authentic land of beaches and coastlines is like the pyramid of Spain to increase the graph of this country’s success in the world’s eyes.

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