Tokyo

 Tokyo is one of the most alluring places on this planet.

The high energy of the city and its attractions are enough to add Tokyo to your bucket list.

So when you finally take action to visit the capital of Japan, make sure you have an itinerary so you can visit as many of the city's most significant locations and landmarks as possible.

To make planning your trip simpler, below, you will find 15 of Tokyo's top attractions.

                     

                      •        Check Out Themed Cafes- Japan is known for its exciting niche cafes.

Dine with monkeys or get served by your favorite cartoon characters. If you can fathom it, there's likely a café for it

           •           Relax in a Shrine- Not only can you relax in a shrine, but you can spend the night in one too.

 

            •           Attend a Sumo Match- Sumo is an admired sport in Japan.

 

If you can, go to a match or watch the Sumo wrestlers practice in the mornings.

 

            •           Partake in a Tea Ceremony- Tea ceremonies, especially Matcha tea ceremonies, are insanely popular.

 

            •           Go to an Anime Convention- Manga and anime are huge in Japan.

 

 On the island of Odaiba from August to December, you can attend the largest convention in the country, Comiket.

 

            •           Shop in Asakusa- The Asakusa District is the best place to find a traditional kimono and to enjoy a little shopping.

 

            •           Sleep at a Ryokan- Staying at one of these inns is one of the most magnificent and intimate ways to experience Japanese hospitality.

 

            •           Experience a Festival- Matsuris (festivals) are extremely exciting and a fantastic way to indulge in the Japanese culture.

 

 Enjoy street food, geishas, parades, dancing, music, and lots of bright colors.

 

            •           Soak in Natural Spring Water- An onsen is a natural hot spring that many come to soak and relax in.

 

            •           Visit Izakaya Alleys- Izakaya alleys are Japanese gastropubs where the residents go to have drinks and snacks in the afternoon.

 

            •           Check Out an Art Museum- There are dozens of art museums in Tokyo. Try to visit a few, including the Mori Art Museum.

 

            •           Experience Hanami- It is a tradition to picnic under the cherry blossoms after they bloom in the spring.

 

            •           Wander Through the Sensoji Temple- Nestled in the Asakusa district, the Sensoji Temple is undoubtedly an ancient sight to behold.

 

            •           Enjoy City Views from the Tokyo Tower- Go to the main observation deck of the Tokyo Tower for a breathtaking sight of the city.

 

            •           Join a Mario Kart Race- Go-karting is popular in Tokyo and mainly if it includes dressing up as your favorite Mario character.

With so many spectacular places to experience in Tokyo, there's no end to the diversity of adventures to be had.

Be sure to contact us for your Tokyo vacation.

Five Must-See Cities in Norway

 

FIVE MUST-SEE CITIES IN NORWAY

 

Norway is a beautiful Scandinavian country known for its historical landmarks, Viking heritage, and abundance of natural beauty.

There is so much to discover in Norway, from large metropolitan cities to charming fishing villages and picturesque fjords.

Whether you are coming for the culture or to spend time outdoors, here are the five must-see cities in the country.

1. OSLO

As the capital city of Norway, Oslo is the most visited city in the country.

However, unlike most capital cities, Oslo has a unique balance of natural beauty and modern innovations.

The city itself overlooks the Oslo Fjords to one side with panoramic mountain views on the other.

While you're in Oslo, be sure to check out the Norwegian Folk Museum and Viking Ship Museum for a glimpse into the country's past.

2. BERGEN 

As the second-largest city in Norway, Bergen has a lot to offer.

Bergen is a quintessential Norwegian town with old wooden boathouses that date back to the 12th century.

The old wharf is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and delights visitors with its old cobblestone streets and colorful buildings.

No visit to Bergen is complete without sampling the local seafood.

3. TRONDHEIM

Perfectly positioned in the middle of Norway's coastline is the town of Trondheim.

As the country's third-largest city and former capital, Trondheim features a vibrant cafe culture in the colorful old quarter.

As you walk the city's street, you'll be surrounded by plenty of Norwegian history and culture.

Be sure to visit the Nidaros Cathedral while in Trondheim, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world!

4. HENNINGSVAER

Located on the Lofoten Islands is the charming fishing village of Henningsvaer.

Located just inside the Arctic Circle, the town is known for its brightly painted houses that rise out of the sea and stand out against the harsh elements.

Throughout the year, the town can experience beautifully clear days with 24-hours of sunlight or be completely blanketed in fresh snow.

One of the best ways to experience Henningsvaer is to charter a boat and take a cruise around the islands.

5. TROMSO

Despite its remote location deep within the Arctic Circle, Tromso is one of Norway's most beautiful cities.

Not only is it known for being a fantastic place to see the Northern Lights, but visitors can also enjoy dog sledding, spot reindeer, and tour centuries-old houses in this arctic winter wonderland.

No matter where you choose to travel in Norway, you’ll be treated to breathtaking natural beauty and stunning architecture that will leave you in awe.

 

Don't forget to contact us to book your Norway vacation today.

Why You Should Travel to Hungary

 

Delicious Food & Local Wines

Hungarian culture is deep-rooted in its culinary traditions, and the best example of that is a piping hot bowl of Goulash, a hearty stew packed with meat and vegetables.

Goulash can trace its origins back thousands of years to a soup made by Hungarian shepherds and is just one of Hungary’s nationally prized dishes.

It's easy to find a locally grown wine to pair with your meal, as Hungary boasts seven wine-growing regions.

The many vineyards offer tours complete with tastings that make Hungary an appealing destination for wine enthusiasts and couples.

Culture in Budapest (including folk culture)

Budapest is a hub of culture and offers all the amenities of a European capital city with the charm of a small town.

Chic pubs and trendy stores dot the streets of this architectural wonderland.

Everyone is sure to find something of interest.

Hungary’s rich folk culture is still going strong, too, with many museums and local artisans keeping alive craft techniques that have been passed down through the generations.

Low prices

Hungary is a top destination for budget travelers, with Budapest ranking among the most budget-friendly holiday destinations in Europe.

Popular among college students and backpackers for this reason, Hungary’s capital city offers a wide range of economical eats and even free admission to some attractions, such as the Fisherman’s Bastion, a scenic viewing terrace located in the Buda Castle.

Filled with beautiful nature

The Hungarian countryside is a picturesque postcard, complete with rolling hills and idyllic farmhouses.

Hortobágy National Park in eastern Hungary is a World Heritage Site located in a steppe environment.

Habitat to cattle, sheep, horses, and a few hundred species of birds, unspoiled expenses like these are Hungary's claim to fame among nature-lovers.

In summer, Lake Balaton opens its waters to those wanting to soak in the sun or participate in water sports.

The largest lake in the region, Balaton is just a short drive to the nearby vineyards.

Because of its size, it offers a little something for everybody; the north shore provides a quiet family getaway, while the south shore is more well-known for its nightlife.

Thermal baths

Hungary draws in thousands of visitors each year with its thermal waters, and various thermal spas are located throughout the country.

Besides providing bathers with a relaxing dip, thermal baths also possess numerous health benefits.

They can minimize muscular pains, improve metabolism, and reduce stress not to mention all those essential minerals!

Baths can be found in all locales, from Budapest's City Park (Széchenyi Baths) to the world’s second-largest thermal lake, situated in a volcanic crater (Hévíz Thermal Lake).

Contact us today. Don't delay.

 

TIPS FOR A TERRIFFIC FIRST TRIP TO IRELAND

 

You've put off visiting the Cliffs of Moher, Killarney National Park, and Blarney Castle long enough.

It's finally time to take that trip to Ireland!

We applaud that decision, but before you book that brewery tour or get too excited about visiting Dublin's Grafton Street, here are a few tips to make for a more enjoyable trip.

Consider Car Travel

The best sites in the Emerald Isle are seen via public transportation or tour buses, but renting a car is not a bad idea to get to those obscure sites.

Be sure the vehicle you rent is a small one, as rural roads in Ireland are narrow.

Oh, and the Irish drive on the left side of the road and pass on the right.

Tax-Free Shopping!

All those goodies you'll find to buy on Grafton Street are tax-free!

That's right, travelers who live outside the European Union can shop tax-free in Ireland.

Make sure to apply for a Fexco Horizon Card prior to your trip so you can register and swipe it in affiliated stores in the country and claim sales tax back on the purchases.

Differing Currencies

And while we're on the topic of shopping, it's important to note that, as part of the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland uses pound sterling rather than the euro.

Dress Appropriately

Irish weather is not extreme, but the country does get a lot of rain, particularly along its west coast.

And if you're traveling to Ireland during winter, know that the season's days are short.

The sun rises at about 8 a.m. and sets at about 4 p.m., which means you have to cram a lot of sightseeing into a few hours.

But during summer, the sunsets are as late as 10 p.m.

Be mindful of these seasonal changes, pack light layers of clothing and a pair of rain boots or waterproof shoes, and you should be just fine. 

Public Transportation Pointers

The trains in Ireland carry you in comfort, but they are pricey.

So if you intend to travel on one during your trip, make sure to book it in advance to take advantage of online discounts that the Irish Rail offers.

If you choose to travel by bus, be aware that you must flag the bus to get it to stop. 

Heritage Cards Are Helpful

If you plan to visit the country's many cultural attractions, picking up a Heritage Card from the Office of Public Works is a great idea.

This card entitles you to free admission to all heritage sites managed by the state for an entire year.

These sites include castles and national parks.

 Contact us today to book your Ireland vacation.

What to Eat, Drink and See in Wadi Rum

 What to Eat, Drink and See in Wadi Rum

Good eats, and drinks in Wadi Rum!

Wadi Rum, an arid desert valley located in South Jordan, is a great place to go when you need a getaway. With most of the land remaining uninhabited, the area is the perfect destination for anyone looking to leave behind largely crowded cities. Wadi Rum is so isolated that you won't even be able to fly directly there, but don't worry- there are plenty of buses you can take after flying to a nearby city.

What to Eat and Drink

When it comes to delicious food, there is no shortage in Wadi Rum! If you are staying overnight in one of the many Bedouin camps or luxury tents, you will be able to find traditional dishes there, such as chicken, goat, or Bedouin tea. Wadi Rum cuisine tends to feature lots of exciting spices and vibrant flavors. 

Sights to See

Wadi Rum features a protected area, inside which many of the following historical and natural sites lie. 

1. Anfashieh Inscriptions- These inscriptions, which show a camel caravan, are carved into a mountain and are from the Nabatean and Thaumadic times.

2. Umm Fruth Rock Bridge- The smaller of the main rock bridges in the area, you might see Umm Fruth if you sign up for a tour, as it is easily accessible and only takes about 5-15 minutes to climb. 

3. Burdah Rock Bridge- While this rock bridge is more prominent and can be seen from a distance, climbing it provides a view unlike any other. The only catch is that it takes about 4-7 hours to climb, thus requiring an all-day tour.

4. Lawrence Spring- This stagnant spring sits near a breathtaking view of the desert, on top of a short scramble. It is a little over a mile away from the village of Rum.

5. Seven Pillars of Wisdom- A rock formation near the visitors center, the Seven Pillars of Wisdom is so impressive that it was named after T E Lawrence's autobiography.

Contact us today to book your Wadi Rum Vacation!

There are many other incredible natural and historical wonders to explore, so make sure to reach out and get more information if you are interested in seeing the incredible area of Wadi Rum for yourself!

What To Know About Going to Wadi Rum

 What To Know About Going to Wadi Rum

It's time to put Wadi Rum on your bucket list!

Located in the Middle East, specifically in the Southern part of Jordan, Wadi Rum is a desert valley with a scenic landscape. The area is isolated and mostly uninhabited, making it the perfect place to escape to when city-life becomes hectic and crowded. Keep reading to find out more about Wadi Rum and what you should know before booking a trip. 

How To Get There

In order to get to Wadi Rum, you will first need to fly to a nearby location. You can get to Wadi Rum from Aqaba, Petra, Amman, or the Wadi Araba border. Most of these cities offer buses either directly to or close to Wadi Rum, but if there is no bus available when you need it, taxis are always available. You may even be able to negotiate a lower taxi price!

Types of Accommodation

Accommodation in Wadi Rum ranges from bedouin camps to chalets to luxury tents. Depending on what you are looking for, you can have an authentic camping experience, a lavish and accommodating stay, or something in-between. There are even camps that let you sleep directly under the stars!

Climate

Because Wadi Rum is located in the desert, the climate is generally hot and arid throughout the year. Jordan is known for being one of the world's driest regions and often has sandstorms. Southern Jordan does not see much rain or snow, although it is possible, especially during January and February. The average year-round temperature in Wadi Rum is 66º Farenheight but can fall anywhere between 37º and 95º, depending on the season. 

Best Time to Go

Wadi Rum is a great place to visit year-round but offers the most sunshine from March to May and September to November. The best time for hiking or climbing is October through April, and February is the best time to see the desert plants begin to bloom. The busiest and most popular months in Wadi Rum are September, October, March, and April.

Contact us today to book your Wadi Rum Vacation!

If you are interested in escaping to a new landscape and exploring the desert, make sure to reach out and get more information today!

Luxury Camps

What do you think about sleeping in a dome-shaped tent? 

While the luxury camps in Wadi Rum may look simplistic from the outside, the inside provides you with all of the comforts and accommodations you need. Some camps even offer traditional food, camel trips, and campsites for bonfires.

Are you ready to visit Wadi Rum? DM or email me today to start planning a trip. 

Image credit:  Jordan tourism board