We’ve put together a 2-part list of ten breathtaking and lesser-known places in the world, from areas of unbelievable biodiversity to phenomena you have to see to believe.
Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan may not be high in many peoples travel list and that is a huge shame. The beautiful Central Asian country shares a border with fellow ‘stans’ Kazakhstan and Afghanistan as well as Iran and the Caspian Sea, the connective body of water between Asia and Europe. Turkmenistan has been at the crossroads of civilizations for centuries, an important and strategic country and an essential stop on the Silk Road trade route through Asia and Europe. Turkmenistan is the least traveled country in Central Asia, so its mysteries and secrets are perfect for the intrepid explorers among us. Contrary to what many believe due to a potential mix of geographical location and ignorance, Turkmenistan is a relatively safe country with a currently stable political situation and low crime rates. Tourism is on the up but it’s a fairly new concept so travelers will often find locals curious in rural areas, but its more often than not friendly intrigue, and if you linger long enough you’ll probably be invited in for tea and food, and it’s absolutely fine to do so.
The Darvaza Gas Crater known as the Door to Hell, is a natural gas field that has collapsed into a cavern in Derweze, a town of 350 people in the middle of the Karakum Desert. Geologists set it on fire to prevent the spread of harmful methane into nearby towns, and the 69-metre-wide flaming abyss has been burning continuously since 1971.
Entry Requirements: You’ll need a full visa to enter Turkmenistan and you’ll usually need a letter of invitation from a Turkmen tourist agency that is only issued upon booking a full tour. It’s pretty difficult to navigate your way through Turkmenistan without a full guide due to pretty restrictive tourism. Turkmen wants to encourage tourism but they’re not quite ready for you go backpacking off on your own.
Currency: Turkmenistan manat
Hello: Salam
Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Another Central Asian country, Kyrgyzstan is a beautiful landlocked country characterized by ancient Islamic architecture, unspoiled high mountainscapes that have preserved its ancient culture, and vast crystal-clear lakes. Another Silk Road thoroughfare, Krygz culture is a historic combination of its own Turkic origins as well as elements of Persian, Mongolian and Russian influence. Tourists from a large amount of countries don’t need a visa to get in to Kyrgyzstan, making it more accessible than the surrounding Turkmenistan or Uzbekistan, despite only opening its borders in 2012.
Voted the fifth best adventure travel destination on earth by the British Backpacker Society in 2018, the beauty, friendliness and mystery of Kyrgyzstan make it a highly underrated travel destination.
Issyk Kul lake is one of the country’s biggest attractions that nobody has heard of, a crystal sharp lake with warm beaches surrounded by snow capped mountains. Issyk Kul means ‘warm lake’ in the Kyrgyz language, and although you can camp on its beaches gazing in to the distance as the sun goes down over snow-capped mountains, the lake never freezes. The lake is salty so bare that in mind if you plan to go for a dip, it’s also freezing, but it’s well worth it as the water is shockingly blue, turning from an light ice blue to a deep cobalt the deeper you go. Kyrgyzstan, like its neighbor Kazakhstan, has pretty relaxed rules in more rural areas when it comes to where you can camp. There are hotels around the lake, but they might be closed during low season and camping on the beach is much more fun. Some parts of the lake are pretty remote, and shops and restaurants are scarce, so make sure you have plenty of food, water and beer.
Entry Requirements: British nationals do not need a visa to enter Kyrgyzstan for up to 60 days.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani Som
Hello: Salam
Mtirala National Park, Georgia
Georgia in the Caucasus region of Eurasia bridges the gap between Europe and Asia and is a highly underrated country with a dramatic and long history. A prolific wine making country with a vibrant capital, well preserved medieval architecture, beaches with crystal clear sea and incredible mountain ranges, Georgia is the perfect relaxing and adventure holiday destination that no one is talking about.
The Mtirala National Park is a protected area in Western Georgia covering roughly 38,790 acres between the Black Sea and the Adjara Mountains. Although technically a forest, Mount Mtirala is one of the most humid areas in the country and with waterfalls and an abundance of flora and fauna, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in an exotic jungle.
There are 2 marked and comfortable trails in the park, and yet again camping and campfires are allowed. Horse riding, hiking, bird watching, and adventure tours are also available. The Chakvistskali River runs through the park and the stunning 28 metre Tsablnari Waterfall, perfect for a cooling dip. Brown bears, roe deer, wild boar, eagles and owls, birds and snakes live in the park, making Georgia the perfect exotic location with touches of the familiar.
Entry Requirements: British nationals do not need a visa to enter Georgia for up to one year.
Currency: Georgian Lari
Hello: Gamarjoba
Jeju Island, Korea
The natural beauty of Korea is often eclipsed by complicated political situation, images of busy built up cities, and recent military history. Despite its history and testing relations with its northern counterpart, Korea is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination, a place of delicious cuisine packed with beautiful scenery, unique within Asia.
Jeju is a semi-tropical island found just off the southernmost coast of South Korea’s mainland. It’s home to the country’s highest mountain, Hallasan, which is perfect for hiking and gives some of the best views in the country. What makes this mountain unique is that if you see the hike all the way to the top, you’ll find the crater of an extinct volcano full of ‘lava tubes’, formations in the rock made by ancient lava trails.
Often called the Hawaii of Korea, Jeju has a subtropical climate and 200 km of beach including Geumneung Beach, a huge expanse of white sand and clear sea with the nearby Geumneung Village of traditional houses and pretty narrow streets. It’s also known for its good surfing, home to the first surf club in Korea as well as the stunning Cheonjiyeon Waterfall.
Being an island, it’s no surprise that there is some seriously good food to he found on Jeju. Naturally seafood plays a big part and the island is famous for its abalones, traditionally hand dived by haenyeo, Jeju’s mermaids, or female divers who dive to depths of up to 15 metres to get the abalones, as well as octopus, sea urchins and oysters. Black pork is another speciality, succulent pork made from domesticated black pigs only bred on the island. Try Black Pork Street, a whole street dedicated to the meat.
Entry Requirements: British nationals can enter South Korea for up to 90 days without a visa and you must have an onward ticket.
Currency: South Korean Won
Hello: Annyeonghaseyo
The Sequoioideae, California
More commonly known as the Redwoods, these gigantic trees are most commonly found in the coastal forests of North California and are the largest trees in the world. Most people have heard of the Redwoods, but people who haven’t seen them in the flesh might not quite be able to comprehend exactly how big they are, or how incredible.
The first Redwood’s showed up on Earth shortly after the dinosaurs, before flowers, birds, spiders and humans, roughly 240 million years ago as opposed to modern humans who arrived about 200,000 years ago. The oldest official redwood is at least 2,200 years old and the tallest is over 360ft high and they can reach up to 20ft in diameter. That’s taller than the Empire State Building and the clock tower of Big Ben, and almost as tall as the Great Pyramid of Giza! Since the California Gold Rush of 1848, 95% of the redwoods were cut down to build and rebuild cities like San Francisco and San Jose, so many of the ones still standing are only about 50 years old. Rare wild animals like mountain lions and coho salmon rely on the local redwoods, and tens of thousands of people flock to see the gigantic trees every year. It’s almost impossible to comprehend the size of these woodland giants.
Entry Requirements: British nationals can apply for an online ESTA as part of the Visa Waiver Program which is valid for up to 90 days. For a full US visa you’ll need to fill out a longer DS-160 form and attend an interview at a US consulate or embassy.
Currency: US Dollar
Hello: Hey man
KAMPALA NIGHT LIFE
Why Uganda Has the Best Nightlife in East Africa
There is no debate that Ugandans are well known for their love of partying and vibrant nightlife. If you haven’t experienced Ugandan nightlife, you’re missing out on a one-of-a-kind experience. At Afreek Tours and Travel, we offer a glimpse into Kampala’s electrifying nightlife. Most of the city stays alive throughout the night, whether it’s a Monday or a Sunday. There is always a bar, club, restaurant, garden, or venue hosting a themed night, drawing revelers with different tastes and interests.
In Uganda, and Kampala in particular, there isn’t just one place that defines the best nightlife. While some foreigners recognize Kololo as a hub for top-tier hangouts, the city has countless amazing spots spread across different locations. The variety of alcoholic beverages available is extensive, ranging from malts, wines, whiskeys, gins, tequilas, and more.
Uganda also boasts its own locally brewed favorites, with Nile Special Beer and Uganda Waragi leading the pack. Uganda Waragi, available in different flavors, stands as a national favorite. However, this doesn’t limit the sale and consumption of other local and international drinks.
Alcohol pairs best with good food, great music, and lively vibes. Where there’s a hangout, you’ll find good music and plenty of nyama choma (grilled meat), which keep revelers entertained all night long. Add a touch of sports to the mix, and you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
The nightlife, sometimes referred to as the night economy, attracts a diverse crowd—posh car owners, women, young girls and boys, and businessmen. Each group finds a space that suits their vibe, and financial liquidity is more evident at night than during the day.
As a rugby fan, Kampala’s nightlife has always felt like an endless adventure. Almost every day comes with an opportunity to go out. A group of us formed a community passionate about African music, particularly Lingala, Rumba, Kizomba, and Ugandan cultural sounds. Every Thursday at Kyadondo Rugby Club, we host an event that attracts both residents and tourists. Who wouldn’t want to experience the rhythm of African beats? Watching and dancing to cultural music is a unique and exciting experience for anyone visiting Uganda.
That’s not all—other venues offer live bands, karaoke, and themed nights, ensuring that the city never sleeps. Whether you enjoy loud music or prefer a quiet spot to sip your drink and have deep conversations, Kampala caters to all preferences. Business professionals, for instance, often meet over drinks in serene environments to discuss their ventures, as they believe “money doesn’t like noise.”
Having traveled across East Africa, I am convinced that Uganda outshines the rest when it comes to nightlife. In Rwanda, the nightlife is highly restricted, with limited freedom to party. Many Rwandans even travel to Uganda on weekends to enjoy the nightlife. Tanzania’s scene is calmer—while not restricted, it lacks the energy and vibrancy found in Uganda. The majority of its population, consisting of Muslims and foreigners, contributes to a more subdued party culture. During my visits, I barely heard music from nearby bars, and the atmosphere felt dull.
Kenya, on the other hand, is more competitive but still incomparable to Uganda. Kenyans are known for consuming more alcohol than other East Africans, but partying isn’t their strength. Their nightlife is structured around specific trending venues—if a particular spot is popular on a given night, everyone flocks there, leaving other places empty. In contrast, Kampala’s venues remain packed every night, regardless of the day.
During a trip to Nairobi for a marketing exhibition, a group of us Ugandans looked for a place to experience the nightlife. We were directed to a club in Kilimani. Initially, I considered skipping the outing, but after several calls from my friends, I took an Uber and joined them. The venue was upscale with good music, but I noticed something odd—almost everyone was seated, wrapped in jackets as if it were winter, despite being in an enclosed club. The numbers were overwhelming, yet the atmosphere felt dull.
When I finally found my Ugandan friends—about 10 of us in a crowd of hundreds—we instantly transformed the vibe. The moment I approached, they erupted in chants, whistles, and screams, capturing the attention of the entire club. The DJ, recognizing the Ugandan presence, gave us a shout-out and switched to Ugandan music, urging the crowd to join our energy. What was once a dull club turned into a lively party. People surrounded us, eager to join in, shifting from passive drinking to actively enjoying themselves. By the time we left, the entire venue had surrendered to our infectious energy.
This wasn’t just in Nairobi; I experienced the same at the coast. Before we took over the dance floor, everyone was quietly and formally drinking. But Ugandans know how to turn any night into a memorable experience.
In Uganda, nightlife is about more than just drinks—it’s about music, food, energy, and people coming together to have an unforgettable time.
Why don’t you join us on our next rendezvous with Kampala’s nightlife?
Marian Apparition Part. 4 The End!
On our way down, we met a 79-year-old woman also descending. Her courage and determination to climb such a challenging hill left us in awe. Many people couldn’t make it to the peak and stopped halfway to pray from there.
As we descended, the elderly woman shared her story. She told me she was from a village over 30 kilometers away and had come to stay with her sister, who lived nearby. That’s how she learned about the apparition and decided to come to the hill. She said Maria had appeared to her four times—twice in dreams and twice physically on the hill. This wasn’t her first time climbing the hill; she regularly climbed it for prayers and descended on her own. While she didn’t fully explain her motivations, which seemed deeply personal, she was clearly excited to be part of the crowd witnessing the apparition.
As we continued descending, I thought I should offer her some help, perhaps by holding her hand or assisting her in some way. However, she stopped me, saying she knew how to navigate the terrain. She wasn’t tired or worried about the descent.
We finally reached the base of the hill, carrying with us amazing stories and testimonies of what the Lord had done through Mother Mary. And so, our adventure and search for the apparition came to an end.
Reflections on Faith and Society
This experience taught me several profound lessons about faith and our society:
People are desperate to find hope. Anything that offers them a glimmer of it becomes a lifeline. Many have no other source of help in their lives, and events like this provide an opportunity to lay their grievances and desires before Mother Mary. This gathering was a powerful expression of people clinging to hope for better days.
Many people climbed the hill to deepen their relationship with God. I’m sure the elderly prayed for longer lives and good health. Among the crowd, I saw a man using walking sticks whom I could hardly believe was still alive. When I was about 4 or 5 years old, he was already an old man with gray hair running a shop, and we used to call him Mzee (meaning an older man). Seeing him struggle to climb halfway up the hill despite his advanced age taught me the values of sacrifice and resilience. I’m certain his prayers centered on longevity and health. This event drew people closer to God, with many submitting their heartfelt pleas, and I have no doubt many were answered.
Uganda is home to many prayer places, especially on hills (often referred to as “mountains”). I’m convinced that this site will evolve into a prayer mountain and a pilgrimage destination. Such places have the power to unite people in prayer and spiritual reflection. Over time, this site could also develop into a significant tourist attraction.
Future Plans
I plan to return to this hill with anyone interested in making a pilgrimage and to observe the aftermath of this remarkable event. It will be interesting to see how the place evolves over time, both spiritually and socially.
Faith, after all, is the substance of things hoped for.
Marian Apparition Part 3.
Many people were climbing up while others descended. On our way up, we met a man and asked if he had just come from the peak. He confirmed he had and told us he had just experienced an apparition, seeing Maria multiple times. When we asked how we could see Maria, he explained it was easy and that Maria was appearing to almost everyone who came to see her. This gave me hope—I believed that my effort to hike the hill was faith enough for Maria to appear to me. He advised us to stare directly at the sun upon reaching the peak. After concentrating for some time, a white cloud would appear, and Maria would emerge alongside it, wearing her garment. We trusted his advice and continued our climb.
The hill was steeper than I had anticipated, and I began panting and sweating. I suggested to my companion that we take it slow, resting occasionally. During one of our breaks, groups of 10–15 people passed us on their way up. Finally, we reached the peak, excited to witness what everyone else had seen.
Now, I was wearing sunglasses, but my companion wasn’t. I wondered how we were supposed to stare directly at the sun—it’s dangerous for the eyes, and no one can do it for more than a minute. Why hadn’t anyone thought to sell protective glasses for this purpose? I remembered the 2013 solar eclipse in Packwach District, where people brought special glasses to watch it. Merchants sold them alongside T-shirts and made huge profits. Why wasn’t anyone selling such glasses here? I decided to use my sunglasses.
Three minutes into staring at the sun, a woman advised us to humble ourselves in prayer first; only then would Maria appear. I sat on a large rock, ready to start praying. The view from the peak was breathtaking—you could see the entire town, surrounded by beautiful scenery and fresh air. It was a place I never wanted to leave. Just as I began to pray, a woman screamed with joy, claiming Maria had appeared to her. What? We all rushed to where she was standing. She was ecstatic and thanked Maria for appearing to her. Over 15 people gathered around her, eager to see what she had seen.
My expectations were now sky-high. I wondered what spiritual realm I was about to experience. I desperately wanted to see Maria with my own eyes. Unfortunately, I saw nothing. Most of us saw nothing. I blamed my lack of faith for not seeing her. The woman encouraged us to remain calm and focused in the direction she indicated in the pine forest. After a minute, a man shouted, “Oh, Maria is here! I see her in her full glory, wearing her gown!” But my companion and I still saw nothing.
They showed us a specific spot between the trees where we should look. I saw something resembling a small tree branch, though I couldn’t tell where it was attached. With a longer stare, this dark shape seemed to enlarge. The women around us screamed that Maria was wearing a glittering blue gown and was expanding and turning. Was this Maria? To me, it seemed like the moving clouds in the background were enlarging the shape. They insisted it was Maria. My companion asked why he couldn’t see her face. I couldn’t either. We both stared in vain.
Among the group, some men were skeptical, but one suddenly screamed that he had seen Maria in the clouds, describing her garment as blue. I tried again to spot her but still saw nothing. Meanwhile, those who claimed to see her knelt and began praying with their rosaries. Since we didn’t have rosaries, we decided to descend.
Marian Apparition Part 2.
On the morning of October 18, I had breakfast and got ready for the challenge. Truth be told, I was excited about the hike and being part of the history, to be a witness. As a tour operator, I saw an opportunity—a full cultural and religious site. I wanted firsthand information. I went to a motorcycle stage where I met an interesting young man who usually rides me when I’m in the area. I explained where we were going, and he was excited as well. Although he had been there before, he hadn’t climbed the hill. He had only taken a customer there who also hadn’t climbed it. As we rode, he told me about the massive turnout of people going to pray at the hill. He was ready to hike with me, which made the journey even more exciting. He believed Maria would appear to us too.
It was about a 20–25 minute ride from the main town to the village. I was sure of two things: a hike and witnessing the impact of this apparition on the community around the famous hill. Indeed, we were welcomed by a lady selling rosaries and small Marian statues at the base of the hill. Next to her was a small house with an old man in his 60s and his grandson, who managed security for motorcycles, cars, and bicycles. They charged a fee for parking, starting from 1,000 UGX (less than a dollar).
I interacted with the lady selling rosaries and asked how business was going. She said I had come at a time when people had started retreating to their homes. She mentioned that thousands had visited earlier and that business had been much better then. She was the only one selling merchandise at the entry, so she likely made good sales during peak times. The influx of visitors had even prompted the creation of a road wide enough for trucks, as the original path was just a walking trail.
I also spoke with the old man managing parking, who told me about the challenges posed by the large crowds. Plantations were destroyed to pave the way to the hill. One neighbor was even forced to fence off his land, where he had just planted beans, to protect it. However, there were no visible amenities like washrooms to accommodate the huge crowds. Clearly, no one had planned for this. Was anyone taking records of the numbers visiting? Unfortunately, no. I wished someone had documented this unique event.
There we started our hike. Immediately, I felt the steepness just 100 meters in. I realized I was unfit, but a hiker is always a hiker, and we proceeded. Little did I know that we hadn’t even started the real hike—the actual base of the hill was further up, at around 800 meters above sea level. There, we encountered many people selling their merchandise, from rosaries, water, and sodas to fast food, snacks, and even soap—whatever they thought might be useful during people’s stay. I was amazed at how things had turned out! On my left was a forested hill teeming with people, mostly women, who seemed to have camped there for days.
We spoke to some of the merchants, and they shared their experiences, saying business was booming. My companion joked with one of the ladies selling fast food, saying, “You go wherever you think you’ll make money!” He couldn’t believe she was at the hill too. We decided to support these businesses, buying water for the steep climb ahead. Though the weather wasn’t particularly hot, the water was refreshing.
As we continued, we came across a group praying in the pine forest. They claimed to have seen a cross appear before them and were waiting for the apparition. Many of them said they had seen Maria multiple times but continued to pray for more of their heart’s desires. This energized me further.
Marian Apparition in Masindi Municipality in Western Uganda
At the beginning of October 2024, it was said that there was a Marian Apparition on one of the hills (Rwensa) in Masindi Municipality in the western region of Uganda. A childhood friend of mine (Cox), who lives in Europe, heard the news before I did while I was in Nairobi at the time—the power of social media. He called to ask if it was true. He had seen on social media prominent and senior figures from Masindi, which doubles as my home area, struggling with the steep hill to go and see Maria or for Maria to appear to them and grant most of their desires.
I couldn’t understand whether it was drama or a real-life testament. I returned to the country and planned to go and see what others were seeing. As a mountain climber who had spent almost a whole year without climbing a mountain, I was excited to take on this challenge and witness the apparition. Upon reaching Masindi, I almost failed to fulfill my intention because I was fatigued and wanted to sleep some more. However, I had shared my plans with another friend of mine in Europe (Stephan), who was interested in finding out what happened at the hill. He encouraged me not to give up but to go and find out for myself.
The previous night, I had a chat with the hotel owner where I spent the night. He told me the place had been overwhelmed by believers, businesspeople, and revelers. I asked if he had gone to see for himself, but he said he wasn’t a believer and wasn’t interested. My sister Charity and my brother Sam had told me they had been to the hill and that Maria appeared to them. Of course, Sam doubted that Charity had managed to hike the steep hill, which was about 1,500 meters above sea level, and also doubted that she had seen Maria. I also doubted the two had really gone there; I assumed they were merely repeating the speculations circulating. They warned me that “Maria didn’t show her face to people of little faith.” She didn’t just appear to anyone; you had to be a believer for her to appear to you. The question was: how could one master the art of faith within a short period of time? It was believed that many spent weeks and days camping at the base of the hill in prayer to cultivate the faith needed to see the apparition. Many who were seen as non-believers didn’t see the apparition, even after spending days to weeks camping at the hill.
Religiously, it’s only the Catholic faith that believes in and prays through Maria. The Anglicans, Born-Again Christians, and members of other religions only know her as the mother of Jesus, the son of God. How was I supposed to know how to pray through Maria? To my surprise, it wasn’t only Catholics flooding this now-famous hill; Muslims, too, were part of this historic moment. They were intrigued by the apparition because they had not believed it was happening and wanted to witness it for themselves. A number of Muslims testified that the Marian apparition happened to them as well.
How long was this apparition going to last? That was a question everyone answered differently because no one knew the exact timing. How did they learn about the apparition? A number of theories circulated, and it was hard to discern the exact truth. One theory was that Maria appeared to a child who had gone to graze cattle on the hill and told him to inform his grandmother that she needed people to pray from that hill and that she would be with them for a few days. Another theory was that Maria appeared to a woman who had gone to the hill and told her to pray there and inform the rest of the world to do the same. It was said that this woman became mute and didn’t speak anymore after the apparition. My question was: how did she relay the information to the masses? Did she cease talking after revealing the message? I didn’t manage to find out who this woman was. No one spoke about her whereabouts.
Part 2 To be continued….
Top 10 Tourism Destinations rated today.
If you like travelling, these countries should be on your list.
Image: UNWTO
The global value of the tourism trade
Despite growing concerns over the environmental impact of international travel, tourism is a burgeoning business – which made $1.4 trillion in 2018, up from $475 billion in 2000.
Bhutan
Bhutan | Gavi
Hiking trails with dramatic views, and world-beating eco credentials put Bhutan at the top of the list for 2020. The Himalayan kingdom has a policy of being 60% forested, but has exceeded this, at 70%, which has made it one of the world’s first carbon-negative countries. It’s aiming to be the first fully organic country in 2020 – and, since 1972, it has measured Gross National Happiness, putting people’s wellbeing before wealth.
The Lonely Planet says: “Bhutan punches well above its weight when it comes to sustainability. It operates a strict ‘high-value, low-impact’ tourism policy, compelling travellers to pay a high daily fee just to set foot in its monastery-crowned hills. The pay-off for visitors is a chance to walk along mountain trails unsullied by litter, in the company of people whose Buddhist beliefs put them uniquely in tune with their environment.”
England
The Lake District – England
A nation of walkers, England has enshrined a ‘right to roam’, meaning visitors can access many mountains, moors, heaths and downs that are privately owned. In 2020, the government will open new sections of the England Coast Path, some of which is also ‘access land’. It will be the longest continuous trail of its kind in the world, giving access to the country’s entire coastline – nearly 3,000 miles – for the first time – as well as all the delights of the English seaside, from fish and chips to fossils.
North Macedonia
Canyon Matka | Village Matka – North Macedonia
Known for slow food and foraging in nature, the tiny Balkan nation has adopted a new name, a new era of good relations with Greece– and new flight routes to Unesco-protected Lake Ohrid. It also recently launched the High Scardus Trail, a 495-km trek along the region’s most dramatic peaks.
Aruba
Aruba Beaches – Aruba
By 2020, the Caribbean island of Aruba willtransition to 100% renewable energy, while also tackling a raft of issues including reducing traffic and improving water conservation. Besides the appeal of its pristine beaches and sustainability drive, the southern city of San Nicolas is having a colourful cultural renaissance, with artists ensuring festivities carry on year-round through pop-up carnival experiences.
eSwatini
eSwatini – Swaziland
The country formerly known as Swaziland is one of Southern Africa’s most underrated and least visited destinations, according to the Lonely Planet. Abundant with culture, adventure and wildlife, it has a new international airport and improved road infrastructure – aimed at boosting tourist numbers in the coming years.
Costa Rica
Marriot Costa Rica
The tropical paradise is known for embracing sustainable tourism and, with more than 90% of its energy coming from renewable resources, it’s well on its way to becoming carbon-neutral. Its catchphrase ‘pura vida’ (the pure life) encapsulates its approach to protecting biodiversity, while enjoying what nature has to offer: from hiking up volcanoes to riding a zip line through the rain forest.
The Netherlands
Amsterdam – Netherlands
Next year marks 75 years since the end of World War Two and the Netherlands is planning events across the country – easily accessible through its super-efficient rail network. The Lonely Planet says April and May are the months to visit, to take in King’s Day, Liberation Day and the Eurovision Song Contest, which will be hosted there.
Liberia
An aerial view of Elizabeth Village and Resort
Liberia has the second-largest area of primary rainforest in West Africa: Sapo National Park, where pygmy hippos run wild with forest elephants and chimpanzees. Thanks to a deal with Norway, Liberia is hoping to put a stop to deforestation by 2020, preserving its precious biodiversity for generations to come.
Morocco
Marrakech-annie-spratt – Morocco
Marrakesh will be Africa’s first Capital of Culture in 2020. Its ancient medinas, as well as those in coastal Essaouira and Fez, are getting a makeover and Africa’s first high-speed train means that you can go from Casablanca to Tangier in just two hours.
Uruguay
Punta del Este – Uruguay
In recent years, the country has become one of the most progressive in the world– from marijuana legalisation and embracing LGBTQ+ rights, to the promotion of sustainable tourism. It also has a burgeoning wine industry, and more than 600km of Río de la Plata and Atlantic shoreline.
Stories of Travel Adventures That Caught Tourists Completely Unaware – (PART 2)
Welcome to great “Stories of Travel Adventures Caught Tourists Completely Unaware” Part 2. Great humor great fun great stories:
Story 9
I just don’t understand the kind of tourists who keep complaining about everything under the sun, saying things like, “Well, Goa didn’t impress me in the least…France is way too dirty…There’s nothing worth seeing in Germany!” Whenever I’m away from home (even if we’re taking a trip to a neighboring town) I’m always like, “Wow, what an interesting monument! Your pavement looks so different from ours! This is so cool!”
Story 10
Traveling is my passion. I’ve already visited many different countries, and what’s really amazing is that this cost me next to nothing. Of course, my vacations are somewhat different from ordinary tourism; I don’t sunbathe on sandy beaches or ski down snow-covered mountain slopes. All I do is explore different cities. I walk the streets, stroll around the squares, and generally enjoy myself, feeling like a local. And all thanks to the internet! Whenever I have time, I open up Google Maps, put on some quiet music, and let my next journey begin.
Story 11
This morning, I suddenly decided to go for a walk. A really long walk. So, I set off to the neighboring town. I’ve covered about 40 miles on foot, and so far, I have no desire to return home. I guess this makes me an explorer…or a hobo
Story 12
It never ceases to surprise and even sometimes annoy me that, in Europe, everything is closed on the weekends. Even buying yourself a can of Coke is out of the question, not to mention visiting a cafe. Saturdays are tolerable but Sundays are downright impossible. Once, when I was on vacation in Italy, I got stung by a jellyfish. This caused me great pain and scared the heck out of me. I hopped over to the hotel and asked an employee for assistance. Staring at my extensive wounds, he said in a shaky voice, “You need to go to the pharmacy at once and buy some ointment! The pharmacy is just around the corner!” And then, he suddenly added in a lazy, half-hearted tone, “But it’s Sunday. So everything is closed.”
Story 14
There’s a cleaner working in our office. Her salary is nothing spectacular. She usually comes in the afternoons and proceeds to mop the floors, always wearing the same outfit. The woman has a son and a grandson, but they live separately and as far as I know, she doesn’t support them financially. She’s not very good at her job, but that’s not too surprising. Anyway, she’s famous among our staff for having visited most of Europe several times already. She’s also been to Egypt, Tunisia, the Emirates, and many other places. On average, our cleaner goes on trips abroad 4 times a year. Right now, she’s on another voyage to Egypt. As for me, I’m sitting at my desk, thinking, “What have I done wrong with my life? My salary is twice as big, yet I’ve never been abroad!
Have you ever had any bizarre travel experiences?
For example, realizing that you’ve left your passport and plane tickets at home half an hour before departure?
Share with us in the comments below;
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Stories of Travel Adventures That Caught Tourists Completely Unaware – (PART 1)
When planning a holiday, we always hope that our trip will be as comfortable as possible and we do everything we can to avoid any incidents. But, as you’ll surely agree, life often makes adjustments to even the most carefully thought-out plans. At best, those surprises can be merely annoying. At worst, they can turn all of your expectations upside down.
Story 1
There was this girl, Jane, working in our department. She was a very good employee; always keen to excel and learn something new. A couple of years ago, her grandmother died and left her a luxury villa in a prestigious neighborhood. Someone from our office told Jane that she could use her inheritance as a way to radically change her life. For example, she could rent the house out and use the money to settle down in some exotic place. Of course, this was a joke, and we soon forgot about it. Until one Monday, Jane came to work with a resignation letter in one hand and a ticket to India in the other. We all wished her the best of luck!
Story 2
Whenever I end up in one of those hotel rooms where the hair dryer can’t be pulled out from its socket and the coat hooks are loose, I always think, “Do you guys honestly think I travel without a screwdriver?
Story 3
Tourists are a peculiar folk. This story happened in the Ukrainian town of Mariupol. One foreign tourist decided to see if he could walk to the Russian town of Taganrog and back again in one day. As he set out on his journey, he joked to his wife that he was going to another town to buy some bread. Mariupol is about 30 miles from the Russian-Ukrainian border, and Taganrog is another 30 miles further away. When the guy reached the border, the guards asked him about his destination and the purpose of his visit. He answered, “I’m just walking to Taganrog to buy some bread!” The guards began to suspect he was crazy so he gave them his wife’s phone number. They called her and the conversation went something like this:
“Are you and your husband currently staying in Mariupol?”
“Yes, but my husband is away right now.”
“Where is he?”
“We ran out of bread, so he went to Taganrog!”
Story 4
There is a theory that our universe is infinite and because of this, it might contain copies of our own planet. Just imagine it — a spaceship travels millions of light-years in search of alien worlds…only to touch down in Oklahoma
Story 5
I went on a tourist trip to another country recently. I had almost no knowledge of the local language so I didn’t really feel comfortable being surrounded by crowds of people I couldn’t understand. Also, everyone seemed a bit too carefree and cheerful for my taste. There were too many people smiling everywhere. And then, amidst all these happy, smiling faces, I suddenly heard, “What the hell are you smiling at, weirdo?” in my mother tongue. It was the best moment of the entire trip.
Story 6
My friend went to Brazil last year. Upon his arrival, he was immediately warned about the local crime rate. Also, he was advised not to visit the beaches at night, since there was a high risk of bumping into one of the numerous youth gangs. However, he didn’t heed the warnings. In his own words, here’s what came of it, “Right from the start, I overdid it with the sunbathing and burned my skin pretty seriously. So I decided to take my chances and go for a swim at night when there’s no sun but the water is still warm. When I got to the beach, I was immediately surrounded by a group of 10-15 youths. They didn’t waste time and immediately took my T-shirt. This didn’t stop me from returning to the beach the next night. Once again, the same thugs surrounded me but this time they didn’t take anything. On my third nighttime visit to the shore, they simply waved at me. And on my fourth, they gave me back my T-shirt. On the fifth night, we had a drink together, something that tasted like a mixture of rum and brandy. Then, on the sixth, I brought the guys some proper alcohol and a couple of 6-packs. In the end, I was driven back to the hotel in the thugs’ car, followed by an entourage of scooters and mopeds.”
Story 7
My Russian friend told me this story from his trip to Cuba: “There I am, standing with the rest of my tourist group, listening to a smiling guide telling us about the pleasures of life on the island. Suddenly, the guide interrupts his lecture and says, ’We really love Russians over here. So much so, that we’ve even got a saying, ’Russian people are famous for their ability to find a way out of any kind of trouble. The only thing they’re even more famous for is their ability to find a way into every kind of trouble.’ And then he looks at us, and gives us a really big smile.”
Story 8
Recently, my friend and I went on a trip to Spain. To save money, we shared a single room at our Madrid hotel. The room had a double bed that was actually 2 beds put together. Of course, we always moved our beds apart before going to sleep. However, every single morning, the hotel maid unfailingly pushed the beds back together. Not only that but she also never forgot to put a rose on one of them; on my bed, to be precise. Whatever gave her that idea?
Breathtaking Destinations You Didn’t Know Exist – Part 1
We’ve put together a 2-part list of ten breathtaking and lesser-known places in the world, from areas of unbelievable biodiversity to phenomena you have to see to believe.
Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan may not be high in many peoples travel list and that is a huge shame. The beautiful Central Asian country shares a border with fellow ‘stans’ Kazakhstan and Afghanistan as well as Iran and the Caspian Sea, the connective body of water between Asia and Europe. Turkmenistan has been at the crossroads of civilizations for centuries, an important and strategic country and an essential stop on the Silk Road trade route through Asia and Europe. Turkmenistan is the least traveled country in Central Asia, so its mysteries and secrets are perfect for the intrepid explorers among us. Contrary to what many believe due to a potential mix of geographical location and ignorance, Turkmenistan is a relatively safe country with a currently stable political situation and low crime rates. Tourism is on the up but it’s a fairly new concept so travelers will often find locals curious in rural areas, but its more often than not friendly intrigue, and if you linger long enough you’ll probably be invited in for tea and food, and it’s absolutely fine to do so.
The Darvaza Gas Crater known as the Door to Hell, is a natural gas field that has collapsed into a cavern in Derweze, a town of 350 people in the middle of the Karakum Desert. Geologists set it on fire to prevent the spread of harmful methane into nearby towns, and the 69-metre-wide flaming abyss has been burning continuously since 1971.
Entry Requirements: You’ll need a full visa to enter Turkmenistan and you’ll usually need a letter of invitation from a Turkmen tourist agency that is only issued upon booking a full tour. It’s pretty difficult to navigate your way through Turkmenistan without a full guide due to pretty restrictive tourism. Turkmen wants to encourage tourism but they’re not quite ready for you go backpacking off on your own.
Currency: Turkmenistan manat
Hello: Salam
Issyk Kul, Kyrgyzstan
Another Central Asian country, Kyrgyzstan is a beautiful landlocked country characterized by ancient Islamic architecture, unspoiled high mountainscapes that have preserved its ancient culture, and vast crystal-clear lakes. Another Silk Road thoroughfare, Krygz culture is a historic combination of its own Turkic origins as well as elements of Persian, Mongolian and Russian influence. Tourists from a large amount of countries don’t need a visa to get in to Kyrgyzstan, making it more accessible than the surrounding Turkmenistan or Uzbekistan, despite only opening its borders in 2012.
Voted the fifth best adventure travel destination on earth by the British Backpacker Society in 2018, the beauty, friendliness and mystery of Kyrgyzstan make it a highly underrated travel destination.
Issyk Kul lake is one of the country’s biggest attractions that nobody has heard of, a crystal sharp lake with warm beaches surrounded by snow capped mountains. Issyk Kul means ‘warm lake’ in the Kyrgyz language, and although you can camp on its beaches gazing in to the distance as the sun goes down over snow-capped mountains, the lake never freezes. The lake is salty so bare that in mind if you plan to go for a dip, it’s also freezing, but it’s well worth it as the water is shockingly blue, turning from an light ice blue to a deep cobalt the deeper you go. Kyrgyzstan, like its neighbor Kazakhstan, has pretty relaxed rules in more rural areas when it comes to where you can camp. There are hotels around the lake, but they might be closed during low season and camping on the beach is much more fun. Some parts of the lake are pretty remote, and shops and restaurants are scarce, so make sure you have plenty of food, water and beer.
Entry Requirements: British nationals do not need a visa to enter Kyrgyzstan for up to 60 days.
Currency: Kyrgyzstani Som
Hello: Salam
Mtirala National Park, Georgia
Georgia in the Caucasus region of Eurasia bridges the gap between Europe and Asia and is a highly underrated country with a dramatic and long history. A prolific wine making country with a vibrant capital, well preserved medieval architecture, beaches with crystal clear sea and incredible mountain ranges, Georgia is the perfect relaxing and adventure holiday destination that no one is talking about.
The Mtirala National Park is a protected area in Western Georgia covering roughly 38,790 acres between the Black Sea and the Adjara Mountains. Although technically a forest, Mount Mtirala is one of the most humid areas in the country and with waterfalls and an abundance of flora and fauna, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in an exotic jungle.
There are 2 marked and comfortable trails in the park, and yet again camping and campfires are allowed. Horse riding, hiking, bird watching, and adventure tours are also available. The Chakvistskali River runs through the park and the stunning 28 metre Tsablnari Waterfall, perfect for a cooling dip. Brown bears, roe deer, wild boar, eagles and owls, birds and snakes live in the park, making Georgia the perfect exotic location with touches of the familiar.
Entry Requirements: British nationals do not need a visa to enter Georgia for up to one year.
Currency: Georgian Lari
Hello: Gamarjoba
Jeju Island, Korea
The natural beauty of Korea is often eclipsed by complicated political situation, images of busy built up cities, and recent military history. Despite its history and testing relations with its northern counterpart, Korea is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination, a place of delicious cuisine packed with beautiful scenery, unique within Asia.
Jeju is a semi-tropical island found just off the southernmost coast of South Korea’s mainland. It’s home to the country’s highest mountain, Hallasan, which is perfect for hiking and gives some of the best views in the country. What makes this mountain unique is that if you see the hike all the way to the top, you’ll find the crater of an extinct volcano full of ‘lava tubes’, formations in the rock made by ancient lava trails.
Often called the Hawaii of Korea, Jeju has a subtropical climate and 200 km of beach including Geumneung Beach, a huge expanse of white sand and clear sea with the nearby Geumneung Village of traditional houses and pretty narrow streets. It’s also known for its good surfing, home to the first surf club in Korea as well as the stunning Cheonjiyeon Waterfall.
Being an island, it’s no surprise that there is some seriously good food to he found on Jeju. Naturally seafood plays a big part and the island is famous for its abalones, traditionally hand dived by haenyeo, Jeju’s mermaids, or female divers who dive to depths of up to 15 metres to get the abalones, as well as octopus, sea urchins and oysters. Black pork is another speciality, succulent pork made from domesticated black pigs only bred on the island. Try Black Pork Street, a whole street dedicated to the meat.
Entry Requirements: British nationals can enter South Korea for up to 90 days without a visa and you must have an onward ticket.
Currency: South Korean Won
Hello: Annyeonghaseyo
The Sequoioideae, California
More commonly known as the Redwoods, these gigantic trees are most commonly found in the coastal forests of North California and are the largest trees in the world. Most people have heard of the Redwoods, but people who haven’t seen them in the flesh might not quite be able to comprehend exactly how big they are, or how incredible.
The first Redwood’s showed up on Earth shortly after the dinosaurs, before flowers, birds, spiders and humans, roughly 240 million years ago as opposed to modern humans who arrived about 200,000 years ago. The oldest official redwood is at least 2,200 years old and the tallest is over 360ft high and they can reach up to 20ft in diameter. That’s taller than the Empire State Building and the clock tower of Big Ben, and almost as tall as the Great Pyramid of Giza! Since the California Gold Rush of 1848, 95% of the redwoods were cut down to build and rebuild cities like San Francisco and San Jose, so many of the ones still standing are only about 50 years old. Rare wild animals like mountain lions and coho salmon rely on the local redwoods, and tens of thousands of people flock to see the gigantic trees every year. It’s almost impossible to comprehend the size of these woodland giants.
Entry Requirements: British nationals can apply for an online ESTA as part of the Visa Waiver Program which is valid for up to 90 days. For a full US visa you’ll need to fill out a longer DS-160 form and attend an interview at a US consulate or embassy.
Currency: US Dollar
Hello: Hey man