Tuesday, November 24, 2015

- Adventures in Iran - hospitality & Islamic treasures

(follow the links in this article to see photos from this Iran Adventure).

This post has been moved to our new site



 



















Tuesday, September 29, 2015

New Exodus hiking holidays for 2016

Here are some of the new hiking holidays Exodus Travels will be offering for 2016.

Walking in the Prosecco Hills
Just an hour’s drive north of Venice, in the foothills of the Dolomites, is one of the world’s best yet largely undiscovered wine regions. Here ancient terraced vineyards clinging to the sides of every possible slope are dedicated exclusively to grapes for Italy’s most prized sparkling wine: Prosecco. Based in an elegant converted villa, located in the heart of the so called 'Prosecco Road' - Italy’s oldest wine route - we spend a week walking through picturesque rolling hills and sampling the area’s delicious cuisine and authentic bubbles. We also visit charming mediaeval villages such as Cison, Follina, Asolo as well as the beautiful capital province of Treviso.

Tour du Mont Blanc (Self-Guided)
For those confident of their walking ability we offer the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc as a self-guided itinerary. The majestic beauty of the surrounding scenery is best appreciated on foot as you walk point-to-point each day, staying in friendly hotels and auberges at night. Your main baggage is transported for you by van, and using comprehensive route notes you follow the well-marked trails across the French, Swiss and Italian Alps. The walking is challenging, but the views and the sense of achievement are well worth it!

South Africa: Trails of the Garden Route
Deep winding gorges, towering coastal vistas and ancient forests: this is a must for anyone who craves varied scenery. From conquering iconic Table Mountain to hiking to the point where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet, every day is different – and that’s before game drives and wine tasting.

Three Peaks of Ladakh
If conquering one Himalayan summit isn't enough of a challenge for you, try three peaks and five high passes! After acclimatisation time in Leh (3500m) we begin trekking from Mankarmo. The trail ascends a spectacular gorge to reach a high altitude plain at Nimaling, inhabited by Ladakhi shepherds and their huge flocks of sheep, goats and yaks. Vatseri Peak (5640m) is a good warm up before summiting our highest peak, Dzo Jongo East (6040m), which offers breath-taking views over the Karakorum and Indian Himalaya. The climb is tough, but optional and technically easy. We trek out via the third peak, Konga Ri (5680m). 

Iran: Mt Damavand Ascent
A welcome return to the Exodus map, Iran is home to Mount Damavand, a towering 5,610m peak overlooking the Caspian Sea. Rugged, rocky scenery accompanies you to the summit, a spiritual place echoing with ancient Iranian mythology and storytelling.

Sacred Mountain Lodge Trek
For the first time you can trek in Peru with Exodus but without camping. Our new trek to Ausangate, one of the most famous and beautiful peaks in the Cordillera Vilcanota range, stays in tambos, Peruvian eco-lodges committed to sustainability in this remote, mountainous environment. Not only are the tambos environmentally friendly, they’re also a great way to mingle with the Andeans who call these mountains home.




New Exodus Discovery trips for 2016

Exodus Travels will offer the following new and exciting discovery trips for 2016.

Sicily Food Adventure   
From cannoli to arancini, Sicilian food is world famous, but on this tour prepare to be overwhelmed at how varied and diverse Sicily’s cuisine really is! The various civilisations that have occupied the island over millennia have not only left an unparalleled cultural heritage, but a culinary history that sets Sicily aside from mainland Italy. Sample Palermo’s fragrant street food in its vibrant markets, practice hands-on cooking with local chefs in Trapani, sip the finest wines in Marsala and Etna and indulge in mouth-watering gelatos whilst relaxing in sun-kissed Baroque piazzas. Let food lead the way in this captivating journey through culinary and cultural highlights!

Discover the Heel of Italy   
Puglia, known for its whitewashed hill towns, traditional farmland, fine cuisine and sweeping Mediterranean coastline, is Italy’s southern heel and, until recently, its best kept secret. With a focus on art, architecture, traditions and local cuisine, this trip explores the region’s highlights. From Baroque Lecce, known as the ‘Florence of the South’, we travel to the elegant white city of Ostuni and on to the mediaeval coastal town of Otranto, where winding narrow streets conceal perfect Baroque churches. Matera is also visited, a UNESCO listed town carved into bare limestone rock, where centuries-old caves are still inhabited.

Egyptian Discoverer   
Key sites visited in Cairo and Luxor, with a cruise on a 4-star boat in between. Finish the trip snorkelling on the Red Sea.

Journey to Persia
Iran is a country of dramatic contrasts. Its scenery ranges from snow-clad mountains to vast, inhospitable deserts punctuated by attractive oasis towns, and its cities and ancient sites reveal a deep and rich history. Some of the most exquisite examples of Middle Eastern design and architecture are to be found in Iran, including the magnificent ruins of Persepolis, the dazzling Islamic centres at Isfahan and Shiraz, and beautifully-crafted gardens set in desert wastes. The rich bazaars and the ancient tradition of hospitality never fail to impress in a country which sees few tourists.

Harbin Ice & Snow Festival
The Harbin Ice Festival in northeast China's Heilongjiang province is truly one of the most awe inspiring spectacles on the planet. Entire cities of snow and ice twist and carve their shapes on the landscape, whilst artists from all over the world dream big and sculpt even bigger. As well as the festival there is time to trace the remnants of China's imperial past in Beijing's Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China and in Xi'an where we explore the Terracotta Army.

Vietnam Food Adventure
A culinary journey through Vietnam reveals a deceptive simplicity to a cuisine renowned for its fresh, natural ingredients, aromatic appeal and delicate balance of flavours. From savouring the freshest seafood in Halong Bay, sitting with the locals while sampling the best of street snacks in Hoi An, cycling through the herb gardens of Tra Que village, joining a family for a night spent on the Mekong Delta, to trying your hand at mastering a variety of regional dishes, this trip ensures that you make the most of this food lovers paradise. Each day is packed with culinary-based experiences that are best rewarded with a bia-hoi (local fresh beer) and a perch on the street-side bars to absorb the fascinating culture of this gastronomical land.
As well as enjoying the culinary landscape this trip ensures that the cultural highlights of Vietnam are visited; the conservative north, the rich heritage of the imperial cities, and the vibrant life of Saigon and the Mekong Delta. We come face to face with an outgoing culture, where so much goes on in the streets: eating, washing, socialising, buying and selling or impromptu games. This intoxicating parade of Vietnamese daily life may well leave us with our strongest memories, as much as the superb landscapes, the amazing cuisine and the reminders of the distant and the more recent past.

Philippines Adventure
The Philippines is a land of over 7000 islands defined by its emerald rice terraces, smouldering volcanoes, unique Spanish-Filipino colonial architecture and white sand beaches. We start our adventure in the teeming capital of Manila before making our way to the mountains and lush countryside of North Luzon, home to hundreds of ethnic groups. After admiring the volcanic crater lake of Mt. Pinatubo and the tiered agricultural land of Banaue, we journey to the island of Palawan where we explore the underground network of rivers and caves in the Puerto Princessa N.P. We spend the end of our adventure in El Nido, amongst the enchanting lagoons with tranquil turquoise water and secluded beaches.

The Ganges: Arch Kumbh Mela
See India from a different angle, from the Himalayan foothills to the steaming banks of the Ganges and the largest delta system on the planet. Travel the world’s biggest railway system, drive on hectic city streets and see the temples strewn along the river as you meander by. All tastes are catered for here, from walking the foothills of Rishikesh, visiting Vishnu's stone footprint, searching for wildlife in Sundarbans Tiger Reserve or simply enjoying the vibrancy of this spectacular country.

Festivals & Villages of Ladakh
Snowy Himalayan peaks stand with clarity amidst crisp mountain air, whilst rivers crack and creak as they freeze to a standstill. This is Ladakh in winter time - a truly unique and magical experience. The hardy people of Tibetan stock practice ancient traditions to survive, whilst the wildlife descends into valleys in search of food. Monasteries dot almost every hilltop and become the centre of the social and religious calendar at this time. The festivals witnessed on this trip bring hundreds of people together to see the monks perform ritual masked-dances, dressed in brightly patterned brocade robes.

Northeastern Explorer
Share the pioneering spirit of the early settlers as you follow Native American trade routes and discover the New World for yourself. Learn about America's history in Philadelphia and Washington DC, visit an Amish community, and then head to the stunning Finger Lakes region with an included wine tasting evening. Soak up the French heritage of Quebec and the proud history of Boston, enjoy the rugged White Mountains National Forest and ‘Maid of the Mist’ cruise at Niagara Falls. Featuring cosmopolitan cities, small country towns and picturesque landscapes, colonial New England and French Canada offer the perfect blend of culture and experiences.

Cuba Mixed Activity
Pack your bags for an adventure of a lifetime and discover the natural beauty of a Caribbean island steeped in romance and intrigue. This new active adventure features a combination of Cuba's 'must see' sights amid a fun-packed itinerary of outdoor activities. We'll soak up the history and musical heritage of Havana and Trinidad, cycle in Vinales Valley, swim at the Bay of Pigs, hike in Topes de Collantes, and receive a warm welcome from the Cubans by staying in Casas Particulares and eating in privately-run Paladares. Variety is the name of the game - a perfect way to see the real Cuba!

West Indies Explored   
See a different side to the Caribbean; the forests, waterfalls and lakes of Dominica, the jungles and volcanoes of St. Lucia, plus an optional visit to Montserrat. Plus whale watching, optional walks of varying difficulty and snorkelling.

Discover Nicaragua ,Costa Rica & Panama
Nicaragua’s enchanting landscape is vast and relatively untouched by tourism; from the colonial city of Granada to the rising twin peaks of Ometepe Island, it’s a country waiting to welcome the world. Costa Rica's tropical climate supports a range of ecosystems including dense jungle, cloud forest, coastline and a handful of active volcanoes. The result is a paradise bursting with wildlife and tropical verdant scenery. From the Bocas del Toro Islands, a stunning archipelago with a lively Caribbean culture, to the Panama Canal, one of the world’s most impressive feats of engineering, and the vibrant capital Panama City, our last stop is Panama, under-visited but a jewel of the region.

Peru & Bolivia Explorer
The combination of culture, history and scenery of grandeur found in Peru and Bolivia makes for an incredible journey from Lima to La Paz, the worlds highest administrative capital city. The Inca Empire lays claim to the magnificent lost city of Machu Picchu and the wonderful fortresses of the Sacred Valley. Across the altiplano we take a boat trip on Lake Titicaca to our village homestay on one of its islands. Ending on a high, literally, we visit La Paz and embark upon a three day adventure to see Uyuni's salt pans, vivid lakes, geysers and cacti islands.




New Exodus Cycling trips for 2016

Exodus Travels launches some great new cycling trips.  Here is the line-up of new cycling trips by Exodus Travels in 2016.  Also new for 2016 is that all bike rentals will now be included in the tour price.

Cycle the Canal du Midi   
Cycle the Canal du Midi and discover the stunning vineyards, chateaux and waterways around one of the most picturesque parts of France. Our route passes through quintessential French villages such as Laure-Minervois and Homps where you will feel the 'douceur de vivre' as you soak up the sun and sample local wine from Les Corbieres region. From bridge to bridge, from lock to lock, this trip offers a wonderfully relaxed cycling experience as you wind your way along the Canal du Midi towards the enticing Mediterranean Sea.

Dolomites Centre-Based Cycling   
Savour the dramatic mountain scenery of the Dolomites, while avoiding the need to ride up any long climbs. We explore the beautiful valleys of the Alta Pusteria on two wheels, visiting Brunico, Lake Toblach, Cortina d’Ampezzo and crossing into the Austrian Tyrol to explore mediaeval Lienz. The area is criss-crossed by a network of quiet lanes and purpose-built cycle paths, perfect for enjoying at a steady pace. Adding to the relaxation is the fantastic four-star Hotel Adler in the charming town of Villabassa. The centre-based itinerary offers the opportunity to unpack, settle in and unwind in the hotel spa and award-winning restaurant

Tuscany: Florence to Lucca Ride   
Some of the best road cycling in Tuscany can be found in the north of the region; starting our tour in the rolling hills around Lucca, during the week we get off the beaten track and head towards the mountainous terrain of the Garfagnana region before stretching our legs with a walk on Liguria’s beautiful Cinque Terre coastline. On this trip we discover the iconic city of Pisa, ride through quiet mediaeval villages and the glorious landscape that connects them and savour a huge range of delicious food and wine: what better way to explore the ‘Bel Paese’ (Beautiful Country)?

Cycling in Bosnia & Montenegro   
The rich natural and cultural diversity of the Balkans provides the kind of variety you rarely find on European rides. This fascinating route provides the opportunity to visit three very different countries from the former Yugoslavia as we head from Bosnia over the Dinaric Alps into Montenegro and finally to Dubrovnik on the Adriatic Coast. The largely uncrowded roads allow for glorious views, a few challenges and the opportunity to visit a few cultural highlights along the way including the historic city of Mostar. The trip concludes in the magnificent city of Dubrovnik. A trip here will live long in the memory.

Cycle Macedonia & Northern Albania
The border lands of Northern Albania and Western Macedonia are truly one of the last hidden gems of Europe. Sweeping gorges are carved by crystal blue waters that flow into tranquil lakes, whilst rocky peaks and plateaux rise high above the lush green landscape. Ancient villages, rarely visited by tourists nestle themselves into the valleys, some of which retain a way of life that has been unchanged for centuries. Our carefully chosen route heads through some of the best scenery these fascinating countries have to offer, complimented with some really exciting cycling that equally challenges and rewards.

Cycle Romania   
Ride through an undiscovered corner of Europe plus visit 'Dracula's castle'!

Cycle Madagascar
Hugely diverse scenery plus the opportunity to mix with many ethnic groups - a true melting pot of culture!

Cycling the Lake District of Chile & Argentia   
Discover a beautiful and fertile land at the northern gateway to Patagonia - a magical landscape filled with active volcanoes, turquoise rivers, gigantic lakes and ancient native forests. See Andean condors swooping down from the foothills of the cordillera as we cycle on some of the most scenic paved routes that South America has to offer. We'll gain a cultural insight into both Chile and Argentina, including the European influences and indigenous customs that have shaped the region. Cross the Andes twice in spectacular fashion on two wheels as part of an incredible 'once in a lifetime' journey!

Classic Climbs of the Alps
A centre-based drop bars trip with the opportunity to tick off the most famous climbs of the Tour de France.

Classic Climbs of the Dolomites   
The Alta Badia region of the Italian Dolomites is quite simply a mecca for road cycling. Our week is based in the pretty town of Badia, with the famous climbs of the Giro d’Italia and the amateur Maratona dles Dolomites event right on the doorstep. The rides are certainly challenging, but the roads are great and the scenery is truly spectacular, with jagged limestone peaks revealing themselves around the numerous hairpin bends. A real highlight is the ‘Sella Ronda Bike Day’, a unique opportunity to ride this beautiful circuit on closed roads alongside thousands of other riders.

Cycling the Cols of Morocco   
Morocco’s Atlas Mountains are an undiscovered labyrinth of picturesque switchback roads. Using our knowledge of this magical country we have crafted the perfect drop bar cycling trip which winds its way from the bustle of Marrakech, through lush green valleys, over isolated high mountain passes and down long flowing descents all the way to the ocean. If you are after an alternative cycling challenge, then forget about the Alps and Pyrenees and join us in the Atlas Mountains!

Cycle Kilimanjaro
At 5895m Kilimanjaro is famous for being the highest point in Africa, but there is so much more to this mountain than just reaching the summit. This ride completes a full circumnavigation of the world’s largest free-standing mountain on a route that traverses one of the most interesting landscapes in the world. Cycle across wildlife migration corridors and through lush forests inhabited by stunning animals including leopard, buffalo and the illusive elephant. Experience native Maasai villages and isolated Chagga communities and ride across impressive open plains and through coffee plantations, all with the snow-capped peak of Kili within your sight.

Cycling in Portugal: Mountains to the Sea (self-guided)
In the far north of Portugal, on the border with Spain, lies the Minho region: a wild, rugged area of historical and cultural significance. Starting from the Geres National Park, you cycle downhill through small villages and extensive vineyards, following the River Minho towards the Atlantic Ocean. The scenery is a stunning combination of high mountains, rolling river scenes, historic towns and dramatic coastal landscape. You will stay in authentic accommodation offering friendly Portuguese hospitality and delicious regional cuisine. There is plenty of opportunity to relax and enjoy the golden stretches of beach you cycle past, maybe accompanied by a glass of the local Vinho Verde (white wine) for which the region is well known. The ride finishes in Porto, named best European City Destination in both 2013 and 2014.

Mallorca Coast to Coast Ride (self guided)
Mallorca has long been an island synonymous with sun, sea and sand, but many forget the treasures hidden away in the lesser known parts of the island. This relaxed itinerary features relatively easy cycling taking in the highlights of both the quiet coastal areas and the foothills of the beautiful inland Tramuntana mountain range. The hotels we use are small and family run, and the homemade cooking and local Mallorquin wines are a delightful welcome after a day’s cycling!

Bolzano, Verona & Venice Ride (self-guided)
Few landscapes in Europe match the unique beauty of the jagged limestone Dolomites. The self-guided cycling route starts with incredible views of Trentino's dramatic mountains, cycling on relatively easy roads and tracks along the Adige River. On reaching the northern shore of Lake Garda, enjoy the breath taking views of one of the most famous Italian Lakes. A four hour ferry cruise on the lake gives you the opportunity to take in these wonderful vistas before continuing the ride through the beautiful cities of Verona, Padova and finally exploring the canals and waterways of Venice.

Cycling in Tuscany: Pisa to Florence (self-guided)
Cycle from the iconic leaning tower of Pisa to the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, passing through beautiful Tuscan landscape that inspired artists and composors such as Leonardo da Vinci and Puccini. The gentle cycling is mainly along riverside paths and quiet roads, and there are the opportunities to lengthen the rides, or take the train at some stages to spend extra time at your destinations. Enjoy a free day in the romantic city of Florence and take some time to visit the sights in one of the world's most stunning cities!

Self-Guided Cycling in Slovenia (self-guided)
Set amongst extraordinary alpine surroundings, the romantic town of Bled and its iconic island make one of the most picture-perfect settings in Europe, if not the whole world. You will spend a week in a lovely hotel close to the shore of the beautiful glacial lake, allowing you to unpack and properly appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The itinerary offers six days of different optional cycling routes that you can discover at your leisure; spend a day cycling to Ljubljana and enjoy the cosmopolitan café scene in the pretty capital city.Take some time to appreciate the magnificent surroundings and indulge in the local delicacies, such as coffee and Kremsnita (cream cake); the symbol of Bled’s cuisine.










Wednesday, August 12, 2015

13 Of the strangest museums around the world

The world has some interesting museums.  We all know abut the Sex Museum in Amsterdam, or the Spy Museum in Washington.  Here then is a round-up of 13 lesser-known but equally fascinating museums.


Museum of waste, Bucharest, Romania
Europe’s first museum of waste is located in the enormous Afi Palace Cotroceni mall.  Sponsored by Romania’s Ministry of the Environment, the goal of the museum is to educate the public about recycling. There is a 60 metre walkway illustrating the history of garbage.  One fine history it is.
It's American counterpart, the Garbage Museum, was shut down in 2011, presumably as neighbours complained about the smell.


Museum of broken relationships, Zagreb, Croatia
Winner of the Kenneth Hudson Award for the most innovative museum in Europe, the museum tells the stories of terminated relationships through objects left behind by former lovers.  Take the "ex-axe" donated by a woman from Berlin who used it to chop her former lover's furniture in frustration after being left for another woman.  I am told is was quite the therapeutic experience.


Underwater museum, Cancun, Mexico
Imagine 500 life-size sculptures submerged on the sea bed.  They function as an artificial reef designed to relief pressure on the natural reefs in the seas around Cancun.  The museum is open to both divers and snorkelers.  How deep can a museum sink?


Museo del Objeto del Objeto (the Museum of the Purpose of the Object), Mexico City, Mexico
Another Mexican gem, this museum showcases examples of design in packaging, graphic design and advertising.  According to the museum web site, and I love the use of Spenglish, "each of the Objects can be seen as being part of an enormous jigsaw, together forming a wide, diverse and remarkable panorama, made up of fragments of daily life that help us to examine ourselves, in what we are, what we consume, what we remember, and how we make sense of all this in terms of communication." 
Indeed.


Iceland Phallological Museum, Husavik, Iceland
According to the museum's curator (whose name is not "Richard"), "phallology is an ancient science which, until recent years, was a borderline field of study in other academic disciplines such as history, art, psychology, literature and other artistic fields like music and ballet. Now, thanks to The Icelandic Phallological Museum, it is finally possible for individuals to undertake serious study into the field of phallology in an organized, scientific fashion. "
I went.  It really is just a collection of penises. Freud would be proud.


Momofuku And Instant Ramen Museum, Osaka, Japan
This is a museum dedicated to instant noodles and Cup Noodles, as well as its creator and founder, Momofuku Ando.  If you are hungry, this is not the place to go.  Check out the museum's web site, it is most interesting.


Sulabh International Toilet Museum, New Delhi, India
According to the museum's web site (and you should read this out-loud with an Indian accent for added effect) "Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak is a great humanist and social reformer of contemporary India. He has the vision of a philosopher and the undying zeal of a missionary. He is the icon of sanitation and social reform who has made a difference in the lives of millions of people. With his efforts erstwhile untouchables have been allowed by the society to intermingle with them and to live at par with them, dine with them and offer prayers in temples. He has created a new culture which embraces the poor and extols the dignity of labour."
No shit.


Museum of Vampires and imaginary monsters, Les Lilas, France
Reservations are required in this small interesting museum, presumably so they can fire up the exhibits and make it really scary.


Museum of Bad Art, Somerville Mass., USA
This is the world's only museum dedicated to the collection, preservation, exhibition and celebration of bad art in all its forms.  I would argue with it being the only one in the world.  Perhaps it is the only one actually admitting it.


Meguro Parasitological Museum, Tokyo, Japan
 The museum's web site implores you to "try to think about parasites without a feeling of fear".
Trying...
Still trying....


The Kansas Barbed Wire Museum, La Crosse, Kansas, USA
If you thought the West was won by guns and gunslingers, think again.  Barbed wire did the trick.  And it had an impact on history too as it set a precedent in patent law.  If you did not know there were over 2400 varieties of barbed wire, saddle up and go.


Museum Of The Holy Souls In Purgatory, Rome, Italy
Located in the back of a church in Rome, this museum holds a collection of bibles, prayer books, tabletops, and articles of clothing said to have been singed by the hands of souls in purgatory.
I have a burning question for the curator which I plan to ask on my next visit.


Museum of Funeral Carriages, Barcelona, Spain
This Funeral Hearse Museum represents the finest in cadaver transportation.  Fittingly it is located underground.




Monaco, Vatican City, San Marino, Andorra and Liechtenstein travel articles

Here are some great articles and links relating to travel in Monaco, Vatican City, San Marino, Andorra and Liechtenstein.


Andorra 
Andorra: Land of the last free lunch
10 Countries That Are Small Enough to See in Just One Day
What to Do in Europe's Smallest Countries
High-Altitude Andorra Aims Higher


Liechtenstein 
Meltdown: The Alps Under Pressure
10 Countries That Are Small Enough to See in Just One Day
The Country Where You Can Get a Beer With the Royal Family
What to Do in Europe's Smallest Countries


Monaco
10 Countries That Are Small Enough to See in Just One Day
From Monaco to Le Mans: A Century of Iconic Car Races
A Weekend in Monaco: Where to Eat, Stay, and Play
Monaco Souvenir: Grace Kelly Would Have Approved of This Porcelain
What to Do in Europe's Smallest Countries 
Monaco Adds Art to Its Seaside Allure
36 Hours in Monaco
Fast Cars, Medieval Villages
 

San Marino
10 Countries That Are Small Enough to See in Just One Day
What to Do in Europe's Smallest Countries
Seeking Authenticity in Italy’s Tiny Neighbor


Vatican City
Vatican City photos
Secrets of the Vatican
Secrets and Tips from 7 of the World's Greatest Museums
What to Do in Europe's Smallest Countries



Tuesday, August 11, 2015

United States of America (East) travel articles

Here are some great articles and links relating to travel in the United States of America, east of the Mississippi.  Click here for articles West of the Mississippi.


Active & adventure
How to read trailblazing signs in the USA


Appalachian & East Coast
See the America only locals know



Food & drink
The taco taking the US by storm
The sausage loved by presidents
A drink more American than beer?
The sandwich that made the Big Easy
The Manhattan’s biggest mistake
Taking a bite out of the Big Apple
Deep-dish pizza’s deep-rooted story
In search of Miami’s Cuban sandwich


Florida & the South East
How a disastrous city became sexy
Up-close with huge sea predators
In Florida, man vs. manatee
In search of Miami’s Cuban sandwich
Beyond bourbon in Louisville, Kentucky
Wild woodlands of the Great Smokies
America’s best little beach towns
Florida’s stunning island sanctuary
First 24 Hours in Miami
First 24 hours in Savannah, Georgia
The insider's cultural guide to Miami: Flashy, classy … and hot 


Mid-West
Inside the Shawshank prison
Cycling a city once ruled by cars
See the America only locals know
Deep-dish pizza’s deep-rooted story
Art made from what?
Detroit, beyond the bankruptcy
Chicago: Summer on a shoestringUS road trip: slow drive to Sitting Bull country in North and South Dakota
Chicago’s new high line is ‘more than an elevated park’ 
An urbanist's guide to Chicago: ‘the most American of American cities’  
36 Hours in Chicago


New England
The little state with a big story
New England's charming lighthouses
Short break in Boston
5 quick tips from a native New Yorker
10 things to do for free in Boston
Top 10 national and state parks in New England
 

New Orleans & Louisiana
The Big Easy’s iconic cocktail 
The sandwich that made the Big Easy
Mardi Gras: The biggest free party on earth
New Orleans, where memories float on the summertime breeze 

 
NYC & New York State
Daredevil due scales Niagara Falls
A movie tour for Manhattan lovers
Friends' TV cafe finally a reality
New York’s most morbid museum 
The Manhattan’s biggest mistake
Abandoned New York City
Taking a bite out of the Big Apple
Voices of Red Hook, New York
Saunter your way around Manhattan
NYC uncovered
5 of the best natural parks in New York State
The Wanderlust guide to the best of New York City
How to hail a cab like a New Yorker
5 secrets about New York City's Subway




Photo essays
Winter in the U.S.
Autumn in the U.S.
United States
Your Louisiana Photos
U.S. Road Trips
National Park Coastlines
Your Park Photos
American Beach Towns
Admiring Ansel Adams

 
USA 
The USA's Wildest National Parks
Secret places in US state parks revealed
The Wanderlust Guide to the best of US National Parks
9 breathtaking American day hikes
Planning the great American road trip
Trips of a lifetime: USA
The USA's best rail journeys
The ultimate USA road trip
Free to See in the U.S.
A guide to Route 66

  

Washington DC 
The sausage loved by presidents



United States of America (West) travel articles

Here are some great articles and links relating to travel in the United States of America, west of the Mississippi.  Click here for articles East of the Mississippi.


Active & adventure
A climb both beautiful and brutal
Downhill skiing – without snow
Kayaking Kauai’s Na Pali Coast
How to read trailblazing signs in the USA


Alaska
The train that takes on Mt McKinley
Cruising into Gold Rush country
Journey into the Alaskan wild
An Alaskan paradise in peril
Alaska’s ultimate road trip
Alaska: the USA's wildest state
Conquering your fear in Alaska
At Katmai National Park in Alaska, Bears Rule
Alaska Road Trip
Denali National Park 
On Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula, Catching Halibut, and Stunning Tableaus


Arizona
Hiking in the Grand Canyon: A cut above the rest


California
LA has a river? 
A search for the perfect tiki bar
If Bigfoot is anywhere – he’s here
Scenery once owned by James Cameron
The Scot who waves America's parks
What happens at a desert star party
A road trip straight from the 1960s
Facing down Death Valley
Modern art abounds in San Francisco
Hiking and houseboats in Sausalito
America’s best little beach towns
San Francisco’s urban wine renewal
Mini guide to San Francisco cuisine
Mini guide to California's wineries
In search of California’s sea otter
First 24 hours in... Los Angeles
10 things to do for free in LA
10 things to do for free in San Francisco
In Joshua Tree, a Desert Blooms 
36 Hours in Los Angeles


Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho & Montana
Mesa Verde’s ancient cliff dwellers
Jackson Hole: The best of the West
Rise of the ganjapreneurs
First 24 hours in Denver, Colorado
Exploring exhilarating Colorado, USA
Rockies road trip: driving Colorado in the summer 
 

Food & drink
The taco taking the US by storm
A drink more American than beer?
The sandwich that made the Big Easy


Hawaii
Stunning footage of a deadly wave
Life in the shadow of a volcano
America’s best little beach towns
Kayaking Kauai’s Na Pali Coast
5 unmissable Hawai‘i experiences
A Hawaiian Island Where Everybody Knows Your Name


Nevada
Nevada's secret underwater world
Facing down Death Valley
Mini guide to nightlife in Vegas
First 24 hours: Las Vegas
An Insider's Guide to Quirky Nevada
The crazy world of Burning Man – festival survival guide 


New Mexico
The weird and wild outdoors of southern New Mexico


New Orleans & Louisiana
The Big Easy’s iconic cocktail 
The sandwich that made the Big Easy
Mardi Gras: The biggest free party on earth
New Orleans, where memories float on the summertime breeze 



Oregon
The town that gave The Goonies life
Portland's urban adventures
In Portland, Thai Food Moves Beyond the Usual



Photo essays
United States
Your California Photos
Your Hawaii Photos
Your Louisiana Photos
U.S. Road Trips
National Park Coastlines
Your Park Photos
American Beach Towns
Admiring Ansel Adams

 
Texas
See the America only locals know
The allure of the open Texas road
The best BBQ joints in Texas
Top 5 Texas highlights

  
USA 
The USA's Wildest National Parks
Secret places in US state parks revealed
The Wanderlust Guide to the best of US National Parks
9 breathtaking American day hikes
Planning the great American road trip
Trips of a lifetime: USA
The USA's best rail journeys
The ultimate USA road trip
Free to See in the U.S.
A guide to Route 66

  
Utah
Missing pieces in Utah
Dangerous dreams in rural Utah
Utah’s astonishing wild side


Washington 
An ancient luminous landscape
A climb both beautiful and brutal
The quietest place in the USA
Downhill skiing – without snow
America’s best little beach towns
Rise of the ganjapreneurs
10 things to do for free in Seattle

Top 10 national and state parks in Washington state 



Taiwan travel articles

Here are some great articles and links relating to travel in Taiwan.


Active & adventure
Hiking in the landslide capital
Taiwan's dizzying marble gorge
Taiwan's most spectacular hiking trails
A New Way to Tour Taiwan


Culture & tribes
Tribal culture survives in Taiwan
The tao of Taiwanese temples
Here Kitschy Cat - Taiwan's Hello Kitty Cafe
Snake farm in Taiwan popular ahead of Chinese new year - video


Food & drink
A stinky tofu tour
Taiwan's culinary traditions
Ice Cream Around the World: Shaved Ice in Taiwan
A Tour Through Taiwan's Shilin Night Market
Taipei: The Best Asian Food City No One Is Talking About (Yet)
Instagram Tour: Beef Noodles at Taipei's Lin Dong Fang
Taiwan, home to the best street food markets in the world
Made in Taiwan: a food tour of Taipei
Taiwan's mountain food delicacies
Lanshu Chen on Dining Well on the Road



Outlying islands
Where the wild things are in Taiwan
Taiwan’s charming outlying islands
Solitude ends on Kinmen island


Sun Moon Lake
Taiwan's cultural past and present
Taiwan's dizzying marble gorge
Taiwan's Sun Moon Lake 


Taipei
Musical destinations - Taipei
Is Taipei Asia’s Most LGBT-Friendly City?
Taipei: The Best Asian Food City No One Is Talking About (Yet)
36 Hours in Taipei, Taiwan
Savoring Taipei’s Food Scene
Taiwan’s Steaming Pools of Paradise


Taiwan
Five reasons to visit Taiwan
Taiwan: Isle of the unexpected
Made in Taiwan: Hi-tech temptations and majestic mountains
Video: 60 Seconds in Taiwan

Taiwan: Howard Marks' return to an old haunt 
Taiwan - tea & tranquility 
Taiwan, an Island of Green in Asia



Wildlife & nature
Taiwan's dizzying marble gorge
Where the wild things are in Taiwan 


Sudan, South Sudan, Central African Republic and Chad travel articles

Here are some great articles and links relating to travel in Sudan, South Sudan, Central African Republic and Chad.


Central African Republic
Hunting with pygmies in the Central African Republic


Chad
Last stand in Zakouma
Lost tribes of the Green Sahara
New Travel Options to Chad


South Sudan
Ten trips to take for cultural adventures
Sudan's shaky peace


Sudan 
Riddles of the sands: northern Sudan
Exploring the Kingdom of Nubia, Sudan
Top things to do in Sudan
Exploring Sudan: a desert journey in pictures
Sudan's shaky peace
Lost tribes of the Green Sahara
How a Virginia Man Claimed Part of Africa As His Own
The Princess of Sudan: the most ill-conceived film idea of all time?
American plans to use 'his' piece of Africa for advancement of science

Music from the Blue Nile: unique recordings from Sudan's refugee camps
Photographing Africa – Harry Hook's African odyssey
Cape Town to Cairo – and back again
Pyramids by the Nile. Egypt? No, Sudan
From England to the Edge of Africa


Wildlife & nature 
10 of the best places to see gorillas
Know your gorillas!
Great migrations
The Lost Herds of Southern Sudan
Last stand in Zakouma




Senegal, Gambia and Guinea-Bissau travel articles

Here are some great articles and links relating to travel in Senegal, Guinea-Bissau and Gambia.


Culture & music
Hip-hop planet


Dakar
Le Village des Arts, Dakar
Top 10 things to do in Dakar, Senegal
36 Hours in Dakar, Senegal



Gambia 
Taking a gamble in Gambia
Gambia, Senegal and Guinea-Bissau
Gambia's mysterious stone circles
How to avoid Gambian bumsters
Chimpanzee sanctuary in The Gambia
Crocodiles and Culture on a Cruise in West Africa


Guinea-Bissau
Gambia, Senegal and Guinea-Bissau
Best western: Guinea-Bissau's island sanctuaries


Senegal 
Gambia, Senegal and Guinea-Bissau
Rhythm & blues: returning to Senegal
Almost human
What We're Reading: A Pink Lake in Senegal, 100 Years of Julia Child
Writer and guesthouse owner Simon Fenton on Abéné, Senegal
Branching out: an ecolodge in Senegal
A clean break: surfing in Senegal
Crocodiles and Culture on a Cruise in West Africa
In Senegal, a Coastal Region Sees a Resurgence


Slavery & history 
Memories of Gorée Island in Senegal


Wildlife & nature
Chimpanzee sanctuary in The Gambia
Almost human 
Best western: Guinea-Bissau's island sanctuaries


Monday, August 10, 2015

Mexico travel articles

Here are some great articles and links relating to travel in Mexico.


Art & culture
Love, lust and art in Mexico City
Move Over Oaxaca, Arty Michoacán Is Calling


Baja California & Northern Mexico
Mexico’s abandoned sanctuary
Spiky, spicy, wild … arriba! Mexico’s Baja California is bliss for Lois Pryce
Mexico's exciting new wine trail: Valle de Guadalupe
The healthiest waters on earth?
Baja California road trip
Whale watching in Baja California



Food & drink

The foodie traveller … chef Valentine Warner in Mexico City

Mexico's exciting new wine trail: Valle de Guadalupe
Mexico City's best street foods and stalls
Mexico’s ancient drink makes a comeback
Mexico's mezcal revolution 
Guadalajara on a plate
Where to Drink the Good Stuff in Tequila, Mexico
Tippling Down the Tequila Trail in Jalisco, Mexico
The Best Hotels, Restaurants, and Markets in Mexico City
Mexico City Food Tour: Why Is Mexican Cuisine So Good?


Guadalajara, Pacific Coastal areas
Acapulco cliff divers' shaky future
Guadalajara on a plate  
Tippling Down the Tequila Trail in Jalisco, Mexico
Move Over Oaxaca, Arty Michoacán Is Calling


History, Aztec & Maya
End of world hysteria boosts tourism
The kingdom of the crystal skull
Maya rise and fall
Maya Rise and Fall
Underwater Secrets of the Maya
Mysteries of the Maya
Maya Travel in Mexico
Pyramid of Death 
Unburying the Aztec


Mexico
Mexico books podcast
The ruin-hunters who drove a car down Mexico's forgotten railways
A pre-Columbian memory to last a lifetime
Mexico's best-kept secrets
Discovering Mexico's Day of the Dead
The Wanderlust guide to the best of Mexico
Mexican ruins on a budget
The impossibility of staying still in Mexico
Mexico Travel Blueprint: 4 unmissable trips


Mexico City
An urbanist's guide to Mexico City: ‘Transport is an adventure and often a nightmare’
The symbolic simplicity of Mexico City's metro signs
Mexico City's best street foods and stalls
Walking Mexico City: from sprawling suburbs to steel skyscrapers
Where peace and produce meet
The heart of historic Mexico City
Going local - Mexico City 
One day in Mexico City
Mexico City's ultra-niche museums
First 24 hours in Mexico City
Mexico's Island of the Dolls
Mexico City by social media
Mexico City must-do's
Layover Makeover: Mexico City
The Culture, Cuisine and Museums of Mexico City
The Five Things You Should (and the One Thing You Shouldn't) Do in Mexico City
Mexico City's Magic Moment
The Best Hotels, Restaurants, and Markets in Mexico City
Travel Guide: Things to Do in Mexico City
36 Hours in Mexico City
In Mexico City, Exploring a Volcano Sacred to the Aztecs


Oaxaca, Chiapas & the south
In Oaxaca, a community unchanged
On the road in Oaxaca
Chiapas: Mexico’s secret corner
The Truss Design Duo's Guide to Oaxaca, Mexico
Local Color: What to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico
Pure Mexico: The Mystery and Charm of Oaxaca



Photo essays
Day of the Dead
Your Mexico Photos
Mexico
Mexico City in Black & White
Mexico Central Highlands
Magnificent Mexico City
Aztecs Revealed


Wildlife & nature
The buzz in Mexico

Mexico's underwater cathedrals
Surreal shapes in Mexico's cenotes
Swimming with whale sharks 
Whale watching in Baja California
The healthiest waters on earth?
In search of magic
Birds of a feather


Yucatán
Mexico's underwater cathedrals
Surreal shapes in Mexico's cenotes
Through Mexico's Mayan heartland
The forgotten ruin of Ruta Puuc
Top sights in Cancún and Yucatán
Mini guide to the Yucatán
Swimming with whale sharks
Travel blueprint: The Maya Route
Chichén Itzá
Where the Locals Play in Tulum
Top Things to Do in Tulum
The Food, Art, and Mayan Culture of Mérida, Mexico
Hotels, Restaurants, Sights and Shopping in Mérida, Mexico

 

 

 

Malawi, Lesotho and Swaziland travel articles

Here are some great articles and links relating to travel in Malawi, Lesotho and Swaziland.


Lesotho
Breathtaking travels in Lesotho and Swaziland
Souvenir Shopping Tip: Shepherd Bells from Lesotho
Tim Butcher in Lesotho


Malawi 
Malawi: Africa's rising star
How I spotted the first Painted Dog in Malawi
How I set up Malawi's premier carnivore conservation project
Wildlife of Malawi: A ride on the wild side


Swaziland 
Swaziland: Africa's biggest little secret
Breathtaking travels in Lesotho and Swaziland


Wildlife & nature 
Tracking rhinos in Swaziland
How I spotted the first Painted Dog in Malawi
How I set up Malawi's premier carnivore conservation project
Wildlife of Malawi: A ride on the wild side