Five Nature Reserves to Visit Around the World

If you would like to connect with nature and make sure that you are able to relax in style, you might plan a fall vacation near some of the best reserves around the world. Whether you want to stay local or explore a faraway land, there are plenty of memories to be made if you get close and personal with animals and nature. Below you’ll find our top picks.

1. Lake Placid, NY

If you only have a few days to spare, you might want to visit Lake Placid in New York state. There are several ways you can connect with nature, including hiking and cycling. Explore the Adironack Mountains, camp outside, and engage in watersports while you are visiting the region. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, you could also try rock climbing.

2. Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

Image via Larry Li

If you would like to get close to the elephants and other animals of Asia, you will have to visit Sri Lanka. You can book Tailor Made Holidays that include all the tours and accommodation and explore the natural beauty and great animal rescue centers of the country. Take a walk on the beach, engage in bird watching, or book a safari ride so you can see the unique species in their own habitat.  

3. Costa Rica, Monteverde Cloud Reserve

This unique place will make you feel like you are in the clouds. The cloud forest of Monteverde has its unique ecosystem, and is protected. You will need a local guide to visit, and make sure that you have plenty of waterproof clothing packed. Interesting to know that 2.5 percent of the world’s species are present in this small area of the Monteverde Cloud Reserve, which makes it a worthwhile visit.

4. Islas Marietas, Mexico

If you love Mexican food, and had enough of the five star hotels and beach resorts, it might be time to see something new. The Islas Marietas National Park in Nayarit is one of the most spectacular attractions of the country. It was originally formed because of ongoing bomb testing activity in the region, but today the unique species have taken over the area. Go bird watching or take stunning photos of the scenery.

5. Big Bend National Park, Texas

To find unique scenery and something of a gigantic size to compete with the Grand Canyon, you don’t have to go further than Texas. The Big Bend National Park is close to the Chihuahuan desert, and has a unique biodiversity. Go on a hike, camp in the mountains, or simply take in the rugged landscape and admire the species that still survive in these harsh circumstances.

If you are looking for an opportunity to get closer to nature and see some natural beauty, meet a few unique species, there are several great nature parks to choose from. Whether you are an adventure traveler and would like to spend weeks exploring or only have a few days, you will certainly be able to make the most out of your time at one of these destinations.

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East Cast New Yorkers: Take A West Coast Vacation

No matter where you come from, you will, no doubt, come down on one side of the east-west debate. Even the good folks in Middle America seem to have an opinion on this age-old feud, and have been long before Biggie vs. Tupac. But when it comes to New Yorkers taking their vacations, we should put aside some of the arguments. Because there are some incredible places way out west that residents of the Big Apple are missing out on.

You can reach the West Coast in a little as five or so hours by plane, or you could even take several weeks if you pluck up the courage to do a road trip. The rain is another option - you can do the entire breadth of the country for a couple of hundred bucks, and take in some spectacular views.

Whether you plan to go for a week or a month, there is so much to see and do in California. Thus, the next time you plan on taking a breakaway, perhaps call off that trip to Europe or Mexico you were expecting, and look west instead. Here are some excellent reasons why the West Coast should be a vacation inspiration for New Yorkers.

The weather

OK, the first ones easy. Simply put, the weather in California is just fantastic. It’s the perfect temperature for most of the year - although it can get too hot in the peak of summer, so check the forecast beforehand. However, it’s fair to say that it is comfortably warm and nothing like that horrendous sticky heat we get in New York. And the closer you get to the sea, the fresher the air - there really is a good mix of diverse temperatures to experience. Many Californians wear shorts all year around, and as long as you take some sunscreen, the weather is a joy.

The scenery

Of course, good weather is irrelevant if you have nothing beautiful to look at while you are outside. The good news is that Cali has plenty. You can expect some of the most beautiful National Parks in the country, including the enormous 1,200 miles of Yosemite Park. Head to San Francisco and you can check out the Marin Headlands, which is simply spectacular - and you might recognize it from Star Wars. California isn't called the Golden State for nothing, you know. In fact, you would be hard-pressed to find anywhere that isn't deserving of a postcard, from the famed, historic landmarks through to the beautiful, crystal clear ocean waters on the coast.

Diverse locations                                                                        

There are a vast amount of incredible places to visit in California and the West Coast. And whether you love the busy city life of LA or the eerie, vast expanse of Death Valley desert (top tip - go at night and see the stars), there really is something for everyone. Lake Tahoe is perfect for those looking for a hippy-style/chilled out breakaway, and you also have the coastal areas like Carlsbad that are famous for beaches and amazing, exciting activities. Napa Valley is a wine lover’s paradise and well worth a visit.

Diverse activities

OK, so you need more proof that the West Coast has it all - and more? Well, many people take the ultimate California road trip, and tick the three major West Coast activities off their list in one day. There aren’t many places in the world where you can go to the mountains to ski or snowboard after breakfast, head to the beach with a surfboard after lunch, and walk off the post-dinner belly with a long, wonderful evening hike. It’s an amazing experience that everyone should try at least once in their life.

The beaches

While we are on the subject of beaches, forget about the ones you may have been to in the Hamptons. California is a beach lovers paradise, and the difference between the West Coast and the East Coast will become clear as soon as you arrive. Expect vast expanses of golden, soft sands. Take a dip in warm, beautifully blue sea water. And explore 840 miles of coastal sights from towering cliffs to small, cozy coves.

A sense of freedom

Let’s face it, New York is an incredible city and we are all lucky to live here. But do you ever feel the rules are a little too much? Toll bridges, barred items on beaches, parking tickets - you have to be on your toes in the East Coast to avoid paying out a fortune of fines every year. Of course, the West Coast certainly has its own rules, but there is a sense of freedom here. You can even take your dog onto many of the beaches.

The people

That sense of freedom also seems to spread to the people of California. Simply put, they are much friendlier than they are in the Big Apple. Expect a warm welcome, a lot of fun, and a whole bunch of new friends. Sure, there are some places where you should probably avoid, especially if you are clearly an obvious tourist. But on the whole, pole in California - both north and south - tend to be on the chilled side.

Vegas

OK, so Vegas is not everyone’s favorite place in the world. But it is an experience - one that might remind you of New York, albeit it a strange, dreamlike alternative from another dimension. It has the same kind of ‘bubble’ feel that New York has, but the glitz and glamor will get to yo in the end. Las Vegas is truly a world of its own - and some might say universe.                                                                                                    
And there you have it - have we convinced you yet New York? If you can put your coastal rivalry to one side and head out to California there is a world of fun to experience. Yes, the East Coast is an incredible place, and New York is - without a doubt - the best city on the planet. But for something different we think the West Coast is the Best Coast - for a incredible vacation experience, at least. What do you think?

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Travel Essentials to Enhance Your Experience and Boost Your Wanderlust

When you choose to go traveling, you need to understand what it is that makes your trip so exciting and fulfilling. Now, there are so many things you need to take into account when you choose to travel, and the more you can do to enhance the experience the better. There are so many different travel experiences that you have to keep in mind moving forward, and there are a lot of things that can boost your travel experience.

Now, one of the most important things you have to keep in mind is that there are a lot of travel essentials that play a role in your experience. These are things you have to make sure you sort out if you are serious about enhancing your travel plans. These are some of the absolute crucial to keep in mind that are going to combine to make your vacation memorable.

Choose an Awesome Hotel

Never underestimate just how important it is to ensure that you choose the right sort of hotel. There are so many different accommodation options these days, and a lot of people might go for something that isn’t a hotel. However, the right hotel in downtown can be a massively important choice for the trip. A luxury hotel can provide you with so much that other forms of accommodation can’t get close to.

Download Travel Apps

If you want to have a better all-round experience, there are plenty of ace travel apps you can download that are going to help you with this. You have to make sure you are prepared for the trip, and there are travel apps that can help you with different areas of the journey. For instance, you have to make sure you check in for your flight in advance, as well as downloading the public transport app for the city you are visiting.

Get a Guidebook

You also need to make sure you have a guidebook for the city you are going to visit. This is a great way of making the most of your travel experience and making sure you can brush up on what there is to see and do while you are there. There are a lot of things that you might like to do when you visit a new place, and the guidebook is your reference point for knowing and understanding the best things that are available for you on your journey.

Go off the Beaten Track

There are a lot of things that can enhance your journey, but one of the best ways is to go off the beaten track. Try to do what you can to avoid the tourist traps and stop overspending on the things that are aimed at tourists. Instead, you need to make sure you go off the beaten track and rub shoulders with the locals a little more. This will help you get more out of the experience.

These are all things that are perfectly placed to help make your travel experience a better one. There are plenty of things you can do that are going to help you get the most out of the experience. You need to enjoy the culture of a city when you visit, and you have to make sure you spend the vacation relaxing, unwinding, and enjoying yourself.

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Missouri: The Road Trip Gem You Need To Visit

There are so many people that are planning a cross-country road trip in America this summer, and if you are one of those people, take another look at your list. Is Missouri on that list of yours? Because if it isn’t, then you should get it written down right now. When you want to ensure that you hit a truly unique place that is filled with historical landmarks and natural beauty, Missouri should be in your top 5. There is a culture here that you won’t find in many other places and for travellers it’s an absolute hidden gem.

A road trip should consist of natural springs, rolling hills, historical and literary sites and Missouri has all of these in spades. It’s not just these attractions, either, because Missouri also has many wineries, all of which have a wine tasting room for you and your friends to indulge in some of the finest flavours. When you’re done sipping on some authentic wines, you can head to some of the delicious restaurants and try some of the southern food that everyone else raves about. There are plenty of places to visit in Missouri, and some of these will influence how you arrange your road trip this summer:

Kansas City

Summer travellers looking to indulge in a little history will love to visit the National World War I Museum based here in Kansas City. There are also 33 other museums worth visiting in the state. The Missouri summers are known to be roasting, but not to worry – there are over 200 fountains that you can visit and cool your heels in. There’s no way that Kansas City shouldn’t be on your list.

The Ozark Mountains

Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who love to get their senses heightened by the sheer beauty of the elements will feel at home here. Biking, canoeing, camping and kayaking are just a few of the outdoor activities that you can indulge in here. When you’re done soaking up the summer sun, head to Silver Dollar City and ride the rollercoasters until you throw up. It’s all about balance.

Arcadia Valley

There is so much to see in Missouri’s Arcadia Valley, including state parks and historical sites that are the most beautiful places to visit in the state. Elephant Rock state park has some of the biggest and most exciting rocks to climb on in the summer which are – quite literally – the size of elephants!

Wine Country

There are dozens of wineries that you can choose to visit while you’re on your trip, and there are blackberry wines to try that are deliciously tart and wonderfully refreshing on a hot day. Don’t take my word for it, though, go and try it for yourself.

Missouri isn’t always on the top of the list for those looking to explore, and I just can’t imagine why not. There is so much to see and do that you will be spoilt for choice for your road trip this year.

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Is There More To The State Of Florida Than Meets The Eye? Let’s Discuss

When you think of the Florida in the USA, no matter where you are in the world I guarantee that one thought comes to mind first, and that will be likely to be Disney related thanks to the amazing parks in Orlando. While this is an amazing location and whether you go with friends, as a couple or with your family you are bound to have an amazing time in Orlando, there is more to Florida than just roller coasters and water parks. I wanted to share with you some of the other aspects of Florida that is exciting and could entice you to go back time and time again.

Different locations to explore

So I have already mentioned that Florida is possible more well known for Orlando. The home of Disney world and universal studios, but there are so many great locations in Florida that are definitely worth seeing. Miami, to start with, is a vibrant and culturally diverse city. With Cuban influences this place really doe have it all. Colonial architecture an amazing beach, and fabulous bars and restaurants to enjoy. You can also find plenty of hotel rooms in Miami, Florida that will suit your needs and your budgets. Other locations to consider visiting would be Tampa, Key West, The Florida Keys, Naples and clearwater, to name a few.

More things to do

There is more to do in Florida than enjoying the endless water parks and themed roller coasters I can assure you. The first thing to consider would be the Everglades National Park. Here you can explore some of the most diverse landscape and witness some amazing wildlife. There is also the beautiful Anna Maria Island, The dry Tortugas National park full of wonderful coral reefs to explore and heading to the Southern tip where you are literally only 90 miles away from Cuba. Having said that, others do see Florida as the perfect place to head over to Cuba for a few days with a different vibe.

Amazing Real Estate

As well as it being an international tourist destination with year-round sunshine, Florida has one of the hottest real estate markets in the country, and this is only expected to grow. According to a news release from WFLA Channel 8 in Tampa, between now and April 1, 2024, the population of Florida is expected to grow by an average of 906 new residents per day. 

There are also some hot areas in Florida that these new residents will be flocking to; Naples with its luxury homes which according to Shannon’s site are found on Naples beaches and waterways and luxury golf course communities. Then there is Jacksonville, which is ranked #3 for the best cities in the US for jobs and Tallahassee which boasts comparatively low local taxes and beautiful state parks and wildlife.

Some of the best beaches in the world

Would you believe that Florida has some of the best beaches in the world? It is true, the likes of clearwater bay and South beach regularly are high on the lists of some of the best beaches around. There is also the smaller town of Fort Lauderdale, that offers a beautiful beach perfect for family strolls and watching the world go by. If beaches are your thing, then Florida has bags of potential for many holidays to come in the future.

Great weather

The weather is always going to be good in Florida, however there are more chances of rain during certain times of the year, miami has a rainy season from June through to October but offers warmth with humidity, you may find that the best times to travel would be November through to May, with decent temperatures ideal for exploring.

I hope this has given you some incentive to try out other areas in Florida.  

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How To Travel The World and Keep Your Job

Working in the city makes it feel like you can never leave. You always have an email to answer and a client hounding your back. For those of you who are able to be more flexible your work, now is the time to leave the country for 3 months, and we promise you won't get fired.  The Remote Life lets you do just that by bringing in professionals, freelancers and entreprenuers to work, live, and travel. In 3 months you wil travel 3 countries with 30 extroadinary people. 

The hardest part of booking any trip is actually planning it. let The Remote life take care of all the hassle of organizing the trip, by booking your flight, stay and where you'll be working. For the low price of $1300 a month you can continue life, but at the same time do the job your working. At such a low price you can sublet your own apartment and it'll pay for itself. 

The perks of traveling are unlimited, as you'll gain new insights to different cultures, finally learn what that mystery meal is, great for next time your in Chinatown. Meet interesting people who could be your next client, and best of all finally be able to take a break without people think you've lost your mind. 

5 Best Summer Vacation Destinations for Newlyweds

By Peter Minkoff

Wedding planning can be quite stressful. Choosing the right venue, menu, and everything else can leave you exhausted. What is not stressful and exhausting is traveling with your beloved and enjoying your time together. Whether you are planning a honeymoon right after the wedding or waiting to have your first vacation as newlyweds, do everything you can to make it the best vacation. Where you go is important, so take a look at these five suggestions that could be your next summer vacation destination.

Vieques, Puerto Rico

Vieques is a charming and romantic island belonging to Puerto Rico. It is an example of pre-industrial life in Puerto Rico. The natives are very caring of the island and its nature, so Vieques remains a well preserved tropical haven perfect for romantic getaways. There are many beautiful sandy beaches here, the water is clear blue and perfect for swimming. You can have long days on the beach sunbathing and swimming when it gets too hot. The unspoiled nature of the island also means there are lush green forests where you can go hiking or riding a horse. The most interesting part of visiting Vieques will definitely be seeing wild horses running around the island freely. This is truly a nature sanctuary and you are bound to have a lovely and relaxing time here.

Santorini, Greece

This little slice of traveler’s haven is located in the middle of the Aegean Sea and it is a well-known travel destination by now. Many travelers have visited this mesmerizing island and you should consider having a romantic getaway there, too. White houses with blue details set on cliff sides of the island rising from the dark blue sea are a well-recognized sight of Santorini and one you must experience for yourself. There are many trails on the island you can walk down to get to know it better. Enjoy the day on the beach and wait to see the sun set on the beautiful horizon. Santorini is also a great place for wine lovers. The island is known for its indigenous white grapes Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani. They are used to produce a variety of white wines and Vinsanto dessert wine. Vinsanto has been produced here since ancient times and it has a great reputation, so don’t miss a chance to try it.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney is unlike the previous suggestions. This is a big city known for its beautiful architecture, great food and nightlife, and friendly people. If you pick Sydney as your destination, make sure to take a walk through different parts of it. The view of the Sydney Harbour, which is considered one of the most beautiful harbors in the world, is a must-see. Here you can also climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the world’s biggest steel arch bridge, and soak in the best view of the city. The best part of visiting Sydney during summer in the northern hemisphere is that in Sydney, it is winter. Winter in Australia is mild, the average temperature is about 15 °C and it almost never snows. You will be able to walk around the city without getting too hot and cool down a bit if you are coming from somewhere warm. While here, you can visit some of the most beautiful beaches and parks, try the local cuisine, and have fun like a native going to their favorite hangouts. Della Hyde is a bar frequently visited by locals and it is a great place to have a few drinks and get to know the real Sydney.

Aman Sveti Stefan, Montenegro

Aman Sveti Stefan is a fortified island village in Montenegro. You should visit this island if you are hoping to have a luxurious and relaxing vacation with the best views around. Even Lord Byron said, “At the birth of our planet, the most beautiful encounter between land and sea must have been on the Montenegrin coast.” The most beautiful encounter between land and sea in Montenegro is definitely Aman Sveti Stefan. Here you will find a beautiful historic fortress, beaches, and mesmerizing views of the Montenegrin Mountains. Get to know the best of Montenegro, relax by the sea, and have a romantic vacation at one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Lucerne is the place to visit for music lovers. The Lucerne Festival is a series of classical music festivals taking place in Lucerne every year. The biggest part of it is the Summer Festival featuring over a hundred events. If you and your beloved love classical music, spend your summer vacation in Lucerne listening to the best performances it has to offer. This old town is surrounded by mountains and it is set on the shore of Lake Lucerne. The beauty of its natural surroundings will take your breath away. You can enjoy nature, the historic architecture of the town, and the festivities while here.