Resident howler and spider monkeys swing effortlessly between the branches of the same trees you’ll find lazy two- and three-toed sloths snoozing in, and lucky visitors might even catch sight of a puma or margay on the prowl. Colourful toucans and bright scarlet macaws also soar through clear blue skies, a reminder of the incredible biodiversity Costa Rica boasts. For the avid adventurer, Ecuador’s national parks are paradise. A number of traditional haciendas also offer horseback riding through the park’s Andean grassland, an exciting challenge for all the family.
- Some places pull you in with their beauty, others with their mystery.
- And digital travel guides can still play an important role in inspiring and informing travellers.
- In 2019 I finally got to visit this small piece of heaven and despite a rough beginning, I fell in love with the country, its’ food, and people.
- When I road tripped around Montenegro for 10 days, it rained incessantly – and yet I still fantasise about the Martian landscapes.
- The southern regions are flat and dry, and so the summer is best avoided with the oppressive heat regularly reaching 50 degrees.
- No ATM fee is charged either, making this a great option for debit cards that allow fee-free international withdrawals.
Tourist guide
I have a peculiar passion for this country as Korean dramas literally saved my life when I had PPD and PTSD after my very traumatic pregnancy. So, not only I learnt a lot about Korean culture in the past years, but I think I owe something to this beautiful culture and country. Our guide gives you the tips you need to make the most of your trip, from where to go to the best time to visit. Find out more information on how to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation which is required for visitors travelling without a visa. If that’s not possible, you can get SIM cards from most supermarkets or phone shops.
The ultimate Ireland travel guide
- If you’re a snow bunny, the slopes of the Midi-Pyrenees are busiest during UK and France school holidays, when flights are often also at a high.
- Colourful contemporary life is inextricably intertwined with time-honoured, traditional custom in Peru.
- Spend a day on sparkling Lake Sevan, Armenia’s jewel, spend a night at the Soviet-era Sevan Writers’ House, find solitude in Dilijan National Park, home to the country’s best hiking trails.
- Most restaurants (unless they are very informal/street food) will usually add a 10% service charge to your bill, this is sufficient.
- If found during security screenings at the airport, sand and shells will be removed from your luggage and returned to the land.
- You can’t help but be seduced by the gorgeous green landscapes and massive volcanic chains.
The country code for dialling in France is +33, and to dial a UK number you’ll need +44. Buying a roaming package from your mobile provider is always a good idea, or apps like Viber and Whatsapp use wifi to make calls and send messages to friends and family, keeping costs down. In August, Russian law was amended to stop Russian nationals eligible for military conscription from leaving Russia from the day their draft notice appears on the federal electronic conscription register. Dual British-Russian nationals are treated as Russian nationals by local authorities. If you are arrested or detained, Russian authorities are unlikely to allow us consular access.
Another must-see, Yasuní National Park is an extraordinary area of unspoiled, protected rainforest, where you can expect to set eyes on a medley of exotic creatures found nowhere else on earth. Read our guide below for an introduction to our top five Latin American destinations, why you should visit each, and what you should do while you’re there. Or, if you know where you’re headed and want to explore, click the menu below for individual country guides.
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Due to the country’s colonial history, most people speak English. There are many incredible things you can do in this small but diverse country. And once you have been there, it is impossible not to love it. Sign up for handpicked travel inspiration and expert advice, sent to you every week by email from our Travel Specialists. Share your ideas and initial plans below, and let’s start planning your next trip.
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- Possibly random in nature, perhaps, but go ahead and freely explore our collection of hotels, edits, finds and little treasures from Lisbon to NYC – Here, there, not everywhere™️.
- They’ll contact you as soon as possible to share their expert knowledge and start planning your trip.
- Forged in the fires of a tumultuous past, Armenian culture is one of the most fascinating on earth.
The active city of Antigua (the country’s former capital), is marked by its traditional buildings coloured in pretty pastel shades, and setting against a backdrop of volcanoes. Dotted throughout its buzzing markets, churches, and plazas, are meticulously maintained architectural reminders of Guatemala’s colonial history. Belize, perched on the eastern periphery of Central America, is full of surprises. It’s all about lodging in luxury here, where a small yet incredibly indulgent selection of hotels offer world-class service, beautiful rooms, enviable cuisine, and lavish spa treatments. Whether you choose a tranquil beachside retreat or a stay deep in the heart of Belize’s dense, green jungles, you’ll fall head over heels for this tempting tropical haven.
The best hotels to stay in near Manchester Airport 2025
The calming landscape makes for a relaxing road trip, hike or biking trip with regular stops at the wonderfully pretty villages, and producers of fine wines, cider and cheeses. Of course, it would be impossible to explore Champagne without sampling some of their infamous bubbles! The coastline, on the other hand, can be very dramatic with the cliffs of the Cap de la Hague contrasting sharply with the golden seaside resorts of Brittany and the sweeping expanses of Normandy’s historic D-Day beaches.
If you are prepared to trek you can travel to what is locally known as ‘the throne room of the gods’ to see K2 and three other 8,000m peaks. The area is endowed with world-class tourist attractions and experiences, so here is a list of recommendations that will be useful for a trip to Oban and the surrounding area. It is not essential to bring yen into the country with you, thanks to the ATMs found in every 7-Eleven which allow international cards to withdraw cash. No ATM fee is charged either, making this a great option for debit cards that allow fee-free international withdrawals.
I don’t think I’m being controversial when I say that Montenegro is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. When I road tripped around Montenegro for 10 days, it rained incessantly – and yet I still fantasise about the Martian landscapes. But it’s not just grapes that this region’s fertile soil is so good at growing, with fruits and vegetables thriving here. Chile is one of yeh biggest exporters of Avocado, and you’ll be able to taste their fresh-from-the-tree flavour.
You can rely on Japan’s efficient and relatively straightforward public transportation system to get around. Common chains to look out for include APA Hotel, Daiwa Roynet Hotel, Dormy Inn, Tokyo Inn and my new favourite, Via Inn. We stayed at three different Via Inn properties on my last trip alone! To save money on accommodation in Japan, consider staying at business hotel chains.
The luxury hotspots worth visiting in Georgia
Sally helps thousands of readers discover the magic of Latin America. Sharing detailed guides to inspire and equip them with the knowledge they need to plan their own epic adventures in this incredible part of the world. Our France travel guide is unlike any you’ll find online, we don’t mimic, sugar-coat or even skim over the important details. If you’re looking for the holy grail of information, then we’ve made sure you can access it all in one place. Get to grips with the do’s and don’ts in French etiquette, learn the key differences between Northern France, Central France and the South of France, discover the best times to visit and heaps more.
London hotels: The best places to stay
They may have insights or experiences that you haven’t considered, giving your guide a more diverse and well-rounded view. Outsourcing your travel guide writing allows you to publish content faster while leaving the stress of content creation in the hands of professionals. This can save you time and hassle, especially if you have multiple projects or a tight deadline. Writing about travel in a way that captures the essence of a destination requires skill and knowledge. So, we’ve put together this article for travel companies looking to create effective guides. Most restaurants automatically include a 10% service tip in listed prices, so adding an additional tip is not necessary.
Artfully Tamed: the garden designs of Fabiano Crociani
Indeed, social drinking and crowds might cause some issues in these very popular areas. Booking your hotel in advance is essential to avoid higher fares and stay at your preferred accommodation. I always get the best rates on Booking.com and I booked here most of my stays in South Korea. JavaScript needs to be enabled to see social media images for this place. Find ideas and inspiration, from family days out to top camping spots, walks and outdoor activities. Whatever time of year you’re coming, Scotland’s got you covered.
We were able to pay with a credit card in most towns around the country with the exception of Santa Catalina. However, you should always have cash for things like buses, markets, entrance fees at trails, natural sights etc. The more remote you get, the less likely you will be able to pay with a card, or if you can, there will be a hefty % fee attached. You don’t have to pay the full amount for the flight, just their service fee (currently $16). The only other safety concern we had was on certain hiking trails.
Part of the Korean culture is their love (more kinda of obsession) for their celebrities. Once in Korea you will see, billboards, buses and entire shops dedicated to K-pop singers, actors and other famous personalities. Something that, of course, is kinda unthinkable in the UK or any other western country. Imagine to have an entire shop with Ed Sheeran pictures and merchandising for both home and wardrobe. But if Ed Sheeran was a Korean idol, his merchandising would have probably gone sold out in minutes in Seoul.
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Sberbank / Сбербанк is the biggest and also a state-owned bank. If you arrive outside the opening hours we recommend you to exchange only a minimum in the airport. How to enter RussiaTo enter the largest country in the world we recommend to use air transport – and within Russia you have busses, railways and domestic flights at your disposal. When planning your visit, be sure to check the https://softfootprints.com/ individual property pages of the sites you’d like to visit for the most up-to-date information. One of our knowledgeable Travel Specialists will now be assigned to your enquiry.
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There is so much to explore in the region, but we’ve listed our must-sees, that stand out amongst anything else. Specific Card products or limited time promotions may offer additional Membership Rewards points, please see individual Card or promotion Terms and Conditions for more information. Additional Membership Rewards points cannot be earned on products which are not prepaid but are paid directly to the supplier, including cruise bookings and select hotel bookings. These bookings will not earn two Membership Rewards points for every £1 spent but will be earned at the normal rate of one point for every £1 spent. Full Terms and Conditions apply, please visit americanexpress.com/uk/travel/terms-and-conditions/.
- A few other airports around the country have the ‘international’ label, but they only receive flights from Costa Rica.
- Our concierge team are on hand to help organise any added extras to elevate your trip.
- It was the final stop of our 6-month trip and definitely one of the highlights.
- Read our guide below for an introduction to our top five Latin American destinations, why you should visit each, and what you should do while you’re there.
- Fly into Podgorica, Tivat or Dubrovnik, (Croatia); train from Belgrade; drive/bus from any neighbouring country.
- Due to its shape and location, it is often called the ‘Tear of India’, but it definitely is a tear of joy.
- There’s a good chance this will be your first real encounter with the Armenian Genocide – an unspeakable atrocity that much of the world seems to have forgotten.
The Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica has a slightly different weather pattern. It rains here much more than the rest of the country, with two smaller dry seasons from March-April and September-October. They also provide a Foreign Travel Checklist but be aware that advice can change regularlyso please check regularly for updates. Music is a part of everyday life in The Gambia and there are a number of festivals that take place each year, most of these are based around annual Islamic festivals. A fantastic way to both entertain and educate kids of all ages, the Monaco Aquarium offers a chance to get up close and personal with all the creatures of the deep, from sharks to stingrays and so much more.
One of Croatia’s most famous islands, Hvar is renowned all over the world for its gorgeous waters, incredible sunshine and much-touted nightlife. But Croatia’s fourth largest island has more to offer than just sun, sea and hangovers – Hvar also delivers wonderful countryside, stunning lavender fields, incredible food and fascinating history and culture. We couldn’t compile a South of France travel guide without including some of our favourite foods from the region. So, if you’re a foodie like us, be sure to sample these local delicacies. Oban is best known as the gateway to the Hebridean islands and as a popular tourism destination.
From the arid Atacama Desert to the icy realm of Tierra del Fuego, the high peaks of the Andes to far-flung Easter Island, Chile offers an unparalleled array of landscapes to explore. Prepare for your break to England’s charming capital city, come rain or shine. Get need-to-know info for your trip to Dubai’s world-class sporting, shopping and spa experiences. Visit Cape Town for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse culture and vibrant city life. With gorgeous weather and a chilled-out vibe, unwind on picture-perfect beaches and explore Mayan ruins. Soups, salads, nibbles, nutty breads, calorific main courses and sugary desserts are all on offer in Russia – slimming it’s not.
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Today, Valparaíso (or Valpo, as it’s known locally) is one of the most beguiling cities on the continent. For sublime views, catch a cable-car to the 880-metre summit of Cerro San Cristóbal, home to Santiago’s biggest park. And, if you fancy a change of scene, sensational skiing and snowboarding, dozens of hiking trails and numerous vineyards all lie within easy reach of the city.
Those who look for action during their villa holidays will love Central France. Earthy cycle routes, natural parks and ‘Green Venice’ – find our best natural picks below. Central France is home to swathes upon swathes of vineyards, some gorgeous undiscovered stretches of coastline and the infamously beautiful chateaux. However, not everyone can rely on a car so here is a quick breakdown of the need-to-knows. The pastures, orchards, forests and farmland of Northern France are rolling and peaceful.
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France is a beguiling place, bustling and cosmopolitan on one hand, calm and contemplative on the other. If you’re into fine dining, high-adrenaline sports, pristine beaches or historical masterpieces, you’ll find them all in your holidays in France. And, it’s guaranteed to be charmingly, quintessentially, uniquely French. Plan your next trip with American Express Travel and discover where to travel including a selection of luxury hotels to complete the perfect stay. Yes, a travel copywriting agency will have expert writers with experience in the industry. They can help you create high-quality and engaging content faster than going at it alone.
Columbus Travel Media is one of the most respected names in the global travel industry. We provide licensed destination guides, bespoke travel and lifestyle content and digital marketing services, to key brands in the Industry. Sri Lanka is a country that had been on my travel list for a long time. I once read a poem about it and instantly fell in love with the description of nature’s beauty. Due to its shape and location, it is often called the ‘Tear of India’, but it definitely is a tear of joy. It is a true bucket list destination and everyone should experience it themselves.
