Sunday, July 31, 2016

For travelers who want to move beyond cookie-cutter hotel experiences



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Pokémon GO ... to Hong Kong

Pokémon GO has become a worldwide phenomenon, but perhaps nowhere is this more evident than in Hong Kong, where hundreds have flocked to the city's already busy tourist hotspots and public parks to catch rare Pokémon and battle for control of gyms.

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Bangkok Railway Station: 100 years of journeys



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Spellbinding charm, fairytale beauty and dirt-cheap drinks: Why Tallinn is your next break



THIS enchanting European city is no longer an unlikely holiday destination.

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Safe, comfortable and carefree: Holidays at home are the best



AIRPORT queues and terrorism alerts mean that the lure of a holiday abroad is not what it was.

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Cleveland aiming to draw new visitors with restaurants, winning attitude

With NBA Championship under its belt, Cleveland is busting with pride, energy.

     
 
 


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Best frequent-flier promotions for August 2016

There are some great promotions out there to fill up your mileage balance.

     
 
 


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10 great rail-trails across the USA

     
 
 


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Rooms clasped to cliffs and sleeping with the fishes: These the most unusual holiday stays



GO FURTHER than the typical traveller with a night at one of these unbelievable spots.

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Why tourists can’t get enough of this real-life land of the DEAD



THIS dark Indian town where locals go to die attracts thousands of foreign travellers.

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Saturday, July 30, 2016

Top 10 sporty things to do in Olympics 2016 destinaton Rio this summer



THE Brazilian city set to be gripped by Olympic fever has many more sporty attractions, says LOUISE RODDON.

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Spa breaks, edible storybook and stand-up: The best things to do this week



DINE out on Roald Dahl-inspired treats, see two British greats on stage, laugh along with an award-winning comedian and enjoy the ultimate spa break.

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The high life: Luxury holiday destinations



JOIN the jet set in Dubai, Madrid or Paris for holidays in the lap of luxury. Our writers whisk you there...

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WATCH: Motorbike rider learns the hard way why you should never cross floodwaters



THIS daredevil was forced to take a terrifying detour on his joyride in India.

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Instant mood booster: These are the most adorable baby animals around the world



SCURRYING over exotic lands and hiding high above the ground, these tiny creatures will melt the hardest of hearts.

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All aboard the spectacular catamaran you could live on forever



AN INFINITY pool, sauna and cinema are just the tip of the iceberg on this exceptional yacht.

from Daily Express :: Travel Feed http://ift.tt/2apcGKN

Friday, July 29, 2016

"What Died in Here?" Rare Corpse Flower Blooms in NYC

Corpse Flower

Look out, “Hamilton”, there’s a new hot-ticket event that has New York City buzzing. A rare “corpse flower” bloomed late Thursday, filling the New York Botanical Garden with the pungent scent of rotting flesh. The six-foot-tall flower, which is native only to western Sumatra, takes 10 years to grow and emits its unusual aroma to attract pollinators that typically feed on carrion. Morbid botany enthusiasts will have to act fast, though, the decade-in-the-making bloom only lasts for about 25 to 36 hours and will likely only bloom again in another seven to 10 years. So, only slightly longer than it takes to get “Hamilton” tickets.



from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2a6ACqc

Long Weekend in Riviera Nayarit

With 200 miles of pristine pacific coastline and dozens of tiny seaside towns and pueblos, the coastal community of Riviera Nayarit near Puerto Vallarta is just calling out to be explored. There are lush mountain peaks, nature reserves, golden sand beaches, and even an exclusive luxury resort community with some of the top hotel brands in the world. Punta de Mita, home to resorts like The Four Seasons Punta Mita and The St. Regis Punta Mita is a fabulous destination for those seeking over the top accommodations, privacy, and 5-star service. A long weekend with some beach time and lots of delicious food is perfect for a quick trip, and Mexico’s pacific treasure is closer than you think.

Friday

Sayulita

Arrive into Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport in Puerto Vallarta and once you’ve made it through customs and immigration, make your way to your rental car. In Mexico, a U.S. driving license and major credit card is sufficient in order to reserve and book a rental car, although it’s best to set up a reservation online ahead of time. Money exchanges are available in the airport and cash machines and banks are accessible throughout the area. Once in the car, take a short drive to Punta Monterrey Beach Resort, a private beach where you can disconnect and settle into vacation mode.

Punta Monterrey is a secluded destination accessed by a narrow and bumpy road. The all-inclusive resort is made up of cabins and bungalows, surrounded by 300 acres of an ecological jungle reserve. There’s limited Wi-Fi in the common areas and no televisions—it’s all about getting to know the other guests and taking in the breathtaking views of the private beach.

Saturday

San Pancho

After sleeping in and enjoying a typical Mexican breakfast, jump back in the car and drive to Sayulita, a surfing and beach town just down the road. While in Sayulita, find a parking space and take on the town by foot. There are lots of food options and boutique shops to splurge on. After lunch, head down to the water and rent an umbrella and chairs, take a surfing lesson, or enjoy a few tacos with a beer or two. By evening, return to Punta Monterrey for a final nights sleep before departing to San Blas the next morning.

Sunday

San Blas

Depart Punta Monterrey by car and drive to San Blas, a small fishing village of about 12,000 people. Ecotourism here is a main draw, and after spending some relaxing days by the beach, San Blas will provide a different atmosphere and experience. Check into the Hotel Garza Canela, a family operated business with one of the best restaurants in all of Riviera Nayarit. Grab a quick bite at the hotel and drive over to La Contaduria, an abandoned fort where visitors can get up close and personal with the structure and enjoy the spectacular views of San Blas and the harbor.

Afterwards, drive to the harbor and hire a boat guide to visit La Tovara National Park. This is a bird lover’s paradise where you’ll find more than 250 species of migratory birds. Additionally, your guide will spot crocodiles and other wildlife during your tour. If birds aren’t really your idea of a good time, then take a different boat ride out to Mexcaltitan, a small man-made island off the coast, which was decreed as a historic monument zone in 1986. The population on the island is about 800 people and visitors can spend the day there walking down the small streets, visiting the museum and town square, and eating fresh fish. That evening, return to Hotel Garza Canela and indulge in Chef and owner Betty Vasquez’ El Delfin restaurant. Chef Vasquez has been regarded as one of the best chefs in the region and her menu makes for a great last meal and experience before departing back to the airport the next morning.

Where to Stay

For that extra-secluded feel near Sayulita, Punta Monterrey Beach Resort will provide just what you’re looking for—a hidden paradise. If you’re looking for something a little more lively, there are plenty of private home rentals close to the action in Sayulita.  In San Blas, the Hotel Garza Canela will be your best bet, since it’s home to the best restaurant in town.

Getting There

There are direct flights to Puerto Vallarta from various U.S. cities including Dallas, Honolulu, Phoenix, Portland, and Chicago on American Airlines, while Delta Airlines has direct flights from cities like Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, and Atlanta. Additionally, Air Canada and WestJet Airlines have direct flights from almost every major city in Canada. 

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Riviera Nayarit Guide



from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2aRaYDc

19 Free Things to Do in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is encountering a renaissance. Once a city with a gritty reputation, Philadelphia is a metropolis celebrated for its history, inventive cuisine, and a progressive arts scene. With the recent title of America’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, Philadelphia has been placed on the international stage, named in Fodor’s Go List as one of the top places to visit in 2016. Best of all, Philadelphia gives visitors the opportunity to experience much of what it has to offer for free.Kae Lani Kennedy



from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2a6AJlS

"What Died in Here?" Rare Corpse Flower Blooms in NYC

Corpse Flower

Look out, “Hamilton”, there’s a new hot-ticket event that has New York City buzzing. A rare “corpse flower” bloomed late Thursday, filling the New York Botanical Garden with the pungent scent of rotting flesh. The six-foot-tall flower, which is native only to western Sumatra, takes 10 years to grow and emits its unusual aroma to attract pollinators that typically feed on carrion. Morbid botany enthusiasts will have to act fast, though, the decade-in-the-making bloom only lasts for about 25 to 36 hours and will likely only bloom again in another seven to 10 years. So, only slightly longer than it takes to get “Hamilton” tickets.



from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2a6ACqc

Long Weekend in Riviera Nayarit

With 200 miles of pristine pacific coastline and dozens of tiny seaside towns and pueblos, the coastal community of Riviera Nayarit near Puerto Vallarta is just calling out to be explored. There are lush mountain peaks, nature reserves, golden sand beaches, and even an exclusive luxury resort community with some of the top hotel brands in the world. Punta de Mita, home to resorts like The Four Seasons Punta Mita and The St. Regis Punta Mita is a fabulous destination for those seeking over the top accommodations, privacy, and 5-star service. A long weekend with some beach time and lots of delicious food is perfect for a quick trip, and Mexico’s pacific treasure is closer than you think.

Friday

Sayulita

Arrive into Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport in Puerto Vallarta and once you’ve made it through customs and immigration, make your way to your rental car. In Mexico, a U.S. driving license and major credit card is sufficient in order to reserve and book a rental car, although it’s best to set up a reservation online ahead of time. Money exchanges are available in the airport and cash machines and banks are accessible throughout the area. Once in the car, take a short drive to Punta Monterrey Beach Resort, a private beach where you can disconnect and settle into vacation mode.

Punta Monterrey is a secluded destination accessed by a narrow and bumpy road. The all-inclusive resort is made up of cabins and bungalows, surrounded by 300 acres of an ecological jungle reserve. There’s limited Wi-Fi in the common areas and no televisions—it’s all about getting to know the other guests and taking in the breathtaking views of the private beach.

Saturday

San Pancho

After sleeping in and enjoying a typical Mexican breakfast, jump back in the car and drive to Sayulita, a surfing and beach town just down the road. While in Sayulita, find a parking space and take on the town by foot. There are lots of food options and boutique shops to splurge on. After lunch, head down to the water and rent an umbrella and chairs, take a surfing lesson, or enjoy a few tacos with a beer or two. By evening, return to Punta Monterrey for a final nights sleep before departing to San Blas the next morning.

Sunday

San Blas

Depart Punta Monterrey by car and drive to San Blas, a small fishing village of about 12,000 people. Ecotourism here is a main draw, and after spending some relaxing days by the beach, San Blas will provide a different atmosphere and experience. Check into the Hotel Garza Canela, a family operated business with one of the best restaurants in all of Riviera Nayarit. Grab a quick bite at the hotel and drive over to La Contaduria, an abandoned fort where visitors can get up close and personal with the structure and enjoy the spectacular views of San Blas and the harbor.

Afterwards, drive to the harbor and hire a boat guide to visit La Tovara National Park. This is a bird lover’s paradise where you’ll find more than 250 species of migratory birds. Additionally, your guide will spot crocodiles and other wildlife during your tour. If birds aren’t really your idea of a good time, then take a different boat ride out to Mexcaltitan, a small man-made island off the coast, which was decreed as a historic monument zone in 1986. The population on the island is about 800 people and visitors can spend the day there walking down the small streets, visiting the museum and town square, and eating fresh fish. That evening, return to Hotel Garza Canela and indulge in Chef and owner Betty Vasquez’ El Delfin restaurant. Chef Vasquez has been regarded as one of the best chefs in the region and her menu makes for a great last meal and experience before departing back to the airport the next morning.

Where to Stay

For that extra-secluded feel near Sayulita, Punta Monterrey Beach Resort will provide just what you’re looking for—a hidden paradise. If you’re looking for something a little more lively, there are plenty of private home rentals close to the action in Sayulita.  In San Blas, the Hotel Garza Canela will be your best bet, since it’s home to the best restaurant in town.

Getting There

There are direct flights to Puerto Vallarta from various U.S. cities including Dallas, Honolulu, Phoenix, Portland, and Chicago on American Airlines, while Delta Airlines has direct flights from cities like Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, and Atlanta. Additionally, Air Canada and WestJet Airlines have direct flights from almost every major city in Canada. 

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Riviera Nayarit Guide



from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2aRaYDc

19 Free Things to Do in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is encountering a renaissance. Once a city with a gritty reputation, Philadelphia is a metropolis celebrated for its history, inventive cuisine, and a progressive arts scene. With the recent title of America’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, Philadelphia has been placed on the international stage, named in Fodor’s Go List as one of the top places to visit in 2016. Best of all, Philadelphia gives visitors the opportunity to experience much of what it has to offer for free.Kae Lani Kennedy



from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2a6AJlS

Breathtaking views, amazing seafood and gorgeous beaches: Discover Cassis



LAZY seafood dinners, leisurely wine tours and idyllic beaches – our writer finds there’s plenty to enjoy on a short break in Cassis.

from Daily Express :: Travel Feed http://ift.tt/2axAqAk

Roald Dahl’s Welsh wonders



It’s the perfect time to visit spots that inspired the author, says DAVID ATKINSON.

from Daily Express :: Travel Feed http://ift.tt/2aQAYi5

Sweden in the slow lane: Exploring the Scandinavia's natural delights



A MOTORHOME is perfect for exploring Scandinavia’s natural delights, says GARY CHAPPELL.

from Daily Express :: Travel Feed http://ift.tt/2aQAt7y

Nicholas Parsons: Celebrity traveller



COMEDIAN, actor and broadcaster Nicholas Parsons, 92, has been hosting Radio 4’s popular panel game Just A Minute for 49 years.

from Daily Express :: Travel Feed http://ift.tt/2axd5wN

These images will give you serious wanderlust



EPIC waterfalls and pristine beaches, these are the most beautiful sights in the world.

from Daily Express :: Travel Feed http://ift.tt/2awDCdB

Bargain hunting for the best beach holiday? THIS is when to book, say experts



BOOKING flights, accommodation and holiday activities can take a getaway from calming to incredibly stressful.

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Norway considers giving Finland a mountain



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10Best: Olympic experiences you can have now

Olympic fun can be found across the USA, no training required.

     
 
 


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