Winter Travelling Archives

How to Experience the Magic of Inis Mor

Posted on October 1, 2020 | by VedarthDesh852 | Leave a Comment

When you think of Ireland, the places that come to mind are most probably all the major tourist attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Guinness Storehouse situated in Dublin. However, a hidden gem that is often overlooked by eager travelers and enthusiastic tourists is the magical isle of Inis Mor. Pronounced ‘Inishmore’, it is the largest of the Aran Islands and happens to be quite close to Galway. The charm of this island remains undiminished despite being sparsely populated, or perhaps because of it. If ever there was an opportunity for time travel, this is it, with the locals freely conversing in their rustic Irish Gaelic and using horse-drawn carriages as a regular mode of conveyance.

Whether you’re taking the island by bicycle, foot, or pony and trap, there are plenty of sights to be explored, a warm welcome to be received and plenty of craic to be had.

Visit the Seven Churches of Aran

The name is a bit of a misnomer as well as an exaggeration, seeing as there are, in actuality, only two churches in all. What is not an exaggeration, however, is the sheer breathtaking beauty of this ancient spiritual destination. In fact, it is actually more of a complex comprising of the old graveyards at Na Seacht d’Teampaill and church ruins. Dedicated to Saint Brecan, and located near the village of Eoghanacht, this site used to be one of the most beloved and popular monastic destinations for devotees all along Ireland’s West Coast.

Aran Bike Hire

The most underrated and fashionable way to take in the picturesque of Inis Mor has got to be by cycling through the island, stopping at your leisure to soak up the peaceful attractiveness. Glide through the countryside and weave through the village with a bicycle from Aran Bike Hire. You can easily find a huge array of bikes for rent for a day or overnight. Whisk yourself out as far as Dun Aonghasa (the oldest of the island’s four large forts) and back to your accommodation to enjoy a calming pint after a busy day of adventure. Each rental comes with a complimentary island map, helmets and roadside assistance is required.

When you come back after enjoying the amazing views and the breath-taking Dun Aonghasa, make sure to enjoy the views of Inis Mor on the walk back to your bicycle. There are some stunning little shops and a café near the bike park for you to peruse and refresh after crossing this amazing spot off your bucket list.

Go Wool Shopping

Aran Islands’ woolen products are famous all around the world. Featuring one of a kind patterns and stitches particular to specific Irish clans, these wonderful warm fuzzies include everything from scarves and mittens to sweaters and cloaks. Honestly, what better way to carry back a little bit of Irish history with you?

Go for A Hike

Sometimes the best way to really discover all the treasures a place has to offer is by wandering around or just taking a hike, quite literally. This is actually one of the best ways to truly experience Inis Mor in all its boundless beauty since the terrain on this island is not very rock and hence, actually quite perfect for walking. So, be sure to carry a pair of sensible walking shoes along!

Check out The Dún Aonghasa

Probably the most famous and well-known tourist attraction in Inis Mor, Dun Aonghasa is a hill fort built really high up on the top of a cliff, presenting a phenomenal view of the entire island and the Atlantic Ocean. This prehistoric structure is believed to go as far back as 100 BC, which means that it has been around since the Bronze and Iron Ages. Wow! Now, isn’t that something?

Pay a Visit to The Worm Hole

This place is as interesting as its name suggests. The Worm Hole, as it has come to be fondly called, refers to a square-shaped depression that has been carved out in the rocky bottom part of a cliff. This spot has become extremely popular for cliff diving into the ocean. So, Inis Mor has a lot to offer adventure enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, extreme sports lovers, and adrenaline junkies as well.

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12 Things You Must Do in Bali, Indonesia

Posted on September 26, 2020 | by VedarthDesh852 | 42 Comments

Bali is one destination that is on everyone’s bucket list. A three-week vacation to this place will give you the best experience with hidden gems and perfect combinations. Here is a list of 12 things you must do in Bali:

1. Tegalalang Rice Terraces

The Tegalalang Rice Terraces is a valley of rice fields or paddies. These are located north of Ubud and is an incredibly popular location especially during the early morning. This is definitely one of the top things to do in Bali.

2. Sekumpul Waterfalls

This is one of the true gems of Bali. It is a 40-minute hike down to the foot of the waterfall and it leads to a huge waterfall. It is so beautiful and magical that when the sun shines you will most definitely see a rainbow.

3. Diamond Beach

This is called ‘the most beautiful place in Bali’ and for good reason. It is a must-visit for it contains white sand, clear blue water, and palm trees at the foot of a limestone cliff. It is the perfect relaxing spot!

4. Gili Air

This is not in Bali but it has to be on your list nonetheless. The best part about this place is that it is car-less! White sand, blue water, and bikes are your company. You can spend time snorkeling with the turtles and explore this paradise!

5. Stay with a local family

The best way to learn about any place is by spending time with the locals. Stay with a Balinese family and get to know the island for real. Experience how they live their daily lives to be able to really respect paradise. You will surely miss the place and the people once you leave.

6. Sunrise in Munduk

You have to make sure to experience the sunrise in the Munduk region no matter what. Munduk is higher up in the region and is the perfect location to view the best sunrise.

7. Monkey Forest in Ubud

In the center of Ubud is a forest where monkeys run wild. The big rainforest gives for a beautiful walk and most locations have monkeys relaxing too. You can feed them to keep them calm as well. Not to worry, there is monkey police which will step in if things get annoying!

8. Kelingking Nusa Penida

This place might sound strange but it has some mind-blowing views. A 40-minute boat ride from the Sanur harbor will transport you to the most impressive views around Bali.

9. Kecak Fire Dance

This is a famous dance performance in Bali. It is done by a group of 65+ humans who use vocals as instruments and strengthens the story told in the form of dance. Witness this dance at sunset on a clifftop amphitheater at Uluwatu Temple.

10. Become a Canguu Foodie

This is a food lovers paradise. Indonesian food, burgers, fusion, vegan, and the best coffee and cakes this place is the best to satisfy all your cravings. You might want to engage in some exercise or yoga but you will most probably be an all-time foodie in Bali.

11. Surfing

It does not matter if you are a first-time surfer or a skilled surfer, Bali is the best place to go surfing. Kuta is a spot for beginners and Canggu is for more experienced surfers. Grab a board, get an instructor and you are ready to go!

12. The 70-meter drop at Uluwatu Cliff

In the southern tip of Bali, the limestone cliff drops straight down into the ocean. It has a height of 70 meters and the sunset from this location is a must-see in Bali.

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6 Tips to Travel Responsibly in Ladakh

Posted on September 12, 2020 | by VedarthDesh852 | Leave a Comment

Ladakh is a victim of its own beauty. Every view there is breath-taking, the snow-capped peaks, the green valleys, and the desert slopes. The type of tourism in Ladakh has changed to suit all types. It caters to trekkers, bikers, and car drivers of sorts and makes sure everyone is included. The pressure of tourism has also increased pollution and depletion of resources and it comes down to us, the travelers, to maintain its beauty.

Here are some ways to ensure your trip has a positive impact:

1. Don’t Buy Bottled Water

There is no need to buy bottled water in Ladakh. Filtered water is equally safe to drink. Many hotels and guest houses will offer you this. You can easily fill up on filtered water in the town as well. You can invest in a Steripen which sterilizes the river water to make sure you have something to drink while trekking.

2. Stretch Your Legs and Lungs by Trekking

Trekking is one of the main reasons people visit Ladakh but these days the number of people interested in getting sweaty has fallen. Ladakh gives you the opportunity to view the sights which cannot be viewed otherwise. This also provides employment to the local guides and also ensures minimal damage is done on the trekking paths. There are various treks of different distances for you to explore.

3. Give More Business to Simple Family-Run Hotels and Guest Houses

It is worrisome to think that up-market guest houses and hotels are getting more business than the local ones of Ladakh. One will obviously miss out on the Ladakhi culture by staying in high-end hotels as they cannot give the same experience and connection to the place. You learn so much simply by spending time with the locals which is an enriching adventure in itself.

4. Stay in Eco-Friendly Accommodations

One of the biggest challenges you will face in Ladakh is the lack of water. Most of the water comes from the glacier melt and in the high altitude, the desert land is pretty dry. There is hardly any rain so surviving becomes difficult during winters when everything is frozen. Water needs to be conserved by those living there. Be a part of that sustainable living and try to avoid overconsumption of water. Local guesthouses will also help you in becoming more aware and friendly about the same.

5. Share Transport

Another problem faced by Ladakhi is transport. There is a shortage of public transport and buses are the only option and those run only a few times a week as well. Visitors tend to hire private drivers which leads to a shortage of drivers and more cars with only 2 or 3 people sitting in them. You could share a taxi or book one driver for your whole trip, in fact, if you truly want to experience Ladakh, take a Bolero.

6. Buy Souvenirs Locally

There are a various gift and souvenir stores in Leh and they are packed with handicrafts. You can help the local business that is overtaken by big businesses and middlemen. You will find hand-knitted soft toys and lots of other beautiful items!

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Skiing in Lech Zürs am Arlberg – The Darling Winter Slopes of Austria

Posted on August 27, 2020 | by VedarthDesh852 | Leave a Comment

Lech Zürs is located close to the border with Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Germany. During the winter season, the place turns into a stunning wonderland with beautiful mountain views, delicious Austrian delicacies, and slopes that have played host to numerous ski adventures through the years.

The Lech Zürs has a 200 km descent and is popular for its vast nature. Since 2013, the place has been connected to the one in Warth-Schrocken with the addition of a huge cable car circuit, which means that you can now easily ski across two major areas in one accessible resort.

Skiing in Lech Zürs am Arlberg definitely means upping the bet. Vorarlberg’s position on the northern rim of Europe means fresh snow in abundance and the slopes present more variety and may often need a slightly more advanced skill set and confidence.

For the beginners out there, the snow instructors in Lech Zürs am Arlberg will assist in various activities like snowshoe hiking, telemark skiing, off-piste skiing, accompanied ski touring, and heli-skiing.

Be a Santa Claus for a day and have fun on an adorable sleigh

That’s right, you can experience what it’s like to be a Santa Claus for a day! Instead of eight reindeers, you’ll be accompanied by a couple of enchanting horses across the snow-covered plains of Lech Zürs am Arlberg.

There are other options too for a one-day trip or a round-trip ride. Among the places, you’ll get to visit while on the adventure are Alpele, Zug Church, Klosterle, or Auerhahn restaurant.

The rest stops and mountains huts set a little up high are picturesque and retain an air of seclusion. It’s the top end of ultimate ski luxury and the resort makes sure to keep it that way. There’s something about the size and accessibility that keeps this delicate balance in strong check. The slopes of Lech Zürs am Arlberg are a network of dreamy power trails against a crisp blue sky. Also, down below the alpine village packs quite the buzz.

Master the basic jumps at the Arlberg Ice Skating rinks

Inside the Hotel Jagdhaus Monzabon, you’ll come by the first and only air-conditioned ice rink in Europe that covers nearly 300 square meters of artificial ice. On the other hand, there’s a natural ice-skating rink in Zurs, Skating Rink Zurs, which is open and functional all days of the week except Saturday. The rink also offers a range of skate sizes to give everyone a chance to enjoy the sport. In addition, you can play hockey or go alpine curling at the natural skating rink while enjoying hot drinks, music, and a heated hut.

Bars in the village buzz with the same atmosphere up high, and in such a small village that is mixed with seasonal returnees, you can easily jump on board with the homely feel where everyone feels welcomed.

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Everything That Makes It Popular In Summer Is Why You Should Visit Prague In Winter

Posted on July 26, 2020 | by VedarthDesh852 | Leave a Comment

Prague is a culturally and historically rich city in Central Europe. It is the capital of the Czech Republic and is the 20th most visited city in the world. Tourists flock to this city to view its many historic attractions, most of which survived immense violence and destruction. Prague is home to numerous wonderful theatres, galleries, cinemas, and other historical exhibits. The population of Prague is approximately 1.2 million and the number of tourists that visit the city annually is 7 times that number. You get the whole tourist experience when you visit this great overcrowded city with the hundreds of others who come for the same view.

There are certain things that make cities popular enough for visiting; Prague falls in the same category of being a noteworthy city. There are few things you should keep in mind before making your travel plans and, the season is one definitely of them. Here is a list of why Prague is a city best enjoyed during winter:

Fewer tourists

Prague’s tourism board observed that May is the most popular month for visiting and the least popular in January. The number of visitors in January is nearly half of that in May. Prague is an overpopulated city with its own citizens and becomes more crowded with tourists. This place can be a paradise for you to view without human traffic. The city is still crowded during the winter season but it is much better than the crowd you would face in June. Charles Bridge is exquisite to witness when you can actually visit it in peace.

Easier on the pocket

Off-season travel always saves you money. Fewer visitors mean that airlines and hotels reduce their prices by an average of 20-40%. Prague is a rather costly city to stay in and accommodation there is very expensive. A city that gets most of its income by tourism has high prices on everything, so visiting during winter will save you that extra cash to spend elsewhere. Food and beer are not so highly-priced but hotels can really burn a deep hole in the pocket. Airbnb is a good option to help you save on apartment rentals or costly hotel rooms and even those are priced lower during the winter seasons.

Weather conditions

Prague is a cold city. The average temperature even during summer is only 16 Celsius (60 Fahrenheit) so it is not exactly a tropical climate. During winters, the sun stays hidden most of the time, and the temperature drops to 0 Celsius (32 Fahrenheit). This goes to say that Prague is not a city you visit to enjoy its amazing weather. You will be facing cold temperatures even if you visit during the summer. It also rains twice as much during the summer season which is quite the party pooper on any vacation. You will also be saved from the millions of other people who flock there during summer. You will just have to pack more woolens and carry warmer things to help with the cold. Take this as an excuse to invest in some solid woolen wear and buy the trendiest coats, caps, gloves, and boots!

Obvious advice

It goes without saying that fewer demands mean better deals in literally any part of the world. With Prague, you can almost never escape the crowd. Winter tourists increased by 9% in 2016-2017 and these numbers are very important. Keeping your sanity in mind it is best to travel to Prague during winter. A warm jacket in exchange for shorter lines and cheaper hotels is definitely worth considering. Make sure you are committed to the idea of summer travel if you choose to do it because it can be very exhausting and taxing to explore the city during that season with a thousand other people.

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Tag: Winter Travelling