The life and death of Jesus Christ– the religious leader said to be born of a virgin, who performed miracles throughout his life, and whom the Romans crucified for his beliefs story has been performed since 1634 as the Oberammergau Passion Play. Jesus of Nazareth became the central figure of Christianity, in which he’s believed to have been the long-awaited Messiah (Christ) that the Old Testament had prophesied. After his tragic, untimely death, his spiritually driven life inspired four gospels written by his apostles and defined many of Christianity’s central doctrines and teachings. Nearly 2000 years after his crucifixion, the story…
Author: Bret and Mary
In recent years, summer in Europe has brought the increasingly negative impacts of mass tourism, but there are still hidden gems in Europe. Off the beaten path Europe cities, islands, and regions do exist without crowds. Every peak European travel season seems to bring more unfortunate issues, increasing the rift between locals and visitors and prompting calls to curb tourist numbers. Overtourism has long-lasting consequences, increasing the property and rental prices, driving locals away from their hometowns, and turning historic centers into living museums. In the process, the cultural heart of these destinations all too often seems to get lost.…
If you’ve spent anytime snorkeling or Scuba diving in places like Australia, the Galapagos Islands, or Polynesia, you don’t need me to tell you that exploring the underwater world can be an extraordinary adventure. And if you follow environmental news, you also don’t need me to tell you about the dangers climate change pose to the future of our planet’s marine ecosystems. So instead, here are 25 fascinating facts about coral reefs that you might not know, from general info and the benefits of coral reef systems to a few of the world’s most impressive sites… READ MORE: What Is…
I fell in love with Caribbean music in my early 20s, but it wasn’t until I traveled to Jamaica in the mid-90s that I realized just how attuned to the island vibes I was. After I started writing about travel professionally in 1997, the islands of the Caribbean quickly became my favorite stomping grounds. Caribbean culture may have been my early entry point, but I also loved the history, the cuisine, the world-class beaches, and especially the underwater wonders that could be found just offshore. By 2008 I was covering the Caribbean islands for countless airline and…
In his book, My African Journey, Winston Churchill wrote, “For magnificence, for variety of form and color, for profusion of brilliant life— bird, insect, reptile, beast— for vast scale, Uganda is truly ‘the Pearl of Africa.’” Native Ugandans and ecotourism adventurers in the know tend to concur with Churchill’s assessment. There is an abundance of natural beauty in the Pearl of Africa. Uganda boasts exceptional and endemic wildlife, myriad national parks showcasing the best experiences responsible tourism has to offer, and opportunities for immersive cultural experiences. Read on for our top picks among the countless things to do in Uganda, from…
In our experience, Namibia is truly a one-of-a-kind country. It’s unspoiled, untamed, and relatively untouched by development. It’s the type of place where the sand dunes are way taller than the buildings, and where going on a roadtrip means you probably won’t see another soul the entire day. There are just two million inhabitants in a territory that exceeds 300,000 square miles. It’s one of the world’s least populated countries and as you wander around the country, you’ll start to see why. Namibia is almost entirely covered by some of the world’s largest deserts. There’s the Namib, after which the…
The natural beauty of the National Parks in Uganda has hardly escaped notice. In 1909, Winston Churchill called it “the Pearl of Africa,” a sentiment echoed today whenever travelers ooh and ahh over the country’s diversity of people, wildlife and ecosystems. Uganda occupies a special geographical position, spanning the land where western and eastern Africa come together. Its highland rainforests are home to the famous Mountain Gorillas and teeming with beautiful birds, its tropical rainforests populated with chimpanzees, and its savannas populated by big mammals. This also explains the wide range of habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, moorlands, mountains, rivers and…
As of January 2023 there were a total of 1,157 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, including 218 that were recognized specifically for their Natural Heritage. Trying to narrow that overwhelming array of options down to a list of the 20 Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites would be impossible, not to mention highly subjective. But here’s a look at 20 of our favorite protected UNESCO Sites for nature and wildlife lovers, including national parks and reserves in the USA and Canada, Africa, Asia, Australia, Central and South America, and beyond. In our experience all of them offer extraordinary travel…
With a plethora of biodiverse national parks spanning the country, there’s a wide array of animals in Panama for visitors to enjoy. From La Amistad (on the western border with Costa Rica) to Darien National Park (bordering Colombia in the east), the country is filled with more than 10,000 types of plants and hundreds of species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Whether you prefer fertile land covered in lush rainforests or tropical beaches surrounded by big, blue ocean, Panama has plenty of natural beauty to spare. The country’s coast is dotted by islands such as the Bocas del Toro archipelago,…
There are essentially two types of tourists who visit the Caribbean, the 2,500-mile-long chain of more than 7,000 islands, islets, reefs, and cays scattered across the Caribbean Sea. There are those merely searching for the soothing relaxation of sandy beaches between their toes, strong drinks in their hands, and sunny skies above their heads. And then there are the ambitious explorers looking to soak up a diverse palette of Caribbean culture stretching back hundreds of years to the Amerindian group once known as the Caribs (now called the Kalinago people). The islands of the Caribbean are occasionally referred to as…
This post is brought to you in partnership with Australian Wildlife Journeys. But our opinions remain our own, and we will never compromise the integrity of our responsible travel mission. The continent of Australia (a.k.a. “the Land Down Under”) is legendary for its wildlife. Dangerous critters like crocodiles and venomous snakes get a lot of press, but there are also cuddly critters such as kangaroos, koalas, and quokkas. But let’s not forget that the continent is also home to an incredible array of native and endemic Australian birds that should excite birdwatchers all around the world. With habitats ranging from…
There are many different ways you can choose to spend a vacation in India. But if you’re a nature lover looking for thrills and excitement, the number of National Parks in India is astounding (106,) with each offering an unforgettable holiday experience. With its extensive range of ecosystems and wildlife diversity, the Indian subcontinent has a lot to offer any wildlife lover. There are countless protected areas in the country, each with its own distinctive charm. In order to narrow down the choices for you, we’ve highlighted the top 10 National Parks in India for viewing birds and animals in…
When it comes to the best countries for safaris in Africa, old standbys such as Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania tend to end up on most wildlife lovers’ bucket lists. But as countries in Southern Africa becomes increasingly accessible to travelers, lesser-known destinations are emerging as ecotourism hotspots. In our eyes, Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia are all burgeoning breakout destinations for a Southern African safari. Read on to discover a few reasons why… READ MORE: The 20 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit Lechwe in Moremi Wildlife Reserve Botswana, Africa via Canva BOTSWANA Botswana has prioritized wildlife conservation since 1963.…
Ecotourism is at the heart of Safari Parks & Game Reserves in Kenya. The country boasts an extensive collection of protected areas, including nearly two dozen national parks, 16 national reserves, and six marine parks and reserves. You would need several months to explore all of the natural beauty that Kenya wildlife attractions have to offer. But here’s a look at seven of our favorite safari parks and game reserves in Kenya, from Amboseli and the Maasai Mara to Ol Pejeto and Tsavo. READ MORE: Animals in Kenya: A Guide to 40 Species of Kenyan Wildlife Four Frisky Cheetah Cubs…
Fueled largely by habitat loss and poaching, the rapid decline of wildlife in Africa has been making headlines for years now. Perhaps it’s not surprising that many people have become numb to the news. Still, when you dive into the numbers, the statistics are staggering. South Africa alone has been losing an average of five Lions per day, five Elephants per hour, and a Rhino (whose horn is valued at around $65,000 per kg) every seven hours. The devastating decline of these key species, which could eliminate the wild population of African animals by 2050, threatens both the environment and the…
Created by William Cornwallis Harris during the Victorian era and popularized by authors such as Jules Verne (Five Weeks in a Balloon) and Ernest Hemingway (The Snows of Kilimanjaro), African safaris tours have existed in some form or fashion for nearly 200 years now. Safari, meaning journey in Swahili, have evolved over time. Where once safaris in Africa largely involved hunting and “roughing it” in the wilderness, these days they’re mostly about watching and photographing wildlife. African safaris come in every level of luxury and budget you can imagine, with dozens of countries offering incredible African safari holidays. And while…
There is very little in this world that captures my attention like photographing African wildlife. I’ve joked with my friends that I am addicted, but I only half jest. When I’m in the African bush, I feel totally at ease and fully present. When I am away, there’s always a nagging desire to return. Not too long ago I indulged my habit in both the Timbavati Game Reserve of South Africa and Kenya’s Amboseli National Park— two very different, but equally stunning locations —during a two-week African photo safari. Timbavati is known for its leopards and dense, rugged terrain, while…
Created by William Cornwallis Harris during the Victorian era and popularized by authors such as Jules Verne (Five Weeks in a Balloon) and Ernest Hemingway (The Snows of Kilimanjaro), African safaris have existed in some form or fashion for nearly 200 years now. Named after the Swahili work for journey, safaris in Africa have evolved over time. Where once they largely involved hunting and “roughing it” in the wilderness, these days they’re mostly about watching and photographing wildlife. African safaris come in every level of luxury and budget you can imagine, with dozens of countries offering incredible African safari holidays.…
Few places are as magical as Finnish Lapland in winter. The land is covered with a blanket of soft, fluffy snow. The air is crisp, and skies are often clear, offering great sunsets and stunning starry skies at night. Yes, it is cold: Temperatures often plummet below -20. But the scenery and warm, golden light more than make up for it! Not to mention the fact that in Lapland, Finland you’ll have the chance to try some activities that are not available anywhere else in Europe. Where is Lapland? Lapland is in the Arctic Circle, in the northern region of…
Christmas is a time of year when people around the world come together in the spirit of giving, love and hope for mankind, but there are many countries that don’t celebrate Christmas. For Christians, Christmas is one of the most important periods on the calendar. This religious and cultural celebration is observed by billions of people annually on December 25. Christian countries re-enact nativity scenes, which depict the birth of Jesus Christ. They also partake in religious observances such as midnight Mass. Christmas traditions vary considerably from country to country. The people of many different nations install and light Christmas trees,…
Located about two hours north of Sydney, Australia, the Hunter Region of NSW makes for an incredible escape from the big city. The area is home to some of the best and oldest vineyards in New South Wales, with the earliest wineries in the Hunter Valley region dating back to the early 19th century. The towns around the Hunter Valley also boast more than their fair share of foodie-friendly restaurants, upscale boutique hotels, day spas, local markets, and breathtaking scenic views. But the most impressive aspect of this part of New South Wales is its abundant natural areas, including Mt.…
Christmas in the Philippines is very different from Christmas in other countries. A Philippines Christmas has its own charm, its own appeal, its own beauty, which pairs wonderfully with island nation’s notoriously warm hospitality. Filipino Christmas celebrations begin long before the actual holiday, and you can often hear Christmas songs in the Philippines as early as September! You can go to any mall, whether in the capital or in the provinces, and you’ll likely find yourself immersed in the holiday spirit. Read on for our guide to the best ways (& places) to celebrate the Christmas season in the Philippines,…
[Updated 12/2/2022] Lebkuchen, a.k.a German Gingerbread, are traditional Christmas Cookies that has been around for centuries. It was originally invented by monks in Franconia, Germany in the late 1200s, but has evolved over the last 800+ years into numerous variations. Here’s a look at the origins of these beloved German Christmas cookies, as well as a simple Lebkuchen recipe courtesy of Chef Mirko Peters, the Executive Chef of the Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. READ MORE: 90 Christmas Traditions Around the World German Christmas Cookies/Lebkuchen Gingerbread Guide History of German Christmas Cookies Nürnberger Lebkuchen Lebkuchenherzen Elisen Lebkuchen Other Types of Lebkuchen Lebkuchen Recipe a.k.a. German…
I’ve been a professional travel writer for 25 years now. But, like most people, there was a time in my life when the idea of traveling the world seemed like it was way beyond my financial means. Back then, figuring out ways to save money for traveling seemed incredibly difficult, especially when I was working multiple jobs just to make ends meet. These days, with prices for virtually everything from groceries to getaways soaring, finding innovative ways to save on travel can make a huge difference in your bottom line. Read on for our suggestions on for to save money…
This post is brought to you in partnership with Australian Wildlife Journeys. But our opinions remain our own, and we will never compromise the integrity of our responsible travel mission. Encompassing 2,966,151 square miles, Australia is the sixth largest country in the world, with 5.2% of the planet’s landmass. The United States is #4, with 6.1%. But with a total population of just 26,177,413 people in 2022, Australia ranks 210th in terms of population density. By contrast, the U.S. ranks at #161, with 338,289,857 people. In other words, for such a massive country, the Land Down Under has a remarkable…
Though it is but a slip of land located in between Costa Rica and Colombia, there are ton of fun things to do in Panama including watching exotic wildlife, touring colonial architecture, being awestruck at manmade marvels, and admiring diverse natural landscapes. The culture of the country deep and rich, and Panama’s history (and pre-history, for that matter) is completely unique. The Isthmus of Panama is the final strip of land formed that separated the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean from the Pacific Ocean just a little under 300 million years ago. This has made Panama a strategic location over…
Creating a “best of” list for any given region, country, or continent is a thankless task. There’s really no way to be objective, and of course it’s impossible to visit EVERY place in a given destination unless you live there. So consider our overview of 20 Best Places to Visit in Central America to be a general bucket list of hot spots to visit, particularly if you love nature, wildlife, history, and indigenous culture. READ MORE: The 16 Best Mayan Ruins to Explore Xunantunich Mayan Ruins in Belize, Central America by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett Best Places to Visit…
To say that visiting Scotland was life-changing for me would be a vast understatement. I’d spent years researching my family’s Scottish ancestry, learning that the Loves were a sept of Clan Mackinnon, with significant populations in Glasgow and the Scottish isles of Mull and Skye. I’d previously gotten a chance to visit Edinburgh (where I interviewed Sean Connery!) and see major Scotland tourist attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur’s Seat. In addition to Edinburgh, our trip took us through the Scottish Highlands, including Loch Lomond National Park, Loch Ness, the breathtaking valley…
When most people think of traveling to Iceland, wildlife is probably not their primary consideration. Located in the North Atlantic, the remote island is better known for its Viking history, rugged and diverse landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and rich Icelandic culture. But while it may not have the polar bears of the Canadian Arctic and Norway or the grizzlies, moose, and other dynamic megafauna you’ll find with Alaskan Animals, watching wildlife is still one of our favorite things to do in Iceland. Animals in Iceland are basically divided into two main groups, domesticated farm animals and wild animals. And while there…
Iceland (a.k.a. the land of fire and ice) is often described as dramatic, thrilling, and otherworldly, with natural wonders shaped by unrelenting forces. But there’s more to this fascinating island than its innate beauty. Icelandic culture remains rich and varied, with friendly people, intriguing traditions, fun festivals, and fascinating traditional food. Whether you want to enjoy a lunch at a family farm, dance until the sun goes down at midnight, or admire the beauty of the majestic horses, there is no better place than Iceland. Here’s a window into this Nordic nation that has been repeatedly ranked high among the…
In the 12 years since we launched Green Global Travel as one of the world’s first responsible travel blogs, we’ve been fortunate to have some incredible experiences in ecotourism destinations all around the world. But even after 12 years of travel blogging, there are still a lot of places left on our world travel bucket list. In terms of wildlife encounters, no destination ranks higher on that list than Australia, the only continent we’ve never visited. I fell in love with wildlife conservation partly through watching Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin in the ’90s, so seeing the countless…
With its relatively isolated location in the frigid north Atlantic, Iceland might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think about the world’s best birdwatching destinations. It’s true that the harsh winters of the 40,000 square mile island ensures that there are few breeding land birds among the country’s resident avian species. And its remoteness (around 750 miles from Greenland, and 850 miles from the United Kingdom) limits the annual influx of summer migrants. Yet still the list of the birds of Iceland tops 370 different species, with approximately 85 species that are regularly seen during…
Visiting the Galapagos Islands is like stepping into one of those BBC nature documentaries narrated by Sir David Attenborough. In this archipelago, which is located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, you can swim with sea lions, walk alongside the world’s largest tortoise, and explore dynamic, dramatic landscapes utterly unlike any other place on Earth. Due to their remote location, the Galapagos Islands remained untouched for millions of years before human discovery. The most famous early explorer of the archipelago was Charles Darwin, who developed his theory of evolution by natural selection after his visit to the Galapagos in…
As a Slow Travel practitioner for more than a decade now, I’m clearly partial to the many benefits it provides. But I also believe that my experiences make me an astute observer of why this approach to travel works so well. At the risk of provoking controversy, I’ll just come right out and say it: I think Slow Travel is the ideal way for everyone to see the world. It’s admittedly easier to say this being the perpetual nomad that I’ve been for most of my adult life. I’ve had no mortgage to speak of, no kids to support, and nary a “real…
Global interest in nature-based tourism, which includes wildlife tourism, has grown rapidly over the last decade. At the same time, wildlife has become increasingly under threat from issues such as habitat loss, poaching, and a lack of funding for conservation. Richard Damania, lead economist for the World Bank, succinctly explains the intrinsic connection between economy and ecology in tourism destinations: “Provide jobs and (you’ll) save the environment.” But of course it’s not quite that simple, as a National Geographic cover story on the dark truth behind wildlife tourism illustrated. When managed irresponsibly, wildlife attractions may involve abuse, exploitation, drugged animals,…
From Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley to colonial cities such as Cusco and Lima, Peru has no shortage of ecotourism attractions. But the Amazon in Peru is easily the biggest of them all, encompassing approximately 60% of the country. The fourth largest rainforest in the world, the Peruvian Amazon boasts remarkable biodiversity. In terms of flora, the area has 700 types of ferns and more than 7,300 different species of flowering plants. The rainforest is also home to some 180 reptiles, 262 amphibians, 293 mammals, 697 fish, 806 birds, and 2,500 butterflies. In short, the area is an increasingly…
We’d set out from the port at Iquitos, Peru at sunset the night before, meeting our naturalist guides, getting a quick safety briefing, and enjoying a refreshing Pisco Sour in our welcome toast. This morning we were up by 6AM, too excited about our Amazon River piranha fishing adventure scheduled for later in the day to sleep-in. All of us early birds were treated to exciting to see animals in the amazon river including egrets and pink dolphins before we’d even had our first cup of coffee. The avid birdwatchers on board were blessed with another spectacular sighting before the…
The birds of Europe include around 700 different species, but there are only 10 endemic species of European birds that you won’t see anywhere else in the world. There are six other European birds which could possibly be classified as unique endemic species by taxonomists in the future. These include the Balearic Warbler (found in the Balearic Islands), Brant Goose (from western Siberia), Red Grouse (of Great Britain and Ireland), Lesser Redpoll (which breeds in the southern Alps), Icelandic Redpoll (which breeds in Iceland and winters in Scotland), and Corsican Finch (found in Corsica and Sardinia). Here’s a look at…
Nature lovers and the best national parks in the world go together like peanut butter and jelly. The concept was championed by early conservation icon John Muir and set in motion when President Ulysses S. Grant signed a law establishing Yellowstone as the world’s first national park in 1872. In the ensuing 144 years, there have been around 7,000 national parks created by nearly 100 different countries. From Afghanistan (which has just 1) to China (208), most countries have exceptional natural areas that are worth celebrating and preserving. But these 15 stand out for us among the very Best National…
From Bali to Vanuatu, exotic islands offer an exceptional opportunity to get away from it all, balancing exhilaration and relaxation. But when it comes to the best beaches in the world, different types of travelers crave different types of experiences. Some people just want to kick back and soak in the sunshine, with beach gear on the sand and a cocktail in hand. But nature lovers crave something more. They want to hike in thick forests teeming with wildlife. They want to explore the ocean, snorkeling or Scuba diving with a diverse array of marine life. For nature lovers, the best…
The Polynesian Triangle of the Pacific is synonymous with idyllic islands that offer swaying palms, exceptional places to scuba dive, and fascinating indigenous cultures. The major islands that make up the rough boundaries of Polynesia include Hawaii in the north, New Zealand in the west, and Easter Island to the east. Scattered between them are countless smaller islands, many of which are among the most isolated in the world. The native peoples of these islands, known as Polynesians, number more than 2 million closely related people that include indigenous groups such as Hawaiians, Māori, Tongans, Rapa Nui, Samoans, and Tahitians.…
If you’re only casually familiar with the history of the Vikings, you might think of them as the fearsome seafaring warriors who left their Scandinavian homes in search of wealth, raiding countless coastal sites along the way. Since history is usually written by the victors, perhaps it’s no surprise that the Norsemen have been portrayed as savage heathens who pillaged and plundered their way across Europe. But ancient archaeological sites and evidence suggests that there’s a lot more to intrepid adventurers than meets the eye. Thanks to their superior shipbuilding skills, the Viking Age (from the late 8th to the…
Over the last decade or so, the news from Brazil has been full of heartbreaking reports about deforestation, water pollution, and ever-increasing threats to Amazon rainforest animals. What’s less well-known is the fact that the Amazon Basin– one of the world’s largest and most biodiverse repositories of plant and animal life– stretches across South America, covering 4.6 million square miles (or roughly 40% of the continent). Though the Brazilian Amazon has been plagued by a seemingly endless stream of environmental issues, the rainforests of Ecuador and Peru remain relatively unspoiled. The Yasuni National Park area, which protects most of the…
With over 1,800 species, of which 139 are endemic, the birds of Peru are spectacularly diverse. So it’s no surprise that the country has emerged as a favorite among people who love wildlife, especially birdwatchers. Destinations such as Manu National Park, Colca Canyon, and the Islas Ballestas have all become increasingly popular ecotourism attractions in recent years. Still, the Peruvian Amazon is arguably the country’s finest hotbed of incredible avian activity. There were around 575 species of Amazon birds identified, just within one particular 5,500-hectare section of the rainforest. By comparison, only 700 bird species are found in all of…
Along with the Spartans of ancient Greece, the Samurai warrior caste of Japan, and the Zulus of southern Africa, the Vikings of Scandinavia are widely regarded as one of history’s greatest warrior cultures. The Viking era has been a staple fodder of popular culture for decades, from films (How to Train Your Dragon, Outlander, Valhalla Rising) and TV shows (The Last Kingdom, Vikings) to comics (Hägar The Horrible) and novels (Michael Crichton’s Eaters of the Dead, Terry Jones’ The Saga of Erik the Viking). Now, with Vikings: Valhalla on Netflix, executive producer/writer Jeb Stuart will delve deeper into some of the…
Today I turned 45… although, on most days, I genuinely feel about 15 years younger. It was a weird thing yesterday, filling out a tour waiver here in Mexico and realizing it was the last time I could truthfully check off the 25-44 age bracket box. It was even weirder because it was a day full of adventure, swimming with whale sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles with my 12-years-old daughter in Isla Holbox Mexico. I’ve never been one to make a big deal out of my birthdays. But this one seems somehow significant, as if I’m entering a new…
There are over 10,000 Polynesian islands in the central and southern Pacific Ocean. The region is generally defined as the Polynesian Triangle, which stretches from Hawaii in the north to Easter Island in the east and New Zealand in the west. The main groups of Polynesian islands include the Cook Islands, French Polynesia, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, and various others. In addition to their geographical location, these islands are tied together by their similar languages, cultures, and belief systems. All indigenous Polynesians can trace their prehistoric roots to the Malay Archipelago, migrating by sea from Taiwan to the islands of Southeast Asia…
There are over 10,000 Polynesian islands in the central and southern Pacific Ocean. The region is generally defined as the Polynesian Triangle, which stretches from Hawaii in the north to Easter Island in the east and New Zealand in the west. The main groups of Polynesian islands include the Cook Islands, French Polynesia, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, and various others. In addition to their geographical location, these islands are tied together by their similar languages, cultures, and belief systems. All indigenous Polynesians can trace their prehistoric roots to the Malay Archipelago, migrating by sea from Taiwan to the islands of Southeast Asia…
Birds are probably not the first attraction most people think of when they dream about visiting Hawaii or the other islands of the Polynesian Triangle. But once you get your fill of glistening waters in every possible shade of blue, grand landscapes that tower like skyscrapers, gregarious indigenous cultures, and gorgeous tropical sunsets, these islands’ forests are well worth exploring. The Polynesian Triangle encompasses around 10,000 islands in the central and southern Pacific Ocean, stretching from Hawaii in the north to Easter Island in the east and New Zealand in the west. Though the five main Polynesian island groups (Austral,…
[Updated 10/29/21] With the rapid rise of mass tourism, summer travel to Europe has become increasingly problematic. Record-breaking heat, record-breaking visitor numbers, and horrific tourist behavior are leading to many situations where locals simply wish travelers would stop visiting. But Christmas in Europe is a different beast entirely. The cold weather of European cities in winter naturally limits the number of visitors. The holiday season lends a fairytale glow to these ancient towns and historic buildings that feels positively magical. The oldest European Christmas traditions– including Christmas markets, evergreen trees and wreaths, Yule logs, mulled wine (a.k.a.…
[Updated 10/25/21] It’s no secret among friends and family that we’re nuts for Christmas traditions, decorating our house from wall to wall and immersing ourselves in local holiday celebrations. In fact, it’s the one time of year that we simply refuse to travel. But even we didn’t know much about how Christmas traditions around the world is celebrated until we began researching this story. Hope you’ll find these 80 fun Christmas facts as fascinating as we did! Christmas Traditions Around the World TOC Origins of Christmas Fun Christmas Traditions Traditional Christmas Dinners Traditional Christmas Songs The Origins of Christmas Trees…
[Updated 10/22/21] Although many of our blogging friends enjoy traveling to Christmas destinations around the world, we personally prefer a classic Christmas at home with our families. We really get into the Christmas holidays in the USA, embracing American Christmas traditions ranging from decorating our house (both inside and outside) with lights, wreaths, and garland to making homemade Christmas gifts. But now that my daughter is in college, we’ve begun to discuss other places to visit during Christmas (including seeing Mary’s dad’s family in New Jersey and Connecticut). So this year we decided to chat with some of our blogging…
If you really want to understand the culture of a place, festivals are a great place to start. Whether you’re interested in music festivals, cultural festivals, food and wine festivals, or holiday-related celebrations, events like these offer a great chance to mingle with the locals and get a taste of the region’s culture in the process. The Delta surge may make attending even American festivals a risky proposition over the next few months. But the following list of festivals are all annual, meaning they should be back for many years to come. So check out our guide to 15 Famous Festivals…
Good news for ecotourists! Sri Lanka reopened its borders on June 1st after a brief shutdown to contain its COVID outbreak. However, despite that, there are still a few things that you need to be prepared for before packing your bags and boarding your flight. The country still has some restrictions in place and knowing where to plan around them could be crucial to your visit. That said, it’s worth the effort. Sri Lanka is one of the best ecotourist destinations in the world and in this article we’ll explain the 5 key things to be ready for whilst traveling…
Mary and I have been going to the lake 3 to 4 times a week on average for the last 12 years– ever since we pooled our savings and bought a used pontoon boat in 2009. Because travel is work for us, a lake day feels more like a vacation, with time for swimming, hiking, floating, grilling food, and just hanging out with friends and family. Over the years we’ve figured out a fairly manageable lake trip packing list that has all of the essentials we (and our two dogs) will need for an awesome summer outing. Some things we…