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Put Hawaii on Your Bucket List

There are numerous iconic spots in Hawaii that need to be seen by first-time visitors for them actually to believe; however, there are some less famous gems that most locals know about and are sure to be worthy of your time.

Hawaiian Islands

If you are considering spending your vacation in the Hawaiian Islands, then you must know there are so many activities to pick from on each isle. Each island in Hawaii has its distinct features and vibe, as well as a cultural history.

Oahu is one of the most visited islands in Hawaii, it is referred to as- The Gathering Place, it has the highest population of full-time residents within the island chain. There are so many famous sights to explore in Oahu such as Wakiki, Pearl Harbor, North Shore beaches and more.

The Island of Hawaii is often called The Big Island based on the fact that it is the largest isle in the Hawaiian Islands. Rich in culture and some geographical history, it also houses three active volcanoes, black sand beaches, amazing waterfalls, coffee farms, etc.

Maui is the most famous island in Hawaii for snorkeling, golf, watching tours, sightseeing and enjoying water sports.  We went with friends from Arizona who own a little auto repair and tow truck business. They who have been towing Mesa residents over 10 years now and it was great to take a break and travel. This island also houses the Pineapple Isle (islands of Lana’i) and the Friendly Isle (Moloka’i).

Also, there is the Garden Isle (Kaua’i) which offers every visitor a chance to fall in love with the lively and culturally diverse environment. Visitors can hike the Na Pali Coastline, see ancient taro fields, the Waimea Canyon and also learn Hawaiian culture and history in Hanapepe and Old Koloa Town.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN HAWAII

  • Snorkeling
  • Whale Watching
  • Golfing
  • Sightseeing
  • Beach Hopping
  • Cultural Attractions
  • Surfing
  • Luaus
  • Spa
  • Hiking
  • Helicopter tours
  • Stand Up Paddle Boarding
  • Zip lining
  • Sunset Cruises
  • Visiting Farmer’s Markets
  • Horseback Riding
  • Visiting the Local Farms
  • Stage Shows
  • Camping
  • Wind Surfing

Traditional Hawaiian Foods You Must Eat

Most of the traditional foods of Hawaii are brought from the Pacific Polynesian Islands. Now, the Hawaiian Islands include a diverse demographic of ethnicities individually adding to their on flavors.

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India is Rich in Culture and Beauty

Wherever you turn to in India, you’ll find out there are numerous things you to do and sights to see that are surely new to you.

There are so many experiences you mustn’t miss on- is it the fascinating or rewarding or shocking or educational or even the confusing ones? Every day of your stay will surely involve seeing, hearing or knowing a new thing. Some breath-taking attractions to visit include…

Taj Mahal

As we have it, there is no way we’ll make this list without making mention of this enormous mausoleum of white marble in Agra; it was constructed between 1932 and 1653 by the order of Mughal emperor- Shah Jahan in memory of his loving wife. Taj Mahal is also called “a teardrop on the face of eternity,” and it is one of Mughal’s architectural masterworks, and a great attraction in India.

Varanasi

Varanasi is situated on the banks of River Ganges; it is sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, and Jains. It is also one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Varanasi represents the best and worst parts of India in so many ways, and it can be a tad overwhelming.

Ellora Caves

In Ellora Caves, cave art is on a whole different level. There are one hundred caves in Ellora, and only thirty-four are open to the general public. These caves are devoted to Buddhists, Hindus and Jainism deities.

Harmandir Sahib

This place is better known as the “Golden Temple.” It is the main attraction for tourists in Amritsar, also being the most significant religious place to the Sikhs. Guru Ramdas Ji began the construction of this temple in the 16th century. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, in the 19th century, covered the upper floors of the temple with gold. This temple is super stunning, and there are like thousands of pilgrims here from every place of India.

Kanha National Park

This is one of the most lovely wildlife reserves in all of Asia, also one of the top places to see a tiger in India. The plush sal and bamboo forests, ravines of Khana and the grassy meadows were Rudyard Kipling’s muse for his popular novel – Jungle Book, and this made Kanha National Park one of the top tourist attractions in India.

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Visiting Scotland in the Spring!

Scotland, the U.K.’s northernmost country, is a land of mountain wildernesses, glacial glens (valleys) and lochs (lakes).Scotland’s  major cities are Edinburgh, the capital, and Glasgow. Here are a few recommendations  of things to see while visiting Scotland.

Loch Ness  

We have all heard the myth of the Loch Ness monster. So we have to go check out the lake, right?  You can enjoy your monster hunting by taking a cruise on Loch Ness. What a fun activity for the entire family.

Located in the Scottish Highlands this is a trip for the entire family. You can visit the castles, go bowling, botanical gardens, and shopping with charming boutiques and vintage shops.

Edinburgh Castle 

Edinburgh Castle is an impressive fortress and military stronghold atop Castle Rock. This castle’s history is so intriguing. Make sure to see the Crown Jewel Exhibition and get a good view of the firing of the cannon.  You will get some great pictures and the view from the rooftop is gorgeous.

Due to the popularity of this attraction I would advise purchasing the Fastpass and avoid the long ticket lines.  To really enjoy the castle and see everything allow about 3-4 hours to make your way through. Be sure to stop by the  Tea Room and enjoy some warm tea and a snack.  

Stirling Castle

If you are a castle enthusiast then you need to visit Stirling Castle. You will enter a world of Scotland’s Renaissance kings and queens. The colors and craftmanship are stunning.

There are many things to see and do at Stirling Castle. If you take the free guided tour the staff are very knowledgeable and full of personality. This is a great place to take the kids. They have staff dressed in costumes that re enact how things were back then. Plus you can take pictures with them. There are many exhibitions throughout and the view from the castle is breathtaking.

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you will do alot of walking.  And before you leave stop by some of the charming cafes and restaurants in Stirling.

The Scottish Whiskey Experience

This is a fun and informative trip for all ages and very affordable.

Take a guided tour through a replica whiskey distillery and learn about Scotland’s national drink. You will learn about the production process, be introduced to a variety of aromas and taste the whiskey you prefer and you get to keep the crystal whiskey tumbler.  Children under the age of 18 can sample a famous Scottish soda.

The most fascinating part is seeing the world’s largest whiskey collection. Even if you are not a drinker this is still a fun time.  And you might just discover a whiskey to your liking.

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The Spectacular, Stunning Dominica Island

Dominica, West Indies is situated in the Caribbean on the eastern chain of Windward Isles. Dominica is one of the several places in the world where the coral is in incredible and excellent condition. This is a beautiful island with a high mountain range, underwater hot springs, waterfalls, and abundant vegetation, tropical rainforest. Life here is simple. There are hardly any resorts, and the tourists who visit the country are after hiking or diving opportunities rather than beach-combing. The geography of the island is entirely different from the other places in the area. The terrain is pretty rugged and wild making the transportation to run slower than usual – even for Caribbean standards. Prices, in general, are quite affordable. There are plenty of markets, and camping opportunities are widely available.

Scuba Diving

Dominica is one of the top three scuba diving localities in the Caribbean, and the top five in the world. Enjoy scuba diving sites that include the exploration of underwater wrecks and sudden underwater drop-offs.  Hot springs release constant streams of bubbles, and it is locally known as champagne. All who tour the island experiences the hot springs, but the experience is enhanced by scuba diving. Another way to explore the rich and beautiful waters of the island is by snorkeling.

Tropical Escape

Plan a getaway to this island and get the experience of a lifetime.  This small island offers mountain peaks as high as 4,000 feet with rain forests where 175 birds, tree lizards, butterflies, iguanas, extraordinary and wildlife live.  Plant life and tree ferns, flowers and vegetation cover the ground creating a colorful carpet. Ravines and gorges offer spectacular sites. Waterfalls form and cascade as streams and 365 rivers intertwine and travel across the island. The waterfalls areas are spectacular, sights that you will never forgot.

Emerald Pool

The Emerald Pool is a lovely grotto in Morne Trois Pitons National Park that can be accessed by a series of trails that circle through the rainforest from the Visitor’s Center where the car park is located. As a result, you see foliage, streams, and occasional glimpses of Dominica’s mountains; a waterfall tumbles into the small pond, which is surrounded by rocky cliffs. The water in the pond is not very deep and is generally tranquil.

Things to Enjoy

Dominica offers whale and dolphin watching yearly. Hike through Dominica’s forested mountain highlands and the world’s second largest Boiling Lake. Hike to the Panorama Viewpoint, Titou George, and the Valley of Desolation.  A certified hike guide will accompany the hikers. Many of the Islands most beautiful waterfalls and sites are hidden deep in the dense forests. Hiking is necessary to see these unbelievable natural sites. Tour the Champagne and Forest Hot Springs.  Enjoy local foods such as tuna, green bananas, pawpaw, red snapper, and so much more.

Dominica, West Indies is a magnificent escape from the rush and hurry of the modern world.  Hideaway and escape in this magical tropical island. Experience the natural beauty of Dominica, West Indies.

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