Articles by "explore the world"
Showing posts with label explore the world. Show all posts

It's not hard to tell when you're approaching the popular Umbrian town of Assisi - its thirteenth-century basilica stretches along the hilltop, dominating the horizon for miles around.

Although this area was once known by people in the Middle Ages as 'the hill of hell', nowadays thousands of people - art historians, holidaymakers, and religious pilgrims alike - arrive in the town every year, to visit the basilica where St Francis of Assisi (or San Francesco di Assisi, to give him his original Italian name) is buried.

The vast building is actually made up of two churches, one set above the other, and they are very different in style. The upper church is Gothic and slender, while the lower one, which you enter via a thirteenth-century archway, has a much more austere, almost squat aspect.

Here in the lower church, the magnificent frescoes - including works by Giotto, Lorenzetti and Martini - captivate visitors, irrespective of their religious beliefs.

Save on your hotel - hotelscombined.com

The remains of St Francis were not actually discovered until excavations were carried out under the altar in the early 1800s. In 1820, Pope Pio IX canonized Francesco and ordered the building of the neoclassical style crypt, and it is here that countless people now come to pay their respects to San Francesco.

Although the Basilica of San Francesco is the main attraction for visitors, there is yet more to discover in this town where the Franciscan Order was born. By contrast, for example, the Lyrick Theatre (Teatro Lyrick) in Via G. D'Annunzio offers a varied programme of dance, music, drama and comedy all year round.

As with anywhere in Italy, it goes without saying that you can also enjoy some of the finest food and wine to be found. In Assisi, the regional specialities include delicious mushrooms and that prized delicacy, the truffle. Extra virgin olive oil too is particularly fine here, owing to the landscape's many thousands of olive trees that give Umbria its silvery green shimmer.

Reaching Assisi is fairly easy, with a variety of options. The small Sant'Egidio international airport is about 10km away, although there is no bus connecting it with the town. Alternatively, the train is a good option. Travelling from Florence, for instance, you can take one of the regular daily trains, just changing at Terontola or Cortona. From Rome, again take one of around ten daily trains, this time changing at Foligno. Remember though, the train stations in Umbria are at the foot of the hills, while the towns cling to the sides... and the Basilica of San Francesco is at the top.



Keeping the St Francis connection, you might also like to take in Isola Maggiore, the largest of the three islands on Lake Trasimeno, which is within easy reach around 50km away. St Francis chose to spend Lent on the island in 1211, recognising its closeness to nature and how perfect it was for quiet reflection. Today, Isola Maggiore is gently evolving into a simple cultural retreat, and creative writing workshops take place there each Spring and Autumn, as well as the annual Isola del Libri book festival.


Has that dream vacation been on your mind a lot lately, but the travel costs keep holding you back? Make that much-needed getaway possible with Wizootravel. Save up to 60% on hotels and flights with our guaranteed cheapest deals to destinations worldwide. No hidden fees. Just what you see. Book your dream holiday now!


Unlike in the past, today, people with disabilities have been recognized, and are less discriminated against. In many countries, there are legislations that protect them and make their life a little easier. Also, many public buildings have been designed or renovated in order to accommodate people with disabilities.

With all these improvements, people with disabilities are now able to travel for vacation or a business trip to places far away from their home. However, with all these improvements we have made, travelling for people with disabilities is still a challenge for them, especially when they are travelling alone or, they are travelling to an unknown destination. Below is a guide to help people with all forms of disabilities to travel safely.

1. Plan well in advance

Planning is key to any form of success. This is very important because it reduces chances of getting stranded and being inconvenienced. Booking flights and hotel rooms are the top priorities. However, if you are going to stay at a friend's or a relative's house; notifying them in advance is very important. Then they can be prepared and even pick you up from the airport.

2. Book hotels that are disabled friendly

Hotels with disabled friendly structures are very convenient as they allow disabled individuals to move freely with minimal effort. Most of these hotels also have special emergency protocols that ensure disabled individuals are not left behind in case of an emergency, unlike some hotels where these issues are overlooked.

3. Use a travel agent that offers travel packages for disabled travelers

Booking flights and hotel rooms with travel agents that offer travel solutions to disabled people is advantageous in a number of ways. They ensure they book for their disabled clients airlines and hotels that are disabled friendly. They strive to offer services and suggestions that will ensure their clients travel comfortably.


728*90

4. Understand and know your rights when at the airport

Travelling, for people with disabilities, is very hectic, especially when they arrive at the airport. They face the challenge of getting proper information and directions. This is further aggravated by the huge number of people traveling and long queues. In airports, there are attendants that are supposed to attend to the needs of those travelling with disabilities.

Disabled travelers should not, and are not, treated differently when they go through security measures. They are also protected from any form of discrimination from any airline. Disabled travelers are advised to be very conversant with their rights to avoid and report any form of discrimination when travelling.

5. Bring extra medication

There is no harm in carrying an extra dose of medication when travelling. People do lose their luggage as they travel so, having an extra dose will act as a backup when one dose gets lost. This also ensures that when travelling, a disabled person does not run out of their medicine forcing them to start looking for a drug store when travelling. These medications should be stored properly to ensure their safety.

6. Take a doctor's note and contact information when travelling

A doctor's note contains important information about a condition that a disabled person is facing and this will help doctors save a lot of time on tests in case of an emergency. Contact information for your doctor allows other doctors to get important information from your doctor should the need arise. This small, but vital, information can save lives.

7. Use direct flights

It is very hectic and tiresome for a disabled traveler to use connecting flights. Using connecting flights exposes them to loss of their luggage and even injury as they get in and out of a plane. Using a direct flight cuts all these risks down and saves a lot of time and energy when travelling. Direct flights also ensure that those travelling with disabilities are not stranded in an airport as they wait for a connecting flight.



8. Disabled travelers are advised to have some knowledge about where they are travelling to.

There is nothing more difficult than looking for directions to a place you do not know about. This is even harder for disabled travelers so, it is advisable to have at least some knowledge and understanding about their destination. This will give them an upper hand when moving around and the knowledge to know where to go and where not to go. This will be very helpful when they are stranded or experience an emergency situation and need urgent assistance.

9. Carry the appropriate luggage

Disabled travelers are advised to carry luggage that they can manage when they are travelling. Unless they have company, travelling with a huge amount of luggage is not easy. Traveling lightly enables disabled travelers to be more flexible to situations that arise besides, a large amount of luggage can also easily get lost.

10. Enjoy travelling

Many disabled people do not travel often because of a lot of limitations which discourages them. However modern technology ensures safe travel for all regardless of their condition. Travelling should be enjoyed by all since it is a chance to experience new things that are different than what they are used to.

Author: Bob Tom

Has that dream vacation been on your mind a lot lately, but the travel costs keep holding you back? Make that much-needed getaway possible with Wizootravel. Save up to 60% on hotels and flights with our guaranteed cheapest deals to destinations worldwide. No hidden fees. Just what you see. Book your dream holiday now!


In the western spans of Serbia, we travelled through the Valjevo gulch(canyon) like we were its first settlers, gradually and to a hush just broken by the streaming of the river which we would break with our steps as we traversed. A steam train transported us through the rippling green woods that began in Mokra Gora and spread past the mountain tops on the steam-fuelled tracks of the Sargan Eight Railway. An evening, flanked by an eminent and glorious sun, was spent after the delicate flow of the strong Dunabe River from the little shorelines of Novi Sad to a narrow point that appeared like the serene end of its overwhelming course. On another, our little pontoon conquered the many twists of the 10-kilometer long Uvac River, embraced by the mountainous plateau.

Nature of Serbia

The back and forth movements of Serbia don't just originate from its social change since troubled time. A nation that is 75% bumpy! What I mean is Mountain! It is scattered with rolling green, secured nature parks, ravines, rivers, and lakes. I spent seven days investigating nearly the full extent of the nation west of its Capital, Belgrade - from the coastline of Novi Sad to the valleys of Valjevo, the wilderness of Gostoljublje to mountainous Zlatibor and the breadth of Tara National Park to the gigantic, snaking Uvac Gorge.

On the off chance that there is one thing that Serbia isn't really known for, it's a plenitude of untouched and unfamiliar nature. Traveling through Serbia is to move with the natural setting that has been presented to it, to be dynamic to explore its multi-layers and exceptional landscape.

For when you strip away a mind-boggling society and governmental issues, the magnificence of the landscape and nature in Serbia is the one thing here that has not ever changed and neither will be.

728*90

Trekking The Gradac River, Valjevo 

The Gradac River goes through what I said to be some of Serbia's ideal and untouched scenery. Steep slants, high rock developments, and precipice faces encase a shallow river that curves through the timberlands and meadows of this secured region in shades of white and silver. Its streaming waters were our waymarkers as we trekked through the towns of Valjevo that lay covered up in this bumpy landscape - a 50km-long said to represent to a natural outskirt of northwest Serbia towards the south. Wild Serbia, an experience tour organization set up by local people from this very zone, takes you into the very heart of the area - deep into the Canyon, through its forest, and knee-deep into the frigid icy crisp waters flanked by twisting trees and mud tracks!

Winding The Uvac Gorge

We landed on a street that bended around the edges of the high cliff faces, and the main sighting was of a swing that just called for us to leave dead speechless and take in the view. It was the flight of flexibility after entering the Uvac Gorge in southwestern Serbia, and keeping in mind that 10,000-foot view can catch the eminent curves of this river. Even this scene was sufficient to catch the feeling of the numerous wild and free landscapes in this nation.

Inching down a manmade soil incline, we came straightforwardly to the riverfront where we could hire a boat and driver. Pontoon trips are the must-do here, where you feel as though you've been gobbled up by all the clichés of a marvelous natural scene, gliding through the gorge of the River Uvac yet feeling as though you have never observed anything like its color of reflected blues and greens never before. Truly, you haven't!

Drifting on The Danube 

Obviously, the greatest river that slices through Serbia is the Danube - a relentless spread that slices through 10 nations, from Germany and Austria in the west to the Balkan plain (and in the long run Ukraine). Europe's second-biggest river and its wide banks and endless appearance are tempting to explore.

From the sandy banks that line Serbia's second greatest city of Novi Sad, we delicately skimmed down towards a little sandy hill, likened to a mysterious island, before bouncing in kayaks and paddling to the most tranquil corners. Dunavski Rafting are your hosts, welcoming you on board its wooden house-like vessel and giving all the gear you have to float around, entire with a local guide who knows these waters and its stories. Isn't it great?



Riding The Sargan Eight Railway 

Riding the Sargan Eight narrow gorge railroad in southwestern Serbia through the bumpy valleys is a cultural-changing experience here, regardless of whether you just take a short half-hour travel. An eager train nerd's fantasy, the steam's emerald green shell sits inside a setting likened to stepping back in time. Maybe to the late 1900's, the point at which it initially ran its chugging, steaming course through restricted gages from Sarajevo to Belgrade - a connection that shut in 1974.

Now you can bounce on board at the town of Mokra Gora and take in the barcode tag of tree trunks in a shuddering of green as you trundle through the Sargan pass that was remade in the mid-2000's.

A place where there is diverse landscape, it is Serbia's natural treasures untouched by the contention that give it another new lease of life, and additionally hope for the local people to show a wonderful side to the nation that we once in a while, if at all, hear about.


Has that dream vacation been on your mind a lot lately, but the travel costs keep holding you back? Make that much-needed getaway possible with Wizootravel. Save up to 60% on hotels and flights with our guaranteed cheapest deals to destinations worldwide. No hidden fees. Just what you see. Book your dream holiday now!

Being a volcanic island, Mauritius boasts of a range of dramatic mountains ideal for trekking and climbing. You can explore the rich Mauritian culture by taking a tour of its temples, churches, mosques, and other religious structures. But that's not all. The awe-inspiring natural beauty of Mauritius is much beyond this and the only way to experience it is by exploring the island yourself.

If you haven't visited this paradise before or you are traveling there for the first time and thinking of making the most of your trip, here's how you can enjoy a valuable holiday when in Mauritius:

1. Book a Luxury Stay- 

Whether you are traveling as a family or with your partner, accommodation is always of prime concern. And when you are in Mauritius, you wouldn't want to miss the chance of staying in some of the best hotels or resorts. Would you? So, when planning your vacation in Mauritius, look for an accommodation which is luxurious and also situated in the best area. Balaclava, Flic en Flac, and Trou aux Biches are the top three areas where you will find the best hotels, resorts, and luxury villas.

728*90

If you are on your honeymoon in Mauritius, there is a wide selection of resorts on pristine white sand beaches that are known for their exemplary service, great food, various sports activities, hot air balloon trip, spa treatments, luxury private airport transfers, and a lot more. Constance Belle Mare Plage Resort, Tamarina Hotel, Anahita the Resort, Merville Beach Hotel and Lux Grand Gaube Resort are amongst a few options that you can consider.

2. Touring the Exotic Beaches

One of the main reasons why Mauritius attracts millions of tourists from around the world is because of its wonderful selection of beaches. You can sit and relax, take a walk on the beach or indulge yourself in activities like windsurfing, kite surfing, snorkeling, and more. Besides these, there are other things that you can do to unleash your adventurous side like parasailing, water skiing, snorkeling, and riding in a submarine to explore the beautiful marine life filled with colorful reefs and gorgeous fishes.

For honeymooners, nothing can be better than a beach destination. And this island is a perfect escape to heaven where couples can enjoy the most romantic moments of their life.

3. Excursion Beyond the Beaches

When in Mauritius, visiting the popular beaches is a must but exploring the city life can make your holiday complete. There are ample of attractions for every kind of tourist. If you are a nature lover, you can visit forests, parks, gardens, and waterfalls to witness the majestic beauty of nature. If you are a religious person, you would not want to miss visiting the famous religious sites that include Ganga Talao, Saint Gabriel Church, Kaylasson Temple, and Ronaq-Ul-Islam Sunnee Mosque.

Head to the central market in Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius to eat, shop, and stroll around the streets to catch a glimpse of the busy life of Mauritians. The city has the largest market depicting the age-old charm where you can savor the local dishes and fresh foods and shop handcrafted items as a memory of your trip. Don't miss buying Mauritian jewelry, souvenirs, Buddha heads, and stuffed dodos.

4. Dining the Mauritian Way

The Island has plenty of options when it comes to dining. Here, you can enjoy the delicious local foods of Mauritius at an affordable price. For both vegetarian and non-vegetarians, there is something special offered by the restaurants. The non-vegetarian specialties include Creole Fish Rougaille, Daube, Vindaye, and Octopus Curry while for the lovers of vegetarian food there are dishes like Dholl Puri, Roti Chaud, and Samosas. A total bliss.


On your honeymoon in Mauritius, you can plan a romantic dinner with your beloved in a private beach setting, enjoying the best of cuisines together. La Table du Château, Restaurant Château Mon Désir, and Le Capitaine Restaurant are the top three choices that you can consider for a fine-dine experience.

Quick Facts about Mauritius Every Traveler Should Know

While you plan a vacation in the picturesque islands of Mauritius, you need to know some important facts if you want to enjoy as much as possible.

  • English and French are widely spoken languages in Mauritius.
  • To learn more about the local life of Mauritians you need to mingle with the local people.
  • To explore the island in a convenient way, it is a good idea to hire a car and drive on your own.
  • Don't get trapped by falling for taxi drivers who claim to take you on a beach tour. Only stick to your travel guide.
  • Avoid excessive bargaining on shopping as it is not appreciated in Mauritius.
  • Consider shopping from duty-free shops and don't buy expensive things on your credit card.
  • Refrain from buying bottled water as it can be very expensive. Instead, prefer tap water which is extremely safe to drink.
  • If you have a budget constraint, it is recommended to stay on the East coast.
  • Always wear a sunscreen lotion before stepping out in the sun.

Mauritius is truly a vacationer's paradise and a fantastic holiday destination which will leave you spellbound with its enchanting beauty, offering you an experience like no other. And if you want to make the most of your vacation, include all the above in your itinerary.

Author: Bruce Thomsan

Has that dream vacation been on your mind a lot lately, but the travel costs keep holding you back? Make that much-needed getaway possible with Wizootravel. Save up to 60% on hotels and flights with our guaranteed cheapest deals to destinations worldwide. No hidden fees. Just what you see. Book your dream holiday now!




Greece is a cluster of 6000 islands out of which 227 are inhabited. It can indeed get boggling to someone visiting Greece for the first time. So here we present to you the top seven destinations ensure that you have an amazing honeymoon in Greece



1. Santorini




It will seem as though Santorini is made for honeymooners. With it's wish washed structures, inviting wine culture, postcard-perfect villages, enticing beaches and breathtaking sunsets it is no wonder that Santorini is the most popular honeymoon destination for locals and visitors seeking romance. Book a luxurious suite for you and your partner to enjoy the alluring sunset sipping some fine wine while enjoying the fine cuisine that Santorini has to offer or even take a dip in the infinity pools on the terraces of your hotels. The perfect start to a never-ending romance.



2. Corfu




Corfu is the second largest island in Greece. Located by the Ionian sea Corfu is the perfect romantic getaway for lovebirds. Mesmerizing clear blue water, majestic volcanic mountains, a monument of a bygone era and the impeccable beaches will entice you. One day will surely not suffice to marvel at the beauty that is Corfu. Scuba dive at the Paleokastritsa, take a hike to Mount Pantokrater and explore the old castles. Corfu offers the honeymooners much needed privacy as it is not very crowded.



3. Athens




The capital city though famous for the rustic ruins has an old world charm of its own. Pay your respects to the God of love herself-Aphrodite when you are at Athens. Explore the National Gardens, the temple of Zeus, The Pantheon and the Acropolis museum by taking a day tour. The panoramic view of Mount Lycabettus, Temple of Hephaestus and The National Museum give you a glimpse of the bygone royalty of Greece.




Wind up a beautiful day spent seeing the marvels of Athens by treating your spouse to the lip-smacking Mediterranean cuisine and fine wine to have a perfect end to a romantic day.


728*90


4. Plaka

Plaka is located close to Athens and you will indeed love to spend a day relaxing and enjoying the spellbinding views of the imposing structures. The Pre historic Thera, Ancient Agora, Theater of Dionysus and the Tower of winds are major attractions at Plaka. If you would rather spend a quiet day relaxing with your spouse the Plaka has the most wonderful secluded beaches for that. Plaka has many shops where you can pick up souvenirs to remind you of the wonderful time spend at Greece.


5. Mykonos




Mykonos is where the happening crowd is found in Greece. Brimming with pubs and discotheques Mykonos offers you an exciting way to spend your night. Terrace party, pool party, theme-based party, under 30 parties, post-midnight drag shows there are all kinds of exiting parties happening at Mykonos with rum-based drinks, sangria and fine Mediterranean cuisine for the best nightlife experience.




There are other attractions too like the iconic windmill, Greek ruins in Delos, Maritime museum, a Gondola ride at Little Venice and secluded beaches for the honeymooners to spend some quiet quality time with each other.



6. Nafplio


Nafplio is a city brimming with romance. This charming town located in the Peloponnese was once the capital of Greece. The beautiful classic mansions covered in bougainvillaea are a picture perfect view; many quaint little cafés offer you the perfect spots to spend cozy evenings with the love of your life while marvelling the visual treat offered by this magical city.




The sheer beauty of this place attracts many people to get married here too and the magic in this place can only be experienced by visiting it.



7. Monemvasia



Monemvasia is the perfect locale for the honeymooners who hate crowds. If you love to spend time in a magnificent place that seems as if it is still in the Greek era with all its splendor then Monemvasia is a highly recommended place for you. Explore this beautiful city by walking hand in hand with your spouse on the stone paved narrow streets. It is very close to historic sites close by and also houses many secluded beaches and coves for a romantic escapade. Enjoy a romantic dip in the secluded waters and snorkel to your heart's content. Lay down by the lovely beaches and sipping on wine. Monemvasia has many taverns that offer excellent Mediterranean cuisine. Wind up your day by savouring the delicious dinner with a bottle of fine wine. Monemvasia is indeed a welcome getaway from the hustle and bustle and heavy crowds of Santorini.


So make sure you book your Greece holiday package well in advance as there is no other place that comes close to the being the perfect destination for honeymoon.


Author: Bruce Thomsan

Has that dream vacation been on your mind a lot lately, but the travel costs keep holding you back? Make that much-needed getaway possible with Wizootravel. Save up to 60% on hotels and flights with our guaranteed cheapest deals to destinations worldwide. No hidden fees. Just what you see. Book your dream holiday now!


Fort Lauderdale is a charmer. Nicknamed the Venice of America, the city is home to laid-back beaches, exciting parties, and an exhaustive list of tourist attractions. Once considered America's best spring break destination, Fort Lauderdale now boasts of many more reasons for you to be in this city. So book your cheap flights to Fort Lauderdale and embark on a trip of a lifetime. And here are some of the best Fort Lauderdale attractions and activities that must be a part of your itinerary.

The Beaches

This city on the water is best known for its gorgeous beaches. Fort Lauderdale is sunny for about 230 days a year and thus it's an adobe for sun seekers. About 23 miles of public beaches in the city cater for everyone from beach bums to water sports enthusiasts.

Panoramic views of the city and the ocean from the Hillsboro Lighthouse


The extensive coral reef right off the coastline caused many vessels to crash and thus the Hillsboro Lighthouse was built. It's best known for flashing world's strongest beam at twenty-eight nautical miles, however the views you will savor after climbing its 175 steps are also worth your time. You will have to take the tour that departs from Sands Harbor once a month.

Snorkeling at the Fort Lauderdale Beach

With coral reef just about 100 yards off the coastline, you wouldn't even need a boat to snorkel in Fort Lauderdale. Just put on a snorkel or a dive mask, strap on some fins and jump into the water to spot tropical fish, sea turtle, and even dolphins. You can take daily snorkeling tours from Fort Lauderdale Beach.

Dining and shopping at Los Olas Blvd.

Have your fill of sun-kissed beaches? Head to the palm tree-lined street of Las Olas Boulevard where arrays of fashionable boutiques, art galleries, and fine outdoor, open-air restaurants await you. Be it an afternoon or evening, you will find the shops and eateries at the boulevard always welcoming.

Kayak through Mangroves at Westlake Park

Westlake Park features narrow stretches of mangroves that you will love to explore on a kayak. Furthermore, the park is also rich in history and ecology. You can spot Little Blue Herons, Great Blue Herons, Falcons, Osprey and many other bird species while peddling through the mangroves. If you are in Fort Lauderdale during full moons, take the moonlight tours.

The Butterfly World

A must-do family attraction in the city, Butterfly World is home to about 20,000 butterflies. Take your kids to this one of a kind place where thousands of butterflies in tropical gardens and aviaries flutter all day. They will whirl around your head and may also land you. You can also visit a Bug Zoo in the premises that houses some giant crawlers.



The Canals

We called "Venice of America" for its waterways. You can hop aboard a Water Taxi that would have twelve stops in Fort Lauderdale and five in Hollywood. As you will go past swanky mansions and yachts, you will feel like you are in Venice.

World-class casinos

You can find plenty of casinos in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Besides, Hollywood is also located just around the corner. See if the lady luck favors you. Furthermore, the surrounding areas are filled with spectacular shopping, dining and nightlife.

Air Flyboarding

Flyboarding is an emerging water sport that has gained popularity in Florida. You will stand on a board that will be connected to a jet ski through a long hose. As high-pressure water will rush through the hose, you will be shot up in the air for about 50 feet. Learn the basics and then move on to perform some tricks.

Arts and local wildlife exhibitions at the Bonnet House

Sprawled in 35-acre, Bonnet House, a historic house and museum, features a vast collection of artwork. The museum has a total of 629 painting of artist Fredric Bartlett, who also designed the house, and his wife Evelyn Bartlett. You can take a guided tour to admire the exotic arts and wildlife collections.


This city doesn't just stop to overwhelm you here. There is an exhaustive list of attractions and activities beyond what is mentioned here that can keep you hooked to this pleasant city. Since Fort Lauderdale is such a desired destination, you should start preparing your trip by finding budget-friendly Fort Lauderdale flights deals and then move on to decide on your itinerary. The rule of thumb to grab cheap airline tickets to Fort Lauderdale is booking early.


Author: Robert Dev


Has that dream vacation been on your mind a lot lately, but the travel costs keep holding you back? Make that much-needed getaway possible with Wizootravel. Save up to 60% on hotels and flights with our guaranteed cheapest deals to destinations worldwide. No hidden fees. Just what you see. Book your dream holiday now!