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Things to do in the UK post-COVID

Guest Post by Kritika Panse

With precautions and safety measures in place, the UK has given international visitors a green light to enter its region. As the cities and countryside slowly reopen for tourism, great expectations surround the upcoming seasons. The time has come to make up for the lost time and start your wanderlust bucket list, and the UK appears to be the perfect venue to break free from the pandemic slump. In the UK post-Covid-19 holiday plan, here’s what you should see in this European destination.

Explore the Holiday Season in London

With a UK tourist visa in hand, anyone planning to visit the capital of England, London, should not miss out on this opportunity. The holiday season is in full swing, and Christmas is just around the corner. If you happen to be in the UK at this time, make the most of London, which is getting all decked out in Christmas flair this year. It is no secret that London is a hive of activity throughout the year, but during the holiday season, the city brims with extravagant events. Christmas will once again illuminate Trafalgar Square in all its festive glory. The Shard Lights will illuminate the top of the tallest building in the UK every night in December. If you are visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour with kids, you can enjoy  Hogwarts in the Snow. It is one of the most magical experiences ever. Last but not least, enjoy the 2.6km illuminated trail at Kew and take the London by Night bus tour to watch the entire city illuminated for Christmas.

Head to the Scottish Highlands for an outdoor experience

An expansive, dramatic landscape accompanied by a cool mountain breeze is just what you need after the COVID-19 lockdown. Scotland has charming castles as well as stunning brooks that make it an ideal place to visit following the pandemic.  You can find excellent nature hikes on the West Highland Way, Muckle Flugga in Shetland, and Stac Pollaidh in Assynt. Interested in spending some time in the sublime beauty of Scotland’s natural splendours? Then, take a pause and stay back to enjoy a unique contemporary glamping experience at the AirShip 002  in Drimnin overlooking the gorgeous vistas of Sound of Mull. There are plenty of other brilliant places to go glamping such as Inver Coille Campsite, Tomatin Glamping Pods, and Mallaig Glamping Pods.  In the winter months, skiing is also quite popular in Scotland and you can find some amazing ski resorts such as Glenshee Ski Centre and Nevis Range Mountain Resort for adventure enthusiasts to try out their skiing skills. 

Get mesmerized by the beauty of the Lake District

Lake District, another gem of a destination in England, offers some of the most spectacular scenery you will see anywhere in the United Kingdom and has much more to offer. While this destination is known for its lush rolling green hills and stunning lakes, it is also the place that allows you to shake off the lethargy that comes from long indoor stays and venture out onto one of the many pristine waters of the UK. Kayaking, canoeing, or boating experiences are the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of this region in a slow-paced manner. Spend your days relaxing on the shore or hiking the valleys to camp under the stars. The dark countryside nights provide a perfect opportunity for admiring the bright constellations and countless stars shimmering in the sky. 

Discover a world of adventures at Devon

Those who would like to add a touch of adrenaline-rushing adventure to their post-pandemic holiday should definitely list Devon in their UK travel bucket list. The rugged cliffsides and beaches are apt to enjoy some exhilarating outdoor adventures. The waves at  Woolacombe and Saunton beach are ideal for surfers to try their talent in racing ahead of them.  You can also go scuba diving and snorkelling at Eddystone and Hillsea Point.  Not so keen on hardcore adventures? No problem! Devon has plenty of beaches with calm waters that are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Enjoy some fun time and meet the friendly dolphins and seals of Devon with a trip to Labrador Bay and Lundy Island.

Discover the blissful yet lively ambience of Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, you will come across some outrageously breathtaking natural panoramas you have ever seen in your lifetime. Furthermore, the culture, dialect, and atmosphere are quite different from what can be found in England or elsewhere in the UK. The wilderness and historic relics blend beautifully to offer a destination so serene and charming to visit. Places like Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle will make your jaws drop in awe of the natural beauty it exudes. Self-drive trips and nature walks are the best ways to discover Northern Ireland’s stunning attractions. Aside from these, you can explore the Irish pub culture and Irish whiskey distilleries to enjoy nonchalant moments. 

Destinations - 12/05/2021
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The top five reasons to go to Cancún (besides the obvious one!)

Okay, you don’t really need five reasons to go to Cancún. One should suffice: the beach in this city, if you’ve ever seen photos of it! But here are five reasons more that you should be packing your bags and setting out on a trip to the glorious Mexican Caribbean: 

1. Check out – or, better yet, check into – the Moon Palace: one of the region’s top ten beach resorts, and all-inclusive to boot. Swimming pools? How about ten. Places to eat? The resort has a good twenty. Golf? Check. Spas? There are several. When you come to Cancún, you’re going to be at a premiere spot right on the Caribbean ocean. So let yourself get pampered a little! 

2. If you’re at all into ancient history, one of the best sites – and by far less crowded than the more well-known Chichen Itza – is Tulum, an easy day trip from the tip of the peninsula. You can wander these wonderful ruins alone or with a guide. (But if you actually want to learn anything about the ancients who built it, you’ll need a guide!) On the stone, iguanas pose so that you can take selfies. Overall, it’s an appropriate place on the shores of the Caribbean: relaxed.

3. Right off the coast from Cancún, the Isla Mujeres isn’t only for women. (And that’s despite the name meaning “women’s island” in Spanish!) Here you can enjoy the relaxed vibe of a Caribbean, while keeping the skyline of the city in sight. Spend a relaxing afternoon at the beach, between two of the best meals you’ll eat in Cancún. This island is renowned for its food, and you’ll find everything – from superb Italian and French flavours to wonderful, local Mayan and Yucatecan cuisine.

4. While the Tulum ruins are right on the beach, the ruins of Cobá are tucked away in the jungle. However, they are well worth the extra effort to get to. At Cobá, you’re allowed to climb one of the ancient Mayan pyramids, and get the reward of a spectacular vista across the Yucatán jungle. Furthermore, you’ll be enveloped by the feeling of authenticity: these ruins today are as surrounded by the ever-encroaching forest as they must have been ages ago. Cobá is a must-see – and the drive from Cancún is less than two hours! 

5. Tired of beaches and ruins? Then it’s time to hit the clubs! The best club in Cancún, by far, is Coco Bongo – a huge dance club with a thousand incredible acts, any one of which will make you forget that you’re not in Las Vegas! Tickets come with unlimited drinks, and the club stays open well past the USA’s mandated closing time for such establishments. Dance the night away

Random - 11/10/2021
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So you got to Dubai. Where to eat?

Dubai may not be as renowned as Singapore for its gastronomical delights – but does it surprise you that there’s no shortage of excellent dining options here? This is a world-class destination, after all! If you’re spending some time in Dubai, you have to make it to at least one of these restaurants; ideally, all of them! 

● At Al Mahara, in the Burj Al-Arab, Dubai’s swankiest hotel, star chef Nathan Outlaw – awarded two Michelin stars – carries you in a make-believe submarine ride to a restaurant with wall-high aquariums that make it appear like it’s underwater. The theme – as one might expect – is seafood, and the top-rated chef is constantly coming up with great dishes, making this one of the best places to eat in Dubai. 

● Al Hadheerah is the restaurant of the Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, set out away from the city in the midst of the sand dunes. This restaurant has fourteen live cooking stations, where skilled chefs prepare authentic Arabian food, while guests are serenaded with live entertainment. If you’re looking for local flavours, look no further! For an extra helping of culture, the Emirati Heritage Museum is nearby. 

● If you like Asian fusion, you’ll adore Zheng He’s, where traditional Chinese flavours blend with modern Western presentation. The food is authentic – some of the best Chinese food you’ll find outside of China – and the ambience is spectacular, with mellow-lit tables out on the dock, overlooking the splendid Burl Al-Arab hotel. For any true foodie, this is a must-stop – and for anyone who just likes Chinese!

● Fancy Japanese food? You can find it in Dubai, at the Atlantis Hotel’s star restaurant, Nobu – a chain created by globally renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Here you’ll get the best and most modern take on Japanese, blended with the Arabian influence that makes food in Dubai so special. Try seared black cod served with sweet miso sauce, or yellowtail topped with jalapeño. And if you want to learn the restaurant’s secrets, sign up for one of their cooking classes! 

● At Choix Patisserie and Restaurant, three-Michelin-star-rated French chef Pierre Gagnaire takes creative cuisine to its limit. Located at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City, this restaurant is famous in the city – and beyond – especially with its high tea. Enjoy European and British flavours like the fish of the day, beef rib eye, or mushroom tortellini. 

● Trust Dubai to offer something a little unique – which it does at Table 9, where Gordon Ramsay-trained chefs Nick Alvis and Scott Price have created a casual but memorable dining experience. Here a multitude of different chefs showcase their creativity and try to outdo one another. Table 9 is famed throughout Dubai for the entirely unique quality dishes that it brings to the table – each with personalized service. Options include a four-course menu, or seasonal favourites like king crab ravioli and portobello mushroom carpaccio. 

Uncategorized - 10/15/2021
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Two Backpacking Cities in Europe, you can’t miss!

If there is one continent that is the most frequented by tourists and travelers alike, it is Europe. Europe’s western part is dotted with historical sites, marketplaces, cultural attractions, and gastronomical experiences. Now, while the common perception about Europe is that it is an expensive destination, numerous backpacker experiences have proved otherwise. Provided our trip is planned in the sense that we have a clear itinerary, we know which transportation passes to take, we are clear on which hostels to stay on the way, we have researched in advance about where to eat, our trip would turn out to be quite an economical and yet adventurous one.

Two western European cities which are most popular with backpackers are-

Amsterdam – The capital of The Netherlands, this city is known for its canals, cobblestoned streets, coffee shops, the famous Rijksmuseum, and a lot more. Commonly, the city tends to have a cozy vibe. Travelling within the city is easier here as there are numerous shops from where you can hire bikes.

Amsterdam Highlights 

If art and history interest you, then Amsterdam is your place to be. Famous for the Vincent van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Anne Frank House, these sites are a must visit. If you love your drink then you can’t miss the Heineken Experience, a historical brewery that is now run as a corporate experience center. If you are visiting this city for a gastronomical experience, then Amsterdam would not disappoint you. One would find numerous cuisines from across the world being served here including the famous coffee shops it brings in legacy. Food Festivals are quite common in Amsterdam which happen all year round. A backpacker has numerous options to stay in Amsterdam as there are many hostels present here apart from hotels. We have given you enough reasons for you to visit this beautiful city which can be done on a shoestring budget.

Paris – The capital of France is popularly known as a city of the romantics. Its monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, etc. require no introduction. This city is a must-visit on every backpacker’s bucket list. While Paris has got the ability to cater to the wealthiest of travelers through its chic hotels, fashion streets, and Michelin star restaurants, the backpacker also finds that he has numerous options at hand. 

Paris Highlights Paris is a city which has a lot of museums, but it is Louvre which is the most famous as it houses the most famous painting in the world, the Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo da Vinci. Montmartre in Paris is famous for lovely pastries and bread at economical prices. France is a country which is world-famous for wine so one cannot miss the numerous food and wine tasting tours being organized here which cater to all budgets. The Rue de Steinkerque is a place where one can shop within a budget. Paris provides numerous options for backpackers to stay including hostels and bed and breakfast accommodations. No wonder backpackers make a beeline to Paris.

So, whenever you are thinking of going on a backpacking tour, do not hesitate for a second before zeroing down on Europe. This place has every type of attraction one can think of. All one needs to do is plan well in advance. If the situation arises, do not hesitate before taking the help of travel experts while planning a trip so that they can help you with their expertise and make your trip even more memorable. So, do not wait anymore, start planning now!

Destinations / Uncategorized - 09/17/2021
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Get down to Addu Atoll, Right on the Equator

Addu Atoll, previously known as Seenu Atoll, is the southernmost – i.e., the most
tropical – atoll in the Maldives. In fact, it almost sits right on the equator – and it’s
actually in the southern hemisphere, so watch your toilets flush in the opposite
direction! (Not really :P) Addu Atoll includes five inhabited islands, the
westernmost of which are connected by a 16-kilometre road that passes right over
the water and provides a formidable breakwater to the changing tides; water levels
can vary by half a metre. More excitingly, it’s home to the country’s second-largest
wetlands: the Eydhigali Kilhi wetlands, and the protected Koattey area on
Hithadhoo Island.


The Addu Atoll – and Addu Nature Park – are definitely worth a visit. Cycle through
the dense and vibrant green vegetation of the beautiful wetlands. Canoe or kayak
through land so low to the water that the ocean is always a force to be felt, as
“inland” as you might get! Go birding and see the migratory birds, and even bats,
who stop over in this tropical paradise. And spend some time scuba-diving or
snorkeling to see the fantastic marine life!


Let’s cover some of the main islands in this equatorial heaven:


● Hulhumeedhoo, or Hulhudhoo-Meedhoo, is an absolute must-see. It’s the
fifth-largest island in the Maldives, but still – despite this – barely the land area
of New York’s Central Park. And it’s one of the country’s oldest settled islands,
first inhabited between 500 and 1000 years before the birth of Christ. Rich in
history, and with a beautiful Indian Ocean culture, visiting here is a must.


● Hithadhoo is the second-largest island in the Maldives, and contains the
administrative center of the Atoll, and of the capital city – Addu city – that
stretches across it. With a rich history, and structures like the ruins of an old fort
at Koattey, the origins of which are still unclear, even to experts. In addition, the
Eydhigali Kilhi wetlands are here, an essential part of the Addu Nature Park. You
can see wild flora and fauna galore, both above and beneath the sparkling
water’s surface. It’s definitely a must-see stop on a Maldives tour.


● On the island of Gan, stay right at the equator in a resort complete with all the
amenities. From here, you can easily take a boat ride to switch into the other
hemisphere, and then switch back – and back again if you have a mind to! Other
good news is that there’s an international airport, with flights to Sri Lanka, if you
want to start or end your trip here rather than Malé.


● Maradhoo, located in the middle of the road that links the atoll, is an island with
a fair amount of historical significance during WWII, used by the British (who
then owned the Maldives) as a staging area for naval warfare. Furthermore, due
to its designation as a “non-typical” Maldivian tourist place, the sorts of
experiences that you’ll have here can be quite different than at the resorts of
Malé.

Destinations - 08/29/2021
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You haven’t seen the ocean until you’ve dived at the Maldives

The word “dive” is even in the name of the country, right?
But let’s be serious. And let’s talk about a world-class destination for water sports.
The Maldives is a country in the midst of the Indian Ocean, comprising 19,000
square kilometres, of which less than 300 are on land. Its highest point is a
staggering 5 metres above the level of the sea. In other words, welcome to the
ocean. And whether it’s diving, snorkeling, jet-skiing, paddle-boating, or just lazily
floating through the reef with the fishes, the tropical paradise of the Maldives has it
all!


Whatever you want to do in the Maldives – if there’s water involved, then it’s an
option. Whether you’re a thrill-seeking adrenaline junkie, or a newlywed just
looking for a place to relax – or maybe you feel like one today, the other tomorrow.
Never fear. These beautiful, low-lying islands can give you whatever you’re after.
Here are just a few of the exciting, world-class options available on the sparkling
Maldivian waters:


● Parasailing: We’ll start with some sports that you’ve heard of, but probably
never tried. Well, it’s time to try them! Parasailing in the Maldives is incredible:
with beautiful, sapphire water and cerulean skies; it’s not an experience that
you’ll ever forget.

● Windsurfing: One of the more popular water sports in the Maldives, windsurfing
is the diva that’ll steal the thunder from the rest of your vacation. Zipping along
the crystal clear water, seeing fish or even stingrays darting below you… what’s
not to love about it? Book it through a resort that specialises in the sport for an
optimal experience.


● Flyboarding: Odds are you’ve never heard of “flyboarding.” But if you’re a
thrill-seeker, this most popular water sport in the Maldives was made for you! It
involves getting on a board which is attached to a jet ski by a hose that sends it
up into the air! And begs the question: is this really a “water” sport, or is it an
aerial one?

● Fun tubing: If the name isn’t evocative enough, imagine zipping through the
water at breakneck speeds in an inflatable raft. Yep, that’s “fun tubing”! And in
the Maldives, it’s a great option that’ll keep you close to the ground (or at least
the water’s surface!) but still offers plenty of bumpy, jouncing thrills.


● Catamaran Sailing: If you’re not so much a thrill seeker as someone who wants
some time to relax and soak in the tropical vibes, then this is for you. Take you
catamaran to one of the islands’ many deserted beaches, and spend some time
alone – or alone with your special someone.


● Snorkeling: One of the best activities in the Maldives, this needs no
introduction. Short of diving down with them, it’s the best way to view the atolls’
wonderful fauna – and it’s available almost everywhere you turn!


● Scuba diving: And last, but not least: the reason that many people come all the
way out to the Maldives. The diving opportunities here are simply unmatched in
the rest of the world. The islands’ most popular activity, you can’t pass up scuba
during your visit. And if you’ve never dived, you can learn how in one of the most
exquisite diving spots on this planet!

Destinations - 07/03/2021
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Mediterranean Islands in Europe which is are a must visit!

Is it the sea, the strange sense of security, or just that wonderful feeling of escaping from life on the mainland that makes an island break so special? Whatever the exact chemistry, islands make brilliant holiday destinations, and nowhere more so than in the Mediterranean in summer. With the help of our experts, we’ve created the definitive list for this summer

The Mediterranean, or the Med as it’s often abbreviated to, defines a group of twenty-one countries. Each country is unique and has its own distinct culture. With so many different destinations to choose from, it’s not easy deciding which is the perfect one for your getaway break. The tourists make a beeline to the rivieras over here, in the summer season, to sample the Mediterranean Sun, sand, and sea. That said, the best places where one can sample the best of what the Mediterranean Sea has to offer is the Mediterranean islands.

Some of the best Mediterranean islands which one can visit are –

Santorini (Greece) – This volcanic island is world-famous for its black sand beaches, white houses, blue domes, bazaars, blue sea, etc. It is a place where you can sample some of the best seafood which the Aegean (a sea which is a part of the Mediterranean region) can offer. The ambience of Santorini island is unmatchable. Tourists make it a point to observe the sunset from Santorini as it is a vision that one can never forget.

Mykonos (Greece) – This island, also a part of the Cyclades Archipelago like Santorini is famous for its azure blue sea and sandy beaches. The seaside restaurants serving cuisine which includes seafood fresh from the sea is another attraction. Tourists in their bathing suits either swimming or sunbathing is a common sight on the beaches of Mykonos. In the evening the dance clubs are a popular attraction for the visitors as Mykonos is one of the hubs of Electronic Dance Music.

Ibiza (Spain) – A part of the Balearic Islands, Ibiza is famous for its nightlife. That said, there are numerous activities in Ibiza like scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, jet boating, etc. for the adventurous streak. Those who wish to indulge in cultural tourism can check out the archaeological sites of Sa Caleta and Puig des Molins too. The Renaissance-era fortified upper town of Ibiza, also known as Alto Vila, is also worth a visit. Ibiza has often been considered a victim of its image as a party destination but, the reality is that parts of Ibiza are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, when here, you are assured to get a sample of a bit of the modern world, the neo-modern world, and also the early modern world.

Sardinia (Italy) – This large island is surrounded by azure blue seas and sandy beaches. It consists of historical towns and archaeological sites as well and is a traveler’s delight. In comparison to other islands in the Mediterranean, this island offers options like trekking, in the hinterland, as well. The main town of Cagliari is a place popular for shopping on the island. The famous beaches on the island include Chia Beach, Costa Esmerelda, Lu Impostu, etc. The cuisine of Sardinia, to which fresh seafood and wine are integral, is a must-have when visiting the island.

These are just four of the many more islands which can be found in the Mediterranean region which offer simply magical experiences. Consult a travel expert so that they can help you with the destination you would like to visit. So, do not think twice. Start preparing for a trip which you would remember for a lifetime!

Uncategorized - 07/03/2021
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Our top ten things to do in Los Cabos

I am often asked how I have chosen the top 10 list, that I put up on my blog.  While in college I found it much easier to create a list when I started studying for a test or writing a term paper. Knowing that it is easy to understand why I create a top ten list, now as to how do I decide what goes on the list, simply put it is things I would like to do or have done in Los Cabos.  I have chosen things on this list either because I have come across them while studying for certifications, personal experience, research, or client recommendations. Each of the item on the top 10 has a link, which will open a new window for more information.

 Let us know what you think of our list in the comments below the list. 

 1. Golf

From the moment Jack Nicklaus arrived on the scene in the early 1990s, Los Cabos has been in the midst of an unprecedented golfing boom. Four of its 18 courses were ranked among the World’s 100 Best Courses (U.S. excluded) by Golf Digest in 2018:  Querencia, Quivira, The Dunes at Diamante, and the Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol. That’s an astonishing percentage, especially when you consider the first course didn’t open until 1987.

 2. Diving

Have  you ever been diving with thousands of Mobula Rays, schools so massive they literally block out the sun? How about snorkeling with Mako sharks? Or encounters with gigantic, breaching humpback whales and their newborn calves?  Scuba diving in Los Cabos gives you the chance to do all of that and much more! We recently held a Girls that Scuba event in Los Cabos, with our awesome dive friends Dive Ninja Expeditions, and were so amazed at the life we saw underwater that we couldn’t wait to tell you about it!

 3. Shopping

Although first-time visitors to Los Cabos can’t help but notice the area’s oversupply of jewelry shops–Taxco silver and Mexican fire opals are the most sought after commodities–cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo do indeed offer a wide variety of shopping options, ranging from upscale clothing boutiques and art galleries to colorful flea markets and souvenir stalls.

 4. Sunset Cruise

I love being out on the water.  There’s nothing more peaceful to me then hearing the crash of waves and the melodic sounds of the ocean. I’ve always wanted to do a sunset cruise, and the perfect opportunity presented itself during my trip to Cabo. I was so excited when I discovered Cabo Sailing and the experiences they offer. 

 5. Fishing

That is how Zane Grey, master storyteller and IGFA Hall of Famer, described the sportfishing potential of Cabo San Lucas some 100 years ago. The southern tip of Baja California has a longstanding tradition of leaving its visiting anglers breathless, as anyone who has fished here already knows. No matter how experienced you are, these waters will change the way you think about fishing.

 6. San José del Cabo Art Walk

Often galleries will have special events such as “artist in attendance” or openings of new exhibitions. With the ever-growing popularity of the Art Walk, downtown San José as a whole is bustling on Thursday evenings but the heart, soul and sophistication of this weekly event lies within the borders of the Gallery District inside the galleries, located behind the church and main square.

 7. Mission San José del Cabo Church

While most travelers are familiar with Cabo San Lucas, few have heard about San José del Cabo, a tranquil destination just a few miles down the road that’s filled with history and beauty. Whether you make it your destination or take a day trip here from Cabo, there’s a variety of activities in San José del Cabo that showcase Mexico’s history and culture, and with the sunny San José del Cabo weather, getting out and exploring the cobblestone streets is a great addition to any vacation. Once you know where is San José del Cabo, it’s tempting to return to this peaceful town year after year.

 8. Whale Watching

Whale watching season in Cabo San Lucas can vary from year to year, but the whales pass through Cabo from Mid-December to April annually. We recommendtravelling to Cabo between January and March to have your best chance of seeing whales.

 9. El Arco de Cabo San Lucas

As one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for fun in the sun, Cabo San Lucas is home to countless fabulous sights and activities which will turn any vacation into a memory-filled experience you will cherish forever.  One of the most iconic of these attractions in Cabo is El Arco (Land’s End), the stunning stone arches emerging from the sea which have been flawlessly carved by nature and are no doubt the most common image associated with this amazing destination.  

 10. Wirikuta Botanical Cactus Garden

Can you feel the fuzzy spines along the rows of these cacti?

Visit the Wirikuta cactus gardens in Los Cabos, Mexico, and you can check out zillions of cactus plants.

Okay, not exactly zillions. But almost!

Paul's Top 10 - 07/03/2021
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Our top ten things to do in Florida Keys

I am often asked how I have chosen the top 10 list, that I put up on my blog.  While in college I found it much easier to create a list when I started studying for a test or writing a term paper. Knowing that it is easy to understand why I create a top ten list, now as to how do I decide what goes on the list, simply put it is things I would like to do or have done in the  Florida Keys.  I have chosen things on this list either because I have come across them while studying for certifications, personal experience, research, or client recommendations. Each of the item on the top 10 has a link, which will open a new window for more information.  

Let us know what you think of our list in the comments below the list

1. Fishing

The 125-mile-long arc of islands that comprises the Florida Keys creates a fishing environment unique in the world, and means a noteworthy or at least edible catch is possible virtually any time of year.

Florida Bay, edged by the “inner” curve of the Keys and the Florida mainland, is referred to locally as the backcountry, home to five of the most sought-after game fish among recreational anglers: bonefish, tarpon, permit, redfish (red drum) and snook.

 2. Ernest Hemingway Home

In this family, we love two things most of all, a road trip and touring historic houses.  There is just something about abiding in an old place.  Ernest Hemingway’s Key West Home is not the most majestic place we have ever seen, but it was interesting.  The layout is my perfect dream of a beach house with that wrap around double porch where every window is a floor to ceiling door.

 3. Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park was the place I was most looking forward to visiting during our trip to the Florida Keys. I first discovered it in a photograph. It was an aerial picture, giving a bird’s eye view of the six-sided historic Fort Jefferson, so large that it nearly filled the entire island

 4. History of Diving Museum

he Florida Keys History of Diving Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, displaying and interpreting artifacts, antiques, books, documents, photographs and oral history relative to the History of Diving. We tell the international story of man’s attempts to explore, understand and venture under the sea. We also celebrate the special role that South Florida and the Florida Keys played in this untold story.

 5.  Dolphin Research Center

A professional fisherman named Milton Santini was the first person to deal with dolphins on Grassy Key. As early as the 1940s, he caught dolphins for other marine mammal parks and aquariums as well as for private individuals. His experience with marine mammals led Santini to build the “Santini’s Porpoise Training School” on Grassy Key in 1958 and to train dolphins. Milton Santini is considered a pioneer in the field of dolphin training and keeping.

 6.  Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

Today’s blog is all about the spectacular sunsets you can expect to see on your visit to Key West. We will take you on a visual tour starting with sunsets captured from a tower deck to the world famous Mallory Square Sunset Celebration in Key West. The Marker is just steps from the Historic Seaport and a short walk to Mallory Square where you will experience a stunning light show at sea ~ a Key West Sunset Celebration:

 7. Margaritaville

There is a little island nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, a tropical oasis that transports you to a place where time slows down, and your adventurous side revs up. Where you can lobster fish by day and bar hop by night…and where nightmares of deadlines and to-do’s become daydreams of pina coladas and suntans

 8. Key West Film Festival

The Key West Film Festival—where passion meets paradise—is an annual celebration of contemporary cinema in a historically rich, artistically vibrant, and culturally diverse island community.

KWFF strives to showcase the best of Florida filmmaking talent, while highlighting visiting filmmakers and industry leaders through discussions and workshops, with access to some of the biggest names in the film business. The festival also looks to support the next generation of local student filmmakers with scholarships and other key awards.

 9. Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary 

he history of the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center centers around one woman known as the “Bird Lady”. It is a name that our founder, Laura Quinn, earned over the years as she created a natural legacy rescuing and rehabilitating wild birds. Originally a statistician and mathematics teacher, Quinn always loved nature. She and her husband were sailors, eventually relocating to a home in Lower Matecumbe. When asked about her time on the boat, she said, “I’d get bored on the boat. I tried to knit or crochet, but woodworking seemed to be the thing I could do that was okay to get wet.” To counter her boredom, Laura began carving native birds that she encountered in the Keys.

 10. Cruise the Seven-Mile Bridge

No need to be scared. Go ahead and drive over the Seven Mile Bridge. It’s modern now.

Finished in 1982, the longest bridge in the Florida Keys is wide enough to give a motoristroom to pull over to change a flat tire and steal many glances at the perfectly green water.

The original bridge I grew up crossing was less friendly, narrow and harrowing, requiring concentration and a good grip on the steering wheel as you left Marathon Key on your way to Key West and suddenly found yourself driving over the ocean. Smart drivers kept eyes on the oncoming traffic instead of nature. The bridge seemed too constricted for two passing cars.

Paul's Top 10 - 05/23/2021
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NWA travel advisor earns esteemed CTA

Paul Graham with Wish List Travel focuses on education, service

ELKINS, ARK – Paul Graham CTA®, of Wish List Travel in Elkins, recently earned the distinguished Certified Travel Associate, or CTA, designation from The Travel Institute, the travel industry’s benchmark for educational excellence and the only travel organization offering certification for travel professionals’ varying levels of expertise. 

“I’m excited to reach this achievement for my company and my clients,” Graham said. “It was a lot of work, but I learned so much and it’s already made me better at what I do.”

The Certified Travel Associate, CTA®, designation is awarded by The Travel Institute to travel professionals who complete a rigorous training program, including closed-book, proctor-administered testing, to demonstrate extensive industry knowledge and experience and the highest standards of travel professionalism. In addition, CTAs are required to fulfill stringent continuing education requirements each year.

The CTA curriculum focuses on the essential skills needed to succeed as a frontline travel counselor – selling, customer service, destinations, niche markets and communication. The CTA is also the first step in earning the coveted Certified Travel Counselor designation.

Graham said that one of the major qualities that sets him apart from other travel advisors has always been his focus on education in the industry. When COVID-19 shut travel down in 2020, Graham focused on getting as much continuing education and industry certifications as possible.

“I didn’t want to just sit there and wait for travel to start up again,” he said. “This helps me be an even better resource for my clients. I want them to enjoy their trip and not have to worry.”

Graham has been an avid traveler for many years and a professional travel advisor for three years. He has sent more than 400 clients on travel experiences around the world. His growing agency’s motto is “helping turn your travel wishes into memories.” 

Graham’s other professional certifications include:

  • Certified Autism Travel Professional from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards 
  • ASTA Verified Travel Advisor (VTA)
  • Certified Cruise Counsellor (CCC) with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)

According to online records for the various accrediting agencies, Graham is currently the only travel advisor in Arkansas to hold all four major industry certifications.

About The Travel Institute

A collaborative industry effort created in 1964, The Travel Institute is the global leader in industry education and certification for travel professionals. Through innovative educational opportunities, professional certification programs, and customized learning solutions, The Travel Institute enables agent success by instilling a high standard of industry knowledge, professionalism, and excellence. Throughout North America, many successful agents and high-profile leaders credit their success to coursework from The Travel Institute.

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Professional Development - 05/19/2021
CLIA_Member_2021

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Elkins, Arkansas 72727

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