Travel Blogs on Open Travel

World's coolest elevators

2013-05-15T10:34:00Z

Typically, lifts are just unremarkable metal boxes that help you get to the attraction proper (and in the worst case, simply to your office), but sometimes they’re so awesome, otherworldly or unexpected that they attract attention themselves.

Hammetschwand Lift, Lucerne, Switzerland

The Hammetschwand Lift is the highest free-standing outdoor elevator in Europe, allowing passengers to embrace the captivating beauty of Lake Lucerne from 1,132 meters above sea level. It whizzes 152 meters up to the summit of the Bürgenstock mountain in less than a minute, leaving you on the observation deck, from which you can take the scenic Cliff Walk blasted out of the rock face.

Hammetschwand Lift by Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne

Roland Zumbuehl (CC BY-SA 3.0) Leiju (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Mercedes Benz Museum, Stuttgart, Germany

The exhibits in the Mercedes-Benz museum in Stuttgart cover 125 years of motoring history, but the atrium elevators that transport visitors between the floors are more of a leap into the future. The odd-looking metallic capsules slide up and down vertical tracks, being great fun to both watch and ride.

Mercedes Benz Museum by Rob124

Mercedes Benz Museum by motoyen

Falkirk Wheel, Tamfourhill, Scotland

How do you connect two canals 24 meters apart in height and remain environment-friendly? You build a rotating boatlift that uses a ridiculous 1.5 kW/h. The Falkirk Wheel is the world's only contrivance of this sort, and if you’re looking for a convincing (and by the way stunning) demonstration of the Archimedean principle, head to the village of Tamfourhill and enjoy the show.

Falkirk Wheel by k enny barker

Falkirk Wheel

Dragon Lift, New York City, USA

A lift that takes you to your office in the morning may well seem like a chamber of torture, but in the L.I.C. Business Center building it is that sort of thing that makes the daily grind more bearable. Once the deceptively unassuming door slide open, you... well... enter the dragon. The building used to be a warehouse and the elevator is a remnant of the times when Long Island City had become a hub of young flowing in from ever pricier Manhattan. The new owners removed most of the art installations from that period, but luckily, they decided to leave the dragon and the beast heads poking through holes in its body intact.

Dragon Lift by nycscout

Gateway Arch, St. Louis, USA

The iconic Gateway Arch was erected to commemorate Thomas Jefferson's and St. Louis’ role in the 19th century Westward Expansion of the United States. At 630 feet (192 m), it is the tallest man-made monument in the country and real fun to explore, be it through the 1,076-step emergency stairs or in a futuristic tram capsule that takes passengers to the observation area on top.

Gateway Arch by Daniel Schwen (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Gateway Arch by TheWB (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Asansör, Izmir, Turkey

The Asansör (Turkish for "elevator") used to be purely functional, helping transport people and goods up and down the cliff that splits Karataş, an old Jewish quarter, in two parts. Today, the structure is one of Izmir’s most recognizable landmarks, offering delightful views, as well as some of the best dining experiences to be had in the city.

Asansör by Yabancı (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Ergener (CC BY-SA 3.0) yenney?

AquaDom, Berlin, Germany

The AquaDom, located at Berlin’s Radisson Blu Hotel, looks like a giant, cylindrical aquarium and makes a stupendous impression when you think of it as such. Now, strain your eyes and you realize there’s an elevator inside. If you don’t suffer from a severe case of claustrophobia, do take a ride and find yourself among well over 2,000 fish of 56 species.

AquaDom by schillergarcia

temporalata (CC BY-SA 2.0) tjuel

Bailong Elevator, Zhangjiajie, China

Somewhere among the awe-inspiring karst formations of Wulingyuan Scenic Area, there rises the world’s tallest outdoor elevator, clinging to the side of a steep cliff 1,000 feet high and known as Bailong or Hundred Dragons Elevator. Since Wulingyuan had been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the project may seem evil from the environmentalist point of view, but it sure is a remarkable feat of engineering.

Bailong Elevator, source: english.zhangjiajie.gov.cn

Five Fingers Peak of Huangshizhai by chensiyuan (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Santa Justa, Lisbon, Portugal

It's like the Ferris Wheel or the Eiffel Tower, but in this case, the city’s best-loved landmark combines the status of a top tourist attraction with functionality. The 45-meter high, Neogothic structure connects the lowest and highest points of the city, i.e. Baixa and Bairro Alto, making the hills of Lisbon a lot less challenging in accessibility.

Santa Justa Elevator by David Sim (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Santa Justa Elevator by nieos

Sky Tower, Auckland, New Zealand

The Sky Tower may not be any more fascinating than the CN Tower or Tokyo Skytree, but it definitely has the most awesome lift. As it whisks you 220 m (720 ft) up to the Skydeck, you can wave goodbye to the ground through the glass panel in the floor, and if you haven’t had enough of adrenaline, you can take an even more exciting route on the way back – a cable controlled base jump from a platform perched at a a dizzying 192 meters.

Skytower by wonderferret

Skytower by chrisjtse

Skyview, Stockholm, Sweden

The Ericsson Globe, which serves as the national indoor arena of Sweden, is currently the largest spherical building in the world, and hosts everything from major sporting events to gigs by international stars. Not only a cultural hub, the Globen has become a world-class attraction thanks to a funicular railway known as Skyview, which consists of 2 glass gondolas traveling on the outside of the sphere all the way to the top.

Skyview by *kicki*

Skyview by Leo-setä

Lloyd’s Building Elevators, London, UK

The inside-out style of Lloyd’s Building falls into a radical trend in architecture referred to as bowellism. In order to maximize the amount of floor space, everything from staircases and lifts to sewage pipes and electrical power conduits have been moved to the exterior, forming an ultramodern, raw and a little ominous façade. The building, located at 1, Lime Street, is home to the Lloyd’s of London insurance market.

Lloyd's Building by Lloyd's of London (CC BY-SA 2.5)

Lloyd's Building by Rich B-S

Epic road trips for all tastes

2013-05-09T06:54:20Z

From extreme transcontinental voyages to weekend getaways with kiddies on board – the thing that defines all road trips is that the journey itself, not the destination matters. If you believe you’ve mastered the ability to celebrate the unexpected and agree with G.K. Chesterton that “an adventure is only an inconvenience rightly considered”, you’re ready to hit the road. The choice of the route is just a matter of time at hand, resources in your pocket and how wild you are at heart.

Karakoram Highway, China - Pakistan

Let’s start it big. The Karakoram Highway, known unofficially as KKH, covers around 800 miles between Kashgar, an ancient Silk Road city in China, and the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, so it doesn’t take profound knowledge of geography to realize how awe-inspiring a trip it may be. Often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World", the road winds through the solitude of the Himalayas, giving access to as many as 5 eight-thousanders, including K2 and Nanga Parbat. Two things you will probably learn en route are humility and the ability to embrace loneliness as a healing force.

Karakoram by Marc van der Chijs

Karakul Lake by DPerstin

Roadside Yurt by Allan_Grey

Via Chiantigiana, Italy

Now, this one is suitable for a road trip novice as there’s basically no planning involved and the route covers a mere 70 km between Florence and Sienna, but don’t let the distance fool you – there’s enough in between to keep you busy for a week. Via Chiantigiana, also known as Strada Regionale 222 (SR222), traverses one of the most important wine producing regions in Italy, the Chianti Classico, and unveils that picture perfect face of Tuscany you know from the movies. Meandering gently from one farmhouse and villa to another, through bucolic villages and cute historic towns, the road may not challenge your spirit, but will definitely nourish your soul.

Radda by Rick C

Siena by jurvetson

Montefioralle by StefanoRomeTours

Great Ocean Road, Australia

Ancient rainforests, tranquil bays, golden sands, native wildlife, almost-vertical cliffs and staggering rock formations – all this and a lot more awaits you along the 243-kilometre stretch of road between the Victorian cities of Torquay and Warrnambool. The Great Ocean Road is by far one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, providing access to such prominent landmarks as the Twelve Apostles, the Grotto and Cape Otway. With plenty of highlights and activities scattered along the way, it can easily suffice for an extended vacation.

Twelve Apostoles by Sami Keinanen

Island Archway by David Iliff under CC-BY-SA 3.0 license

Teddy's Lookout south of Lorne by David Iliff under CC-BY-SA 3.0 license

Cairo–Cape Town Road, Egypt - South Africa

To embark on a mind-boggling journey along the Trans-African Highway 4 is to cross the entire continent, north to south, covering 10,228 km and traversing as many as 10 countries. And Lord knows how long it may take, but it can easily develop into a year-long extreme adventure, and as such, requires a serious dose of planning. For those who dare to take the plunge, Africa offers spiritual awakening and memories to last a lifetime. Images of the ancient Egyptian wonders, Lalibela, the Great Rift Valley, Serengeti National Park, Zanzibar beaches, the majestic Victoria Falls and Sossusvlei dunes will forever dwell in your heart.

Cairo pyramids by Daveness_98

Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya by Matt Biddulph

Beach in Zanzibar by Rcastino

Romantic Road, Germany

The Romantic Road is another option for the less adventurous, but a drop on the extremity scale is counterbalanced by cultural fervency and great historical value. The 400 km route from Würzburg to Füssen, with tens of medieval towns, legendary castles and picturesque villages along the way, brims with quintessentially Bavarian spirit and offers heaps of excitement for history buffs, art lovers, foodies and festival enthusiasts alike. And lest you think it’s all about timber-framed architecture, folk music and beer, the road is not called romantic without reason. The Neuschwanstein area, Franconian vinyeards and the Alpsee, to name just a few, are perfect places for a little romance with images straight from a fairytale as a background.

Wurzburg by D Petzold Photography

Neuschwanstein Castle by jiuuangw

Rothenburg by Mike Pennington under CC BY 2.0 license

Icefields Parkway, Canada

Taking the 230 km journey along the Icefields Parkway, also known as Alberta Highway 93, is probably the best way to experience Canadian wilderness at its purest. Two conveniently wide lanes wind their way between Lake Louise and the town of Jasper, offering unobstructed views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes and pristine valleys protected within Banff and Jasper National Parks. The route can be covered in more or less three hours, but make sure you have a camping gear on you. The landscapes are so surreal and hypnotizing it’s fairly easy to lose track of time.

Peyto Lake, Banff National Park by Alaskan Dude

Jasper National Park by Madeleine_H

The Rockies by gripso_banana_prune

Manali Leh Highway, India

Prepare for inclement weather, water crossings, occasional landslides, traffic jams, high passes at over 5,000 meters, altitude sickness and the sight of crashed vehicles down the slopes. The 500 km journey from Manali to Leh is not the most relaxing drive in the world, but the heart-stopping scenery more than rewards your discomfort and endurance. Just take it at a leisurely pace, devoting at least 2 days for the route and minimum one night at the starting point to acclimate to low air pressure.

Prayer flags by mckaysavage

Ladakh by marksquared

More Plains by njyo

Lofoten National Tourist Route, Norway

In a contest for the most soothing place on Earth, the Lofoten Islands would certainly make a strong competitor. Be it thanks to the endearing scenery, the Arctic light, the remoteness, the abundance of wildlife or the unhurried fisherman culture, the archipelago is shrouded with a sense of peace, quiet and harmony that immediately relaxes your mind. The 166 km long stretch of road between the village of Fiskebøl in the north and Å in the south travels gently across a mosaic of craggy cliffs, sheltered bays, glistening beaches, colorful villages, extensive sheep pastures and tiny fishing hamlets.

Reine by SveterCZE

Vík by Andrea Schaffer

Lofoten by Thomas Faivre-Duboz

The Ring Road, Iceland

Taking the Ring Road (aka Route 1) is an exhilarating experience of raw Icelandic beauty. Geysers, waterfalls, fjords, tiny villages, lonely lighthouses and sweeping flats is what you pass on your way as you follow the 832 mi (1,339 km) road that circles the island and connects all inhabited parts of the country. With plenty of opportunities to stop by, take in the Viking folklore and dip into steamy sulfurous pools, this can, too, become a trip of a lifetime.

Edges of Vatnajökull glacier by Andrea Schaffer

Skógafoss by Rosino

Ring Road South by Funky Tee

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A final message from Buddha before you set off...

"It is better to travel well than to arrive."

Wonders Of Nature You May Not Have Heard Of

2013-04-05T20:13:27Z

Life will inevitably turn dull and tedious once we lose the ability to wonder. However, with such a load of beauty in the world, this scenario is, luckily, a no-go. Have a look at some of the lesser known natural wonders and let yourself be flooded with awe.

Deadvlei, Namib-Naukluft Park, Namibia

With skeletons of camel thorn trees pricking out of the cracked salt pan and enormous fiery dunes around, Deadvlei combines apocalyptic images with incredible natural energy. And it is this contrast that makes droves of photographers willing to risk the toilsome journey in order to capture a piece of a dried up land.

Deadvlei by Laurent Reich

Great Blue Hole, Lighthouse Reef, Belize

Around a quarter of a mile (400m) wide, 480 feet (145 m) deep, and peeping from the Caribbean Sea like a giant eye, the mesmerizing Great Blue Hole is by far the most unusual dive site in the world. Briskly shoals of fish, enormous turtles and reef sharks regularly keep scuba divers company.

Great Blue Hole by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

Erg Chebbi, Merzouga, Morocco

The hypnotizing sand heaps of Erg Chebbi, near a small village of Merzouga, altogether span an area of 22 kilometers and host a number of activities for adventure seeking travelers. Take a walk along the ridge, traverse the fiercely orange sands on a camel’s back, slide down the 150 m high dunes, spend the night by the camp fire and let the morning greet you with the magic of a sunrise.

Erg Hebbi Bjørn Christian Tørrissen

Lake Tekapo, South Island, New Zealand

Halfway between Christchurch and Queensland, at the foot of the Southern Alps, there stretches a lake with an unearthly shade of blue and a population of lupins that covers its shore with a thick carpet of white, pink and purple. There are several resort hotels at the lake's southern end, but otherwise, the area is pristine, solitary and amazingly beautiful.

Lake Tekapo by anthonycramp

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan Province, China

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is the highlight of Wulingyuan Scenic Area in northern Hunan Province. Some 3,000 slim karst pillars shoot towards the sky and hide a wealth of ravines, gorges, pools and waterfalls between their slender, sandstone bodies. To give you a hint of what impression it all makes, one of the pillars, the 3,544-foot (1,080 m) Southern Sky Column, has been renamed "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain” as the park officials believe the landscape inspired the floating mountains featured in Cameron’s movie.

Wulingyuan by chensiyuan

Nā Pali Coast State Park, Kauaʻi, Hawaii

There’s no need to introduce Hawaii to anyone and extoll its extraordinary beauty, but Nā Pali Coast on the northwest side of Kauaʻi island does deserve a separate mention. Ripped by enormous cliff formations and inaccessible to vehicles, the park is a haven for hikers, with trails running all along the rugged grandeur, right next to the edge of the cliffs. Special permits for hiking and camping are required, so make sure you plan ahead.

Na Pali Coast by Jmblanco74

Perito Moreno Glacier, Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

Patagonia is frequently mentioned among the world’s most magical spots and watching the breathtaking ice theater of Los Glaciares National Park, one can hardly wonder why. With a 5 km long front line and a height of over 70 meters above the level of the water, Perito Moreno allows for a unique trekking experience. Besides that, numerous wooden walkways give a clear overhead view of the bluish ice masses advancing over Lago Argentino.

Perito Moreno Glacier by longhorndave

Derweze gas crater, Derweze, Turkmenistan

The flaming cavern, dubbed „the Door to Hell” by the locals, is a natural wonder exposed to the world thanks to a little help of a human hand. When Soviet geologists were drilling for natural gas in 1971, the ground beneath the rig collapsed, leaving a huge gap filled with combustible fumes that the drillers simply decided to burn preventively. Nobody expected, however, that what was supposed to be a slightly bigger bonfire, would become an eternal flame that is still burning today.

Derweze gas crater by Tormod Sandtorv

Blue Lagoon, Grindavík, Iceland

“Energy for life through forces of nature” - so goes the motto found on Blue Lagoon's website. However, Iceland’s most popular geothermal spa will not only energize your body with steaming waters and silica mud, but also soothe your soul with unobstructed views across the lava fields. Set in the pure heart of the unique Icelandic landscape and tapping into its natural potential, the Blue Lagoon makes for a truly amazing spa experience, even for those who normally tend to avoid this sort of pampering.

Blue Lagoon by Torcello Trio

Fly Geyser, Washoe County, Nevada, USA

This alien-looking mound is not entirely a natural phenomenon, but rather a result of human interference with the geothermal potential of Mother Earth. At the beginning of the 20^th century, a test well was drilled at the site, but nobody predicted that the heated water would not stay confined for long. Several decades later, it began escaping to the surface, leaving a coat of dissolved minerals, which have accumulated over time and formed a bizarre creation that’s still expanding.

Fly Geyser by Ken Lund

Champagne Pool, Waiotapu, North Island, New Zealand

Some say it’s the most fascinating attraction of New Zealand, and bearing in mind than the remote island country is perhaps the most fascinating place on Earth, the expectations for the Champagne Pool run really high. And chances are this multicolored pond of bubbling CO2 will indeed leave you agape at its surreal appearance.

Waiotapu by macronix

Chocolate Hills, Bohol Province, Philippines

Chocolate and hiking – two great pleasures combined. And even when you discover that the chocolate thing is just a sweet comparison based on color resemblance, you’ll love the place all the same. The 1200+ hills are very uniform in shape, mostly between 30 and 50 meters high, and covered with grass, which turns chocolate brown at the end of the dry season. Not a fan of cocoa? Some compare the hills to women’s breasts, and there are several other associations possible, so rest assured that nobody will be left with the imagination unfueled.

Chocolate Hills by alvin0118

Lagoona Colorada, Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, Bolivia

There’s no way not to look at this place through rose-tinted spectacles! Hundreds of pinkish Puna Flamingos wade in the reddish, deep blue, white and yellow waters of Laguna Colorada (owing the color to the pigmentation of some algae, borax and sulfur sediments), which all makes the reason for its name immediately apparent and truly an unforgettable visual treat.

Lagoona Colorada by Carlos Adampol

Blyde River Canyon, Mpumalanga, South Africa

The 20-mile (33 km) long gorge is said to be the world’s third largest canyon, but it definitely holds the laurels for landscape variety and accessibility. A very good tourist infrastructure in the region makes the 25000 hectares of lush hills, sharp river bends and enormous potholes a surprisingly hiker friendly and inviting territory.

Blyde River Canyon by laurieciao

1. The flaming cavern, dubbed „the Door to Hell” by the locals, is a natural wonder exposed to the world thanks to a little help of a human hand. When Soviet geologists were drilling for natural gas in 1971, the ground beneath the rig collapsed, leaving a huge gap filled with combustible fumes that the drillers simply decided to burn preventively. Nobody expected, however, that what was supposed to be a bonfire, would become an eternal flame that is burning today.

Hotel bathrooms that make a difference

2013-03-21T15:23:07Z

Luxurious accommodations naturally come with luxurious amenities, but if you look beyond marble floors and porcelain fittings, you’ll realize why a loo may well be the principal thing to consider when choosing a place to stay. Sometimes it’s about the incredible view, sometimes it’s the power of detail - these hotels make you want to forsake your business or exploration plans and soak the day away in the bathroom.

Ayada Maldives Resort, Magudhuva Island, Maldives

Photo courtesy of Ayada Maldives Resort

One simply cannot go wrong with the choice of a Maldives vacation, but the bathrooms in Ayada’s Ocean Suites are in a class of their own. Given the resort’s unique location amidst the heavenly reef of the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, these over-the-water suites, complete with a spacious outdoor terrace and plunge pool, will make you feel like you want to spend a lifetime on your grooming regimen.

Hyatt on the Bund, Shanghai, China

Photo courtesy of Hyatt on the Bund

You don’t really need in-room entertainment system if you get a suite with an eastern-facing bathroom at Hyatt on the Bund. The tubs are adjacent to enormous floor-to-ceiling windows, which yield occupying views to the super busy Pudong development zone across the Huangpu River.

Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island, Australia

Photo courtesy of Southern Ocean Lodge

The Southern Ocean Lodge is the ultimate in luxury that remains in perfect communion with nature. The open bathroom in the super premium Osprey Pavilion, on the one hand, boasts a hand sculptured granite bath, heated limestone floors and deluxe rain shower, but on the other, looks so simple and light that it conveys the impression of blending into coastal wilderness and touching the horizon.

Rayavadee, Krabi, Thailand

Photo courtesy of Rayavadee

Staying in any of the 100 plus accommodations at Rayavadee, nestled amidst coconut groves and against the limestone cliffs of the Andaman Sea, is an experience of a lifetime. But if you have an unlimited budget, make sure you book into the Rayavadee Villa, complete with a private free-form swimming pool, jacuzzi and lavish ensuite bathroom overlooking the paradisiacal Phranang Beach.

Hotel Seven, Paris, France

Photo courtesy of Hotel Seven

Hotel Seven is a blast with its themed accommodations, including the 007 and Alice in Wonderland suites. The bathroom in The "Lovez-vous" Suite doesn’t have a stupendous view and doesn’t take the breath away overall, but its cowhide bathtub is that little detail that makes a difference.

One&Only Reethi Rah, North Malé Atoll, Maldives

Photo courtesy of One&Only Reethi Rah

Sleek lines, natural colors and no overwhelming embellishments – nothing distracts you from the tropical performance outside the window of the Beach Villa’s bathroom. The oversized tub for two makes you feel like you’ve got a comfy front row seat in the glamorous theater of pristine Maldivian nature.

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, India

Photo courtesy of The Oberoi Amarvilas

If you’re planning to spend your honeymoon in India, there’s no better place than the Oberoi Amarvilas. Most rooms here offer enchanting views (the best in Agra) of the greatest monument of love – the timeless Taj Mahal, and in the Kohinoor Suite, you can even watch her bathe in the pinkish rays of sunset from your lavish bathroom.

La Residence, Franschhoek, South Africa

Photo courtesy of La Residence

A business meeting or a night out are bound to be successful if you do your prep-and-prime in any of La Residence’s bathrooms, whose exuberant décor will make you feel like a royal family member and will sure offer a serious boost in confidence. A personal Hall of Mirrors reminiscent of that in Versailles awaits you in the airy, white marble Frangipani Suite.

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia, West Indies

Photo courtesy of Jade Mountain

Soak in a chromotherapy whirlpool tub and take in the unsurpassed view of the Piti and Gros Piton mountains rising from the lustrous Caribbean Sea. Thanks to the open floor design and the fact that the suites are totally devoid of one wall, the bathing area becomes an integral part of a large sanctuary tucked into an estate of 600 lush tropical acres and remaining in absolute harmony with nature.

Caesar Augustus Hotel and Hotel Punta Tragara, Capri, Italy

Photo courtesy of Caesar Augustus Hotel and Hotel Punta Tragara

Choosing between Caesar Augustus and Punta Tragara when in Capri must be a hard task if the bathroom view is a decisive factor. Both hotels are set high on the cliffs, offering the most spectacular vistas you can find on the whole island, so the only thing that might help you make up your mind is the type of décor. While the Artsuite at Punta Tragara is a sophisticated marriage of simplicity and modernity, the Tiberius Suite at Caesar Augustus is typically Capresian, with a four poster bed, wooden furnishing and classical artworks.

Ponta dos Ganchos Exclusive Resort, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Photo courtesy of Ponta dos Ganchos Exclusive Resort

Dry sauna, oceanfront whirlpool bathtub, a sun-flooded Spa area with massage tatamis, a private deck with comfy Chaise Longues and infinity plunge pool come with the choice of the 2460 sq ft (230m²) Emerald Villa, which will set you back around $2000 per night. The price is actually no shocker – Ponta dos Ganchos is considered one of Brazil’s most exclusive beach resorts and has received numerous awards, including the Most Excellent Hotel in South America and World’s Best Honeymoon Resorts.

Clos du Lethe, Montaren-et-Saint-Médiers, France

Photo courtesy of Clos du Lethe

Clos du Léthé itself is a one-of-a-kind place, so it’s natural that the bathrooms strike with wonder as well. Given that the B&B is a restored stone farmhouse, the rooms (only 5 of them altogether) are reminiscent of Middle Age castle chambers, but there sure is no compromise on quality and comfort.

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, Cape Town, South Africa

Photo courtesy of The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa

Soak yourself in the master bathroom of the Presidential Suite and enjoy views that will soak your soul. The hotel overlooks the UNESCO-protected Table Mountain National Park, with the majestic Twelve Apostles and the Table Mountain proper, which has recently gained New7Wonders of Nature status. With a little dose of luck, you can even spot whales and dolphins performing their playful leaps and spins in the infinity of the Atlantic.

Urbex - an unusual trend in tourism

2013-03-14T22:16:40Z

While some flip the pages of glossy travel catalogs in search for brilliance and sunshine, others scour the world looking for urban decay and descend into its murky dimension. The funny thing is that what the latter do, can totally change your perception of things that are normally considered useless and ugly.

‘Appearances are deceptive’, ‘There’s no accounting for tastes’, ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’ and ‘Beauty is only skin deep’ – they all apply to urban exploration targets. It’s not really certain whether the idea behind urbex is to show that ugliness is not a universal term and that beauty can be found in every single aspect of life (or death), but the truth is that photographic documentations of urbex expeditions are nothing short of artistic brilliance. Of course, it’s not a secret that a skilled shutterbug can turn rubbish into gold, but when you look at the pics, you really feel those rotting, forsaken places do have a beautiful soul that survives death. But let’s get to the basics.

St. Agnes Parish, Detroit by erik_mauer

The core of urban exploration

Known under a variety of names, including urban spelunking, draining, urban hacking or even infiltration, urban exploration is basically exploration of all sorts of man-made structures that either have been abandoned and have fallen into ruin or, quite the contrary, are still active but normally unseen parts of working buildings and urban utilities. From abandoned asylums and power plants to catacombs, storm drains and steam tunnels – the scarier the targets, the merrier (it seems), which naturally brings on the question of legality and safety.

Kolsyrefabriken by pellesten

Legality and safety

Let’s face it, urban exploration is not the safest of hobbies, to the point that the practice is not recommended unless you are trained by a professional. Rotten floors, entrapment hazards, toxic waste, flash floods, broken glass, stray voltage, hostile squatters and guard dogs – urbex comes with a host of inherent dangers and requires profound knowledge of the environment, as well as specialized equipment, including respirators and climbing gear.

Another thing is that from a legal point of view, a considerable number of urban exploration trips may be considered trespassing or burglary, and as acts that often violate local or regional laws may be subject to arrest and punishment. It is important to note, however, that genuine urban explorers are guided by a strict code of conduct that forbids acts of vandalism, damage (locks included) and theft. Some explorers will even request permission for entry in advance.

Main targets of urban exploration

Abandonments

Abandonments are by far the most popular and extensive group of urban exploration targets. Structures such as hospitals, schools, swimming pools, factories, amusement parks and railway stations are filled with an exquisite air of historical mystery and present particularly attractive photographic opportunities.

Carabanchel Prison in Madrid by Alex //Berlin _ Alexander StÃ¼bner

Classroom in Pripyat near Chernobyl by Timm Suess

Tennyson Power Station by Mr Magoo ICU

Michigan Central Station by country_boy_shane

Sanatorium by zeitfaenger.at

Molitor Swimming Pool in Paris by ros k @ getfunky_paris

Château Miranda in Belgium by Bert Kaufmann

Active buildings, rooftops, utility tunnels

Lest you think urban exploration is all about the forgotten and decaying aspects of civilization, active structures receive a lot of attention too. For instance, there's a popular tradition among student to explore steam tunnels on college campuses. This, however, is often regarded as infiltration and involves the greatest risk of legal consequences. Entering places such as mechanical rooms, elevator shafts and utility tunnels with heating pipes obviously carries considerable life hazards.

Industrial tunnel in Toronto by erik_mauer

King Edward Hotel in Toronto by .:Axle:.

Ghost towns

Ghost towns are usually turned into official tourist attractions by virtue of their historical value, but they too constitute an attractive target for urban explorers, especially those without much of a risk-taking streak.

Bodie mine in California by brentbat

Pripyat near Chernobyl by Stuck in Customs

Oradour-sur-Glane by TwoWings

Rocchetta ghost village by pizzodisevo, slowly I will recover

Cemeteries, catacombs and machine graveyards

If you’re an urban explorer, you’ve got to have at least a little dose of morbid interest in death… or perhaps a belief that the apparent end is only a gate to a different quality of existence. Among the most wanted targets are definitely the mines of Paris, despite restrictions and heavy fines. A limited part of the network which has been used as underground ossuary, known as the Catacombs of Paris, can be legally visited, but obviously, there’s a lot more to explore than the 1,7 km long section (a tiny part of a 280 km long network). Urban explorers who illegally tour the mines are called cataphiles.

Mines of Paris by boklm

Liquidator boats at the ship graveyard north of Chernobyl by Timm Suess

Abandoned factory by 55Laney69

Train graveyard at the Railway Museum of Greater Cincinnati by Sideonecincy

Sewer, storm drains, transit tunnels

Often referred to as 'draining' and gathering groups of devoted enthusiasts such as the Cave Clan in Australia, entering storm drains may be considered a separate form of urban exploration. So unyielding is the curiosity of certain explorers that they even enter sanitary sewers, which are by the way considered the most dangerous targets due to risk of poisoning by toxic gases.

Drain system by erik_mauer

Broad Street Aqueduct in Rochester, NY by Mr Magoo ICU

Old tracks in Bergen by *JRFoto*

Storm drain in Brisbaneby Mr Magoo ICU

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Are you an urban explorer? Do tell us about your targets and motivations!

Pedestrian Bridges You’ll Be Scared to Cross

2013-03-04T16:06:51Z

There’s a recognized anxiety disorder brought about by the abnormal and persistent fear of crossing bridges – gephyrophobia. But when a row of rotting wooden planks, held aloft by frayed ropes and rusty wires, stretches out in front of you, even the sanest may take a step back. From sky-high concrete walkways to rickety rope bridges, have a look at some of the scariest foot crossings around the world.

Trift Bridge, Gadmen, Switzerland

Trift Bridge by Kwo wiki

Poised 100 meters (330ft) above an amazingly colored glacial lake and totaling 170 meters (560 ft) in length, the bridge is a crowning to the adrenergic alpine experience. To get the chance of even looking at it, one needs to brave a cable car ride and a 90-minute hike, so it’s triple fun if you have a head for heights and a penchant for risk-taking. Otherwise, think twice.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge by Qole Pejorian

Spanning 20 meters and swinging high above the raging waves, the bridge links the mainland near Ballintoy, County Antrim, to the miniature Carrick Island and today looks quite elaborate, compared to what it was like some years ago. If you find it scary now as you balance 30 meters above the rocky chasm, imagine the crossing with only one handrail and huge gaps between the slats!

Capilano Suspension Bridge, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Capilano Suspension Bridge by David J Laporte

For a walk among the tops of old-growth Douglas Fir trees, head to a private nature preserve on the Capilano River in the District of North Vancouver. The major attraction – a 140 meter (460 ft) long simple suspension bridge traversing 70 meters (230 ft) above the river – is only a prelude to the treetops adventure sensu stricto. In the heart of the park, seven elevated suspension bridges, some reaching as high as 30m (100 ft) above the forest floor, enable visitors to “jump” from one tree to another. The so-called Cliffwalk Adventure, on the other hand, gives you a chance to peek into the canyon from a series of suspended walkways jutting out from the granite cliff face above Capilano River.

Aiguille du Midi Bridge, Chamonix, France

Aiguille du Midi Bridge by GiÃ¥m

The bridge may be short and apparently stable, but the key fear factor here is the height and location. Suspended at 12,605 ft (3842 m) above sea level between two cliffs in the Mont Blanc Massif, the walkway offers breathtaking views of the Swiss, French and Italian Alps, as well as a hair-raising glance into the void … if you dare to look down.

Getting to the top is no easy feat either, especially is you don't enjoy heights. The Aiguille du Midi cable car leaves Chamonix at 1,035 m above sea level and drops you off at 3,777 m, which translates into an altitude gain of over 2,800 m and the record of the world’s highest vertical ascent cable car.

Canopy Walkway, Kakum National Park, Ghana

Canopy Walkway by Chiappinik

The Canopy Walkway is a series of net-protected hanging bridges soaring over a length of 330 m (1,080 ft) among the treetops of Kakum National Park’s virginal forest. At 40 m (130 ft) above the forest floor, visitors can have a unique close-up experience of indigenous fauna and flora in a vantage point that would otherwise be inaccessible to people. The park boasts such rare animals as the endangered Mona monkey, as well as pygmy elephants, forest buffalo, civet cats, 269 species of birds and more than 500 types of butterflies.

Hussaini Suspension Bridge, Hunza, Pakistan

Hussaini Suspension Bridge by Yodod

Pakistan is known for its precarious suspension bridges, and the collapsing Hussaini is a real cherry on top of the notoriety cake. Consistently dubbed as the most dangerous rope bridge in the world, it spans 193 meters (635 ft), hangs treacherously high above the Borit Lake and misses way too many wooden planks. Surprisingly, the long and dangerous walk is a daily bread for the locals who couldn't reach the larger cities of northern Pakistan otherwise. For tourists, it’s most of the time a harrowing experience, and the sight of a collapsed bridge that runs parallel certainly doesn’t make things any easier.

Langkawi Sky Bridge, Langkawi, Malaysia

Langkawi Sky Bridge by The Dilly Lama

The Langkawi Sky Bridge easily counts in a number of bridge rankings: the scariest, the weirdest, the remotest, the most crooked or beautiful – you name it, it’s got it. The curvy walkway rises 609 meters (2000ft) above sea level and yields an amazing panorama of the archipelago. But… there’s one “but” – to get to the bridge, you need to take a hair-raising 2.2 km (1.4 mi) long cable car ride in a tiny gondola that takes you from the bay to the peak of Gunung Machinchang. The whole experience can really give you the creeps, but the views that you get from up there are worth a night full of nightmares about falling into the abyss.

Ojuela Bridge, Mapimi, Mexico

Ojuela Bridge by Fenerty

La Ojuela would probably be a forgotten ghost town if it wasn’t for the 318 meter (1043 ft) long wooden suspension bridge that connects the tiny mining settlement with the site of the exhausted goldmine. A fantastic engineering achievement, the bridge has been restored as a tourist attraction and today draws crowds to northeast Durango. Although the wooden construction looks quite stable, the atmosphere of the abandoned town can turn the walk into a real challenge for the nerves.

Titlis Cliff Walk, Engelberg, Switzerland

Titlis Cliff Walk by www.titlis.ch

Don’t look down. At an altitude of over 3,000 meters above sea level, you’ll want to keep your eyes fixed on the panorama of the snow-clad mountains, especially that there’s a 500 meter deep gap below your feet. The Titlis Cliff Walk is hailed to be the highest elevation suspension bridge in Europe and by far the best vantage point to take in the grandeur of the Swiss Alps. To do so, however, you’ll need to pluck up a lot of courage.

Royal Gorge Bridge, Cañon City, CO, USA

Royal Gorge Bridge by SidewaysSarah

Consistently mentioned among 10 scariest nightmares of an acrophobe, the Royal Gorge Bridge spans the Arkansas River at a height of 291 meters (955 ft) and makes for a spine-chilling quarter-mile journey. Interestingly enough, the bridge was not erected for transportation purposes but with the sole intent to serve as a tourist attraction. Money well spent?

The Best Beach of the Year

2013-02-27T11:50:52Z

TripAdvisor has just named the world’s best beach, drawing on feedback from travelers over the last 12 months. The community has chosen Rabbit Beach on Sicily’s satellite island, Lampedusa, as the most desired spot on Earth to unwind on sand and soak up the sun. As part of the vote, "best hotels" and "best hotels for romance" have also been awarded.

The Rabbit Beach

Lampedusa, located more than 100 miles off the coast of Sicily, is officially part of the Sicilian province of Agrigento. The pristine nature reserve is one of the few places in the Mediterranean where loggerhead sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs. Rabbit Beach – a stretch of fine sand hugged by golden rocks and lapped by turquoise waters – has been consistently voted by international travelers as the world’s best beach, despite its limited capacity and overcrowding that obviously results from its growing fame.

Rabbit Beach by Figiu

Rabbit Island by Jeffrey Sciberras

Rabbit Island by _topo_

Grace Beach

A runner-up in the vote, Grace Beach on the Providenciales island in the Turks and Caicos archipelago, has conquered travelers’ hearts with its crystal clear waters, snow-white sand, peaceful ambiance and the world's third largest coral reef. Providenciales itself was ranked the best beach destination in the world by TripAdvisor in 2011.

Grace Beach by Montreal Photo Chick

Grace Beach by ben.ramirez

Grace Beach by digitizedchaos

Whitehaven Beach

Australia’s Whitehaven Beach, an inveterate favorite on “most beautiful beaches” lists, came in third. Lying in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, off the central coast of Queensland, the 74 Whitesunday Islands, and the Whiteheaven Beach in particular, are truly a wonder of nature. The fabulous mosaic of snow-white sand showing through the azure waters is not to be seen anywhere else in the world.

Whitehaven Beach by Damien Dempsey

Whitehaven Beach by krossbow

Whitehaven Beach by Jeremy Vandel

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu - Best Hotel

“The site of the hotel is beyond lovely—nestled on the shore among the blackened lava flows and banyan trees. I can't speak to the area around the resort, because it's so beautiful that honestly, you don't feel the desire to venture out”, says one of the lucky chaps who stayed in the resort, and this actually says it all. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, on the Kona-Kohala Coast of the island of Hawaiʻi, is a perfect example of a design that builds upon the landscape’s incredible features and fits neatly into the surroundings. Best available room rates oscillate between $900 and $1100.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Anastasis Apartments - Best Hotel for Romance

Located on the outskirts of the village of Imerovigli, on the world-famed Greek island of Santorini, the Anastasis Apartment is where natural beauty, privacy and high-class pampering combine to make those romantic one-on-one moments truly unforgettable. Infinity pool, Jacuzzis overlooking the Caldera cliffs, fabulous spa treatments and breakfasts served on your balcony do help to foster the relationship. Prices start at €200 in low season.

Anastasis Apartments

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu - Best Hotel

Scared of heights? Stay away from these places!

2013-02-20T10:56:39Z

One man’s thrill is another man’s horror, especially when it comes to movie tastes … and heights. While some specifically put “the highest”, “the tallest” and “the most exposed” on their travel radars, others can’t even think of an ascent without vertigo and nausea. If you don’t have a head for heights, stay away from these 11 stomach-churners.

Langkawi Cable Car, Malaysia

The Langkawi Cable Car by AndyLawson

Oh my, the views are awe-inspiring, but when you’re cooped up in a metal box hanging ominously high above the bay, the only thing you may want to do is stick your head between your knees and beg for God’s mercy. The total length of the line, which takes you from the bay to the peak of Gunung Machinchang, is 2.2 km (1.4 mi). On top, at about 708 meters above sea level, you may enjoy a drink and a fabulous panorama of what’s officially known as Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah … if you dare to look around.

Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE

Burj Khalifa by Aheilner

When coming to Dubai, one needs to realize that they have a thing for, well, size. At least when it comes to architecture and entertainment. The unrelenting ambition to be the largest, tallest and most grandiose has turned Dubai into a bustling economic oasis with glitzy office blocks and hotels that virtually cut the sky, of which Burj Khalifa is a perfect example.

At 829.8 m (2,722 ft), the building is currently the tallest man-made structure in the world, with 163 floors, world’s highest restaurant, and second highest outdoor observation deck. If you’re definitely not going up, you may chant your share of ahs and ohs in the world's largest shopping center, the Dubai Mall.

Aiguille du Midi, Mont Blanc Massif, France

Aiguille du Midi by Giam

This is the closest you can get to Mont Blanc without climbing, but it’s really hard to say which route is the worse devil. The Aiguille du Midi cable car leaves Chamonix at 1,035 m above sea level and drops you off at 3,777 m (plus the elevator to the top terrace), which translates into an altitude gain of over 2,800 m and the record of the world’s highest vertical ascent cable car. Once up in the clouds, you’ve got a choice of several viewing platforms, including a real cherry on top – a pedestrian bridge suspended between the two cliffs of the Aiguille du Midi.

Kingda Ka Rollercoaster, New Jersey, USA

Kingda Ka by Stefan Cornelissen

One doesn’t have to be acrophobic to feel their stomachs go queasy on this! Kingda Ka may have given the speed laurels over to Abu Dhabi and its Formula Rossa, but it still holds the record of the world’s tallest roller coaster. Within merely 30 seconds, riders are rocketed 139 m (456 ft) up towards the sky, and then plunge vertically into a 270-degree spiral at full speed, which, strictly speaking, boils down to the acceleration from 0 to 128 miles per hour (0 to 206 km/h) in 3.5 seconds. Height and hell-bent speed may for some prove an unbearable combination.

Hanging Monastery, Mt. Hengshan, China

Hanging Monastery by BRUNNER Emmanuel

How has such a faint-looking structure survived over 1400 years, withstanding winds, storms, erosion and general wear, no one really knows. Clinging to a vertical cliff face in the Datong area and supported by oak crossbeams fitted into the rock, the Hanging Temple is an architectural wonder and a tourist attraction that should perhaps be avoided if heights are not your cup of (green) tea.

Grand Canyon Skywalk, Arizona, USA

Grand Canyon Skywalk by turbona

The Skywalk is hanging over a cliff, some 3,600 feet above the Colorado River Valley, which means it rises higher above the ground than the world’s tallest skyscrapers. Its glass-bottomed, horseshoe-shaped walkway extends 70 feet out over the West Rim of the Grand Canyon and offers a one-of-a-kind chance (barring the helicopter tour) to hover above and peek into the void through a crystal clear glass flooring 2 ½ inches thick. Not for the faint-hearted!

Sidu River Bridge, Hubei, China

Sidu River Bridge by Glabb

Spanning a 500 m (1,600 ft) deep valley, the Sidu River Bridge consumed approximately US$100 million in construction and currently holds the record as the world’s highest bridge. Architecture buffs will be delighted at the opportunity to cross the unquestionable engineering marvel. For an acrophobe, it may be the longest 1,222 m (4,009 ft) ride ever.

Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Petronas Towers by Luke Watson

At 451.9 m (1,483 ft), the landmark twin towers erected in Kuala Lumpur used to be the tallest buildings in the world, until surpassed by the Taipei World Financial Center (later intimidated by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai). However, unlike its grandiose rivals, the structure offers a one-of-a-kind chance to cross between the towers at the level of the 41st and 42nd floors.

The 58 m (190 ft) long double decker skybridge slides in and out of the towers 170 m (558 ft) above the ground and is officially regarded as the highest 2-story bridge in the world. Oh, if you care to know, the towers sway a little during high winds).

Meteora, Greece

Meteora by Danel Solabarietta

Seeking retreat from the expanding Turkish occupation, the Eastern Orthodox monks found a perfect asylum on the inaccessible rock pillars. Out of over twenty monasteries that used to perch on the steep rocks, only six remain today constituting one of the most important complexes in the country. ‘Suspended in the air' as the name translates, the monasteries are accessible only by steps cut into the rock formations, so if you suffer for a severe case of acrophobia, just raise your head and enjoy the views from the bottom.

Tren a las Nubes, Salta Province, Argentina

La Polvorilla by Boaz Tzur

29 bridges, 21 tunnels, 13 viaducts, 2 spirals, 2 zigzags and the status of the third highest railway in the world – that’s Tren a las Nubes in numbers. Enough for a person scared of heights to choose an alternative route, or to avoid looking out the window. The latter makes little point, though. The service, which connects the Argentine Northwest with the Chilean border in the Andes, is primarily a tourist attraction, sought exactly for the scenic views and the thrill. Otherwise, it’s just a regular train ride. The highest point of the line is the 70 m (230 ft) high viaduct La Polvorilla at 4,220 m (13,850 ft) above sea level. A round trip takes 15 hours and covers a distance of 434 km (270 mi).

Caminito del Rey, El Chorro, Spain

Caminito del Rey by lukasz dzierzanowski

El Caminito del Rey (the King's little pathway) is probably the scariest and most challenging of the so-called via ferratas (iron roads), which is a group of mountain walkways considered the world’s most dangerous hiking routes. Constructed in 1905 for the workers building the hydroelectric power plants, the passageway is glued to the steep walls of a narrow gorge and rises over 100 meters (350 ft) above the river.

While in its heyday the walkway was fit even for King Alfonso XIII, it has fallen into disrepair over years and today should be attempted only by those who value the intensity of life over its length. Some parts of the concrete path have collapsed, there is no handrail and the stability of the cable that runs along the length of the path is actually unknown.

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Up we go?

Beach Parties to Remember for a Lifetime

2013-02-02T11:40:35Z

Want to get raving with sand between your toes and the sun on your back? Here are 10 beaches with global notoriety as the hottest open-air party spots, where clothing’s optional, music pounds from every angle and virtually anything might happen.

Paradise Beach, Mykonos, Greece

Little Venice by Bracketing Life

If you choose the Cyclades for a soothing, relaxing vacation away from it all, steer clear from Mykonos, and from Paradise Beach in particular. Once a low-key nudist beach, today Paradise is Greece's number one open-air clubbing venue, catering primarily to the young set, including international celebrities and supermodels. Another serious party affair goes on at Psarou Beach, which is a little less known, but in no way less rowdy. Thanks to its nonjudgmental hospitality, Mykonos has earned the status of one of the most gay culture-friendly islands in the world.

Elias Beach by Nervous Energy

Punta Cancun, Cancun, Mexico

Aerial shot of Cancun by PriceTravel pictures

Easily competing with other Caribbean destinations, the Riviera Maya is packed with top class attraction, luxury accommodations, scenic spots, fabulous climate ... and a nonstop party atmosphere, i.e. everything fun-loving folk need to enjoy their vacation. Punta Cancun, which hosts the majority of nightclubs, bars and restaurants, is the hub of the wildest party action. Some of the most famous places include Coco Bongo, Dady´O and The City. Warning: tequila flows in rivers!

Beach party by swerdroid

Zrce Beach, Novalja, Pag Island, Croatia

Pag by Karel Hrdina

Croatia is rapidly becoming one of the hottest party scenes in Europe and Zrće Beach, on the island of Pag, is perhaps the best place to see for oneself this newly gained status is so very right. Partying starts quite early, clothing is optional and lusts run high. Host to legendary clubs, sizzling beach parties and plenty of options to chill out and cure the post-party headache, Pag is on the best way to become a close competitor for Ibiza as the most forward thinking clubbing spots around.

Zrce beach party by Sobrecroacia.com

White Beach, Boracay, Philippines

Boracay by The Wandering Angel

When one thinks of the Philippines, images of forgotten islands, idyllic beaches and secluded coves come up. Boracay sure fits the picture in terms of beauty, but when the sun goes down, its major beaches are far from lonely and angelic. In fact, Boracay’s reputation used to be so raucous that regular visitors took the pledge of secrecy to make sure what happened in Boracay, stayed in Boracay. White Beach, which runs for over two miles, is the center of party events here and offers the best hope of sweet trouble.

Glamour Fun by -Gep-

Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa, Cyprus

Nissi Beach Hotel Resort

The one and only beach in Ayia Napa (if not the whole Cyprus) to go partying, Nissi is more about blink, makeup and posing than relaxed sunbathing and water activities. While the eastern end of the beach is fairly quiet, the central area, with the notorious Nissi Bay Beach Bar, is all about loud music, foam parties and wet t-shirt competitions. The best day for a memorable, no-limit party on Nissi beach is Sunday.

Bar in Ayia Napa by AyiaNapafun

Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast City, Australia

Gold Coast by the_beekeeper001

Don’t let the name fool you - Surfers Paradise is not only about chasing after that awesome wave. Over the past fifty years, the suburb has grown into a major party hotspot, with dozens of clubs, pubs and a good share of open-air festivals, most notably during June and July. Plus Surfers Paradise enjoys the status of the largest single venue for the Schoolies, featuring live music and youth-themed activities in late November and early December, when high-school graduates take their traditional week-long holidays following the end of their final exams.

Paradise Beach by night nu paul's parking

Rimini, Italy

Early morning at the beach by Siri B.L.

The once worn-out resort of Rimini has undergone a serious revamp and is currently being dubbed as Italy's bold answer to Ibiza. No longer a cozy family holiday destination, Rimini with its 15-mile-long beach attracts the young and the glamorous with hottest bars, clubs and beach parties on offer. As it has quickly become a place to see and be seen, celebrities can be spotted on a regular basis, including the greatest Italy lover, George Clooney. The best thing about Rimini, however, is that despite its glamorous vibe, the town remains unpretentious and you don’t need to worry if your body does not fit the Victoria’s Secret standards.

Rimini beaches by Piiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiinna

Haad Rin Nok, Koh Phangan, Thailand

Viewpoint at Bottle Beach by Christian Haugen

The Haad Rin Nok beach may be a mere 800 meters long, but on Full Moon Party nights you could swear it stretches to the size and capacity of Copacabana on New Year’s Eve. It started off as a modest party thrown by a group of tourists who reckoned the moon was particularly beautiful over Koh Phangan. Today, the monthly parties gather up to 30,000 people, who give themselves to dusk-to-dawn revelry, complete with dozens of powerful sound systems, juggling, fire-jumping, fireworks displays and other more or less legal attractions. The background of fabulous climate, heavenly scenery and the magic of the full moon can mean only one thing – Koh Phangan is home to some of the most notorious parties on the planet.

Full Moon Party by eddy_

Las Salinas, Ibiza, Spain

Evening in the port by oksidor

Not much needs to be said about Ibiza’s party scene. The island has gained a mythical status across the globe and the very mention of its name makes the eyes of the most hardcore ravers open wide in party alert mode. All around the clock, inhibitions run low, clothing is optional and music dictates the rhythm of the heart. Fabulous beaches are aplenty, but if you want to mix with the very wealthy and the very beautiful, wearing as little fabric and as much glam as possible, then Las Salinas is the place to go. If you have one of the “fat days” or can’t cope with your complexes – stay away!

Ushuaia Closing Party by Nemesis Design

Big Vagator, Goa, India

Big Vagator Beach with Fort Chapora by Dominik Hundhammer

Goa no longer deserves its old reputation of "anything goes" sort of place, with sick parties and weird intoxication practices, but bonfires, all-night raves and spontaneous outdoor DJ sets are still on the party animal’s menu here. If you opt for pretty laid-back, backpacker-style kind of fun, head to the Vagator beach, which is a brilliant spot for relaxation by day and a mystical stage for nighttime merrymaking. A curious thing, Palolem Beach is famous for the so-called “silent noise party,” where visitors dance the night away with headphones on.

Royal Enfield Rider Mania by ⌡K

Remote Hotels - Holidays at the End of the World

2013-01-25T10:51:03Z

Getting there is no walk in the park, but if you really want to get away from it all, these places are definitely worth that extra mile. And when we say ‘get away from it all’, we really mean it. In most cases you’ll have to endure the discomforts of a multistage journey, but once you get cozy in your secluded refuge and breath in the air of liberating isolation, you’ll forget any inconvenience in a split second.

Tutka Bay Lodge, Homer, Alaska

Photo courtesy: Tutka Bay Lodge

Tutka Bay Lodge, which comprises a main lodge, six private guest cabins, a sauna, hot tub, boat house and a picturesque connecting boardwalk, is a ten-acre property hidden at the southern end of Kachemak Bay, near Homer. You’ll spend your days navigating the fjord in a kayak, deep-sea fishing and whale watching, observing the tides roll in and out, exploring the rugged coastline in a rowboat, meeting local artists, doing some morning yoga on the deck and soothing your mind in the spruce forests. And that’s just a tenth of the available activities.

Access to the lodge is by a twenty-five minute water taxi from Homer. To get to Homer, you have a choice of about a 5-hour drive from Anchorage by rental car or flying on Era Aviation. Another option that gets you directly to the lodge dock is to charter a flight from Anchorage.

Photo courtesy: Tutka Bay Lodge

Song Kul Yurt Camp, Song Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan

Photo courtesy: Ondřej Žváček

Called the Switzerland of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan spoils for choice with wild outdoor adventures. The jaw-dropping vistas of unclimbed rock faces, pristine valleys, alpine pastures and lakes make for a trekking oasis of solitude and soothing calmness. You’ll be lucky to see a soul.

The backpacker’s dream is topped off with the ability to "make a booking" with a shepherd family to stay in a traditional yurt and get a first-hand experience of a nomadic lifestyle. The yurt camps along the fabulous Song Kul lake are only one option, but offer perhaps the most staggering “window views”.

Photo courtesy: peretzp

Voyages Longitude 131°, Ayers Rock, Australia

Photo courtesy: Longitude 131°

If you’re thinking of really straying off the beaten track but care for comfort, there’s no better way to experience the Outback than at the award-winning Voyages Longitude 131°, overlooking the sacred Uluru. White roofs and fabric drapings create an exhilarating illusion of secluded camp life when the comfortable, elegant interiors allow for sublime relaxation.

There are only 15 tents (each pays homage to an early Australian pioneer or explorer), which means that you get to share the splendor and magnitude of Uluru with only a few fellow vacationers. Direct flights into Ayers Rock Airport are available from Alice Springs, Sydney, Cairns and Perth. A 4wd transfer to Longitude 131° meets every scheduled flight. For helicopter transfers reservations are essential.

Photo courtesy: Longitude 131°

Beach House, Manafaru, Maldives

Photo courtesy: www.beachhousecollection.com

Practically all visitors arrive at Malé International Airport, which is served by a wide array of flights from all over Asia and an increasing number of charters from Europe. Once there, you’re only a 70-minut luxurious seaplane ride away from what most people would easily call paradise.

Here, on a tiny island amidst the Haa Alif atoll, guests can ponder the turquoise infinity from their private thatched villas perched over the sparkling lagoon, watch the gold-fretted sunsets over exquisite meals and roll in snow white sand to their hearts’ content. The Beach House experience is all about remoteness, intimacy, pampering and eye-caressing images.

Photo courtesy: www.beachhousecollection.com

Amangiri, Canyon Point, UT, USA

Photo courtesy: www.amanresorts.com

Amangiri stands boldly in the harsh, sun-dried and solitary corner of Utah, and makes for such an incredible experience that you may even end up feeling you’re part of some sort of collective fata morgana. Tucked in the heart of the canyon country, with sweeping views of Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument, it boasts comforts of a top-end hotel, with desert view suites, central pool, fabulous spa therapies, fitness center and yoga pavilion.

Amangiri provides complimentary 25-minute transfers between the resort and Page Airport. Car transfer is also possible between the resort and St George, UT, Flagstaff and Phoenix, AZ and Las Vegas, NV.

Photo courtesy: www.amanresorts.com

Hotel Arctic, Ilulissat, Greenland

Photo courtesy: www.hotelarctic.com

Situated right on the edge of the UNESCO-protected Ilulissat Ice Fjord, Hotel Arctic is a comfortable, 4-star base in the not so easy living conditions of Greenland. Even if you go for a little more authentic experience and stay in one of the hotel’s igloo cabins (available from May to September), you end up in a neat, cozy interior … yet with the chance to watch huge icebergs drift by in the distance. As the world’s most northerly hotel of such class, Hotel Arctic combines splendid services and homelike facilities with the unique experience of isolation and harsh nature that comes right up to the door.

To get to Hotel Arctic, you need to land at Kangerlussuaq (there are regular weekly flights from Copenhagen) and then take a 45 minute flight north to Ilulissat, where you will be collected by hotel staff.

Photo courtesy: www.hotelarctic.com

Chole Mjini, Mafia Island, Tanzania

Photo courtesy: www.cholemjini.com

Mafia Island doesn’t sound like it’s going to be a trouble-free vacation, but don’t let the name put you off. In fact, it is a serene, truly unspoiled and peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and a world-class diving destination. Short flights to Mafia Island are operated from Dar es Salaam, which is served internationally by relatively few airports, and that’s probably the only difficulty you have to prepare for.

Chole Mjini itself has been called one of Africa's most remarkable hotels and it’s indeed one of the most unusual places you’ll get to stay in on holiday. For all those who can’t make up their minds whether to play Tarzan and Jane or succumb to One Thousand and One Nights type of romance, Chole Mjini comes as the solution. With king-size beds and breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean, the thatched tree houses set on huge Baobabs provide a perfect background for a fairytale experience.

Photo courtesy: www.cholemjini.com

Shakti 360º Leti, Kumaon, India

Photo courtesy: www.shaktihimalaya.com

Getting there can be a nuisance, unless you believe the journey is an adventure itself. Whatever transfer option from Delhi you choose, be it a charter flight or an overnight 7-hour train ride, there’s still at least a 4-hour drive and an hour walk to the camp ahead. But once you rest your weary body on the planter’s chair in front of the lodge, you’ll be graced with the most stunning mountain scenery you can think of and the whole frustration of long hours en route will vanish into thin, Himalayan air.

Photo courtesy: www.shaktihimalaya.com

Posada de Mike Rapu, Easter Island, Polynesia

Photo courtesy: www.explora.com

The spaceshiplike architecture of Posada de Mike Rapu might seem like a certain violation of the island’s mystical character, but rest assured that the design is intended to have minimal impact on its surroundings and great efforts are taken here to promote the idea of responsible tourism. Numerous guided explorations will give you an authentic insight into the island’s ancestral heritage and the idiosyncrasies of its people.

Rapa Nui is claimed to be the remotest inhabited island in the world and you’ll quickly realize that when planning for the trip. It is accessible by regular commercial air service to Hanga Roa, but the routes to get there are very limited and, with no competition, fares can run rather high.

Photo courtesy: travelwayoflife

Ariau Amazon Towers, Manaus, Brazil

Photo courtesy: www.ariauamazontowers.com

The Amazon may not be the remotest place in the world, but it certainly is an epitome of wilderness and isolation. Nestled among the rainforest treetops, where the Rio Negro becomes an ocean, the Ariau Amazon Towers is where you can reconnect with your primordial instincts and blend into the virginal eco-system.

Up in the Tree Houses and Tarzan Suites, among vines, lianas and colorful bromeliads, you will get up close and personal with parrots, huge butterflies, friendly monkeys and whatever else drops in for a visit. The less adventurous can enjoy the comforts of standard, air-conditioned rooms and suites, without losing much of the real Amazon experience. Ariau's premises are built entirely at the level of the rainforest canopy and linked together by 6 km of sturdy wooden catwalks.

Photo courtesy: www.ariauamazontowers.com