Croatia

Croatia: A Country Loved By Travel Agents

When travel agents love a vacation destination, you can be pretty sure that it’s a great place to visit. It may surprise you that Croatia is just that place. If you ask travel agents about Croatia, the chances are they will sing its praises. But don’t take our word for it. Here we have several reasons to consider this beautiful Eastern European country.

Located on the Adriatic Sea, the coastline of Croatia is breathtaking in its own right, but there is more to this country than its coastline that allows for fishing, scuba, swimming, and even yachting. The Dinaric Alps are sure to impress hikers and photographers of all levels. The landscape of Croatia will not leave sightseers disappointed.

In addition to its natural beauty, Croatia offers many attractions to satisfy just about any interest. Golfing, shopping, nightlife, and art galleries are all available, and that doesn’t even include the historic attractions, that include Roman ruins.

Restaurants and cafes are everywhere in the cities, and most are locally owned by families who genuinely love to greet their guests. But don’t expect the hurried lunch styles of America. This country loves to relax and enjoy their food and conversation. From coffee to food to drinks, Croatia’s cafes offer something for everyone.

Perhaps you want something a bit stronger to drink. Croatia has many beers and wines at local cafes, and many are sold at the morning markets found in most cities and towns.  These markets also offer pastries, olive oil, prosciutto, fruits, vegetables, and more. These local vendors offer a variety of items, many of which can be sampled.

Don’t worry about your safety in Croatia. Travel agents felt very safe in Croatia, whether taking walks and hikes alone, or enjoying the nightlife with friends. And English is widely spoken there, so English-speaking visitors will have no problem getting directions or asking for help.

WiFi seems to be available everywhere, from bus terminals to inside the buses themselves, even in the parks. But you will want to put your phone away to enjoy the natural sights of this gorgeous country. So, ask a travel agent, and find out for yourself if Croatia is the destination for you. We think you will be glad that you did. 

Chile

Chile: What Will You Find?

There are many legends of the ancient times of Chile. Researchers have found man-made mounds in the sand between the ocean and the mountains, and it is still unclear why they are there. As travelers, we are intrigued about this thin strip of mountainous land called Chile, and we want to get to know it as well as possible. Luckily, there are many adventures to be had in this small country, so maybe it’s time to get an itinerary started. Travelpulse.com has many ideas that can help Chile’s travelers cross items off their bucket list.

So, what is there to do in Chile? More than you may know. Of course, the Pacific coastline offers parasailing and coastal fun, but Chile has other waterways that thrill-seekers and leisurely floaters alike will enjoy. The Futaleufu River in Patagonia is sure to provide a list of adventures. The high-speed rapids make for exciting rafting trips, and the river even has Class 5 rapids that are only for the bravest of heart. But for those who desire a more relaxed river experience, the Futaleufu does have a less dramatic section that offers a “lazy river” experience.

But there is more to Chile than awesome water-filled experiences. Skydiving may be perfect for checking out the Chilean scenery from a bird’s eye view. And for those who want to do more than just view the country, the diverse terrain offers many exciting activities to keep you busy. For example, you can create your own personal X Games on a mountain bike with several routes to choose from. Paths vary in difficulty, from a scenic stretch near the Pacific coastline, to the rougher paths that run through steep mountains and foothills. It’s time to get on your bike and ride.

It may be unexpected to find ice in a tropical country like Chile, but there is an actual glacier nestled in an ice field that provides breathtaking views. On the way to the glacier, you can find many ice formations and frozen caves to discover.

Then, of course, there are the mountains. Chile has many mountains, and even boasts the highest volcano in the world. With incredible views and various photo opportunities, this is every mountain-climber’s dream.

So get started on an outdoor adventure that brings you both fire and ice, mountains and oceans, and adventure and awe. The time to visit Chile is now!

Colorado

Colorado Fun: Don’t Overlook Summer

Colorado gives us images of snow-capped mountains that make for great skiing, with visions of renowned ski lodges and resorts. While this image is accurate, there is more to Colorado than just winter activities. The Centennial State can be a summer playground as well. In fact, travelagewest.com claims that more guests visit Colorado in the summer than they do in the winter. So maybe it’s time to see what Colorado can offer us in the summertime.

Those beautiful mountains are for more than just skiing, Visitors to the state can have fun hiking, climbing, ziplining, and even explore the adventure of alpine slides. In addition, the state’s picture-perfect scenery provides us with memorable sight-seeing.

According to travelagewest.com, the U.S. Forest Service finalized a policy which allows ski areas the access of natural resources for summer activities. This has resulted in more year-round tourism, and gives visitors much to do.

These summer activities include The Aspen Snowmass. Originally open for skiing, this area will begin an outdoor adventure in 2018, and will offer ziplining, naturalist walks, and many photo opportunities of the area’s breathtaking scenery.

The Breckenridge Ski Resort has been an established family ski resort for decades, but in 1979, it introduced the Alpine Slide. In the interest of expansion, it now offers zipline tours, climbing walls, and a challenge course.

Copper Mountain has many activities for families, such as minigolf, bumper-boat rentals, go-karts, and much more. There are also many local events in the area for kids and adults, and more are added all the time.

Steamboat Springs has so much to see and do, they offer a bucket list for guests to help plan their adventures. Roller coasters, steamboat boat adventures, hiking and more will entertain visitors, and the list of experiences are sure to keep them coming back.

With all there is to see in do, we’re sure you will agree that Colorado is not just for winter anymore.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City: For Those Who Love The City Life

For those who like the hustle and bustle of city life, Ho Chi Minh City may be for you. Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is, unsurprisingly, the largest city in Vietnam. There is so much going on here, visitors may feel overwhelmed upon arrival. But once the shock of motorbikes passing by and cars with drivers who seem to really like honking their horns wears off, there is much to appreciate in this metropolitan area.

Finding something to do and see is no problem in Ho Chi Minh City, nor is finding trendy eateries, pubs, and coffee shops. In an article by travelweekly.com, we see that this Vietnamese city has much to offer the curious traveler.

Where to eat: There is no reason to be hungry in Ho Chi Minh City, as the city explodes with the tastes of not only Asian food, but many other ethnic eats. Of course, traditional Vietnamese fare is abundant, but other pan-Asian food is available, as well as Italian-style small plate fare, Dutch-inspired cafes, and American and European favorites.

Perhaps something to drink: Just like other parts of the world, Ho Chi Minh City has a Starbucks on every corner, but there are several other coffee shops to enjoy, including smaller, local shops located on the streets, tucked in corners, and one located on the fourth floor that boasts an adventure just to get there.

What to see: There is much to see in this city, including the War Remnants Museum that features photos and other displays from the Vietnam War. Many river cruises offer excursions that showcase unique views of the city and surrounding areas. Independence Palace, also known as Reunification Palace, offer midcentury design, unchanged since the 1970’s.

Things to buy: Local produce and other food items, as well as keepsakes and souvenirs of the city can be found at the Ben Thanh Market. There are also several storefront shops throughout the city.

How to get around: When visiting this fast-paced city, travelers may decide to take a break from walking and rent a scooter or take a cycle rickshaw tour around the city.

Stay awhile: No need to leave Ho Chi Minh City too quickly, as there are hotels for every budget, including the Reverie Saigon which has an upscale, European feel.

Visiting Southeast Asia shows visitors how diverse the area can be, but once in Ho Chi Minh City, there is no doubt that you are no longer in a quiet rural area. Take in all the city has to offer, and enjoy the sights and sounds of this amazing place.

Normandy

Normandy: A Place of Remembrance

Most of us think of World War II when we hear the name Normandy, and with good reason. Home to the largest amphibious assault in history, the invasion of Normandy will forever be a large part of history. But this region in Northern France offers more than just a rich history; it offers a magnificent present that respects its past. Travelweekly.com sums up why Normandy is the perfect vacation destination for history buffs and modern day travelers alike.

With Normandy’s extensive history, it is no wonder there are so many museums. The Archbishop’s Palace in Rouen is best known for the palace in which Joan of Arc was sentenced to death. Today, it pays tribute to the saint with tours that include audio guides, prearranged tours, film clips, and actor portrayals of the trial. In addition, art work can be appreciated as visitors tour the palace.

For those who like more recent history, two museums offer visitors history and experience of D-Day at Normandy. Dead Man’s Corner Museum opened in 2015 in a hanger to house the artillery, aircraft, and machinery used in the campaign. Visitors can get a first-hand feel of the aircraft, as “rides” mocking paratroopers on a C-47 are available.

The Civilians in Wartime Memorial in Falaise opened in 2016 and displays scenery of the war from a civilian’s point of view of WWII. Ruins of houses that were bombed by allied forces are open for touring.  

Besides the historical sites, Normandy offers visitors modern day activities as well. The Lawn Tennis Club of Deauville opened in June of 2016, and is home to the first grass court tennis club in France. Deauville also offers the 1912 Normandy Hotel, which reopened in 2016. This luxury hotel now accommodates 271 guests after its renovation.

Fishing boats in the harbor give visitors of Normandy a modern day feel and the nostalgia of years past. Be it history or outdoor activities, this coastal area in Northern France may provide a vacation to be remembered.

Slovenia

Slovenia: You don’t want to miss this.

When considering European vacation destinations, we don’t usually think of Slovenia. But don’t overlook it-- we believe there may be plenty of reasons to put Slovenia on your must-see list.

Slovenia is the hidden treasure of Europe; and by hidden, we mean both geographically and metaphorically. It is bordered by Italy, Hungary, Croatia, and Austria. While it is on the far north of the Adriatic Sea, very little of Slovenia’s land is on the shore, giving very little coastline. But don’t be fooled; Slovenia is as impressive as its neighbors.

Travelpulse.com mentions several reasons to go to Slovenia, and several things to see and do. Among them are the topography, and the diversity of it. From mountainous regions to rolling hills, there is plenty of beautiful landscape to admire. The Karst region has caves for exploring, including Postojna Cave Park and Skocjan Caves, which have a river that runs through the cavernous rooms. In the northern part of the country, tourists can view the Austrian Alps, and maybe even try their famous ski jumping activities.

When it’s time to eat, you will have plenty of varieties to choose from. With Slovenia being so close to Italy, you can expect plenty of Italian food, including pizza, risotto, and pasta. Despite that Slovenia has very little coastline, it still offers plenty of seafood such as sardines, clams, octopus, and even sea urchins, for curious foodies. What to drink with these delicious meals? Slovenia has its share of small wineries for your refreshment. You can even take tours of the wineries, and converse with their owners.

For your physical activities, Slovenia won’t let you down. There are many trails between villages, and even some that run alongside the shores, that allow for enjoyable hiking. If hiking isn’t your thing, there are various scenic drives to take. And to relax, there are several hot springs within the country.

Still need to be convinced that Slovenia is a great vacation destination? It might help to know that because it is still a relatively unknown tourist spot, prices on car rentals, hotels, activities, and food are quite affordable.  Your travel agent can get quotes and prices for you.

It is clear that there are many reasons to visit Slovenia. From the scenery to the activities, the food to the wine, Slovenia could be the affordable, comfortable vacation you have yet to discover.

Olympics

Where will you travel to see The Olympics: Paris or Los Angeles?

Every four years, the world gets together to see The Summer Olympics. Participants and spectators travel to the city that hosts the event to compete and cheer on their country’s team. The Olympics have become more than just the event’s destination; it is a way to travel to other lands in the spirit of competition. During these events, patriotism and sportsmanship go hand-in-hand with travel and tourism.

Every four years a new city hosts the event. These host cities are determined well in advance by the International Olympic Committee. But the 2024 and 2028 Olympics are still in question as to where they will be held. Both Paris and Los Angeles have been chosen for one of these two years, and the two cities have been asked to decide amongst themselves to determine which city will host which year. The International Olympic Committee will then ratify the decision.

It is anyone’s guess which city will host which year, but according to TravelMarketReport.com, insiders predict that Paris will get to host the Olympics first, in 2024. Many believe this will help tourism in Paris, who is dealing with a slumping industry in light of terrorist issues in recent months.

Once the International Olympic Committee has decided which city will host first, it is important to book travels plans quickly. Both cities state that they currently have about 90% of the travel facilities needed to host the event, according to TravelMarketReport.com, but those facilities will fill up soon after the announcement of the dates.