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Treat Yourself to Ecotourism in Singapore and Malaysia

This guide will help you discover more benefits of ecotourism for empty nesters, as well as some amazing eco-tourism experiences in Singapore and Malaysia… CONTINUE READING >> 

50 percent of economic impact from tourism comes from just 10 world destinations, and tourism puts a strain on natural resources in these areas. If you want to make the most of being an empty nester, by drinking in the cultures of brand-new places, you should embrace eco-tourism in Singapore and Malaysia. When you choose to try out sustainable travel, away from the most-visited tourist spots, like London and NYC, you’ll enrich your empty nest experience without harming Mother Earth. This guide will help you discover more benefits of ecotourism for empty nesters, as well as some amazing eco-tourism experiences in Singapore and Malaysia.

Why explore the eco-friendly way?

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that’s all about keeping environments in pristine condition and preserving natural habitats. When you explore the eco-friendly way, you won’t need to worry about leaving an ecological footprint that harms the environment. You’ll help to keep the locations that you visit in an untouched state. Ecotourism resorts and adventures in Singapore and Malaysia are often more affordable than empty nesters expect, thanks to the favorable rate of the dollar. For example, as of April 2019, one U.S. dollar equals 1.35 Singapore dollars, and one U.S. dollar equals 4.080 Malaysian Ringgit.

Ecotourism highlights in Singapore

Empty nesters who adore nature will revel in the unspoiled beauty of Singapore’s Pulau Ubin Island. It’s an offshore island that is relatively free of the usual urban development. To get there, you’ll need to take a taxi or boat to the jetty at Changi Point. Then, you’ll take another boat ride to reach your destination. You won’t need to pay to visit the island. It’s such a beautiful place to bird-watch, swim in tranquil waters and stroll. Old-school bikes are available for rental. Fresh seafood is easy to access. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Central Catchment Nature Reserve and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve are also wonderful places to visit.

Ecotourism options in Malaysia

If you want a singular experience in Malaysia, which is eco-friendly and never to be forgotten, be sure to spend some time at Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary in Pahang. You’ll find this sanctuary about 160 kilometers from the city of Kuala Lumpur. This sanctuary offers protection to orphaned and endangered elephants. These gentle creatures were rescued from other places in Malaysia. Another stunning eco-tourism destination is Pulau Perhentian in Terengganu. It’s a true paradise for sunning, swimming and appreciating the beauty of unspoiled nature.

Ecotourism is travel you’ll feel good about

Now that you’re an empty nester, you have time and space to explore the world around you. When you choose ecotourism in Singapore and Malaysia, you’ll have the power to enjoy some virtually-untouched environments, without harming these memorable locales. Ecotourism is travel that empty nesters can feel good about.

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7 Tips to Prepare for Your Wellness Retreat

Retreats will help cleanse your body, mind and soul, bringing a fresh new view on life. Here are a few tips to consider before you head out on your retreat… CONTINUE READING >> 

So, you’re ready to go on a wellness retreat and are preparing for new adventures. Retreats will help cleanse your body, mind and soul, bringing a fresh new view on life. Below are a few tips to consider before you head out on your retreat.

Insurance

Not many people think about this since you’ll just be visiting a place to relax, but insurance is very important when traveling.

Some possible hazardous activities that may require insurance coverage are hiking, swimming, horseback riding, camping, sailing, skydiving, and surfing.

Check with your insurance company to make sure you’re covered for accidents that can occur during these activities. This is especially important since many secluded places do not have a medical center nearby, and insurance will help to cover transportation costs as well.

Buy the insurance before your trip; this will give you the peace of mind to truly enjoy your retreat without worrying about the “what-ifs.” However, remember if you have a pre-existing health condition that you will not be covered.

Research your destination for medical purposes

If you’re planning a trip to a different country, make sure that your vaccinations are all up to date. Some countries will not let you in without the updated papers to show the required vaccinations for their country, so be sure to research this information while you’re planning your trip.

Keep in mind that some countries have illnesses that may not be native to your own homeland, so take the risks into consideration when traveling.

Retreats tend to be in remote locations that are far from hospitals. While planning, take into consideration the location of the nearest hospital or medical facility.

If there are medical facilities nearby, it would be best to pick one that caters to your needs if you have a pre-existing condition.

Remember why you’re doing it

Think about how your wellbeing was before going on this wellness retreat. Remember how your body felt, how wired your mind was from work, the daily bills, and the hardships you may have been facing.

Your body was most likely showing signs of exhaustion, and it’s important to listen to what your body is telling you.

Some of these signs are sugar cravings, exhausted looking eyes, sleepless nights, oversleeping, and aged or spotty looking skin.

Those are all good signs from your body telling you it needs some rest and relaxation.

Organize your personal life

Tell people where you’re going, who you’ll be with, and where they could contact you if it’s an absolute emergency. After all, you’re taking this trip to get away.

If you have pets that need to be taken care of, make sure a family member or boarding can take your animal in for the duration of your trip before you leave.

Another good thing to take into consideration is having a trusted friend or family member to watch over your house and vehicle (if the vehicle isn’t being brought with.) Make sure they’re willing to give you updates if anything happens.

Taking time away from technology

You should practice taking time away from your phone, tablet, computer, or video games. We’re a nation addicted to technology and sometimes we just need a break.

Looking at a bright screen late at night causes your mind to continuously work. This leads to many issues such as insomnia, sugar cravings, fatigue throughout the day, anxiety, poor brain functioning, and bad problem solving.

The easiest way to ease the technology grip before a big trip would be distancing yourself. Putting technology away at least an hour before bed gives your brain plenty of time to relax and helps you fall asleep much easier.

It’s good to have this practice because when you go to some countries or remote locations, they may not have services, Wi-Fi, or any technology at all. It’ll also help you peel your eyes off the screen and look at the beauty around you.

Cleansing your diet

Changing your eating habits will help prepare your body for new changes that may happen during travels. It’s what’s called a ‘detox diet’.

Things to avoid in preparation are alcohol, sugars, processed foods, caffeine, saturated fats and foods high in starch.

Replace these things with fresh fruits, leafy greens, tea, extra water, almonds, and herbs to help banish toxins from your body.

Fruits and vegetables will also help bolster antibiotics in your body, giving you more energy and brain function through the day.

Exercise

When you travel, there will be a ton of walking and moving around depending on the location you choose to visit. In Japan, for example, there are a lot of temples, which also means a ton of stairs to climb.

To prepare yourself, work out at home to get prepared for numerous stairs, hills, mountains, or swimming depending on your location. Biking or lifting some weights and swimming will all help relax and detoxify your body so you’ll be prepared for different scenarios.

Conclusion

Take these tips into consideration and expect the unexpected on any trip. After all, this trip is for your both you mental and physical health. These preparations will also lead you to healthier options in life if you choose to continue following them once returned from your trip.

Author Biography
Ben Brown is the owner of The Prepping Guide. Involved in Military for many years and write about Personal Security, Preparedness, Prepping, Survival, Self-Sufficiency and Readiness for Safety, both Physically and Digitally.

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Simple Dishes with Pecans

Pecans are very versatile and can be used in many dishes from sweet desserts to vegetables. They make a scrumptious addition to salads and breads as well… CONTINUE READING >> 

I love experimenting with different types of nuts in my cooking. They add a ton of flavor and texture to the dishes. Pecan nut is one of my favorites. It has rich, buttery taste and wonderful nutty aroma. Pecans are very versatile and can be used in many dishes from sweet desserts to vegetables. They make a scrumptious addition to salads and breads as well. And you don’t need to go great length to find the pecans they are widely available through out the grocery stores year round. Pecans are mighty delicious and nutritious. I would like to share with you some of the tasty recipes that are done with pecans.

Starting with base of pistachio pudding, sweet pineapples, crunchy pecans, chewy marshmallows and airy cool whip – this classic retro dessert guarantees every bite of it will be filled with bold contrast flavors. This delicious Watergate salad only takes 5 minutes of your time to make from start to finish. Pistachio pudding gives it its distinct pastel mint green color while also most of its flavor. Pineapple adds the sweetness, pecans give that unexpected crunch with every bite. Fluffy marshmallows soak in all the juices of the salad and their chewy texture makes them a perfect compliment. And the cool whip really brings everything together.

Pecans really amp up the flavors of this breakfast staple by adding a fragrant nutty flavor. Banana bread is moist with wonderful pecan crunch that you get with every bite. No-one can resist it.

Crumb some pecans on top of your holiday sweet potato casserole for a true culinary delight. The sweet flavors of sweet potatoes and pecans are perfect compliments to each other. Throw some marshmallows in the mix and you have a definite winner.

If it is hard for you to get exited about vegetables this recipe for roasted Brussel sprouts with pecans is so fantastic it might become your Thanksgiving regular. Buttery rich pecans pair beautifully with savory, caramelized Brussel sprouts.

Pecans can be eaten raw, toasted or candied. Anyway you choose they are wonderful addition to your dishes.

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Delve Deeper: Tags

Iced Italian Cream Cake

This iced Italian cream cake is rich, moist and just simply irresistible. Easy to make from scratch even for the beginner bakers. Perfect compliment to any occasion… CONTINUE READING >> 

This iced Italian cream cake is rich, moist and just simply irresistible. Easy to make from scratch even for the beginner bakers. Perfect compliment to any occasion like birthdays party, bridal shower or a family holiday, it is incredibly delicious.

But what really takes this cake to the next level is the extraordinary Italian meringue buttercream frosting. Because it contains whipped egg whites it is much fluffier, lighter and silkier compared to a regular buttercream, that only has butter and sugar. I also find it not as sweet. Italian meringue is made by drizzling 240-degree Fahrenheit sugar syrup into whites that have already been whipped to hold firm peaks. Whipping continues until the meringue is fluffy voluminous, silky, stiff, and glossy. And it has to get cool as well. Adding hot sugar syrup actually cooks the egg whites. This locks the protein structures in place and prevents your meringue from breaking. The next step is adding butter to your mixture of whipped sugar and egg whites. In order for buttercream not to separate, the butter and meringue have to be at the same temperature. To achieve this make sure your meringue is fully cooled down and your butter is at room temperature.

Making this phenomenal frosting seems like an ambitious resolution but it is so absolutely worth it. The result is snowy white, gorgeous looking cake that is oh so tasty. Everyone will be raving about it and it is so delicious, it might disappear even before the occasion it is made for. Under the frosting there are 3 layers of moist, divine, pillow-like cake. Infused with shredded coconut for a wonderful aromatic touch and texture. A hint of vanilla adds a beautiful fragrant touch. The sheets of cake are baked to perfection and then layered with Italian meringue buttercream frosting. The frosting also covers the top and the sides for a pretty, white perfection.

You can also use pecans or walnuts or decorate as a finishing touch.

This iced Italian cream cake recipe is always a hit and a real treat.

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There’s More Than One Fish in The Sea

We’ve all heard that fish oil, also known as Omega-3 fatty acid supplement, is good for you. But the benefits of the powerful supplement doesn’t stop at your heart… CONTINUE READING >> 

We’ve all heard that fish oil, also known as Omega-3 fatty acid supplement, is good for you. But the benefits of the powerful supplement doesn’t stop at your heart. Omega-3 fatty acids promote good health by reducing inflammation and fighting cardiovascular disease. Other potential benefits can include helping your brain function effectively, relieving joint pain, and easing the symptoms of mood disorders. The American Heart Association recommends the equivalent of two fish servings per week, ideally from fish with high levels of DHA and EPA.

Prevent muscle loss and reduce body fat

Many sources report that fish oil reduces body fat, perhaps by lowering inflammation and regulating hormones. Studies on people undergoing chemotherapy show that fish oil helps preserve muscle tone and prevent muscle loss. One key learning point is that doses higher than recommended don’t provide any further health benefit and can cause uncomfortable and painful side effects.

Softer and younger-looking skin

Fish oil supplements protect your skin and nourish it from the inside. One of the crucial ingredients in Nordic Naturals fish oil is the Omega-3 fatty acid called eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). It regulates your skin’s natural oil production to boost hydration and prevent wrinkles and aging. Healthy, balanced skin is less likely to sunburn, flake, or break out into acne.

Helps fight depression and anxiety

Scientists are studying the effects of fish oil on depression because the condition appears less commonly in countries where fish is a significant part of the diet. The brain depends on two Omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), to function properly. Studies show that doses between 1 and 2 g/day of an EPA+DHA combination like in fish oil has the potential to benefit those with mood disorders.

Increases absorption of calcium

Maintaining bone density is critical once you pass 40 years old and no longer build bone mass. Most people can significantly slow bone loss through proper nutrition and regular exercise. Studies show that Omega-3 fatty acids increase the calcium absorbed and limit how much calcium is lost to urine, so having a proper amount of fish oil in your diet can help you maintain a healthy bone density.

Less menstrual pain

Several studies concluded that young women report fewer menstrual cramps and less pain when taking a fish oil supplement. Combining the fish oil supplement with vitamin B12 also resulted in less painful menstrual cycles. Theories about the effects of fish oil on the mental symptoms during menstruation have led many doctors to recommend the supplement to ease the symptoms of PMS.  

Choose a high-quality supplement

Now that you know how fish oil can benefit your brain, joints, weight, and mood, it’s time to give your body what it needs. Choose a supplement that is sourced ethically, without overfishing or otherwise harming the ocean ecosystem. In the US, the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements, so look for high-quality suppliers that meet or exceed the rigorous standards of governing boards for purity, like the European Pharmacopoeia Standard (EPS), the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), or the Global Organization for EPA and DHA-3 (GOED).

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Save Some Bucks While Fulfilling Your Bucket List

When we started out on our empty nest exploits ten years ago, we made a point of being frugal on our adventures. As our journeys spread farther and wider, we learned a few tricks for keeping the costs down, one of the best was discovering…

CONTINUE READING >> 

The two most common questions we are asked, both online and in person, are “What is your favorite place that you have visited?” and “How do you afford to travel?”

Believe it or not, the second of those is easier to answer. When we started out on our empty nest exploits ten years ago, we made a point of being frugal on our adventures. We may have even taken it to the extreme considering we bought a beat up old motorhome on eBay for $3000.

We spent many a night parked at truck stops or Walmarts, and before long discovered that our newfound nomadic lifestyle was actually cheaper than having a home.

Add that to the savings of no longer having the expense of three kids to support and the equation for continuing to travel wasn’t too difficult to work out.

As we moved beyond the RV, and our journeys spread farther and wider, we learned a few more tricks for continuing to keep the costs down. Traveling in the off season makes a huge difference, as does being flexible on dates, but one of the best was discovering the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia.

We already used AARP for discounts on all sorts of things, and certainly were familiar with Expedia as one of our go-to travel booking sites, so the combination of the two made perfect sense to us.

Each is an expert in their field, and their partnership perfected serving the wanderlust yearnings for those of us who have reached a point in our lives where we have a little more time on our hands and a bit more money in our pockets after raising children.

It didn’t take long for us to find that our confidence in these two iconic institutions was well founded, because they almost always had the best deals on flights, hotels, and rental cars on any of the search sites we regularly checked.

So that brings us back to that first question about our favorite place, and it is surprisingly difficult to answer simply because there are so many. It’s almost like we should make a list. Yes, that’s it, a list.

Let’s say these might be things people want to do or places they want to see before… you know, kicking the bucket.

Hey, we could call it a Bucket List! Gee, wonder if anybody ever thought of that before?

But seriously, we have had the good fortune to visit several once in a lifetime locations, some of which might not typically be thought of as the “bucket” worthy, but after seeing them we think they should be. So we’re always happy to pass along our insights to fellow travelers.

At or near the top of our list would be the Galapagos Islands. The equatorial Pacific archipelago may not be the best known or most popular destination, and admittedly it was not somewhere that was on our radar before we went. However, for wildlife close encounters and extraordinary ecosystems it is unbeatable.

The animals, all of them, whether on land, or in the sea, or in the air, have no fear of humans whatsoever. They are so unconcerned that it is actually a rule that visitors must move away to keep six feet between themselves and the critters.

Each island is also has a unique environment formed by a volcanic hotspot that remains active. Each day brought new surroundings from tropical jungle mountains, to desserts touching the sea, to barren land of lava and cinder cones, to black magma moonscapes so new that plants have yet to grow.

Another unheralded, yet unmistakably list worthy, locale would be Newfoundland.

Even though it is another remote island, it could hardly be more different than the Galapagos. Everything about Newfoundland says North Atlantic, from misty fjords, to rushing mountain streams, to icebergs galore, and even a thousand year old Viking settlement.

The resident Newfies may call it The Rock, but to us it stands out as one of the most interesting places we have ever been, and without a doubt home to the nicest folks we’ve ever encountered.

One more would be Machu Picchu. We must admit that this mysterious Lost City of the Incas was on our list before we set off on our Gypsynester escapades, and it lived up to all of our expectations. Not being the spry youngsters we once were, we decided to forgo the four day hike to the site and took the train to the town of Aguas Calientes at the base of the mountain.

From there it’s just an exceptionally harrowing bus ride to the top. We quickly learned it is best not to look out the window at the road (or lack thereof), but the heebie-jeebies of the journey were soon forgotten while exploring one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Our first day was spent with a wonderful guide who explained as much as can be explained about this mystifying feat of engineering and construction, but we highly recommend spending at least two days in order to go up alone early one morning and watch the sunrise onto the ruins.

Recalling these three somewhat eclectic excursions reminds us that should  also include some classics such as walking on the Great Wall of China, riding mules down the Grand Canyon, gazing over Niagara Falls, climbing Kilimanjaro (sort of), Sky diving onto a beach in Australia, or exploring the world’s preeminent cities like London, Paris, Rome, Toronto, New York, or Hong Kong. All of these and many more belong on any must-see agenda.

Of course every bucket list is as different as the individual who dreams of checking off the items, but one thing’s for certain, a little help making those dreams become a reality is never a bad thing.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

You can learn more about the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia here: https://www.expedia-aarp.com, with additional blog content here: https://www.expedia-aarp.com/blog

This article is written in partnership with Expedia-aarp.com, as always all opinions are our own.

7 Rules to Pack A Suitcase for A Business Trip

Packing your suitcase for a business trip may seem to be one of the confusing tasks you have come across. So, here is a list of a few rules that will help you pack your luggage in the best possible… CONTINUE READING >> 

Packing your suitcase for a business trip may seem to be one of the confusing tasks you have come across. That’s because you will prefer to carry less but wear solid and elegant outfits. You need to carry suitable clothing for various events and meetings that you will attend.

So, here is a list of a few rules that will help you pack your luggage on tour in the best possible way for your upcoming business trips.

1. Choose the Right Bag

Carrying light or packing less means putting on a hand luggage.

But, if you are very choosy about this, then an upright luggage can be a better option for you.

Be careful about the size and style of the bag as you need to know about the correct packing approach. You should pay attention to the appearance of the bag too. As, you are out for a business trip, your business bag should look simple yet elegant and it will be far better if you go for a darker tone rather than unnecessary bright colors.

2. Get the Right Items

After you are ready with your bag, now it is the turn to get the right items inside your bag. Remember that your bag has to be packed light.

You may need to wear an outfit more than once but that’s not an issue at all. Whatever you wear, it needs to be versatile and elegant. If you are out for a weekend, carry a jacket (simple and dark color), a pair of pants, a couple of formal shirts along with a casual shirt, a pair of shoes and the accessories (like tie, tie clips, glass, socks, belts, etc.) according to your daily requirements. Don’t forget the other business essentials.

3. Pack Efficiently

Pack your bag in such a way that you can insert as many items as possible without damaging the bag. This will help to keep your bag lightweight.

4. Extra Tips to Pack Efficiently

You may get confused about how to pack efficiently, especially if this is your first business trip. Don’t worry. You can follow the following tips to make extra space inside your bag.

  • Put the shoes in a separate plastic bag to keep the dirt away from your clothing.
  • Fold the shirts and pants very loosely in a narrow and vertical manner to save the space.
  • Get all the accessories in an accessory box (select according to requirements).
5. Wear the Heavy Outfit

Wear the jacket or blazer on the day you are travelling (while going and returning) as this will help to save a lot of space inside the bag. You can slip a number of items in the bag in place of this one bulky item.

6. Gifts Can Be Appreciated

It is better if you take some small gifts for your clients. This courtesy shows your willingness towards building a long term, healthy relationship with your clients.

7. Take Care of Luxury Items

Pack all your important and costly items properly within the bag and take extra care of those items. It is better to take them in a separate carry-on which you need not get checked and can keep with you.

These are some of the smart tips to pack your business bag in a well-organized way. If you can keep these points in your mind while packing the luggage or bag, then you can obviously pack it in the most efficient way. Also, these tips will help to keep the bag as light as possible and will be less bothering for you to carry it.

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10 Best Honeymoon Destinations of 2019

When you are officially Mr. and Mrs., you are going to leave your friends, relatives, and worries behind to have some quality time with your spouse, enjoy life a bit…

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When you are officially Mr. and Mrs., you are going to leave your friends, relatives, and worries behind to have some quality time with your spouse, enjoy life a bit, and probably make the third member of the family. Are you the type of couple that wants to hang out on the world’s beaches, experience culture and architecture in different parts of the world, or you only want to unwind in a new country? Whether you want all of that and or not, we have a suggestion for ten best honeymoon destinations you can feel at home.

1. Brazil

The home of soccer has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. There are also many hotels where honeymooners can spend their time. Most of them have pools, spa, and gardens. There is so much for you to see in Brazil to make your honeymoon enjoyable.

Some of the activities you can do on this budget destination is visiting the museum and sunset viewing.

2. Greece

Greece has a fantastic history especially if the story of Achilles amazes you. They also have exceptional food, and the landscape and architecture are one of a kind.

Enjoy a leisure stroll with your spouse in the villages and busk in the white sand beaches as you unwind. Most hotels organize trips for couples as well.

3. Kenya

If you love wild safaris in the African Savannah, you can choose between, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya.  These are the African countries that have the Big Five, but Kenya is more budget friendly.

You can dine with your loved one in the middle of the jungle while giraffes are watching from a distance and the elephants passing by on their way to a water source.

4. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is often described as the homeland of tigers, and for big cat enthusiasts, this can be your destination.

But you won’t see the wildlife alone. The country has beautiful beaches, rainforests, and fishing ports. The best way to learn more about these is by reading this Sri Lanka Travel Blog.

5. Honolulu

The first thing that comes to couples mind after they get married is Honolulu. It’s one of the biggest honeymoon destinations in America.

The beaches, palm trees, and cultural events make you want to live there forever. You can enjoy a helicopter tour or snorkel with the sharks.

6. Iceland

The European nation is not as icy as its name suggests, but it’s fun to visit in winter. Your wedding honeymoon can be worth to remember if you bathe in the geothermal pools of Iceland.

You can catch up with the Northern Lights from September to April and whale migration from April to October.

7. Egypt

Egypt is the land of pharaohs, pyramids, and is an excellent place to be. You can enjoy shopping along the streets of El Haram and visit the old monuments.

The best time to visit Egypt is from October to May and among the ideal places you can stay are the capital Cairo, Luxor and Alexandria.

8. Japan

Recently named as the place to go by “Travel + Leisure” in 2019, there is no doubt that the world’s biggest carmaker nation is a place you would love to end up with your better half.

From the neon-lit capital, Tokyo, to the port city of Osaka and the food and culture, you won’t be able to exhaust what Japan offers.

9. Dubai

A city in the desert. That’s Dubai for you! It’s a leading destination for people inspired by skyscrapers, dunes, and entertainment.

You can race with your ATVs in the desert, enjoy Arabian cuisine, and get entertained by belly dancers.

10. California

Tupac and Dr. Dre never told you everything about California. Apart from the fantastic cities, California has amazing coastlines with perfect climates.

It’s also the home of Napa Valley, in case the mention of wine makes you restless. Make it your destination.

Conclusion

The world is a great place, and every location has excellent sites. It’s all up to you to figure out which destination suits you. If you can afford, visit all the ten destinations.

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