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5 Beautiful Islands You Have to Visit When You’re In Bali

Bali is one of the most unique destinations on the planet because of the absolutely staggering amount of variety one can experience. These are the five islands we would never miss if we were planning a trip to Bali…
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Bali is one of the most unique destinations on the planet because of the absolutely staggering amount of variety one can experience and anytime is the best time to visit Bali. Indonesia itself is home to many thousands of islands and almost a thousand of these are inhabited – each offering their own reason for visiting. We thought we’d round up some of our favorites.

Getting around and between these islands doesn’t have to be difficult either. A quick ferry ride is all you’ll ever need and this convenient service can get you wherever you need to go with little effort.

These are the five islands we would never miss if we were planning a trip to Bali.

1.      Moyo Island

This one’s a bit further than some might want to go, but don’t let that stop you. Moyo Island has little in the way of development and offers visitors to its shores a unique escape from many of the things you’d usually expect from a tourist destination like Bali. You’ll find the Moyo Island Hunting Park here, which spans much of the island and is surrounded by a marine reserve, so this really is an almost untouched natural paradise. If you’re partial to a bit of snorkeling or scuba diving, definitely add Moyo Island to your list.

2.      Lombok

Lombok is perhaps one of the more popular islands in the area for those looking to explore off the beaten path, and for good reason. This one is all about the natural landscapes which are scattered around the island like they were thrown there from above. Waterfalls and beach towns are the nature of the visit here, as well as Mount Rinjani which boasts being the highest mountain (and volcano) in Indonesia.

3.      Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are a group of three small islands white close to Lombok, so it might even be worth building them into the same trip. Each of the three islands offers its own attractions, but they are all equally worth visiting. Gili Trawangan is where you’ll be heading if you’re looking for a nightlife experience and incredible sunsets – many backpackers come here. If you’re looking more for a more romantic experience, then Gili Meno is where you’ll be heading. It’s a snorkeling paradise and a visit here isn’t complete without a romantic walk on the beach and a dinner to follow. Gili Air is the last of these three islands but by no means the one you should skip. It has grassroots feel about it and if you want the experience of the local culture and way of life, this is where you’ll get it.

4.      Nusa Penida

The Island of Nusa Penida is a day trip that you won’t regret. It’s a big island, but a day is plenty of time to spend there. Don’t miss a quick visit to Kelingking Beach and some of the majestic views from the higher points on the island.

5.      Java

Of course, not visiting Java while you’re in Bali is something you simply can’t do. It’s about 600 km from Bali, but Java is the quintessential Indonesian experience. The island is filled with cultural sights and heritage and you could spend most of your holiday here and be entertained the whole time. Things you’ll need to see while you’re visiting Java are some of the temples and architectural splendors, as well as the ancient Hindu temples you’ll find here. Keep plenty of time available for your trip to Java!

Whichever islands you end up visiting during your trip to Bali, you’re in for a sensory and cultural overload. Just thinking about it makes us want to go back!

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

The Great Australian Road Trip

When you think about the extraordinary landscape that is outback Australia, think ancient rock formations, sacred water holes, red rock gorges and distinct wildlife…
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Passing through Australia’s Red Centre is rite of passage for travellers and locals alike. This is home to the iconic Uluru and the extraordinary landscape that is outback Australia. Think ancient rock formations, sacred water holes, red rock gorges and distinct wildlife.

For those who want the full experience, you’ll start in Adelaide and head north to Darwin, or vice versa. Alice Springs is the halfway point in terms of this distance and the centre of Australia. However, if you’re shorter on time, you can fly into Ayers Rock Airport or Alice Springs to get you started so you won’t have to rush once you get on the road.

Today we outline where to stop and what to see when you head from the Top End, Darwin to the very centre of Australia. We begin in the North and head south – but of course this journey can be done in reverse depending on your plans.

Before you Go

If you’re travelling to Australia from overseas and want to have accommodation with you on the road, consider campervan hire. This assures a vehicle that is roadworthy, clean and ready to go the distance. Many hire companies provide roadside assistance which is essential if you’re going to the outback. Many small towns will only be equipped for very basic car repairs – if the mechanic is around that is! The other aspect of Australian road tripping is dealing with the utter remoteness of some of the locations you’ll pass through. Although mobile coverage is much better than even a few years ago, expect some black spots. Data and wifi can also be very unreliable – even in a wireless hotspot. Therefore, depending on your route, items such as radios, satellite phones and the good old fashioned paper map can be lifesaving. Ample food, shelter and water supplies is just common sense! Mosquito spray and nets will be useful as they also keep flies at bay.

Katherine

Three hours drive south of Darwin, Katherine is an essential stop to make and truly tropical destination. Although you won’t find it on the coast, you will find crystal clear, natural waterholes that are suitable (and highly recommended) to swim in. Mataranka Thermal Pool has a unqiue sandy-bottom and Bitter Springs in Elsey National Park is beautiful for swimming and birdwatching. They are both naturally filled with 33-34 degree water. Make an early start and witness a sunrise at Mitimiluk Gorge or hire canoes and paddle past the many waterfalls and ancient First Peoples rock art.

After the bathing around Mataranka, head down to Daly Waters. The famous Daly Waters Pub is where you can book a room to stay, or pop in for a meal or drink and leave a behind a souvenir to add to the pub’s colourful décor. Then it’s onto Tennant Creek which is another former gold rush town rich in Indigenous history. It is nearby the well-known site Karlu Karlu, aka the Devil’s Marbles.

After this, you’re almost at the halfway mark of Alice Springs which many people spend a longer time in to recharge and site see. As the ‘headquarters’ of the outback, there are countless activities and facilities. This is the place to coordinate activities such as hot air ballooning, quad biking, camel rides in the desert, or wildlife encounters at the Reptile Centre or Kangaroo Sanctuary. While here, you’ll probably want to tour the like of the West MacDonnell Ranges, Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm. For water lovers, there are more natural swimming holes to be found alongside Alice Springs’ vibrant cultural scene: arts, festivals and music.

Uluru

Once you leave Alice Springs you’re almost there! Uluru is only a 5 and half hours drive away and an impressive finishing point to culminate your central Australia road trip. Uluru is a sacred landmark and the most famous rock in the world. As a massive, natural sandstone formation, it is impressive enough in itself. But as a cultural icon, it is also currently the site of the breathtaking field of Lights art installation by Bruce Munro. You might book a sunset dinner, a scenic helicopter tour or cultural and historical tour from local Indigenous guides such as the Cave Hill Tour.

See you in the Red Centre!

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Big Kids in the Big Apple

With my adult children scattered across half of the globe I am always investigating new ways to see them.
One great way is to travel together.
That is why I jumped at the chance to join my daughter Cati in exploring New York City with Road Scholar… CONTINUE READING >> 

Thanks to Road Scholar for providing this lifelong learning adventure through the five boroughs of New York City! As always, all opinions are our own.

With my adult children scattered across half of the globe I am always investigating new ways to see them. One great way is to travel together.

That is why I jumped at the chance to join my daughter Cati in exploring New York City with Road Scholar’s Five Days, Five Boroughs adventure.

On top of some great “mommy time,” over the next few days we will dig in depth into the history, culture, architecture, art, and oh yes, the food of the city that never sleeps.

We will be busy having a Big Apple of a time so check back often because we will certainly be updating as much as possible right here and across our social media channels, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Then be sure to come back here over the next few weeks for in-depth coverage after the trip.

Veronica, GypsyNester.com

See all of our previous adventures in New York!

Thanks to Road Scholar for providing this lifelong learning adventure through the five boroughs of New York City!

Golf Road Trip: What You Absolutely Need To Take With You

Traveling to play new courses is one of the most enjoyable things that a golf lover can do during a golfing vacation. So what should you take for your cross-country golf trip? Here is a list of four essential items that you’ll need for your next golfing road trip… CONTINUE READING >> 

Traveling to play new courses is one of the most enjoyable things that a golf lover can do during a golfing vacation. Whether it be by plane or car, making time to visit some of the best courses the country has to offer is a worthwhile endeavor for all golf fans.

You may be telling yourself: I’d love to travel, but I don’t want to take my clubs on the plane. Yes, for many golfers, going on a flight with their clubs is a non-starter due to all the handling involved. So, if taking your clubs on the plane is a deal killer, then your alternative is loading them up for an epic road trip. In that case, it’s advisable to invest in a lightweight golf bag to conveniently store all your golf equipment.

But with space limited in the car, you’ll need to streamline your packing. So what should you take for your cross-country golf trip? Here is a list of four essential items that you’ll need for your next golfing road trip.

#1: Golf Clubs

We’ll start with the most prominent item on the list and something you can’t do without on a golf vacation; your golf clubs, so you want the best from Clarkes Golf Centre. The easiest thing you can do when getting your clubs ready for a trip is to dump them in the back of your car or truck, but you should handle these babies with care and be aware that there is the possibility of damaging them through negligence.

To avoid this potentially trip-killing situation, you should look into finding a travel golf bag that will protect your clubs and deflect any possible impact from other luggage you may be carrying. A travel case will offer the highest amount of protection, while a cover will keep everything contained while limiting the amount of movement your clubs undergo during your travels.

#2: Proper Clothing

It is a great idea to call ahead to every course you plan to play and ask them for their course and clubhouse rules. The reason you’ll want to know all these regulations is, to not only understand what is expected of you at each club but also to understand what you can and cannot wear on the course.

For example, if you like wearing shorts while you play, this is an essential step that can prevent you from having to spend an excessive amount of money on the spot for a pair of pants.

By knowing what you need to wear, you can streamline your packing and reduce excess clothing.

#3: Weather-Related Gear and Essentials

Are you taking your trip in the summer? Then, you’ll need to pack sunscreen and a few hats. Are you planning on going to the Pacific Northwest for a few rounds during the rainy season? Then, grab your rain gear and your best rain umbrella.

Take some time before you pack to get a sense of what the weather will be like in the location of your golf trip. Take nothing for granted. If the forecast says there will be no rain, but you are headed to a locale that is known for rain, then save yourself the headache and pack the GoreTex and umbrella anyway.

Yes, it may cause you to pack a little more than you had initially planned, but an impromptu trip to the store, where you have to spend additional money and less time enjoying your vacation is worth the discomfort.

If you’re also planning on taking your puppy such as your favorite doberman with you, you should also make sure to grab their essentials: clothes to protect from the rain as well as essential food supplies.

#4: Shoes and Socks

A great rule of thumb for golf shoes and socks on a golf trip is to always take twice as many as you think you’ll need. Yes, that goes for shoes too because you need to plan for contingencies that you’ll never come seeing. Are you playing early in the morning in dew-heavy grass? Believe me, you’ll want those extra socks for the turn, and you’ll need the spare shoes while those air out and dry the next day.

When hitting the course, make sure that in the long pockets of your bag that you bring a few pairs of socks in plastic bags that can be zipped up and kept away from the elements. Once you break out a new pair, you can put the old ones in the bag without them affecting the inside of your golf bag. Just remember to clear them out and wash them once you get back home.

An extra pair of shoes can prevent any issues you may have with your top pair from affecting the trip. Say you lose a spike or the laces break, or you take a wrong step and submerge them in mud, you’ll want that clean and dry extra pair to keep your golf day going without a hitch.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

An Empty Nest Means There will be Flying Involved

Our nest emptied out over ten years ago, but the process was not instantaneous or immediate. Over time one thing has been inescapable, flying. Whether it is us flying to see them, or the other way around, it means buying lots of tickets. So we are always on the lookout for great deals…
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Our nest emptied out over ten years ago, but the process was not instantaneous or immediate. At first our three fledglings were off to college, which meant that they were returning for summers and breaks. Then, one by one, they set off on their own to begin their new lives.

As those lives took shape they became more and more scattered around the globe, so that now we have offspring spread across eleven time zones. That’s nearly half the world!

Over that time one thing has been inescapable, flying. Whether it is us flying to see them, or the other way around, it is about the only way we can see our children. That means buying lots of tickets, so we are always on the lookout for great deals on flights.

It also means that we were pretty excited when we discovered JustFly. This easy to use website is without a doubt one of the best ways to find those deals. With our now adult kids living in Paris, New York, and Alaska, the savings can really add up.

We have to say that even considering the complications involved with having them so strewn about the world, we love that they all chose to live in such interesting places to visit.

Our oldest, after marrying a French man, moved to Paris a few years ago, so now we have a perfect excuse to visit the City of Lights whenever we can. Of course we loved getting to see all of the usual attractions, but having family there has afforded us the opportunity to now appreciate them in a much more relaxed way.

This unhurried comfort level has allowed us to have lunch on the Eiffel Tower, spend a day wandering the grounds of the Palace of Versailles, explore the Louvre in search of artistic oddities, or watch darkness descend from the top of the Arc de Triomphe at our own pace rather than run from one place to another in a hasty effort to see them all in one trip.

Now, after several times visiting, we are more familiar with the city and have had the chance to seek out some of the lesser known sites such as the catacombs, the Jardin des Rosiers, and Belleville. In fact, on our last trip we intentionally avoided all of the famous tourist places in an attempt to enjoy Paris like we lived there.

We must say that it felt like a smashing success, and for a brief time almost as if we were Parisians.

Our experiences with visiting New York City have been similar. Our second daughter has lived there for nearly a decade so we have grown to know the Big Apple as nearly a second home.

Back when we first were visiting we had to go to all of the usual hot spots, see the shows, and generally gawk at the incredible hustle and bustle of the City That Never Sleeps, but over time we came to see New York as more than a tourist destination, it is a place where people live.

We also discovered a bunch of very interesting semi-secret details about the city that even most New Yorkers don’t know, such as the fact that George Washington lived in the first White House right where the Brooklyn Bridge stands. Yup, our nation’s first executive mansion is now marked by nothing more than a small plaque on a bridge.

As surprised as we were to learn that, we were even more so when we found a tropical beach with an amazing panorama of the Manhattan skyline. Just take a short ferry ride to Governor’s Island and a sandy shore complete with plastic palm trees awaits.

The island was originally home to a fort, then was expanded by adding the dirt and rocks dug up from building the subway system, and now is a recreational park with bike paths, playgrounds, and incredible views, including a seldom seen angle of the Statue of Liberty.

In stark contrast to the big city, the youngest of our children ended up near the top of the world in Alaska. He is a pilot, and our 49th state is absolutely filled with aircraft, so it was a natural fit. In fact, there are many places that can only be reached by airplane.

That is what led him up there. His first job was flying to many of the native villages where his plane was their only connection to the outside world. We were so intrigued by this profession that we made a trip north just to ride with him and visit a few of the villages.

Without a doubt these are some of the most remote communities in America. Most have no roads or cars and absolutely everything is flown in. As much as he loved that work, he is now flying charters in a slightly more inhabited part of the state.

His full time home is Anchorage though, and that turns out to be a wonderful place to visit as well. It also serves as a fantastic base camp for exploring the rest of Alaska. On our many trips we have made our way up to Denali National Park, home of North America’s highest mountain, and down to the south coast, where majestic peaks meet the Pacific Ocean.

However, our favorite way to see Alaska has got to be by boat. Cruising the inside passage is truly a highlight of our travels no matter where we have been. With incredible scenery, seafood, people, and especially up close and personal encounters with glaciers this is a unique and beautiful part of the world.

It just so happens that JustFly also has exceptional deals on cruises too, along with discount rates for hotels and rental cars.

That means everything we need to visit any or all of our far flung kids can be taken care of all at the same time and all at the same place.

We’d call that almost perfect.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

Shopping in Estonia: Best Outlets, Malls, and Boutiques

Estonia is a hidden little gem, tiny and remote, but so worth the visit. Some come for the grand old architecture or the peace. Others come for the spectacular nature and scenery. But many still come for one thing — shopping…
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Nowhere else in Europe will you find such a charming, comfortable, quaint little region. Estonia is a hidden little gem of the country, tiny and remote, but so worth the visit. Some come for the grand old architecture or the peace. Others come for the spectacular nature and scenery. But many still come for one thing — shopping. Well good news to them, Estonia is loaded with stores filled with local goods, many of them homemade. Here are seven of the best shopping scenes in Estonia, ranging from big centers to small, quaint boutiques.

Baltika Quarter and Fashion Street

Let’s start off with something a little familiar. This store is up and up enough to be found in New York, but it’s stuffed with local magnificence of Estonian clothing makers. You’ll find big labels of the area like Ico, Nikkolo, and Bastion, giving you plenty of splendid, sumptuous designs and colors to choose from, while still maintaining the strict local flair that Estonia is renowned for.

Kaup24 Online Store

For people who enjoy a more modern touch in their busy lives, we highly recommend Kaup24 online store. Want to know where it is? It’s right on your phone. Kaup24 is an eCommerce site that is dedicated to selling virtually everything. It’s in baltic, so it’s a bit difficult to read, but the site was extremely well-designed. Translation won’t be much of an issue here.

The homepage of the site is covered in colorful little blocks with a symbol on them. That symbol gives you a base idea of what’s ahead in that link. From there, you can browse through expert photos of the items in question and find precisely what you’re looking for. It’s truly a marvel of technology meets old-world flair.

Telliskivi Creative City

Artists, eat your hearts out because this former industrial complex has turned itself into the largest hub for creativity in the region. It’s right on the border of the old town and has become home to many local creative companies and studios. Dozens of tiny designer stores and shops, ten one-of-a-kind little eateries and cafes and more local artwork than you can shake a whole tree at, never mind a stick. Trust us, it may take you a couple of days to entirely work your way through this delightful creative hub.

Design shop Oma Asi (The Little Red House)

This tiny little shop is located on the shortest street of the old town of Tallinn and is home to some of Estonia’s most inventive and creative designers. Known affectionately as The Little Red House, you can’t miss it when you’re looking for it. It’s exactly as it sounds. This comfortable little shop is the hub for over sixty skilled and imaginative creators. Once you walk in, you’ll be taken in by the serene peace of the store, your eyes grazing slowly over every little detail. You’ll leave with maybe one or two purchases, but also a tremendous appreciation for the unusual and silent mysteries of the world.

Christmas Village and Christmas Fair in Parnu

Now we can’t not mention the Christmas village. For all those who carry the spirit of the season in their hearts all year long, this little nook is tailor-made for you. Best of all, there’s a holiday fair where you can browse through handmade ornaments and gifts. You’ll find an activity center for the kids where they can meet Santa and his helpers and a full-on cultural program complete with a cafe. In the coldest months of the year, there’s nothing like walking the streets of the Christmas village with a warm drink and admiring the sights of the season.

Jaan Parna Jewellery Gallery

Jaan Parna is one of the premier jewelry artists in all of Estonia, who finds inspiration in the very stones used in this breathtaking work. Nearly everything unique can be found here; agate, amethyst-quartz, anthophyllite, and more, all crafted into one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else. The creativity and technique here are utterly unmatched anywhere else, making this store a must for any true shopper.

Nounou Ceramic Studio and Gallery

This tiny studio doubles as a gallery for local artists who create their beautiful pieces by hand, often in the studio itself. Customers can come in and watch these glorious pieces dance into life on the wheel and in the hands of their makers. Everything in the store is for sale on the spot and it’s all a splendid mix of modern and handmade goods for practical and display use. The artisans may even do custom pieces.

Conclusion

Estonia is a one-of-a-kind place and it makes sense that its creative souls would be the same. Here, you’ll find a world where art is at the forefront and creativity is honed to perfection, a special gem, hidden away from the bustling world.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.

How to Pack for a Weekend Trip to the Mountains

Although the mountains are mostly winter attractions, many tourists choose them in summer too because of the beautiful nature that comes to light under the sun. To be sure that you pack everything you will need during this active vacation; we prepared some guidelines… CONTINUE READING >> 

Although the mountains are mostly winter attractions, many tourists choose them in summer too because of the beautiful nature that comes to light under the sun. To be sure that you pack everything you will need during this active vacation; we prepared some guidelines regarding the most essential stuff you shouldn’t forget to bring.

What kind of boots to bring?

The main role of boots is to provide you with firm support and to protect your feet from external conditions. It doesn’t mean they can look nice on you if they have to be functional. It will be good to find some durable but cute boots if you are planning to travel in them as well as wear them on the mountain. Soft and comfortable ones are used for spring, fall and easier climbs. If you are going to walk on rocks or through snow be sure to use deep, sturdy, possibly waterproof boots. 

Functional backpack

Backpacks are an important piece of hiking gear. They are convenient for carrying food, drinks and extra wardrobe. Also, you will store in them layers of clothing that can become excess during your walk. They should be waterproof to protect the equipment and supplies. Accessories you can also bring in a backpack are a compass, a flashlight and some spare batteries.

Workout underwear

It plays a role in collecting sweat from the skin and transferring it to the upper layers of clothing. To maximize its functionality, your active underwear should be made from a stretchy material that hugs your body. The best one is made from a material that will wick sweat from you and can dry fast.

The second layer of clothing

Its main role is functionality and good protection. It is important that it is light and is not too tight. Besides, it should preserve, not create body heat. The thickness of the sweatshirt depends on the current weather and it is an indispensable part of the wardrobe, especially at low temperatures. This layer is preferably made of lightweight synthetic materials that don’t absorb sweat and are dried quickly. 

A hooded jacket

They are usually two-layered and are made of breathable synthetic materials whose primary role is protection against rain, snow and wind, without making you sweat. Colorful jackets are recommended for safety. They should have plenty of pockets and ventilation zippers. Your jacket should be light. 

Comfortable pants

The best pants are those made of synthetic and elastic materials that dry quickly on the body. Regardless of the season and hiking conditions, walking in long-leg pants is recommended (protection against insects, snakes, etc.). It’s a good idea that they are a little wider, more comfortable and that they have functional, deep pockets. You can also hike in a tracksuit.

Other important clothing

Mountaineers usually wear two pairs of socks – one pair of thin cotton ones and a pair of thicker ones (wool or cotton), depending on the weather conditions. You will also need a hat or a cap. The most important thing is that it performs its function – in winter it protects your ears, and in summer your face, ears and neck. Gloves are a significant part of the equipment, as even the slightest drop in temperature is first felt at the tips of the fingers.

Don’t forget the first aid kit

Each trip requires an adequate travel pharmacy kit that will be on hand at all times. First aid in the form of painkillers and nausea medications can always be needed, as well as bug spray, patches, bandages and creams for faster wound healing. Especially pay attention to your pharmacy kit if you plan an active vacation on the mountain, as minor scratches, cuts, calluses, and similar injuries are always possible. Bring something to clean possible wounds and elastic bandages to cover them up. Those bandages will be helpful for sprained ankles too.

And speaking of emergencies, you will also want to have the contact information for a good attorney with you just in case an accident happens while driving. It is a smart part of sake travel.

We are happy to present this collaborative post to offer valuable information to our readers.