The GypsyNesters

Japan is a beautiful place, and interestingly enough, many people don’t realize it’s a series of islands. The four largest islands, including Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu, form a long, narrow shape — offering a vast amount of coastline wherein the Pacific Ocean is on the east and the Sea of Japan is on the west. For those who are looking to vacation in the area, it’s hard to avoid the beach. In fact, over 3,000 small islands can be found surrounding the mainland. Here are the best white sand beaches to visit:

Katsurahama Beach

Katsurahama Beach is a scenic destination wherein swimming is prohibited due to the strong currents. However, it’s a beautiful place to visit with many attractions located nearby. A famous statue, Sakamoto Ryoma, is a popular attraction near the beach with the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum above the beach on a hill. You can get to this beach via a one-way trip from JR Kochi Station for 690 yen. It’s a short 30-minute ride that’s well worth your time.

Odaiba Beach

Odaiba Beach is a man-made beach that offers access to many shopping malls and attractions. It’s the only beach available in the Toyko area, so if you’re headed to Toyko, keep it in mind. The 800-meter long beach forbids any sort of bathing or fishing as the water quality is quite low, but it’s a great place to spend some time relaxing or playing a game of beach volleyball. You can catch the Yurikamome train from Shimbashi Station to get there.

Tokimeki Beach

Tokimeki Beach is an expansive beach with beautiful green pines, white sand, clear water, and lovely sunsets. It’s located in Tannowa, Sennan District, but it’s one of many great beaches in the area. Throughout the months of March to June, it’s filled with people who are digging for clams. Tokimeki Beach is just 1 to 1.5 hour away from Namba Station which is one of the best districts to stay in Osaka for tourists.

Shirahama Beach

Shirahama Beach, a well-known surf destination, is an 800-meter long beach wherein visitors come to lay out on the sand, enjoy the sun, and of course, spend some time surfing the waves. It’s approximately five kilometers east of Izukyu-Shimoda Station — making it easy to find transportation to and from the beach. There are many shops and convenience stores along the road, which means visitors have absolutely no trouble renting beach gear, picking up souvenirs or buying some food.

Yonaha Maehama Beach

Yonaha Maehama Beach, a gorgeous 7-kilometer stretch of shoreline, is commonly referred to as one of the most beautiful beaches throughout Japan. This beach has white sand and water that appears almost emerald green. It’s found in the Miyoki Island roughly 400 miles from Okinawa on the mainland. It’s accessible via taxi or car. If you’re in the area and you’re able to visit, you won’t be disappointed.

Kondoi Beach

Kondoi Beach is located on a small island known as Taketomijima — approximately 6km away from Ishigakijima and a short ferry ride from the coastline of Japan. It’s very popular for having a fantastic diving and snorkeling environment. Those who truly appreciate nature will enjoy this beach as it’s a quiet, tranquil area that features emerald green water with bright white sands. It’s safe for children, and when the tide is high, you’re able to enjoy a swim. You can get there within an hour if you take a high-speed ferry.

Nishi No Hama Beach

Nishi No Hama Beach, located on Hateruma Island, is another beautiful beach that’s calm and quiet. In fact, it’s one of the least crowded beaches throughout Japan. Once you visit, you’ll wonder why it’s not packed all the time. It’s said to have soft, fine sand – allowing you to take off your sandals and enjoy a stroll. Although the water can be quite shallow, it’s a great spot for snorkeling.

Miho Beach

Miho Beach, located in Shizuoka, is one of the most beautiful white sand beaches due to its view of Mt. Fuji. Upon arrival, you can’t help but notice the incredible mountain views that are breathtaking. Although the sand isn’t super fine, it’s still a great place to walk around and enjoy the scenery. Aside from the mountain views, you’ll enjoy spectacularly large pine trees. It’s a great place for cycling and swimming.

There’s nothing better than spending the day soaking up the sun at a beautiful white sand beach. If you’re looking for a beautiful white sand beach in Japan, choose the one from our list above that’s closest to the area you’re visiting and enjoying a relaxing day at one of the best white sand beaches around!

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Skiing is by far, one of the most interesting sports/activities you could ever do. It’s fun, exciting, and pretty scary. It’s also not something you would usually do, like playing soccer with your friends. Skiing is this rarity of an experience that you could only experience when you’re fortunate enough to be in a place that offers this luxury service. Yet, it also can be lethal, to yourself and to others, if not practiced safely. Just like a car, a ski or a snowmobile can be a tool to harm people, and it needs to be used responsibly as much as you would your own vehicle. That means you can’t be using drugs or alcohol while skiing, any more than you would on a highway or a state road.

Why it is dangerous

Would you drive your car under the influence of marijuana? You probably can, but if you do get caught, you’ll be subject to the state laws of DUI and will probably suffer a severe penalty. Many people think marijuana is a harmless drug, but it can impair your judgment and affect your senses, making it dangerous to drive under the influence. Since you can’t drive a car using it, the same applies to a ski. Unless you’re pretty rich and have your very own ski resort, you’re sharing one with other people looking to have a good time. That means that skiing under the influence of drugs puts not only you in danger, but also all those around you.

Why lawyers warn against it

You’ll find that most lawyers vehemently warn against doing that, and for a good reason. State laws can inflict severe punishment in those cases, and in some states, it’s worse than others. You have a state like Colorado, one of the few that has laws against DUI in snowmobiles and skis, and as the article at https://tranilaw.com shows, you’re going to need a lawyer to get out of this one. This is why top Denver criminal defense lawyers say you shouldn’t ski under the influence of marijuana, because Colorado DUI laws apply to any sort of vehicle that can accelerate at high speeds. So that includes snowmobiles and skis.

If you do get charged with DUI in Colorado, you’ll need a pretty good legal defense team. Anything from fines and community service for some jail time may apply as punishment, so it’s definitely not something to be taken lightly. If an accident or injury occurred due to you are driving under the influence of drugs, you could rest assured some jail time is incurred if indicted.

Safety first

Does anyone even drive anything under the influence of drugs? You may ask yourself that question, but there are plenty of cases and accidents where that happens. People do drugs for fun or for whatever reason, but you need to remember a few things before doing marijuana and then driving anything really. It’s not going to be just your life that you’re reckless with. It’s also the lives of anyone unfortunate enough to be in your path while you’re in that state. And you’d never be able to live with yourself if you do harm someone. So, do yourself a favor and avoid driving under the influence of anything.

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Hiking is one of the activities where you can get close to nature and get healthy at the same time. However, taking that walk close with nature doesn’t make it an excuse to leave or forget important things that we need to bring along on a hike. Hiking also needs planning and preparation before undergoing that big trip. What are the important things that we shouldn’t forget to bring with us on hike? Read on to find out.

Water Container

It is very important to stay hydrated during your hike. If you start your hike early in the day, there’s a chance that you will get exposed to the sun for the rest of the day until you find sufficient vegetation cover. By then, you will have felt thirsty and tired and it is where the water bottles come in handy. So never leave home without it.

Backpack

A backpack can always come in handy in long walks like trail hiking. A recent article from the Great Big Trail website emphasized the importance of carrying the things you need while also maintaining mobility and freedom to move your arms while you walk. Durability and reliability are key qualities to look for in a backpack. Choose the type that is lightweight, has a waterproof exterior and sufficient storage space. This can ensure that you get to bring more important hiking gear along with you.

Food and Food Container

Food is the fuel that gets you going on your hike. Before embarking on a hike, have a big meal and stuff up on calories for the big walk. You’ll need all the energy reserves ready for the rest of the day. Still, it’s a good idea to bring easy-to-prepare and ready-to-eat food just in case you need it. To do so, you’ll need a container to separate it from other items in your bag and avoid contamination. Use a durable, reusable and food-friendly storage bag for your trail mix, which could include energy bars, beef jerky, cranberries, peanuts, almonds or any other mix you prefer to bring along with you.

First Aid Kit

Safety is one of the basic concerns when it comes to hiking. Injuries are common when it comes to hiking, so at least be prepared and have the training to handle such injuries. You may get some cuts, scrapes or rashes along the way, so be prepared with bandages, gauzes, antiseptics and other basic medicines and materials you’ll need to handle manageable hiking emergencies.

Utility Knife

Bring with you a handy utility knife. It can be used for food preparation, fuel gathering for fire, trail marking, self defense and so much more. A Swiss Army knife or any utility knife can be useful for situations that you may not anticipate.

Pocket Blanket

You can never tell if your hiking trip can turn into a camping trip once you reach the wilderness. Having something to sit or lie down on while taking a rest and enjoying the fantastic scenery is something you should carry with you on a hike. I specifically chose this type of blanket because of its great storability and portability. Imagine storing a blanket into a size that could fit your pocket! Another important plus factor of this blanket is its durability, it is waterproof and comfortable. You should always have this stuffed in your pocket or backpack during hikes.

There can be a lot of never-leave-home-without-it items you can think of when it comes to hiking. The list can change depending on your hiking experience and the trails you usually take. The bottom line for hikes is enjoyment and safety. So before embarking on a hike, make sure to let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be probably returning. While you’re on a hike, take in as much as you can of what nature offers you and enjoy every moment of your hike.

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While Spain is famous for its culture and eclectic nightlife, there is more to be said about its beautiful scenery that draws in thousands of tourists every year. There’s so much beauty in Spain, and it’s true that it has something to offer every kind of traveller.

If you’ve visited all of the typical destinations in the country, or you’re just set on taking the less-beaten path of hiking trails over the busier cities, then look no further. Spain is a great choice for those looking for an enriching and exciting hiking and trekking trip.

Although it’s probably not in the top 10 things a first-time traveller should do in Spain, this vibrant country has amazing mountain ranges, challenging landscapes, and well-marked trails that are worth visiting.

The great thing about this is that this country has so much to offer, that you’ll definitely find a trail that will be perfect for you. Whether you’re an experienced hiker, just someone who wants to try a new hobby, or simply want something away from their busy normal life, there’s a little bit of something here for everyone.

We’ve rounded up some of the best trails in Spain, and all you have to do after is book that trip!

1. Camino de Santiago

This legendary walking route is probably top of mind for Spanish trails, and it’s deserving of all the hype. The Camino de Santiago walk is a series of pilgrim routes that have been around since ancient times.  It begins in various places along the French border, before ultimately leading down to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia.

This trail stretches on for miles and miles, and can take you weeks to accomplish the entire trip. However, it isn’t just for expert trekkers, and it doesn’t sound as long and dreary in reality. This place has actually been designed to accommodate travellers along the way, so you’ll undoubtedly encounter stops along the way when you need to sit for a while, or even sleep overnight!

Camino de Santiago is a historical path that is definitely worth visiting. It’s great for your physical health and mental health as well! Walking along the beautiful scenery of this place will help give you peace of mind and keep you away from the stress of daily life.

2. Picos de Europa

If we’re talking about the best of the best, then Spain’s oldest national park definitely has to have a place on our list. The Picos de Europa National Park is home to some of the most exquisite vistas that feature lush valleys and limestone peaks.

Picos de Europa is definitely bursting with life and nature, along with rich wildlife that will make you want to stay in that sanctuary forever. Compared to Camino de Santiago’s lengthy trail, the Picos de Europa trail only extends for 12 km. It is of moderate difficulty, and you won’t encounter much trouble since it is mostly flat.

3. Sierra Nevada Trail

The Sierra Nevada Trail is definitely something you should consider if you’re looking to explore levels of difficulty for hiking. It has various and abundant trails that range from the easiest to the hardest.

Located in Andalucia, the Sierra Nevada trail can be conquered all in a day. This is the perfect trail for challenging yourself, and enjoying the beautiful scenery at the same time.

4. Caminito del Rey

The King’s Little Path is often called world’s most dangerous walkway. This may not be true anymore, since renovations have definitely made things safer, but it is no doubt still one of the scariest as it clings to the cliffs along the Gorge of the Gaitanes.

Both the Caminito and the Sierra Nevada Trail can be easily reached by staying in a hotel near Ronda.

Spain is home to some of the most beautiful trails and scenery in the world. Just take your pick from our suggestions above and get ready to be blown away!

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One of the must-visit places in Southeast Asia is certainly Thailand. There is no need to spend a lot of money while you are in this country. Yes, it is a place where you don’t have to spend much. You can set a budget for it and you won’t go over it. You won’t regret going to this country as it has everything you could ever want. Here are a few tips so you won’t go over your budget:

Shop at Night Markets

There are many night markets all over Thailand, especially during weekends. You will see tons of items from souvenirs to clothes. Thus, this would be the best place to go shopping and not at shopping malls. Believe it or not, you can also haggle for lower prices. Yes, there is a big chance you will get the price you want. You just need to believe in yourself. It is not hard to spot night markets in Thailand as they are always full of people. You will definitely find a lot of unique items on the market. Thus, it would be best to take your time and check out all the things there. There is no doubt you are going to find something you like.

Try Couchsurfing

Believe it or not, it is actually possible to stay at a stranger’s house for free. Don’t expect anything fancy though, unless you get lucky. Yes, it is common to look for the best hostel in Asia. However, if you want to save money, couchsurfing is a great option. You can’t blame yourself if you think twice about staying at someone else’s house. The good thing, the app has gained a reputation for being safe. In fact, hundreds of people all over the world always do it. Therefore, there is no need to think twice about doing it. If you like it, you may even host a couchsurfer in your home in the future.

Try Street Food

Instead of going to high-end restaurants, why not try street food? They’re not only cheap, but they’re also very delicious. You will be surprised at how good these street people cook. The prices are incredibly low too. Of course, you can’t blame yourself if you are going to think that the food is not clean. You just need to put yourself in the place of the street vendors. Why would they do that if it will hurt them? It would be a smart move to go to places where a lot of people eat. You can be there are food choices there that would make them come back for more.

There is a reason why Thailand is always full of tourists. Yes, it does not matter whether you go to Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket, you are going to see a lot of tourists. In fact, there are areas where the tourists outnumber the locals. Thailand is known for its nice beaches, delicious food and photographic cities. You can seriously spend a number of weeks here and not even notice it.

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Just because you’re a senior doesn’t mean you’re doomed to live your days out at the old folk’s home, playing pinochle to pass the time. Seniors live vibrant, active lives, and that includes taking vacations all over the world.

However, that doesn’t mean traveling is as easy as it was in your 20’s.

It doesn’t matter if you’re getting in a car and driving a few states over or you’re hopping on a plane with an eVisitor visa to travel to Australia, you can make every moment of your vacation fun and comfortable with these tips.

Keep Travel Time to a Minimum

No one likes to spend days in the car or hours on the plane. However, it can be especially difficult for seniors to spend so much time traveling. Legs can get stiff and backs can get sore pretty quickly in cramped quarters! No matter where you’re heading, look for ways to reduce travel time.

That might mean choosing a quick flight over spending hours in the car, but it also means looking for the most direct flight to your destination. Even if it costs a little more money, you’ll be glad you avoided hours spent in the airport, as well as all the energy it takes to get off one plane only to have to board another.

Be Upfront About Any Special Requests

The travel industry is extremely accommodating. That means you can make many different requests to airlines and hotels when booking your vacation, and in most cases, your demands will be met.

For example, you may want to request a room on the main level of the hotel, so you can avoid the elevator and staircases. At the airport, it isn’t uncommon for seniors to request wheelchair assistance. Many airport terminals are very large, and a wheelchair can make it a lot easier!

Have a connecting flight and worried about making it there on time? Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Chances are, you can hop on one of the cars airport employees use and they’ll zip you to your next terminal.

Put All Medications in Your Carry-On Bag when Flying

To avoid the hassle of making TSA deal with your medication, you may be tempted to place it in your checked bag. That’s a very bad idea. If your luggage gets lost, or if you experience an emergency on the plane, you want to make sure you have all your medication with you. That means putting it in your carry-on when flying in an airplane.

Fortunately, TSA guidelines for medication are actually quite flexible. A few things to keep in mind include:

• You do not have to notify any officer about any of the medication you’re traveling with, unless it is in liquid form.

• Liquid medications are allowed in carry-ons in excess of 3.4 ounces, as long as you notify the TSA agent.

• You do not have to keep medication in prescription bottles.

• If you don’t want your medication x-rayed, tell an agent, and they can perform a visual inspection instead.

Keep Planned Activities to a Minimum

It’s recommended that travelers of all ages keep activities on vacation to a minimum, but it is especially important advice for seniors.

There’s nothing wrong with needing to rest more often than your younger counterparts. Make sure you have plenty of time to get to your destination, plenty of time to return to the hotel, and plenty of time to rest by keeping planned activities to a minimum. That might mean planning something in the morning and leaving the afternoon open, or not planning anything at all!

Don’t Forget About Senior Discounts!

Don’t forget about senior travel discounts! If you keep your eyes peeled when you’re planning your vacation and when you’re on vacation, you can save some serious money.

A few ideas include:

• Southwest and British Airways offer discounts to senior travelers.

• Most public transit systems offer deeply discounted rates to seniors.

• You can find discounts of around 10-percent when staying in a hotel.

Don’t forget to ask when you get to your destination too. Many community theaters, restaurants, and museums all offer discounts to senior citizens.

Just because you’re over the age of 55 doesn’t mean your days of exploring the world have to be over. Traveling as a senior can be a wonderful experience, even if it does mean it’s different than your younger years. With these tips, you can make the most of your vacation, no matter what your age or destination.

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