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5 Places You Must Visit After Retirement

What is there to do after retirement? Travel, explore and fulfill your dreams. Don’t know where to start? Here is a list of 7 places to help you plan your next vacation…
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Taking a full break from working life is a big decision, but after tens of years of waking up in the morning and going to the office at least 5 days a week, it comes as a much-deserved reward. The kids are already adults and taking care of their own life and it is time for you to enjoy yourself and forget about the tedious tasks of a 9 to 5 job.

What is there to do after retirement? Travel, explore and fulfill your dreams. The best thing is, you won’t have to worry about coming back in time for work. You can make the vacation as long as you desire and relax as much as you need. Don’t know where to start? Below is a list of 7 places to help you plan your next vacation.

Santorini, Greece

If you want to visit Europe, Santorini is one of the best places you can go to. The volcanic Greek island is a mix of beautiful beaches, with red and black sands, incredible vineyards and a bunch of archeological sites, in case you want to come back with a real history lesson. Plus, the Mediterranean food is the best you could ask for.

Explore the picturesque fishing village of Ammoudi Bay, where you can enjoy a relaxing day at the beach and some of the best traditional sea food made by the local fishermen. You can book a table straight on the beach and enjoy a glass of wine at sunset. For a more intricate landscape, choose one of the red or black-sanded beaches, such as Red Beach, Perissa or Kamari.

For a true lesson of history, visit Akrotiri, also known as the Pompeii of Greece. Hundreds of years ago, a volcano erupted and the ashes preserved the area of Akrotiri just as it was back in the 1450 BC. End your stay with a trip to Sigalas Winery, for a glass of wine and a private tour of one of the most ancient wine-producing areas in the world.

Sicily, Italy

Whether you choose to visit Palermo, the capital of Sicily, or the small towns of Taormina and Castelmola, there are countless things to do and enjoy on the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Palermo is full of history and opulence, as you will see if you take walk around town. Besides the palaces and historical monuments in the city, a trip to Palermo won’t be complete without a visit to Monreale Cathedral, to see the golden mosaics, made out of 2200 kg of pure gold.

If you want a more quiet place, choose the cities of Tormina and Castelmona, elevated 100 m above the sea. If seen from above, the cities look like a true maze, with small streets sprinkled with piazza and churches. If you get a chance to visit Taormina, don’t forget to take a trip to Isola Bella, a small island that contributes to the fame of the city.

Of course, a trip to Sicily won’t be complete without a visit to Mount Etna, the second most active volcano in the world. Here, you can take a cable car, which will take you 2,900 meters above sea level. The view from here will surely leave you mesmerized.

Maldives

If you want a relaxing vacation where all you have to do is lay in the sun and relax all day, them Maldives is the place for you. Beautiful fine-sand beaches and turquoise waters, the islands are sure to leave you breathless. You can choose to have a private picnic on a sandbank, to enjoy the delicious seafood and a glass of champagne. Then you can relax at an underwater spa, where you can enjoy a massage, a skin treatment and another glass of champagne, all while surrounded by glass walls with an underwater view. Marine life will be all around you, so make sure to wave to the dolphins when you see them.

Speaking of dolphins, Maldives is the perfect place to spot them swimming around you. Almost all resorts offer dolphin watching trips, as the smart marine creatures are everywhere around the islands. If you want to truly spoil yourself, take a cruise on a traditional boat and experience a breathtaking sunset aboard.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a place you must see at least once in your life, as it is one of the most amazing natural beauties of the world. You can choose to stay at a hotel right next to the water, for a mesmerizing view to go with your breakfast every morning, but make sure to remember to get out of the room and enjoy the surroundings. The best time to visit Niagara Falls is during spring or fall, to avoid crowds and overpriced accommodations.

You can take a cruise to enjoy the waterfalls from up close and truly let yourself be mesmerized by the greatness of the water. If you want to get even closer, take a behind-the-falls tour and go down into the tunnels. Here an observation deck awaits, where you can watch the Horseshoe Falls from behind. Make sure to get your raincoat on, as the mist will live you soaking.

For a complete travel experience, don’t forget to take a trip to the Niagara Falls History Museum, to learn more about the three waterfalls and the history of the area.

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is amongst the best places to visit in all the United States. The natural beauty of the place will leave anyone who visits amazed and charged with positive energy. There are countless things you can do here, depending on how adventurous you feel. One of the easiest to access places is the park is the Glacier Point, which also has the best view over the entire area. If possible, try going here at sunrise or sundown, for a truly special landscape.

A trip to Yosemite Park would not be complete without a visit to Yosemite Falls, the highest waterfall in all North America. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even choose to hike a portion of the fall. Speaking of hikes, a 0.5-mile hike will take you to Bridalveil Fall, named this way because the Ahwahneechee tribe living here believed that inhaling the mist of the fall would improve someone’s chances of getting married.

The Best of Bali and How the Make the Most out of your Trip

From the splendid beaches and exciting nightlife to the magnificent volcanoes, and glorious temples, Bali has something for everyone. I’ve highlighted the best of the best Bali has to offer… CONTINUE READING >> 

There are only a few locations in the world on everyone’s list of places to see. Bali is one of those places, and for a good reason! From the splendid beaches and exciting nightlife to the magnificent volcanoes, and glorious temples, Bali has something for everyone. I’ve highlighted the best of the best Bali has to offer.

Getting Around

There is so much to do in Bali that traveling from place to place is an absolute must and an exciting adventure in itself. Renting a car, such as those available at Sewa Mobil Bali, is the best option as it allows visitors to travel in larger groups, easily carry their luggage and, most importantly, stop wherever they like to do whatever interests them.

Temples

Bali is known as the “Island of 1000 Temples” for a good reason. Bali is home to some of the most picturesque temples in the world. From the most photographed temple in Bali, Pura Ulun Danu, to the most visited, Uluwatu Temple, it is impossible to see all 20,000 temples but, with some planning, you can see quite a few.

Culture

There are many places to see and activities to enjoy while in Bali. The most delightful of all these is experiencing Balinese culture first hand. From Kecak dances, shopping at Pasar Badung, or bathing in the sacred waters of Tirta Empul, Bali offers endless possibilities for engaging with the amazing culture of the Balinese.

Mountains

There are volcanoes and mountains in the interior and along the coast and a trip to Bali would be incomplete without visiting at least one. From the world-famous Gunung Prapat Ayung to Mount Batur, Bali’s mountains all offer unparalleled views and experiences everyone going to Bali should see and do.

Beaches

The beaches are what draws most visitors to Bali, and rightly so. From the surf-friendly and the ever-popular Kuta beach, the less crowded but equally gorgeous Candidasa area, to the famous Padang Padang beach, Bali has much to offer. The palms, the breeze, pure water, and magical sunsets make Balinese beaches the best in the world.

Nightlife

Bali hosts tens of thousands of visitors from around the world every day. The staggering variety of tourists meeting with local Balinese culture has created a vibrant, eclectic nightlife. Visiting Seminyak is a must, Kuta Beach at night offers endless opportunities for entertainment, and Denpasar provides local arts and foods every visitor should see and taste.

Spas

Traveling to Bali is often looked upon on as a trip of pure relaxation. Once famously asked of a local what heaven is like, he replied, “Bali.” Rounding out any trip to Bali should include a trip to a spa. Spas are found all over Bali and offer a variety of methods to induce relaxation. From the volcanic rock reflexology of Spa on the Rock to the mystical spa at Tjampuhan, any traveler can choose the type of treatment they most desire.

Bali offers such a variety of exciting activities to do and amazing places to see that it is impossible to list them all in one short list. But these are the unique experiences Bali has to offer and should be enjoyed by every visitor to that magical and beautiful island jewel.

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Living in the Mountains in North Carolina

The air is fresh, the grass is green, and the routes are scenic. It’s a great place for adventurists and nature lovers. But what does it really mean to live in the mountains…
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From the beautiful sunrise over the Blue Ridge Mountains to the cliffs of Grandfather Mountain, and then the spectacular view atop Clingmans Dome and Waterrock Knob — the North Carolina mountains are absolutely spectacular.

The air is fresh, the grass is green, and the routes are scenic. It’s a great place for adventurists and nature lovers. But what does it really mean to live in the mountains? What should you expect if you’re considering moving to the mountains? 

First of all, living in the mountains is very different from living in the city. It has several benefits, but it can also be tough. So before looking for that “mountain land for sale” sign, there are some aspects of mountain life that you should know about. You may find it’s just the life for you.

The mountain life is breathtaking

The scenic routes, the amazing landscapes, and the beauty of nature all work together to deliver an experience that will literally leave you breathless if you are not physically fit. The mountain life involves hiking, climbing, chopping, and a fair amount of physical activity.

Oxygen levels at the elevated heights of mountains are thinner than those on the plain. Combined with some challenging physical conditions (like flash rains and extremely cold nights), the mountain life requires endurance. Preparations for your move to the mountains should involve a lot of jogging, exercise, and resistance training.

But one of the most appealing aspects of mountain life is the beauty of nature and your uninterrupted access to it; nature as it should be seen. Living in the middle of nature and wildlife has therapeutic effects like fresher air, cleaner water, and even healthier food.

You wake up to the chirping of birds and the smell of wild flowers, and the night sky is absolutely gorgeous. These are things that city folks only see in movies.

Privacy is unprecedented

If privacy is your thing, then you will love the mountain life. In many cases, your closest neighbors are a couple of acres away, and they are not typically nosy people. This is a level of privacy that the city life does not offer.

All that space without the hustle and bustle of people, combined with several acres between you and your nearest neighbor could make you feel a bit lonely if you live alone — unless being alone is your thing. If it’s not, you can take advantage of the spread out community or fill up your time with plenty of physical activity.

That said, the mountain community is usually a tightly-knit one. People often know each other and meet for potlucks and other social gatherings. Yes, you will have to mingle and be nice. But there are not usually an overwhelming number of people, so you should be just fine.

You’ll have to fend for yourself

A great deal of the mountain life involves fending for yourself. Houses on the mountain may not have a sophisticated plumbing system like city homes, or a nearby fast food joint for quick meals. You will have to plan your meals and take care of your home.

Also, you should keep in mind that you are in the wild. You need to have survival instincts and handy tools like a penlight for the dark, an axe for chopping wood, containers for storing water, and other essential survival gear, just in case you decide to go camping or hunting.

The mountain life is most often desired by people who want a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. So if you are career-focused, then you may have a hard time with the tranquil and easygoing pace of the mountain life. There are not a lot of career opportunities and you may get underpaid for the jobs you do find.

The mountain life is one that can be quite tough. But it’s definitely worth it for those who love being with nature above all else.

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Eight World’s Best Adventure-Touring Motorcycles

Not all motorcycles deserve to be taken out of the city. You need a special one for the open road.Touring bikes make long road trips significantly more convenient and safe, and there are numerous choices out there… CONTINUE READING >> 

Not all motorcycles deserve to be taken out of the city. You need a special one for the open road.

Touring bikes make long road trips significantly more convenient and safe, while your street motorcycle may leave your muscles cramped and your entire body wore out.

There are numerous choices out there, with a lot of key features that will enable you to take advantage of your motorcycle tour. From fast and furious sports motorcycles to classy tourers and laid-back motorcycles, there’s something for each free spirit out there hoping to set out on a long, adventure-packed journey.

Therefore, how about we explore the best touring motorcycles!

                  List of the Best Eight Touring Motorcycles

Here are the eight best world-wide motorcycles that are renowned for the adventurous and comfortable road trip.

1. Suzuki V-Strom 1000 ABS

Engine: 1037 cc

Top speed: 126 mph

A solid adventure sports motorcycle with a 1,037cc 90-degree V-twin motor topping at 99hp, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 ABS is well-known for its comfort and durability. Including completely movable suspension, dirt tires and two-stage traction control, it’s prepared and willing to go off the road and into the dirt. Suzuki aftermarket motorcycle parts online are easily accessible.

2. BMW R 1200 RS

Motor: 1170 cc

Top speed: 125 mph

It may be enormous, however, with its amazing 1170cc DOHC twin-cylinder boxer, air/water-cooled, flat-twin engine peaking at 125hp, the BMW R 1200 RS is more sprightly and quicker than you’d presumably anticipate. With smooth handling, loosened up seating position, wind and weather protection warmed seating and grips, this sport-touring motorcycle is an incredible travel partner.

  1. 3. Turbocharged Suzuki Hayabusa

This is one of the fastest motorcycles on the list and the just one to have completed a 500 kmph speed run. Just non-traditional motorcycles have gone faster than the Turbocharged Hayabusa. The best parts of your Suzuki Hayabusa are easily available online.

4. Triumph Tiger Explorer XRT

Motor: 1215 cc

Top speed: 142 mph

A lightweight adventure touring motorcycle stuffed with a 1,215cc inline triple engine, the Triumph Tiger Explorer XRT accompanies bike control, cornering ABS, wind assurance, WP suspension set up and shaft drive. You can take this child baby off the road and into the dirt, and feel good on the highway as well. With a value beginning at $19,800, it is viewed as the best middleweight adventure motorcycle you can purchase.

5. Ducati Multistrada

Motor: 1198 cc

Top speed: 145 mph

Identified as the Swiss-army knife of bike touring, there’s little that the Ducati Multistrada can’t do. A modern-day classic, this fully-customizable sports tourer accompanies a 1198cc 90-degree V-Twin engine that reaches 160hp. Smaller, wonderful for the open road also for driving to work, the Ducati Multistrada is considered by numerous riders to be the best combination of sport, touring and driving bike accessible today.

6. Triumph Trophy SE

Motor: 1215 cc

Top speed: 130 mph

A super adventure-touring model blessed with 1,215cc three-cylinder engine, the Triumph Trophy SE is a mile-chewer. It is a best in class motorbikes that consolidates extravagance, comfort and performance. Both the driver and the passenger enjoy armchair ergonomics’ on this one.

7. 2019 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide

Motor: 1746 cc

Top speed: 109 mph

When we consider motorcycling, we often envision badass bikers in leather jackets riding Harley-Davidsons. For sure, the organization has something for all events. But when it comes to motorcycle touring, the most recent Electra Glide takes the prize.

8. Honda Gold Wing

Motor: 1833 cc

Top speed: 124 mph

We can’t make a rundown of touring motorcycles without including the incredible motorbike that brought forth the touring cruiser class. First presented in 1975, the Honda Gold Wing is tied in with riding in style.

Conclusion

With the privilege touring motorcycle and the right mindset, all that is left for you to do is to get the best boots for adventure motorcycling, bounce on your bike, join an adventure motorcycle tour and hit the road!

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

4 Sightseeing places in Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai has several places to visit and experience. It has made sure to provide modern infrastructure, bigger parks, hill views and much more. Don’t think they miss out on anything…

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Navi Mumbai is a satellite township which was developed to reduce the burden of the Mumbai city. With the rising population, there is an increase in the use of resources and population. Therefore there was a need to establish this urban township which is more planned, greener, spacious and well connected in every way possible. There are several industrial developments happened in that area which have contributed to the nearby development of town.

The town has several places to visit and experience. It has made sure to provide modern infrastructure, bigger parks, hill views and much more. Don’t think they miss out on anything, instead they have better places to visit in Navi Mumbai.

To get the essence of Navi Mumbai, we suggest you visit these 4 places

1. Wonder’s Park

 This place is perfect for a day-out with family and friends, and is an amusement park which receives the highest footfall among any of Mumbai’s parks. There are several high tech joy rides, toy trains taking rounds and most importantly, it has a mini replicas of the Seven Wonders of the World. Now, at least we know the reason behind the park’s name. There are structures of the Taj Mahal (Agra), Colosseum (Italy), Cristo Redentor (Rio de Janeiro), Machu Picchu (Peru), Chichen Itza (Mexico), Petra – Al Khajneh (Jordan) and the Great Wall of China are placed beside each other. Besides these, the place has other amenities like a real life chess board, open amphitheater, cycling space, horse cart riding and several more. There are also artificial lakes named Khandoli Lake and the Lazy River.

Address: Uran Road, Sector 19A, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400706

Timings: 6:00AM to 12:00PM and 3:00PM to 9:00PM   Closed on Mondays

Entry Fees: Adults (Above 12 years of age): Rs 35/-
Children (Children between 5 and 12 years of age): Rs 25/-

Nearest Railway Station: Seawoods Darave and Nerul railway station

There are several food stalls and a mall where you can find delicious food to eat.

2. Central Park

 The park is very famous among the kids due to several rides and things to play on, but you also find several youngsters and oldies walking around, getting some quiet time. After a long hustle-full day, this park will be your escape.  It has an amphitheater, Yoga Park, amusement park, virtual herbarium, musical instrument park and much more. Seems like one day will not be enough! While few parks allow eatables inside, this one has restricted it in a few of the areas inside. Don’t just visit this place to unwind but also to give your lungs some fresh air.

Address: Sector 23, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Mumbai 410210

Timings: 6:30AM to 9:30AM and 5:00PM to 8:00PM

Entry fees: None

Nearest Railway Station: Kharghar railway station

You will find several food vendors and outlets just around the corner.

3. Karnala Bird Sanctuary

This perfect place perfect for trekking and bird watching is located 50 km from Mumbai. It is a tiny place with almost 150 different types of birds residing in it, along with 37 types of avian migrants. You will see a variety of birds in every season and it will make you fall in love with nature a little more. Trekking is quite risky during monsoons and one is advised to be extra careful.

Address: 60 kms from Mumbai, on Mumbai-Goa Highway NH-17

Timings: 7AM to 5PM    Closed on Tuesdays

Entry Fees: Indian National Adult: Rs.30/- and Child: Rs.15/-
Foreign Nationals Adult: Rs.60/- and Child: Rs.30/-

Nearest Railway Station: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Railway Station

You might get a few snacks inside

4. Pandavkada Falls

The name of this waterfall takes us back to the times of the Pandavas and Mahabharata. It is believed that the Pandavas had visited and taken a bath in this fall while travelling during the exile. Also, they say that there is a small tunnel to reach the waterfall as well. This mythological fall is famous during monsoons, since it is 107 metres tall and flows through the Western Ghats. Experience beautiful greenery and natural vegetation all around.

Address: Opposite to Central Park, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra

Timings: Open 24 hours

Entry Fees: Rs.50/-

Nearest Railway Station: Kharghar Railway Station

You will get several food vendors around as well.

There are several other places in Navi Mumbai as well which are famous for drives like Palm Beach Road, Rain Tree Marg in Kharghar, D. Y Patil Stadium, Belapur Mango Garden, Belapur Fort, CIDCO Golf Course and many more. There are places for every mood and occasion. The town is truly perfectly planned and developed compared to a city like Mumbai.

We would suggest you to take some time off from this polluted city and give yourself some fresh air. From ideal picnic spots to adventure rides, you will find it all.

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6 Things You Must-Do at Marina Bay

What was one quite a dull and underwhelming landscape has now turned into, arguably, the most mesmerizing skyline in the world? The Marina Bay area of Singapore is now… CONTINUE READING >> 

What was one quite a dull and underwhelming landscape has now turned into, arguably, the most mesmerizing skyline in the world? The Marina Bay area of Singapore is now home to the 6th largest hotel in Asia, the Marina Bay Sands and it will definitely take you more than a few moments to take in the beauty of this marvel. The iconic architecture resembles a mammoth ship suspended at the height of 200 meters (656 feet) above three matching skyscrapers.

The Sands is quite the epitome of luxury with its infamous sky high swimming pool, casino – which was the world’s most expensive casino at the time of its inauguration in 2010, sprawling shopping malls and theatre all under its roof. However, if you do not wish to blow your coins on staying in this luxurious abode, then here are 10 other crazy fun things you should definitely try in Marina bay. The area is bustling with entertainment, culture, shopping destinations, eateries and restaurants serving some lip-smacking local and fusion cuisine and some iconic places that will give you some envious Instagram worthy snaps. So, in short, spending at least a day at Marina Bay is a must if you are visiting Singapore. And, here are the 6 things you should do when you are there.

1. Explore the Gardens By the Bay

The Gardens sits like a delicate bubble of greenery and fresh air amidst the concrete kingdom of Singapore and you ought to check it out because this one is far from your average city garden and parks. It can take your entire day if you wish to explore this waterfront nature-park thoroughly, but if you are in a rush, then head over strait to the highlights of this garden – the Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, and Supertree Grove.

The cloud forest is a special greenhouse which imitates the climate of endangered tropical highlands and its variety of rare foliage and flowers veiled in the haze of mist will transcend you to a mystical place you will not forget.

The Flower Dome, as you might have guessed already, is a gigantic biodome bursting with colours from rare flowering plants from all over the world. A dream come true for every flower lover. And, definitely a better gift than a bouquet to your significant other.

Witness a true spectacle of man’s creativity and phenomenal architecture at the Supertree Grove. There is a bunch of 18 fantastical metal structures which serve as vertical gardens soaring at 30 to 50 meters. Each of the structures is covered completely with flowering trees. These towering Supertrees generate solar power, act as air venting ducts and harvest rainwater and are a vision straight out of a fantasy fiction at night when they light up in the hues of blue and purple.

2. Get high with the Singapore Flyer

Get a bird’s eye panoramic view of the Island and its stunning skyline but in luxurious comfort. Singapore’s answer to the London Eye is the Singapore Flyer standing at 165 meters. The giant observatory wheel has 28 air-conditioned capsules dangling around it which can accommodate 28 riders at a time and does a steady climb and descent which takes 30 minutes.

3. Visit the ArtScience Museum

This structure is shaped like an outstretched hand or perhaps a lotus but is definitely a spectacle both inside and outside. Sitting at the waterfront in the shadows of the Marina Bay Sands; this structure houses over 20 gallery spaces, which showcase ever-changing pieces of art ranging from Dali to Harry Potter. The museum is a refreshing blend of contemporary art with modern design and technology.

Right adjacent to the ArtScience Museum, Singapore turn into to a spectacle of bright fluorescent lights and jutting waters dancing to the tunes of melodies in the Spectra Light Show at the Marina Bay. It is a sight to behold and what more? You can cherish the exquisite sight free of cost.

4. A photo-shoot with the Merlion

You simply cannot leave Singapore without a couple of decent pictures of yourself with the official Mascot of Singapore which graces most of its postcards. The Merlion is a creative imagination of a mermaid with a lion’s head. The enormous, pristine white 70-ton sculpture is built out of concrete and is engineered to eject a gushing stream of water out of it. The body of the fish or mermaid signifies the Island’s origin as a fishing village while the head of the Merlion represents the original name of Singapore – Singapura- which translates roughly to the “lion city”.

5. Roll your coins at the Marina Bay Sands Casino

Soak in the vibe of Vegas without having to travel all across the globe to the other side. The Marina Bay Sands promises to give you a look and feel of the “Sands” from Vegas with is glamorous, glitzy hallways and an outstanding seven-ton chandelier featuring more than 130,000 glittering Swarovski crystals under which lay over 600 table games and over 2500 slot machines and electronic table games. If you are not comfortable risking your luck gambling yourself, then just have a good time watching the intense betting games that goes on in here or play small. You can obviously take a quick break and indulge in some great food or some soul repairing shopping therapy.

6. Get an adrenaline rush at the Singapore Grand Prix

If you are a lover of speed, then you ought to visit Singapore during the second month of September when the Marina Bay area literally comes alive as the Formula One Grand Prix takes over its streets. Singapore’s Marina Bay has an incredible circuit elongating for 3.14 miles, adding up to a total length of 192 miles when all 61 laps are accounted for. The circuit takes the drivers through few of Singapore’s best tourist places, and right by the new Formula One pit building.

So, what are you waiting for? Go online and book yourself a memorable trip to Singapore without burning a hole in your pocket by choosing the right stay and travel.

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Dreaming about Sailing the Dalmatian Coast

Imagine watching the sunset while anchored in an idyllic cove with crystal clear water overlooked by an ancient land. That, and many other equally sublime settings are what make Croatia’s Dalmatian coast a sailor’s dream…
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Imagine watching the sunset while anchored in an idyllic cove with crystal clear water overlooked by an ancient land. That, and many other equally sublime settings are what make Croatia’s Dalmatian coast a sailor’s dream.

Now, with a little help from our friends at Yacht Charter Croatia, that dream can become a reality.

This is a corner of Europe that we have been eager to see for years, long a favorite for European travelers but nearly unknown to those of us in North America or down under. So now that we have it on our wish list the next question is “what’s the best way to see it?”

Sure there are tours or seaside resorts in quaint beach towns, but we can think of no better way to explore the Adriatic Sea than on a private chartered yacht.

These are our favorite kind of trips, an intimate group of adventurers on a boat that is small enough to go all sorts of places that bigger ships can never reach. In Croatia that means the ability to visit some of the over twelve thousand islands that most people only dream about.

We learned that first hand last year on our catamaran cruise in the Caribbean when we anchored off islands that were barely dots on the map. We also weren’t bound by the strict schedule of those big ocean liners. If we were loving a place and wanted to stay a few extra hours, no problem.

Even though this experience wouldn’t be as tropical, it should be every bit as exciting, and relaxing.

Hold on just a minute, can something be both exciting AND relaxing? Sure. Croatia offers amazing beaches, unbeatable scenery, and historic landmarks dating back to before the Romans. Legend has it that one island, Korčula, was founded by the Trojans twelve centuries before Christ.

Following that mythical period the island, and the rest of Croatia for that matter, was home to the Illyrians, followed by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Austria – Hungary, and several more before becoming part of Yugoslavia and finally Croatia. Whew, that’s a lot of exciting history!

Remnants, ruins, and relics from all of those civilizations can be found not only on Korčula, but all along the Dalmatian coastline and islands.

But sometimes there’s no time like the present, so we also want to check out some of the island’s natural beauty.  Top of our list is the Blue Cave. No wonder it is one of the most popular sea caves along the Adriatic. When conditions are right, around midday a mesmerizing glow appears as the sun reflects off of the white bottom of the cave and lights the water a dazzling, dreamlike shade of aquamarine.

Of course we should also find time to kick back on the beach. And we’re not talking just any old beaches, these are pristine. In fact, one hundred and sixteen of them across Croatia have been named Blue Flag beaches. This means that international standards for standards for quality, safety, and the environment have been met for both the water and the shore. We may never want to leave, but then we remember our yacht awaits and we are back to that picturesque scene that got us started.

After a day like that we can only pinch ourselves and think… “I must be dreaming.”

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

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