The GypsyNesters

photo credit Jennifer Boyer

The Giant’s Causeway is an admirable beauty that is now a World Heritage Site. Often known as the 8th wonder of the world, it attracts thousands of visitors each year and has become one of the most famous place in the UK. In fact, according to latest reports, the place is visited by around a million visitors every year, which is more than the number of people who visit the Titanic Belfast, which has now become the second most visited tourist sites in the Northern Ireland.

The Giant’s Causeway is a fascinating site which is believed by many to have been a battleground for two giants named Fionn and Benandonner. However, science says that this is just a myth. The truth is that the site was formed due to a volcanic eruption some 60 million years ago.

The site has 40,000 interlocking basalt columns and is found in the Country Antrim, UK. The best way to explore the site is to go for a guided bus tour. While there are a plethora of companies that claim to give the best tour and the perks to choose them, you need to be careful when picking one so that you can enjoy yourself to the fullest.

Let’s first talk about factors to consider when choosing a tour bus company:

• The Route: Check out the route and make sure the company covers all the places to visit nearby the Giant’s Causeway. Many companies will only take you to the main site, but there are several nearby places as well that are worth a visit so make sure to pick a company that considers this point.

Several companies have multiple routes at different prices, so you can pick one that is the most well defined. In addition to this, look for a company that allows you some time to enjoy yourself and indulge in activities such as shopping and eating.

• The Amenities: You might find this strange, but tour companies offer different amenities, such as food and photography.

Some of these features may come at an extra charge but it is a wise choice to go for a company that offers such amenities. For example, if you pick a package that offers meals, you will not have to worry about finding it on your own. This way you will be able to enjoy yourself to the fullest without any trouble.

• The Comfort: This factor is very important as the journey can be a few hours long and if you pick a coach that is not comfortable you will feel very tired by the end of the tour.

Hence, make sure to pick a company that provides you with a comfortable journey. The most important factor here is to consider the condition of the coaches and the kind of seats. Make sure the seats are adjustable and there is enough leg space so that you can rest without any trouble.

• The Guide: Now this is the most important factor to consider. A guide can make or break a tour. Your guide will not only look after you, but also provide you with information regarding tour, such as how the columns came into formation or why the site is so famous.

Make sure to pick a company that has friendly and experienced tour guides. Moreover, if you speak a language other than English, then look for a company that offers guides that speak foreign languages. Since a number of foreigners visit this place, many tour companies have hired guides that can speak speak multiple languages such as French, Spanish and Arabic.

Other than this, look for a professional tour company that is also within your budget. The easiest way to find such information is to look for reviews on the web. You can find out what others think of a company and then pick one that has a good number of positive reviews. A very reliable company is Allen’s Tours (http://www.allensbelfastbustours.com/) that is affordable and offers excellent services.

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Long distance travel can be a hassle at the best of times, especially when things go wrong.

But, although having a flight delay is frustrating and inconvenient, it doesn’t have to be a complete fiasco, there are a number of steps you can take to recoup any expenses (not to mention sanity!) you might have lost.

Here are our top tips for dealing with a flight delay:

Find out what you’re entitled to

First thing’s first, find out if you’re entitled to compensation – whether that’s food and drinks vouchers so you can grab a bite to eat whilst you wait, or cash compensation.

As a general rule, if your flight is delayed by under three hours, you probably won’t be entitled to any compensation.

Check your travel insurance

If you’ve had the foresight to take out travel insurance, you might well be covered, at least to come extent, for flight delays. This could include boking a hotel room, if necessary, and covering certain costs for meals and entertainment.

Of course, all policies are different so make sure you’ve read the small print!

Try and get hold of a lounge pass

If the airport you’re stuck at has a lounge, and the flight delay is the fault of the airline, you should ask if you can have a lounge pass. In the lounge, you’ll typically find hot food, free drinks, comfortable seating, and free WiFi – making the wait for your flight much more enjoyable. Airlines don’t typically like giving out these passes and they are under no obligation to do so, so remember to ask nicely!

Research your destination

Instead of focussing on being trapped in the airport, why not use your time productively and research the things you’ll be able to see, do, and experience when you finally reach your destination. When you’re planning a trip, it can be hard to find as much time as you’d like to learn about the history, culture, and language of your destination. With no option but to stay in the airport, with very little available in the way of entertainment, this is the perfect opportunity to get to grips with a new part of the world.

Have a bite to eat

In some instances, your airline will provide you with a meal voucher to keep you fed and watered during your delay. Whether this is the case or not, sitting down for a decent, restaurant meal whilst you await your delayed flight can be a great way to pass the time.

And, at least this way, you won’t be hungry when you eventually take off and the only option available is often sub-par restaurant food.

Explore the airport

Being delayed is far from ideal. But, if you’re going to be stuck in the airport for an extended period of time, you may as well make the best of it and take advantage of the facilities on offer.

Of course, larger airports will always offer more entertainment options that smaller ones, but explore the shops and services on offer, and you’ll never know what you might find. From child-friendly play areas, book shops, and duty free, through to spas, salons, bars, and even yoga rooms, you might be surprised at the fun you can have in the airport!

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For all those worried about the cold weather on the beautiful Canadian Rockies, we have this to say – that despite the weather, the Rockies is the best place to enjoy a pristine wilderness holiday. There aren’t that many places in our world anymore that offer such an amazingly diverse range of landscapes and activities. If you’re into the spectacular outdoors, if you’re into great backcountry hiking, kayaking, drives and wildlife spotting, head straight out to the Canadian Rockies.

Rejoice In The Takkakaw Falls

The very word Takkakaw stands for ‘magnificent’ in the aboriginal Cree tongue. These fabulous falls tumble down from a height of 384m (1,260 feet). The highest falls in all of Canada, the Takkakaw is fed by the Daly Glacier which originates from the Waputik Icefield. The best way to enjoy these falls is to hike the Iceline Trail that begins close to the Takkakaw Falls; one of the greatest hikes in the Rockies. The trail climbs to a platform high up that offers the most spectacular glacier views ever. From there, you descend to lovely spring meadows in the Little Yoho Valley, check out the Laughing Falls and then visit the Takkakaw Falls. A visit to the Takkakaw Falls is top on our list of things to see & do in the Canadian Rockies.

Tip: Be sure to sign up with a professional trail guide whose knows the terrain well.

Grab A View To End All Views From A Gondola

Sign up for Canadian Rockies tours that include riding in a fully enclosed grass-fronted gondola cabin for eight minutes to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. Glide up over the tall treetops to the top of the Rocky Mountain peak, enjoying fabulous views all along the way. Once you reach the top, you’ll experience the most jaw-dropping mountaintop view you’ve ever had.

Tip: Even though it looks dangerous, you can get a bird’s eye view of all six of the Rockies’ unbelievably-lovely mountain ranges if you stroll further along the ridge-top boardwalk.

1. Enjoy The Most Spectacular Sunrise Of Your Life At Lake Louise

Lake Louise is famously known as the turquoise lake, for a good reason. This incredibly dramatic expanse of emerald-green water backed by the amazing Victoria Glacier literally punches you in the viscera. If you want an uninterrupted glimpse of the lake, best get there at sunrise. You’ll get to enjoy the most wonderful view of all – Lake Louise coming to life slowly as the rising sun sets the soaring mountain backdrop to fire. Want to make a day of it?

Tip: Sign up for the Plain of Six Glaciers hike, probably one of the most spectacular day hikes in the Rockies. It’s one of the best things to do in Canada.

Cruise Away To Spirit Island

The Maligne Lake is nestled cozily in the midst of a ring of protective mountains, like a precious child in the enclosing arms of its mother. All the lakes in the Canadian Rockies are fed by the glaciers, but Maligne Lake is the largest of them. Hire a boat and cruise out to the fabulous Spirit Island on the Maligne Lake.  Be sure to get plenty of pictures of the incredibly-blue waters of the lake and the stunning lofty peaks around you.

Tip: Make the trip during late afternoon, when the light is bright enough to justify photography.

1. Spot Some Grizzlies, Cougars and Moose!

The Canada Rocky Mountains are rife with wildlife; they roam free here and there’s a severe hunting restriction so rifle or bow hunting is very limited. You can, of course, shoot them with your cameras. Keep an eye out for large mammals such as grizzlies, moose, black bears, wolves, deer, cougars, coyotes, elk, and big horn sheep. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, the dazzling Rockies will be your home destination. It’s easier to spot the wildlife during dusk and dawn, since that’s when they come out to hunt for food.

Tip: Head out to the Rockies during spring or fall if you want to capture images of the wildlife here, particularly bears and moose.

Go Kayaking On The Magnificent Moraine Lake

The incredible Moraine Lake is snugly set in the rugged Valley of the Ten Peaks. There are many stunning lakes in the Canadian Rockies, but the Moraine Lake is the most visually stunning of them all. This lake is surrounded by incredibly lofty mountains, rock piles and waterfalls that come together to create a landscape so stunning, you’ll wonder if it’s a movie set or something like that.  The lake’s waters are a vivid shade of turquoise that appear very dark emerald when the glaciers melt in spring, and a lighter turquoise during fall. If you want your share of pure mountain air, sit by the lakeside, or go canoeing and hiking alongside it.

Tip: Avoid the tourist rush during the day by visiting it close to dawn or in the late afternoon during your Canadian Rockies vacation.

1. Enjoy A Must-indulge Hot Spring Cure

Everyone knows that the hot sulfuric waters of the hot springs in the Canadian Rocky Mountains offer a relaxing cure to stressed-out bodies. Be sure to get your share of hot soak at the Banff Upper Springs, Radium Springs and Miette Springs. If you visit the springs after a day of hard hiking into the Alpine Meadows, you’ll enjoy them even more. Banff Upper Hot Springs is located close to Banff Town, at the foot of the Sulphur Mountain. If you want luxurious spa amenities complete with bathhouse and all, then head to Banff Upper Hot Springs. If you’re more into nature and want to experience a hot springs set in a canyon setting, visit Radium Hot Springs in British Columbia’s Kootenay National Park. Miette Hot Springs in Jasper National Park contains the hottest mineral water in the Rockies.

Tip: If you’re looking for a private, cozy little hot springs just for you and your partner, head out to the Ainsworth Hot Springs which also has a cool cave in the rock where the hot springs extends. Well worth obtaining a Canada Visa, just for the hot springs!

1. Drive Over The Double-Lane Icefield Parkway

If you’re looking for a spectacular drive amidst the Canadian Rockies, then head over to the double-lane Icefield Parkway (also known as Highway 93 North), that links Lake Louise to Jasper. This spectacular highway stretches 232 km (144 miles) along the Continental Divide, passing through soaring rocky mountain peaks, sweeping valleys and icefields, turquoise lakes, ancient glaciers and tumbling waterfalls.

Tip: You’ll also spot a variety of wildlife along this stretch – coyotes, deer, big horn sheep, black bears and even wolves and grizzles too, on occasion.

1. Ride The Most Luxurious Train In The Rockies!

Capture the wild beauty of Canada’s west from the Rocky Mountaineer train, as it travels through the jaw-dropping majestic Canadian Rockies. Experience the glory of black lava cliffs giving way to canyons interspersed with pristine glacial lakes; watch as turbulent rivers crash and boil among the rocks; check out the incredible wildlife along the way – bighorn sheep, grizzlies, black bears and wolves. On the train, you’ll be delighted to experience cooked-to-order, plentiful breakfasts and lunches and snacks, plus an unlimited number of cocktails to nurse as you watch the scenery pass by – one of the top Canada points of interest on your tour.

Tip: The Rocky Mountaineer travels through several unique routes; sign up for the one you want to see.

1. Go Hiking Along The Exclusive Alpine Circuit

Yoho National Park has a gem of fabulous beauty, one that encompasses some of our world’s most visually stunning mountain scenery.  Lake O’Hara is an exclusive mountain enclave that has beautiful lichen-covered rocks, jewel-like blue lakes, and breathtaking vistas. You’ll come to the lake when you hike along the most impressive day hikes in the Rockies, the Alpine Circuit, one of the best Canada places to visit. The lake is a grizzly bear sanctuary, so you’re bound to see many of these magnificent creatures as you hike.

Tip: You’ll have to book your tickets months in advance; there’s a limit on the number of visitors each season, order to protect the mountain wildlife and plant life.

Conclusion

The Canadian Rockies, despite the cold glaciers and the forbidding ice mountains, are actually very tourist-friendly. For example, if you’re not able to hike into the mountains, you can ride on the Rocky Mountaineer train and take the fabulous sights in. You can ride the gondola cabin to the top of the Sulphur Mountain and get your share of enjoyment there. You can stay at a beautiful lake-side resort and enjoy the magnificent views there. There are many ways to enjoy the Canadian Rockies, so be sure to book your tickets today.

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Australia is a beautiful country with incredible cities spotted around its coastlines. Each city has its own unique perks and special places to visit, best done by immersing yourself and joining the hum of the city.

Melbourne

Melbourne has beautiful, historic buildings in the city centre. It also hosts an interesting history of development that boomed in the Australian Gold Rush days, and boasts the best city railway station in Australia with Flinders Street Station.

There’s so much to see in the city that you’re better off staying in an RNR serviced apartment rather than a hotel, so you have room to cook and feel like you are actually living in Melbourne for a time. From there, you can utilize the tram system and be close to the iconic Queen Victoria Markets.

Sydney

Sydney’s Circular Quay is an iconic part of Australia and a must-visit destination.

The best way to see the quay is to catch a train in to Circular Quay station and to then take a ferry around the harbour to another great spot such as Manly or Taronga Zoo.

The Sydney ferries are a highlight of the city and a fantastic way to travel.

While you’re in Sydney you must also make your way to beautiful Bondi Beach. Bondi always seems to exceed expectations in its cleanliness, aesthetic beauty and surf conditions. While you’re there, why not take a walk around the scenic coastal walk to the next beach along or all the way to Coogee?

Brisbane

Brisbane is a sprawling suburban city perfect for families and time spent in the beautiful Queensland weather. It also has a growing, high-quality bar and restaurant scene with craft beer bars and themed restaurants popping up all over the city.

It’s worth a trip to South Bank on the River where you can find a man-made beach, great restaurants and Brisbane’s art galleries and museums. It’s also a great place to stay with units available around South Bank and the West End area.

Adelaide

Adelaide is a charming, well-planned city with elegant architecture. The city’s digital infrastructure is also remarkable, leading Australia with over 300 public hotspots. Visitors can safely make use of the service with a VPN for Australia to prevent Wi-Fi hacking which is possible over all public hotspots.  Moving onto the sights themselves, while Adelaide is  generally not at the top of destination lists but it is growing in popularity due to its commitment to the arts with events such as the Adelaide Fringe and Film Festivals.

One of the best places to start exploring Adelaide is at the tree-lined North Terrace that gives access to the museum, art gallery and state library. With its huge commitment to the arts, there is always something interesting going on in Adelaide.

Perth

At the heart of Perth is the green and leafy Kings Park which is a great place to stroll through and experience Perth’s sunny weather and clean air. A great way to immerse yourself in the city is by taking a cruise along the Swan river to Fremantle. This must-see trendy spot full of great modern Australian dining and bars is the perfect place to have a drink and enjoy the beautiful West Australian coast. Also, be sure to get out to Rottnest Island and see some quokkas.

Darwin

As Australia’s northern outpost, the city’s proximity to Asia and its growing, youthful population makes it a vibrant city with a huge range of outdoor activities for those interested in living an active lifestyle, in addition to incredible scenic locations right on Darwin’s doorstep.

There are a number of panoramic lookouts and World War II monuments special to that city – having been hit by the same Japanese carrier group that attacked Pearl Habour.

Hobart

Hobart is one of the oldest cities in Australia, with a rich colonial history. It’s a more laid back city centred around a bustling harbour with less traffic than Australia’s other major cities, so don’t hesitate to hire a car and continue on out of Hobart to explore surrounding parts of Tasmania.

Hobart can often be overlooked as a must-see Australian city, but Tasmania is a beautiful part of this country with so much to discover.

There’s so much to see and do, be sure to give each city ample time to explore its own unique elements and do your best to immerse yourself within the lifestyle of each city.

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