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3 Things You Must See and Do When Headed to London Without the Kids

London is one of the most progressive and diverse cities in the world, so you can bet there’s always something fun to experience. With some of the world’s best entertainment, nightlife, art, museums, dining, and culture, it’s impossible not to enjoy the city… CONTINUE READING >> 

London is one of the most progressive and diverse cities in the world, so you can bet there’s always something fun to experience. With some of the world’s best entertainment, nightlife, art, museums, dining, and culture, it’s impossible not to enjoy the city. It attracts over 25 million visitors each year, making it the most visited city in all of Europe. It’s no surprise that London tops the bucket list of many visitors, and it’s a great city for an adult’s night out without the kids — here are our recommendations for three things you must see and do when headed to London without the little ones in tow.

History and Culture in Westminster


Image via Flickr by Graeme Tozer

Westminster is the political hub of London, home to Parliament and the world-famous Big Ben clock tower, and probably too rich in history for children to appreciate. You, on the other hand, are bound to get excited when you hear the prestigious bells chime every hour. Westminster Abbey is also worth a visit and open to the public on most days. Be sure to visit Parliament Square, which features impressive realistic statues of beloved political individuals such as Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela.

The Arts in Camden

Camden is a popular and well-known cultural neighborhood in north London. Famous for its alternative culture, it’s a great place to people watch — you’ll see plenty of goths, punks, and colorful people getting their groove on. Camden also has an edgy body-modifying community, evident by its numerous piercing and tattoo shops. Ever dreamed of cutting loose and getting a tattoo? Camden is the perfect place to get one. While you’re there visit Camden Market, featuring street food, unique artwork, and tons of vintage clothing, books, and records.

Theatre on the West End

Aside from Broadway in New York City, you would be hard-pressed to find a better show scene than those playing in London. Why not see something the kids wouldn’t normally enjoy? Skip The Lion King and Aladdin, and enjoy a show for a more adult audience. We suggest Evita, a powerful masterpiece telling the story of an ordinary woman’s extraordinary rise to power during a time of political unrest. It follows the life events of Eva Peron, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Peron, and her journey from humble beginnings to that of wealth, power, and fame.

If Evita doesn’t excite you, consider the all-time favorite for adults everywhere, Les Misérables. More than 70 million people in 40 countries around the world have enjoyed this musical treasure. In fact, it’s now in its 30th year and still breaking box-office records everywhere. Set in 19th-century France, the show tells a captivating story of broken dreams, unreciprocated love, extraordinary passion, sacrifice, and redemption. It’s a timeless tale of the endurance of the human spirit.

Regardless of what you do in London, it’s a memorable city full of romance and entertainment. From great restaurants and clubs to historical places and shopping, you’ll be glad you left the kids at home. You should consider hiring a car from Hire Brid to get around without relying on public transport. Then bring some nice clothes and drink plenty of strong coffee, because the city rarely sleeps and there’s too much fun to be had.

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

Festivals and Their Celebrations in Hong Kong

Hong Kong embraces a hybrid of cultures with both the Chinese and Western festivals the locals enjoy celebrating in their own ways. As a tourist, you are more than welcome to join the festive activities and relish the fun with the locals… CONTINUE READING >> 

Hong Kong embraces a hybrid of cultures with both the Chinese and Western festivals the locals enjoy celebrating in their own ways. As a tourist, you are more than welcome to join the festive activities and relish the fun with the locals so read on to find out all that is celebrated in Hong Kong and how.

Chinese Festivals

Lunar New Year

The Chinese New Year is definitely one of the biggest festivals in Hong Kong, spanning up to two weeks in celebrations in the city.

Customs:


Photo Red Packets by Chris Hsia, CC BY-SA 2.0

Distribution of Red Packets

Lai see (also known as red packet) is a red envelope with money of varying amounts that sends an auspicious message to the recipient. Conventionally, married couples give lai see to single people but this custom has changed a bit that even married couples can receive lai see from older family members. While the amount of money put in depends on the giver, it is not appropriate to open lai see in front of the givers out of courtesy. In fact, in Hong Kong, lai see are not only distributed during Lunar New Year but also in other joyful occasions like weddings and birthdays.


Photo flower market by llee_wu, CC BY-ND 2.0

Lunar New Year Flower Market

Starting from approximately one week before Lunar New Year, there are fairs and markets buzzing in big parks that conventionally sell colourful flowers and festive snacks. Nowadays, the variety of items on display expands to creative gadgets and artistic products. All flower markets end at midnight of the first day of Lunar New Year.


Photo
Poon Choi by notdesign CC BY 2.0

Family Reunion Dinner

Traditionally, the Dinner is held on Lunar New Year’s Eve on which all family members gather to celebrate the festival. Dishes are prepared with ingredients that carry auspicious names such as dried oysters (the name in Cantonese means “a bull market”) and fat choy meaning “good fortune”.

What to Do:

Go to one of the Flower Markets for a shopping spree! While it probably won’t be wise to buy fresh flowers as they cannot be kept for long, you can instead go for a myriad of other products as well as tasty, festive street snacks. Be sure to also watch the annual Chinese New Year Night Parade which features dazzling floats and performers from all over the world. On the second day of Lunar New Year, join the crowds to enjoy the fireworks over Victoria Harbour and enjoy the festive vibe.

Mid-Autumn Festival

Mid-Autumn Festival is held on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month on which people celebrate the harvest and express gratitude to the God of Land.

Customs:

Eat Mooncakes

Mooncakes are a symbol of Mid-Autumn Festival which is said to be originated from the late Yuan Dynasty when the Chinese revolution army put paper notes inside cakes to spread the secret message “overthrow the Mongolian dictators on the 15th of August”.

In Hong Kong, you can find a myriad of different types of mooncakes. While the traditional kind of mooncakes consist of lotus seed paste or red bean paste along with one or two yolk(s) of salted duck eggs as filling, snowy mooncakes are the modern twist. Snowy mooncakes replace the pastry with a “crust” made from glutinous rice that has a texture of mochi. Local bakeries have also invented a range of flavours such as tiramisu, cheese, and strawberry!

Appreciate the Full Moon

On the day of Mid-Autumn Festival, the moon becomes full again. As the full Moon symbolizes “reunion”, family members gather for a family dinner, appreciate the Moon, and share mooncakes together.

See the Lantern Displays

Another symbol of Mid-Autumn Festival is the lanterns. There are lantern displays and carnivals held in large parks. The traditional paper lanterns are illuminated with candles but present-day lanterns are illuminated and decorated with LED lights. While you can see many children and couples carrying along small lanterns, there are also large lanterns built by bamboo structures that shine like beacons in the dark. Every Mid-Autumn Festival, the lantern displays in Victoria Park attract big crowds that flood the venue to appreciate the sea of lights.


Photo
Tai Hang Fire Dragon by 惡龍~Stewart, CC BY-SA 2.0

Fire Dragon Dance

The Fire Dragon Dance originated in Tai Hang Village when the villagers performed a dragon dance with fire to cast away a plague. The 67-meter-long dragon is made from straw and thousands of joss sticks, turning it into an eye-catching structure. Strong men have to be chosen to lift the dragon – just the dragon’s head alone weighs 48kg! The Fire Dragon Dance was added to the list of China’s Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2011.

What to Do:

Try both the traditional and snowy mooncakes to savor the taste welcomed by the locals for centuries. When evening arrives, buy a small lantern from any local shop and carry it while taking a stroll among the lantern display in Victoria Park. After that, take a 5-minute-walk to Tai Hang to witness the majestic Fire Dragon Dance to end this festive night.

Western Festivals

The locals celebrate not only Chinese festivals but also Western festivals. Christmas is no doubt the most popular one in Hong Kong.

Christmas

Like many countries in the world, Hong Kong attaches great importance in celebrating this global holiday.

Hong Kong WinterFest

The Hong Kong WinterFest features a number of celebratory activities. Watch the amazing “Hong Kong Pulse 3D Light Show” where dazzling light rays flash between both shores of Victoria Harbour. Also, Christmas lights are put up to adorn the skyscrapers along the Harbour, creating a joyful and vibrant scene. Tsim Sha Tsui is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas. There are lots of tourist attractions and you may prefer to stay in one of the Tsim Sha Tsui hotels nearby.

Christmas Tree at Statue Square

Every year, an enormous Christmas tree is erected at Statue Square in Central. The decorations on the tree changes each year – can you guess what it will be this year?

Christmas Markets

Stanley Christmas Market is one of the most popular ones, designed with a Christmassy tone and an array of local handcrafted artwork and freshly-prepared delicacies for sale. What’s more, Stanley is a seaside spot in Hong Kong Island, a perfect place to unwind after an afternoon at the Christmas Market.

New Year Countdown

After Christmas, get yourself in the Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations. The Celebrations include a hybrid of firework and light shows when the clock strikes midnight.

There is truly so much to see and do during the myriad of different festivals in Hong Kong. Check the dates for the festivals you’re looking forward to and plan your next trip to the city!

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

How To Get the Best Travel Deals Even Last Minute

Traveling is a luxury that most people love, but it’s not without its costs. Traveling the world can be expensive, but if you know where to look and how to search for deals, you can find some great ones… CONTINUE READING >> 

Traveling is a luxury that most people love, but it’s not without its costs. Traveling the world can be expensive, but if you know where to look and how to search for deals, you can find some great ones.

The following are some of the best tips to get excellent travel deals, even if it’s a last minute trip you’re planning.

Coupons and Promo Codes

Just like nearly everything else in the world, there are coupons and promo codes that you can use for planning your next trip. Just one of the many examples are MakeMyTrip coupons, and they feature a platform with packages that are put together to provide travelers with the best available deals.

Look for packages that include flights and hotels combined to save the most money, and you might even be able to book comprehensive packages with rail tickets included as well.

You should never book a trip, package or otherwise, without shopping around and making sure you’re taking advantage of any available coupons or promo codes.

Be Flexible

One of the best tips to keep in mind when you’re looking for deals, last minute or otherwise, is to be flexible.

If you can be flexible on your airport and airlines, your travel dates and even your destination, you’re likely to save more money and find some pretty incredible deals.

If you just start with a general idea of what you’d like to do and then start your search from there, it’s likely to cut down on costs as compared to being completely rigid on where you’re going and when you’ll be traveling.

Booking Last Minute Can Be An Advantage

While there are some variations, a good rule of thumb with booking travel is to either book well in advance or just go ahead and wait until the last minute. These are the times you’re probably going to find the best deals.

Of course, booking last minute travel plans can be intimidating, but you could simply keep the dates open on your calendar so even if you don’t know where you’re going, you can plan on being away.

Travel in A Group

If you can get a group of friends or family together, it can be fun, and it can save money. A lot of vacation packages are geared toward offering group discounts. Even beyond the initial booking costs, once you’re at your destination you may be able to negotiate discounts on things like attractions and activities if you have a group as well.

Finally, don’t be afraid to venture outside of the more well-known destinations such as New York, Dubai, or places in Europe. If you can choose locations that are a little more under-the-radar you’re going to find some really incredible deals.

There are places throughout the world, but a few examples include The Philippines, as well as Honduras or many of the countries in Eastern Europe. Of course, getting flights to a location off the beaten path of travelers might be more expensive, but ultimately the costs might still be lower than they would be going to a more popular destination.

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

Top Romantic Things to Do in Las Vegas With the Help of Cheap Flight Tickets

Although Las Vegas has usually been associated with a destination known for its spontaneity and impulsive marriages, Las Vegas does have a multitude of options for a perfect romantic couple getaway…

CONTINUE READING >> 


Travelling and uncovering new locales with your significant other can be quite exciting and thrilling in the same measure. Some refer to Vegas as the city that never sleeps owing to its many 24/7 casinos, many attractions and exquisite dining outlets. Although Las Vegas has usually been associated with a destination known for its spontaneity and impulsive marriages, Las Vegas does have a multitude of options for a perfect romantic couple getaway. No matter how you define romance, there are plenty of things to do in the self-proclaimed Sin City for couples, from risqué shows to scenic outings. This city has dozens of couples’ activities for both day and night.

Furthermore, thanks to the rapid advances in air travel and technology, procuring the best flight deals is as easy as 1-2-3. With flights becoming cheaper and the travelling norms and rules between destinations becoming increasingly relaxed, travellers can avail of cheap flight tickets effortlessly. From a variety of discounts on air tickets and flight bookings to lucrative deals on flight offers, it is all about finding and booking the best flight deals at the most opportune moment. Book your flight tickets early to avoid last minute travel so that you can go on that well-earned vacation with your significant other.  Las Vegas could prove to be the ideal getaway if you are looking for an off-beat romantic experience or perhaps looking to rekindle your love as well. If you are travelling to Las Vegas as a couple, check out our comprehensive list for a small sampling of some of the romantic things to do in downtown Las Vegas!

1. Visit the Eiffel Tower

No, not the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Eiffel Tower experience in Las Vegas might just be about half the size of the original but a lot of people are pretty impressed by just how spectacular the replica is.  The monument offers guests a sweeping 360-degree view of Las Vegas from the 46th floor and has become quite the popular place for proposals. Furthermore, there are a variety of packages that you can avail to spoil your beau including the tested ones like showering her with champagne and roses. By making a prior request, you could even pop-the-question by having your ring presented in a dessert or a glass of champagne.

If the Eiffel tower experience leaves you gasping for more of Paris, you could simply stop by during the day for the fully-fledged Eiffel Tower Experience. This experience includes a guided tour that gives you a brilliant insight on the Paris Hotel’s realistic recreation of this iconic city, including iconic landmarks such as the magnificent Louvre and the stunning French monument, L’Arc de Triomphe.

2. Go and watch The Dream Together

If you want to delight yourself and your partner to a show whilst in Vegas, there’s no better city than Vegas to do so. Las Vegas is known for its dramatic shows, striking imagery, aerial acrobatic acts, mind-blowing choreography and sizzling performances and Le Reve – The Dream is one of the prime examples and depicts Las Vegas in all its musical glory. With stellar performances, breath-taking acrobatics and stunning visuals, this show is guaranteed to set the mood for the evening. You can see the schedule for Vegas shows and book the tickets here.  Watching this jaw-dropping act will surely have you’ll raving about it for days. This is a marvelous display that will surely set a romantic mood for the evening.

3. Visit the Strip

Undoubtedly amongst the most visited areas in Las Vegas, just a walk down this strip will wow you and your partner in equal measure. Consisting of a bevy of hotels, souvenir shops, specialty restaurants and casinos, a stroll along the world’s most sparkly street is a must when you’re in Vegas. The Fremont Street Experience backed with sizzling lights and sounds is a thrill for the senses and it all happens underneath the world’s biggest video screen which is the size of nearly five football fields.  What more, Fremont Street also boasts of its very own fortune teller, so do pay a visit and see what the future has in store for your relationship. Right from trying your luck at the world famous MGM Grand Hotel & Casino to visiting the Tropicana or a delicious dinner at either Sage in the Aria Resort & Casino or clicking a photo collage at the famous fountains of Bellagio, the Strip has it all and some more.

4. Spoil Yourselves with a Couple’s Spa Date

A trip to Las Vegas wouldn’t be complete without immersing yourselves in some Spa relaxation and pampering. With a host of couple-only massages to choose from, you can indulge in some relaxation complete with a complimentary spa for two, warm body wraps and hand and foot massages. Most of the couple’s suites feature private steam showers and astounding views. A sure-shot way to win the heart of your loved one, massages let both halves of the couple enjoy a rub down guaranteed to get you and your special someone in the mood. This experience should definitely be scheduled into your itinerary.

5. Balloon Rides

Another popular experience, the Vegas Balloon Rides grants you unparalleled views of the Vegas Valley, Red Rock Canyon and the mesmerizing Spring Mountains. Operational early in the morning, you and your beau will be treated to spectacular views of the desert and the city landscape while being 800 feet high up in the air.

Breaking the silence when you’re up there is the occasional burst of propane which will captivate your senses. To end the trip memorably on a high, you’ll will be given a traditional champagne toast on landing.

6. Helicopter Tour

An experience which is guaranteed to enthrall your and your significant other is the exciting helicopter tour which will give the Las Vegas Strip, a whole new perspective. Immerse yourselves in the bright lights of the strip from above and witness the true beauty and grandeur of this city. The best time to opt for a tour would be during the night when you can see the strip illuminated in all her majestic glory. You could even opt for day rides which take you over the iconic Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon as well. With pre-takeoff champagne toasts on offer, these ten minutes are guaranteed to be right up there with the best experiences in your life.

7. SlotZilla

Another must-do for visitors to the region, Fly the Zip Line Together and zoom over Fremont Street with SLOTZILLA. Although zip lines are generally associated with adventure sports such as between valleys or a jungle, Las Vegas lets you partake in an experience as unique as Las Vegas itself. A foolproof way guaranteed to add some excitement to your relationship, Slotzilla lets you zip past crowds at 40 miles an hour giving you breathtaking views from nearly 12 stories high. You could even fly higher but that is something you could keep for your next visit here.

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

Visiting The Giant’s Causeway: How to Have More Fun

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… CONTINUE READING >> 


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.

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

Top Tips: What to do if Your Flight is Delayed

Long distance travel can be a hassle at the best of times, especially when things go wrong. Having a flight delay is frustrating and inconvenient, but it doesn’t have to be a complete fiasco, there are a number of steps you can take… CONTINUE READING >> 

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!

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

The Canadian Rockies – So Many Things To See And Do!

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… CONTINUE READING >> 

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

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

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!

Buffalo Ranch

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

Dock's closed in the early morning

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

Canadian Rockies Banff upper hot springs

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

Google Street View - Pan-American Trek - Icefields 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!

Rocky Mountaineer

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

Alpine Circuit Hike

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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