5 Incredible Backpacker Destinations in Australia

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As a traveller (whether you’re a seasoned pro who’s seen the world and climbed mountains – or whether it’s your first time and your first adventure) it’s known by all, that Australia is a pretty spectacular destination and a favourite amongst backpackers and travellers alike.

And it’s no wonder really – Australia is incredible. It has something for just about everyone – whether you like things laid back and relaxed – or you like to party and hop from place to place. It wasn’t until I visited this stunning country that I realised just how much there is on offer and just how beautiful this place is.

So, where should you head? Well, I’ve put together a few of my favourite destinations in Oz, which hopefully will appeal to most types of people reading this article. But bear in mind – even if somewhere doesn’t immediately appeal to you – sometimes the best travel magic happens when you step out of your comfort zone.

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Sydney

This iconic city deserves your attention, and at least a couple of days of your itinerary to truly explore it properly. There is so much to see and do in Sydney – from the bustling city streets to the incredible beaches spanning miles along the coastline – you won’t be stuck for ideas. Take time out to see the impressive Opera House and explore the botanical gardens adjacent to it, as well as the beautiful harbor bridge – because these are the sights and structures you’ll be wowed by. Then take in the atmosphere in Darling Harbor and grab a cheap drink during happy hour. The next day grab the public transport over to Manly Beach or Bondi Beach and relax on the gorgeous public beaches.

Image Credit: GettyImages.com

The Whitsunday Islands

There are many ways to see the Whitsundays – and I’d definitely recommend doing at least one of these ways during your time in Australia. The Whitsundays are a collections of beautiful islands, some which have hotels on and some which are like remote desert islands.  If you fancy some fun – then there are plenty of backpacker boats and cruises which will take you out for a couple of nights. You’ll see the islands, make new friends and get a bit tipsy whilst you’re at it. For something a bit more luxury, head over to Hamilton Island or Hayman Island – which cater to the absolutely luxury and relaxation of everyone who visits. Just be prepared for the prices – because this kind of luxury doesn’t come cheap! You can also take day trips out to the Great Barrier Reef from here – so take the opportunity!

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Ayers Rock

For something peaceful, mind-blowing and ultimately life-changing Ayers Rock offers just that. It’s something so striking you’ll be overcome by it’s beauty – and the Australians take great pride in this natural phenomenon – with good reason.  I’d recommend getting a helicopter over the rock and then spending a night or two camping on the ground nearby – watching the incredible (unbeatable) sunrise and sunsets.

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Surfers Paradise

If you love nightlife, shopping and glorious sunshine – then surfers paradise might be the ideal Australian destination for you. Expect high sky-scrapers, beautiful beaches and lively restaurants and bars – all at a relatively good price too. There’s also lots of theme parks nearby too – meaning your options for day trips are huge! Theme park multi-passes are around $90 (AUS) which is a bargain and gives you entrance to around 3 different theme parks – including SeaWorld, Movie World, Dream World and various others. You’re also guaranteed some pretty special views too in this city – because the coast line is just stunning to look at.

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Noosa

Noosa is a pretty, scenic small town on the East Coast just north of Brisbane. If you’re after a few days of relaxation and pampering then this might be a good place to spend a few days. Hotels can be expensive – but there are some great hostel options in the town too which offer really good rates for those trying to keep spending on the small side. Noosa is a lovely place just to relax on the beach with an ice-cream, but it’s also a fantastic place to learn to surf too – if that’s your cup of tea. Lessons are relatively cheap, and the water is shallow and calm here (compared to other east-coast locations) which makes it much easier for beginners when they’re taking their first baby steps into surfing and technique.

About Author:

Elle works for No1 Traveller Lounges as a travel writer. She is currently travelling Australia and loving every second.

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Five Great Reasons to Visit Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, doesn't seem to get the attention that it deserves. Many people think of sunny beaches and exciting attractions when they think of ideal travel destinations. Well, guess what? This Nordic city has all that and more.

Check out the following five great reasons to visit Reykjavik, Iceland.

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1. Exciting Sightseeing Attractions

With its multi-colored buildings and rooftops, the historic city center of Reykjavik offers a picturesque setting to enjoy sightseeing. Here, you can leisurely walk around and check out the city's interesting landmarks, historic sites and museums as well as the various shops, cafes and restaurants. If you would prefer to explore the area by cycling, there is a scenic bike path that circles the city center.

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Some of the main attractions in the city center include the Hallgrímskirkja, also known as the Church of Iceland. Significant for its towering height and striking architecture, this cathedral also features a statue of the famous Norse explorer, Leif Eriksson. You can ride a lift up to the cathedral's observation deck to admire sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains.

One place you don't want to miss is the Perlan, translated in English as the Pearl. Perched on a high hill over several hot water tanks, this remarkable landmark offers a gift shop, a viewing deck and a revolving restaurant where you can dine while enjoying panoramic scenes of the city.

2. Sunny Beaches and Outdoor Swimming Pools

People don't normally imagine sunny beaches and outdoor swimming pools in the same picture with Iceland. However, not only does Reykjavik offer outdoor pools and beaches but also unique experiences that you won't find just anywhere else.

The outdoor swimming pools in Reykjavik are geothermal, meaning that they are heated from natural sources such as volcanic tunnels, geysers and hot springs. As popular hangouts in Reykjavik, many of these public pools include bars, hot tubs, water slides and children's swimming areas. Not only do the pools offer luxuriously warm swimming conditions but also the opportunity to socialize with the locals.

Image Credit: GettyImages.com

Believe it or not, Reykjavik offers a beautiful beach with warm waters and golden sand. Named Nautholsvik, this lovely beach off the Atlantic Ocean is a thermal beach, made suitable for swimming by the piping in of warm waters from the city. Surrounded by pubs and restaurants, the beach makes a great placed for fun, dining and socializing.

3. Fascinating Museums

Reykjavik offers several intriguing museums such as the National Museum of Iceland where you can learn about Iceland's history through a series of engaging exhibits and artifacts. At the Reykjavik City Museum, you can check out an Icelandic house that dates back to 1,100 years. The Open-Air Folk Museum offers you the opportunity to step back into Iceland's past when you walk through its recreated 18th century village of workshops, houses and churches. At the Volcano House, you can learn about Iceland's numerous volcanoes as well as experience the local cuisine in the museum's cafe.

Image Credit: GettyImages.com

4. Fine Arts and Culture Scene

It may not be Paris or Venice, but Reykjavik does offer a lively arts scene. In addition to several fine art galleries, the city also presents live performances at venues like the National Theater of Iceland and the Nordic House. What's more, Reykjavik hosts annual festivals that feature music, film and traditional culture.

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5. Fun Outdoor Activities

Many people only imagine a cold climate when they think of Iceland, but the beautiful landscapes surrounding Reykjavik offer plenty of fun, outdoor activities such as hiking, horse riding and whale watching. The Golden Circle Route is a popular driving route that you can explore by way of rental car, bus or jeep to see awe-inspiring attractions like stunning waterfalls, volcanic craters and the world's oldest geyser.

Image Credit: GettyImages.com

To save money when traveling to and staying in Iceland, be sure to check for the best flight and hotel rates.  You should check for package rates as those generally offer savings if you are flexible on where you stay.  Also consider flying out of peak season if you want to save money and not have it so busy.

Iceland is one of the most beautiful places in the world.  Experience a memory that will last a lifetime.

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Lose Your Heart to Vienna

(Valentine’s day may be around the corner, but that doesn’t mean we are only limited to romance one day a year! This article gives a few ideas,tips and advice as to what romantic activities couples can get up to during their trip to the Austrian Capital!)

There is a whole world of romance to be found in Vienna: majestic architecture, delightful nature and wood landscape surrounding the city, fascinating art, a wide variety of memorable intimate restaurants and countless romantic hotels, which are all the better when shared with a loved one.

Romantic Tours

Nothing quite says romance in Vienna like a horse drawn carriage. The clip-clopping from Viennese fiakers, are just as much a part of Vienna as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg. For many, a trip with the two-horse carriage is one of the highlights, for there is no comfier way to discover the charms that Vienna has to offer.

You can find fiaker stands in several areas across the city including; Stephansplatz, Heldenplatz, Michaelerplatz, Albertinaplatz, Petersplatz and Burgtheater. Before embarking on your journey it is important to discuss the price beforehand - prices vary from €50 to €100, depending on the course and the length of the journey. Despite these prices seeming quite steep, there is no denying that the experience really is a winner!

Dine in Style

Another most obvious way to enjoy romance in Vienna is nurturing your senses with a glass of wine, whilst savoring some mouthwatering cuisine in a handsome environment, and where a better place than at the Danube Tower! The Danube Tower, situated in the middle of Donaupark, makes up the Viennese skyline and can be seen from afar. Over the years it has become an ever increasingly popular lookout point and a major tourist attraction. The tower consists of two revolving restaurants (at a height of 160 and 170 meters) – the Panorama café and the Blue Danube Waltz, that both offer unique, panoramic views of the Austrian capital. The Panorama cafe enables you to embrace typical Viennese cafe culture, whilst tucking in to an apple straddle and a coffee. Whereas the Blue Danuve Waltz offers a fantastic variety of fine Viennese cuisine.
Due to popular demand, it is highly recommended to reserve a table a few days in advance to avoid disappointment- particularity during peak times such as lunch and dinner.

Picturesque Gardens

The most perfect, memorable dates with you and your loved one, are usually the most simple. So why not take a stroll through Schönbrunn Palaces show stopping gardens where you can both soak up the flowery parterres that are bursting with colours, beautiful dancing fountains, romantic follies and lose yourself in the hedge maze. If that isn’t enough, then take a visit to the Carriage Museum, which is filled with astonishing Cinderella-worthy coaches.

Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the imperial family, is part of the World Cultural Heritage and is also one of Austria's most visited sights. The site of the Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn is one of the most impressive and well preserved Baroque ensembles of its kind in Europe.

Gardens of Schönbrunn

Exotic Creatures

There is just something so special about a zoo walk together midst exotic animals and surrounded by the beauty of nature, and Vienna Zoo is certainly no acceptation! Vienna Zoo is the oldest existing zoo in the world with more than 500 animal species.

You will be spoilt for choice when it comes down to what you can experience at the zoo. In particular, the zoo has recently introduced the opportunity for visitors to exclusively experience an intimate glimpse of the elephants at the zoo. Here you can look behind the scenes of the elephant house throw, watch elephants in a training session, study the Schoenbrunn herd and gain a fascinating insight into the everyday life of an elephant and first-hand information from the elephant keepers. The zoo has much, much more to offer including Giant pandas, Iberian tigers and one-horned rhinoceroses!

Panda in Vienna Zoo

A top tip before you plan your trip Check the weather forecast for rain a few days before your walk since it may not be as romantic to lug raincoats and umbrellas around whilst getting soaked in the rain!

Visitors looking for some unforgettable experiences with their loved one will undoubtedly find them in Vienna!

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Cote D’Azur: From Perfume to Macarons

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A popular destination for tourists and holidaymakers, the Cote d’Azur has a few well-known exports that keep people coming back to visit. From perfumes to pretty confections, the towns in the region have distinctive offerings that mark them out as exceptional.

Grasse and its Perfumeries

The home of fragrance, Grasse has over 30 perfumeries that create scents for everything from food to the finest scents you can buy. Considered to be the world’s capital of perfumery since the end of the 18^th century, the town not only produces some of the most characteristic smells it is known for training those noses that sniff out the scents that will make a successful eau de cologne.

The town is perfectly placed for growing the flowers from which many of the perfume oils are extracted and is particularly well-known for producing tonnes of jasmine flowers every year.

A number of the famous perfumeries including Fragonard, Molinard and Galinard are based in the town and offer some fascinating insights into the development and growth of the fragrance industry in the town and beyond. For a brief insight into the world of perfume, the historic Fragonard factory offers a free tour around one of the oldest fragrance houses in the town and a fascinating museum that documents the creation and use of fragrances through the ages. The factory also has a gift shop that offers the chance to buy classic fragrances at a fraction of the high street price.

If you really want to get to know the world of perfumes, the fragrance houses of Grasse also offer a range of perfumery classes from 90 minute taster sessions through to week-long personalised courses on developing a fragrance from scratch. There could be few better reminders of a wonderful break than your own personal fragrance blended with the guidance of a master perfumier.

Absinthe -  Potent Liquor , Image Credit: Wikipedia.org

Where Fragrance meets the taste

Another popular product of the Cote d’Azur is absinthe. The potent liquor, famously drunk before Van Gogh’s ear-cutting incident, is distilled in Antibes on the coast between Cannes and Nice.

The Absinthe Museum in Antibes offers the chance to learn about the creation of absinthe and the history of this bright green drink through the ages. With a range of different kinds for you to try at a very reasonable price, the servers will show you the traditional way of diluting your shot with iced water dripped carefully through a sugar cube into your glass. You’ll also be able to find a bottle to take home with you to remind you of your travels.

Macarons from Marseilles

In many patisseries across the world, Macarons are the new cupcakes in the world of confections. These brightly-coloured pastries, which are nothing like the macaroon with which Brits are more familiar, they’re light and airy with a decadent filling of ganache, buttercream or whipped liqueur fondant.

A selection of beautiful Macarons in a range of colours and flavours

Source: Wikipedia 

With a number of regional variations across France, the Macarons of Marseilles are thought to be the quintessential form of the patisserie. Patisserie Ines on Rue Paradis has a mouth-watering selection of Macarons on a menu that changes every month to make the most of the flavours and colours of the season. Pick up a selection in a presentation box of seven and enjoy a taste of Marseilles wherever you are in the Cotes d’Azur.

Conclusion

The Cote d’Azur has a range of produce that evoke tastes and smells recognisable the world over. On your visit, take the opportunity to sample the iconic food, drink and scents of the region and maybe even take a taste of France with you when you return home.

About the Author:  While arranging luxury villa rentals in Menorca and walking tours around Nice, Sally Lynch likes to rejoice herself in the culture and distinct events of Mediterranean region.

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Top Travel Tips for South East Asia

The South East Asian region has recently emerged as a great destination for budget travel.  Depending on where you are in the world, getting there in the first place might cost you a fair sum, however when you arrive in the region you will find that accommodation, food, and travelling locally around South East Asia comes at a snip.

Image Credit: "El Nido Palawan, Philippines" by Sheila Cuestas

There is no doubt that this part of the world will continue to grow in popularity. Already, it is the destination of choice for backpackers and gap year students, while it is also likely to find greater numbers of more ‘traditional’ holidaymakers heading to the region over the coming years.

South East Asia is a large place, and taking a holiday there is not about just heading to one place and staying there for the duration of your trip. So, our first tip is to ensure that you give yourself the time and the flexibility to travel to more than one location.

What are the places you should be looking to see on your journey?

Image Credit: Ornate Pavilion in Cambodia (FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Mainland- South East Asia

The best experiences in the area unquestionably start with experiencing the best of the mainland. This part of the trip is perhaps best explored on foot, and offers something for everyone regardless of their tastes.

Start in Thailand, and enjoy Bangkok’s eclectic mix of modern high-rise buildings, traditional heritage temples, and amazing beaches. From here, travel to the northwest and take in the stunning forests and wildlife sanctuaries that are found throughout Laos and Cambodia. The latter country is also filled with landmarks that point to the bloody civil war of the last century. Cambodia is a great place to visit given its almost weird mix of haunting and inspirational places, often within reach of each other.

Image Credit: "Palawan, Philippines" by Sheila Cuestas

Over Sea - The Beautiful Islands of South East Asia

Don’t be fooled into thinking that South East Asia means just the mainland. Heading further to the islands of the region will open your eyes further to the great culture that exists in this part of the world. Indonesia is a brilliant country filled with great cities and friendly, welcoming communities, but for us the jewel in the crown has to be the Philippines. It doesn't matter what you want as a tourist, you will be able to find it across these islands.

Forests, beaches, great cities, marked contrasts between affluence and poverty in a small geographical area, and many more things that will pique your interest are present in the country. It is a great place to visit over New Year, in particular, when parties take place wherever you look, and fireworks are shot into the sky at an unbelievable pace. Manila is unquestionably the best place for this experience – a fireworks display over its world famous harbour area is one of the most inspirational sights to be seen anywhere in the world.

Image Credit: "Chocolate Hills in Philippines" by Sheila Cuestas

A boat trip around many of the Philippines’ islands will also introduce you to many different ways of life, as well as wildlife that is native to that part of the world, and will bring your South East Asia adventure to an inspiring and unforgettable end.

About Author:

This article is written by Fireworks Crazy, an online and showroom seller with some of the finest collection of fireworks for sale.

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5 Picturesque Cycling Trails in New Zealand

New Zealand is a country of rich cultures and traditions, intriguing history and some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. A cycling holiday here is one of the best ways to experience and explore this wonderland of flora, fauna and culture.

With so much on offer, cyclists are spoiled for choice, so to help you plan your cycling holiday in New Zealand we’ve chosen 5 of the best and most picturesque cycling trails available in New Zealand.

Image Credit: Queenstown Trail by queenstowntrail on Flickr.com

The Queenstown Trail

The Queenstown Trail is an intermediate-level trail that stretches through 90km of Queenstown’s most stunning landscapes.

It will generally take rides about 4-5 days of cycling to complete the trail, during which riders will get to experience pristine rivers and towering mountain ranges up close and personal. The ride takes cyclists through the stunning Queenstown Bay, the historical mining town of Arrowtown, and the well known winery town of Gibbston.

With beautiful bridge crossings and varied terrain taking riders up and down through hills and valleys, there’s never a dull moment and plenty of room to challenge yourself.

Image Credit: Flickr.com

Pathway of Fire Trail

The Pathway of Fire trail gets its name from the Orakei Korako thermal area through which is passes. This is a great trail for the whole family, with easy terrain and exciting landmarks to explore, including Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, Waikite Hot Pools and the Te Kopia Geothermal Field.

It’s exciting, educational and entirely breathtaking to see these natural wonders from the back of a bicycle and experience the rich Maori culture in the area. The ride takes about 2 days, beginning at Rotorua and coming to an end at Lake Ohakuri, where riders can return to Rotorua by shuttle or boat.

Ruapehu-Whanganui Trail

Taking riders between 4 and 6 days to complete, the Ruapehu-Whanganui Trail is an intermediate ride that begins on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu and makes its way through two national parks rich in diverse flora, fauna and history.

This trail will take riders through the unparalleled 294-metre Hapuawhenua viaduct, over the stunning “Bridge to Nowhere” then on a jet boat ride down the Whanganui River to cycle along the Whanganui River road.

Best experienced in summer, this ride is sure to leave you breathless in more ways than one.

Around the Mountains Trail

Another short ride at 2-3 days long, this ride is great for beginners or families with kids, with easy terrain and plenty of creature comforts available to riders.

The trail begins with a steamboat ride from Queenstown across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak, which the kids will just love. From here riders will follow crystalline rivers and historical railway lines through 175km of New Zealand’s most secluded rural areas, finishing up in Lumsden.

With plenty of cosy options for dining and accommodation, easy terrain at a relaxed pace, and a wealth of local history and culture, this trail is perfect for cyclists looking for relaxation over exertion.

Image Credit: Flickr.com

Taumaruni – New Plymoth Forgotten Highway Cycle Trail

Amongst the trails for road bicycles in the world, the Taumaruni – New Plymoth Forgotten Highway Cycle Trail is a 180km ride that follows the Forgotten World Highway from Taumarunui to New Plymouth on predominantly sealed roads, though there are some areas of gravel road.

Riders experience remote wilderness, lush farming lands and cool coastal scenery, through ancient landmarks, historical villages, wine country and modern cycle tracks. This is an advanced trail with challenging terrain and not a lot of accommodation or dining options along the way, so riders should be fit, experienced and well prepared, but the ride is more than worth it.

These are just 5 magnificent trails of a plethora of picturesque cycling trails all throughout New Zealand. After just one, you’ll be hooked – New Zealand will be your cycling destination for many years to come, and you’ll have a hard time exhausting your list of trails to try.

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How to Avoid Bugs and Pests while Traveling or Camping Outdoors

Don’t let bugs and pests ruin your next camping or hiking trip! Here are some all-natural tips to avoiding and deterring bugs, animals and other pests during your next trip to the great outdoors.

Image Credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Camp away from water

Water is a breeding ground for insects of all kinds, especially mosquitoes. When you’re choosing a campsite (especially when you are camping in a warm, moist climate), choose one on a hillside or slight incline and away from stagnant water, puddles, or small creeks that move slowly. Bugs tend to congregate near these areas, and although it can be lovely scenery, you’ll pay the price with bug bites.

Avoid fragrance

Come on, who are you going to impress on your next camping trip? Leave the floral fragrances, cologne and fragrant deodorants at home. These types of scents can attract bugs like flies, bees and mosquitoes.

Citronella

Citronella is most widely known in candle form and used for relaxing outdoors, but citronella can also be used to repel mosquitoes while you’re camping or hiking. Use citronella in oil in tablet form and sprinkle or place around your campsite, or use it in cartridge form on your person while you hike. Citronella is all natural and non-toxic and will repel mosquitoes, black flies, fleas and ticks.

Garlic

Garlic keeps away more than just vampires; it’s a great bug repellant, too. Eating a meal with heavy garlic lets the scent secrete through your pores, keeping bugs away while you hike or relax outdoors. You can also use garlic as an easy, safe pesticide by pureeing 12 cloves of garlic with 1 tablespoon of mineral oil and combining it with three cups of hot water and one teaspoon of dishwashing soap. Use a spray bottle to spray it onto plants around your campsite.

Cover up

Covering your arms and legs is one way to keep pests from ruining your trip. It may be hot out, but a lightweight cotton top and pants will not only shield you from bugs and pests, but from damage from the sun. Your head should be covered, too. Opt for a wide brimmed hat that can cover your head, face and neck. For even more coverage, consider tying a bandanna around your neck and face, or placing netting under your hat to cover your face. It’s best if your hat, shirt, pants and shoes are a lighter color (darker colors are more likely to attract bugs.)

Stay cool

Easier said than done when you’re outdoors, but a great way to deter bugs when you’re outdoors or hiking is to stay cool. Bugs can be attracted to the scent of human sweat, so staying in the shade or hiking in the early morning, when the temperature is lower, can help you keep your cool.

Image Credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Citrus

Bugs hate the smell of citrus, so keeping citrus fruits around your campsite can go a long way to protecting your campsite from bugs and pests. Bring oranges and grapefruit as snacks, which can help keep you healthy and hydrated, and squeeze some of the juice onto the ground as you eat.

Dryer sheets

Those dryer sheets not only keep your clothes static-free, but keep your skin bite free! Stashing a few dryer sheets in your shoes, clothing or hats can keep the bugs away, and adding a few to your campsite, especially in your tent, can ward off those flying, crawling pests.

Dispose of your trash

Bugs aren’t the only pets that can be a problem at your campsite. Raccoons, skunks, chipmunks, squirrels and rodents of all kinds are looking for a handout at campsites. The best tool to fight an influx of varmints is to keep your campsite clean and eat. Pack up all your trash, including food debris, bottles and cans, and wrappers. If there isn’t a disposal area, keep your trash in zippered kitchen bags until you can dispose of it properly. Keep your food sealed tightly in plastic containers instead of plastic zipper bags – animals can easily get into the plastic bags.

About the Author:

Karen Miller writes about avoiding pests and other bugs for Terminix.

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Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Kuala Lumpur You Must Visit

Photo credit: Stuck in Customs

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is the melting pot of Asia. This is the place where you could see the faces of people from this region – from Nepal right next to an Iban from Borneo, mesmerized by a huge number of languages being spoken in the street and taste the spicy, sweet and exotic foods derived from the many cultures sharing the city.

And despite the city center being smaller than the neighboring Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur has many attractions on offer. If time is short and you need a quick guide to where you should go next time you’re in Kuala Lumpur, head on to these 5 tourist attractions.

1.       Petronas Twin Towers

Built on a former race course ground, these two metallic towers are the tallest twin structures in the world and were once the tallest in the world before Taipei 101 took over.

Image Credit: Petronas Twin Towers on Flickr.com

But this is not the sole reason why people love to flock to the area. City dwellers and tourists congregate here because the towers are also homes to a posh shopping mall, a cooling green garden and a modern underground oceanarium.

And if you’re new to Asian food, the towers have plenty of international and Asian restaurants that you can choose from. You could sample Italian pizzas, Lebanese Kebab, Thai Tom Yam, Japanese Sushi and Malay Curry all in the same building.

In short, if you only have a day to explore, you should stay in a hotel near this area and explore the KLCC area.  It has plenty to offer.

2.        Islamic Arts Museum

Malaysia does not have many museums that she can be proud of. But the Islamic Arts Museum is different.

Surrounded by huge green trees in the Perdana Lake Garden, this modern museum is built by the richest Muslim in the country and with 7,000 artifacts, is considered one of the most completed museums on Islamic arts in the South East Asia.

Here, you can see the contribution of the Muslims to the world – from simple everyday items from soap to the world of science and medicine.

If you go to Kuala Lumpur but do not make the effort to get here, you lose the chance to learn about the faith and the foundation that builds the city.

 3. Bukit Bintang Area

To learn why Kuala Lumpur is voted as one of the best place to shop in the world, head on to Bukit Bintang.

Here, you can sample a variety of Asian food, browse fancy Japanese fashion boutiques and gulp at the prices of high-end luxury watches that only the royalties could afford.

But if money is tight, try the foot massage by the roadside and visit the Starhill food court. The place is a good spot to try authentic Chinese hawker food in an air-conditioned mall.

Image Credit: Malaysianyc on Flickr.com

4.       Petaling Street

If the Bukit Bintang area is home to posh malls and hip youth outlets, the Petaling Street night market is the poor man’s mecca.

This is the place where you can buy a lychee drink in a plastic bag for RM 1 and walk through the crowded isle full of stalls selling handbags, sunglasses, shirts and watches – mostly fakes peddled by immigrants of Kuala Lumpur.

The best time to go is at night where you can dine under the stars at the various Chinese open air restaurants in the area before you start shopping.

Image Credit: Flickr.com

5.       Central Market

Once a wet market, the British made Central Market is the place to go for souvenirs. Unlike the Paddy’s Market in Sydney, the Central Market houses handicrafts and bric a brac from all over South East Asia.

You will be able to buy the replica of the twin towers made by the well-known Royal Selangor Pewter, bangles from Jakarta, delicate Malay traditional costumes or wooden mask made by the natives from the jungle of Borneo here.

Those who wish to buy arts depicting Malay villages or life scenes of Kuala Lumpur can also buy readymade or custom paintings made by the many in house artists.

In short, this is the place to go before you leave Kuala Lumpur.

The good thing about Kuala Lumpur is the attractions are mostly concentrated in the city center. And while the rain could hamper your visit, there are many indoor places that warrant your visit. Those feeling a little romantic and do not mind a little walk under the heat of Kuala Lumpur can also join the walks offered by government agencies and private groups while in Kuala Lumpur.

Whatever you do, respect the cultures of the many races you will meet here, and try the food. See in you in KL!

About Author:

Iskandar is a single dad who loves waterfalls. In his spare time, he writes for the JomJalan.com – A tourist attractions & hotels directory for the city of Kuala Lumpur.

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Top Castles To Visit In Europe

Europe is a continent in the world that is known for its rich culture and history. If you are planning for a tour of Europe with your family, you should never miss to visit the most popular huge palaces and castles that are spread across the continent. Most of the legendary and popular castles known all over the world are found across Europe. There are some monarchs who still reside in popular castles across Europe. The following are some of the top castles that you will see in Europe.

Windsor Castle"  - FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Windsor Castle

If you have the time to just visit one popular caste on your trip to England, then it must be the Windsor Castle. It is a castle that you should never give a miss as it is a fully functional and running castle. It is the official residences of the Queens of England. It is a home to the Queen of England and her family and is also a museum. It is one of the most popular and major tourist attractions in Europe.

The castle consists of a lot of magnificent collections of arts and antique items. Most of the castle area is open for visitors. The St. George’s Chapel inside the castle is the place where many royal weddings and funerals have taken place. You will need to pay an entrance fee to take a tour of the castle and you will have a recorded self controlled audio option as your tour guide.

Image Credit: Flickr.com

Neuschwanstein Castle

If you are looking for a castle that will fulfill all your dreams and desires of what a castle should be, then you should surely visit the Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany. Just motoring up to the castle will take you to the bygone years of castles, princess and prince. The decorative elements and attractive towers make it a real treat for your eyes and its artistic beauty and design keeps you so engrossed that you will never feel like taking your eyes from the castle. It is one of the castles in Europe that would really grasp the attention of tiny tots and children as it embalms the Disney look.

Prague Castle

Prague is the place where the world’s largest castle is situated and is a place where a lot of palace buildings and museums are located today. It is a very important castle in the Czech Republic and it is the home of the President, has lots of historical documents and artifacts as well as houses the Crown Jewels. It is important for you to have a noon visit to the Prague castle in order to witness the royal change of guard. Museum at Lobkowicz Palace, concert at the palace, Saint Vitus Cathedral and several art galleries and viewing towers are the most popular things that attracts tourists to the Prague Castle.

Image Credit: "Prague Castle" via Flickr.com

Palace Of Pena

Portugal is home to the most attractive and elegant looking palace in Europe, the Palace of Pena. You will find everything that a palace has in the Palace of Pena, turrets, residences, moats, castle walls, winding roads and paths. The Victorian furnishings, decorative superfluities, paintings all add a touch of royal look to  the castle and is one that attracts a lot of tourists. Never miss to take a look at the Queens’s Bedroom, Arab Room, long Ballroom and Indian Room.

Author Bio:

Matt Anton, co-founder of http://backlinksvault.com/, has travelled the length and breadth of Europe and has  written lots of articles on  the castles seen around Europe.

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Top 5 Places to Go Fishing

Fishing is a hobby for many people. It can be as relaxing or as intense of a sport as you want it to be. Some of the best fishing in the world can be where you least expect it. If you want to try your hand at fly-fishing, spear fishing or other techniques, check out one of these top five places to go fishing.

Montana
When you want a serene fishing experience, there is nothing like spending time exploring more than 59,000 miles of streams and rivers throughout the state. If you want to fish for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout or Arctic grayling, you will want to check out the western regions of Montana.

Sicily, Italy

While Sicily may bring to mind images of lazy afternoons and mounds of Italian food, Sicily also is one of the best fishing spots in the world. While the number of fish in and around the island is not huge, you should still bring your spearfishing gear to try your hand at this exciting way of catching fish. Here you will find species such as dorado, tuna and barracuda.

Capetown, South Africa
When you come to fish in Capetown, you have different options. You can either choose the exciting big game sportfishing trips, or you can try fishing like the locals. Locals enjoy saltwater fly-fishing from the shore. You will be able to catch snoek and boggems, though many find that these species are better to catch than to cook up and eat.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
When you want to have a high seas fishing adventure, Cabo is the best place in the world to be. You can go out on a fishing expedition and try to catch a number of large marine species that include marlin, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, dorado and sierra. While the marlin are strictly catch and release, anything else you catch you can bring back to port.

Victoria, Australia
If fishing for sharks appeals to you, there's no other place in the world for shark fishing better than Victoria, Australia. Here you can find a number of interesting species to fish for, including school shark, great hammerhead, gummy shark, spurred dogshark and oceanic blue whaler. However, the great white sharks and grey nurse sharks are off limits due to protected status.

These are just some of the top places around the world where fishing is both a relaxing pastime and a serious sporting event. No matter what type of fishing you like to do, there are all types of great fishing spots for you to explore.

Author Bio: Rachel may not seem like a fisher on the outside with her high heels and business suits. But on the weekends look no further than the closest lake, or ocean to find her relaxing with her kids decked out in their spearfishing gear. She credits her father for teaching her to fish at a young age and her mother for teaching her to cook her catch!

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