What do you think of when you imagine Hungary? While the country does have delicious food, exciting traditions, a unique language, and a distinctive culture rooted in folk traditions. Any season is a good time to visit Hungary, the warm weather of summer brings more tourists to the area, but in the fall and winter, you can experience one of the many Christmas markets. 

Delicious Food & Local Wines

Hungarian culture is deep-rooted in its culinary traditions, and the best example is a piping hot bowl of Goulash, a hearty stew packed with meat and vegetables. Goulash can trace its origins back thousands of years to a soup made by Hungarian shepherds and is just one of Hungary's nationally prized dishes.

It's easy to find a locally grown wine to pair with your meal, as Hungary boasts seven wine-growing regions. The many vineyards offer tours complete with tastings, making Hungary an appealing destination for wine enthusiasts and couples.

Culture in Budapest (including folk culture)

Budapest is a hub of culture and offers all the amenities of a European capital city with the charm of a small town. Chic pubs and trendy stores dot the streets of this architectural wonderland. Everyone is sure to find something of interest. Hungary's rich folk culture is still going strong, too, with many museums and local artisans keeping alive craft techniques that have been passed down through the generations.

Kauai earned itself the nickname “Garden Isle” due to the lush tropical rainforest that blankets most of Hawaii’s fourth-largest island. This dramatic hinterland teems with waterfalls, mountains, and canyons while the coastline is fringed with golden beaches and plunging coastal cliffs. Here is what to expect from the stunning Hawaiian island of Kauai.

Beaches of Kauai

Located on the southern coast of the island, Poipu Beach is a wonderful spot for swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife watching. Basking monk seals and sea turtles are frequently sighted on this beach. 

To the north, Hanalei Bay is a long crescent of sand bordered by mountains. Gentle conditions make this a prime spot for swimming and paddle boarding. Meanwhile, a short drive north of the bay brings you to the tidal pool formed by lava rocks known as the Queen’s Bath.

Kee Beach was used as a movie location in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End. The presence of a reef results in calm waters and phenomenal snorkeling opportunities. On land, it is not unusual to spot the occasional chicken roaming the shoreline! 

Weighing as much as 200 kg, gorillas are the largest ape species. There are two distinct kinds of gorilla: eastern and western. Among these, the four gorilla subspecies are eastern lowland gorillas, eastern mountain gorillas, western lowland gorillas, and western cross river gorillas. What links all subspecies is that they reside exclusively on the African continent. You have the possibility to see these remarkable, endangered mammals when you book a gorilla trekking excursion in the following African countries.

Rwanda

Mountain gorillas dwell across the Virunga Mountains in this small Central African nation with the Volcanoes National Park providing the highest possibilities for a sighting. Rwanda is considered one of the best countries for observing gorillas in their natural habitat. Trekking conditions are somewhat demanding and you will be exploring a high-altitude area. As the bands are nomadic, they are constantly on the move. However, primatologists and trackers are skilled at keeping abreast of their whereabouts. 

Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is considered to be both the most accessible as well as the most luxurious destination in Africa for gorilla trekking. With a personal butler service provided to all guests and views that stretch across the park and Musanze Valley, Virunga Lodge is a deluxe accommodation option for gorilla trekkers. 

Switzerland is a land-locked Central European nation where you will find crystal clear lakes, pristine mountain ranges, and fairytale villages. Hiking, skiing, and shopping are equally popular in the country known for producing world-class chocolate and superior-quality watches. Bordered by France, Germany, Austria, and Italy results in spectacular Swiss cuisine. Here is your guide to planning a luxury getaway in Switzerland. 

Zurich

The largest city in Switzerland is located on the northernmost banks of Lake Zurich and is bisected by the Limmat River. Spend a day pottering around Zurich Altstadt before heading to the elaborate Zürich Opera House to catch the latest opera or ballet production. Do also indulge in an afternoon at the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa – sited in a former brewery, the complex features a rooftop pool and a fantastic bistro.

Where to eat: Maison Manesse 

This exquisite restaurant tempts with a four-course menu and wine pairing. Local ingredients are sourced with care and you can take your pick from vegetarian, vegan, and “everything”. 

Where to stay: Baur au Lac

This 5-star property occupies a privileged location in the city center with award-winning gastronomy. Rooms and suites are inspired by Art Deco and Louis XVI with specialty furnishings and opulent marble bathtubs.

There are many reasons why someone would want to visit a spa. Especially while traveling. We're living in a face-paced society, and, over time, keeping up with everything takes its toll. We are all looking for an escape. Many people travel to escape the trials and tribulations of everyday life. You can enhance those vacations by visiting a wellness spa resort. Let's look at how! 

Reduction of Stress Levels

After enjoying scenic views or a stunning sunset, you can cap off the day by receiving a massage treatment at the spa. Luxurious treatments feature ambient lighting and pleasing aromas to help you feel calm and relaxed. You can book these treatments from the comfort of your hotel suite, in the spa or perhaps even oceanside under a cabana your resort has set up for massage. 

Body Detoxification

​The air in city environments is full of harmful toxins. As time passes, these toxins can impact your health. In addition to enhancing your emotional well-being, visiting a spa can also help your physical well-being. For example, when you receive a spa massage, that helps your body's lymphatic system flush harmful toxins within your body. 

Imagine combining the luxury of a Maldives or Caribbean all-inclusive with the breathtaking scenery of the United States. 

Luxury dude ranches merge the outback experience with creature comforts that we need from a vacation. Typically, these farmsteads offer an all-inclusive, all-immersive package that includes lodging, meals, and activities such as horseback riding and fishing. 

As travelers seek destinations that provide the opportunity to soak up the Great Outdoors. Let this guide to the best dude ranches in the US inspire your next staycation. 

Triple Creek Ranch

Managed by the prestigious Relais & Châteaux group, Triple Creek Ranch is located at the base of Bitterroot Mountain Range within the Montana Rockies. Designed for epicurean adventurers, the resort consists of deluxe log cabins and ranch homes. Cathedral windows, open fireplaces, and hot tubs provide an ideal sanctuary after a day of encountering the surrounding landscape. Activities at the ranch include horseback riding, archery, snowshoeing, and playing tennis. Culinary plating classes, wine tastings, and the chef’s table dining experience round off this luxurious retreat. 

The Caribbean consists of more than 7,000 islands, islets, and keys. Of course, only a modest proportion of these are inhabited and available for travelers. Choosing which Caribbean island you should visit the first time is a challenge but this guide will help you establish a shortlist. 

Saint Lucia

Frequently compared to Hawaii, Saint Lucia is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands. Two volcanic spires termed the Pitons rise from the island which is blessed with a mixture of black and white sand beaches. Saint Lucia is ideal for travelers seeking excellent hiking opportunities; trails navigate the dense interiors of the rugged isle and lead you to waterfalls. Luxurious properties such as Jade Mountain are ideal for honeymooners and make it easy to recharge with a view over the Pitons. Fun fact: Saint Lucia is the only country in the world to be named after a woman!

Turks and Caicos

​Turks and Caicos is an archipelago of around 40 low-lying coral islets that many say offer the best beaches in the region. While all Caribbean islands provide a luxury experience, Turks and Caicos carries an even more exclusive atmosphere. Oprah Winfrey, Keith Richards, and Rihanna are regular visitors and COMO Parrot Cay does not scrimp on opulence. This is a leading destination for snorkeling, diving, and swimming with sites including a 14-mile-long barrier reef, underwater walls, and wrecks. Caribbean reef sharks, hammerheads, nurse sharks, and bull sharks are frequently encountered on excursions.

Flowing through ten countries, the Danube River is the second-longest waterway in Europe. It originates in the Black Forest, Germany, before traveling eastward through Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine. Here are the 10 best experiences along the Danube River.

1. Danube River Cruise

One of the best ways to travel the waterway and maximize your overall experience is with a liveaboard Danube River Cruise. Vessels are luxuriously appointed with comfortable cabins and an exemplary onboard dining service – when you’re not indulging in dishes at restaurants on dry land!

2. Vienna

Vienna is one of the capital cities that rests on the riverbank and features on most Danube itineraries. Mozart and Beethoven left their legacy on the “City of Music” with tours of the Opera House ranking highly among visitors. Meanwhile, the Belvedere and Schönbrunn palaces provide insight into the history of the Habsburgs.

3. Nuremberg

Although Nuremberg does not sit directly on the Danube, it is an easy excursion that appeals to medieval history enthusiasts. This German city contains the 11th-century Imperial Castle complete with elevated royal gardens. Hauptmarkt is the setting for gothic churches, an open-air market, and the Beautiful Fountain.

​4. Thermal Baths

Budapest is another capital bisected by the river. The city is brimming with statement architecture such as Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, and the Hungarian Parliament Building. But do not miss the opportunity to bathe in the thermal waters that feed the city. The open-air Széchenyi Thermal Bath is an icon while the equally decadent Gellért Thermal Bath is attached to the sumptuous Hotel Gellért.

Maui is the second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. With 120 miles worth of coastline coupled with a tropical climate nourished by the volcanic terrain, one of the main draws of the island is discovering the best beaches. Here are 6 of the most beautiful hidden beaches on Maui.

Wailea Beach

Located on the west coast, Wailea Beach is a sandy haven with wonderful swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing conditions. It is one of the best beaches in Maui for catching sight of sea turtles and whales (November through May). The Wailea Beach Path is a stunning hiking trail where you can stretch your legs and savor vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

Mākena Beach State Park

Mākena Beach State Park is situated at the southwest corner of Maui. It is made up of the dormant volcanic cinder cone, Puʻu Olai, and two separate beaches: Makena Beach (also known as Oneloa Beach and Big Beach) and Puʻu Olai Beach (Little Beach). This pristine stretch of fine golden sand with its emerald waters is fringed by greenery and black lava cliffs.

All chefs desire the famous Michelin Stars. When a restaurant receives one Michelin Star, it clearly indicates that it has flourished and succeeded to a higher level. Surprisingly, the Michelin guides had little to do with cuisine as they originally initiated guidebooks published by the French tire company Michelin for more than a century. The term coined from the Michelin Red Guide, the oldest European hotel and restaurant reference guide, grants up to three Michelin stars to a select few restaurants. Businesses can be influenced dramatically by the addition or loss of the Michelin Star. Once a restaurant obtains all three, the restaurant is usually booked for months in advance and vastly populated. 

The era of Michelin Stars came to place as car demand increased and tire manufacturers became more apparent. The company had started in 1889 as brothers Edouard and Andre Michelin published a guide for French motorists explaining the repair and replacement instructions, car mechanics listings, hotels, gas stations, and more throughout France. They joined in to look for a method to draw in the limited number of drivers to make more journeys and, as a result, buy more tires to increase their profit. The first print included 35,000 free copies of the guide that displayed the wealth of information for motorists showcasing the best meals and accommodation while touring in their vehicles. As time went on, the business expanded along with the guide. 

Iceland is one of the most captivating countries in Europe. This Nordic island nation is a melting point of volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, hot springs, and lava fields. After a day devouring the dramatic sights, you can indulge in some rest and relaxation in the geothermal pools. Today’s article is going to help you decide the best way to see Iceland.

Highlights of Iceland 

Here is an overview of the typical sights you will want to experience in Iceland. 

• Reykjavík
• Golden Circle (Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall)
• Vatnajökull and Snæfellsjökull national parks
• Blue Lagoon and Secret Lagoon 
• Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon 
• Lake Myvatn
• Reynisfjara black beaches
• Whale watching (April until September)
• Northern Lights (winter)

Cruise

Cruising is always an exciting means of discovering a destination and Iceland is no different. Cruises in Iceland take you up close to the fjords and glaciers while increasing your odds of sighting marine birds and mammals including whales. Expeditions aim to educate you on the unique geology of the country and the history of the Vikings in Iceland. Cruises typically run from late May to early October.

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is the setting for tropical beaches, Mayan ruins, mysterious cenotes, and incredible cuisine. Dividing the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, the region covers the state of Yucatán as well as Campeche and Quintana Roo. 

You may choose to stay in one place during your trip or spend a couple of nights in different locations. Here’s what to expect when you visit the Yucatán Peninsula.

Best towns in the Yucatán Peninsula

The Yucatán Peninsula contains seaside resorts and inland cities. Wherever you choose to stay, rest assured that you can visit the ruins of the pre-Columbian city of Chichén Itza as a day trip. You can also look forward to planning a fusion of cultural, outdoor, and culinary activities. 

Cancún

Cancún is the location of the predominant airport in the Yucatán Peninsula and is a popular base for a Mexican vacation. The Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) is lined with luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts convenient for the city’s best beaches, restaurants, and amenities. While staying in Cancún you can take a day trip to Isla Mujeres and visit smaller Yucatán towns.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a popular alternative to Cancún. It’s smaller but equally well-equipped with resorts and boutique accommodation. Tourist attractions include jungle adventure parks, swimmable cenotes, and snorkeling/scuba diving excursions. 

For anyone stepping foot on the continent of Africa for the first time, Namibia provides a truly spectacular and awe-inspiring introduction. 

Namibia is the ultimate destination for adventure, culture and wildlife viewing. From the wind-whipped peaks of the world's oldest and tallest dunes to the wild shores of the Skeleton Coast, through craggy canyons so vast you feel insignificant, to national parks so abundant with wildlife you'll feel as though you've stepped into the pages of a National Geographic cover. 

Etosha National Park

Start your African adventure off right with a visit to Etosha National Park, hailed as one of the best wildlife reserves on the continent. Between July and September, the waterholes are a gathering place for four of Africa's 'Big 5' (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant) plus giraffe, cheetah, and various antelope species. With plenty of full-day and half-day game drive options available from nearby luxury safari camps, there's never a dull day in Etosha.

Kaokoveld 

Where the rhythmic sounds of an ancient language collide with dramatic escarpments, meandering rivers, and an extraordinary elephant species, the remote region of Kaokoveld is home to the indigenous Himba peoples. Though this area is home to one of the planet's harshest climates, the Himba have thrived here for several millennia. Their symbiotic relationship between rare flora and fauna and inviting culture make for a fantastic side trip off the beaten tourist path and a truly culturally immersive experience.

For those who love travel and wine, a river cruise is a unique way to fuse together sightseeing with discovering the region’s varieties. These vacations are immersive, culturally enlightening, and fun with the potential to share the experience with fellow wine enthusiasts and learn from passionate winemakers and wine experts. Read on for more information about how to pair a river cruise with a wine tour. 

What is a River Wine Cruise?

Wine cruises take place on the waterways of Europe and navigate through the continent’s premier wine regions. 

Much like a traditional wine tour experience by foot, bicycle, or car, your itinerary will include cellar tours, vineyard visits, and ample tastings.  

They typically last for a total of seven days, during which you will live aboard a comfortable vessel. These ships are appointed with staterooms, restaurants, communal spaces, and – in some cases – swimming facilities or spa amenities.

On either side of the cruise, you can consider adding additional days to start or conclude your wine vacation with a city break.   

Visiting the Land Down Under and experiencing all that it has to offer is hardly possible in one trip, yet overdoing the itinerary for your first visit to this island nation is not advisable. So before you stack your list of "things to do" up too high, we'd like to provide some further insight on the highlights of Australia. That way, as you and your travel agent discuss your itinerary, you can fill it full of exploration without feeling pressed for time and causing more unnecessary stress. 

Sydney

Sydney is one of Australia's largest and most beloved cities. It is a beautiful place to begin your first 4 to 5 days on the island, especially if you are traveling between June and August. There's so much to explore with lots of natural beauty and refreshing city life. Some places you should visit include the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Blue Mountains, Circular Quay and the Harbour, Royal Botanical Gardens, and, last but not least, the beaches.

Melbourne

It's easy to feel captivated by the beauty of Melbourne, so we suggest spending at least 4 to 5 days here, too. You could honestly get lost forever in all of its wonders. Although it's nowhere near as busy as Sydney, Melbourne has a bustling scene of its own. In the city, you can dine at one of many delightful restaurants or shop at any of the unique boutiques. However, the best way to get a feel for this great city is by touring the entire city. Be sure to visit Federation Square, Flinders Street Train Station, the Yarra River, Chinatown, Bourke Street Pedestrian Mall, and the ever-so-popular Queen Victoria Market.