Perth: Why This Easy Going City Is Worth Visiting

Perth is the laid back city in Western Australia. As close to Bali as it is to some of Australia’s Eastern cities. With its combination of beaches, big city attractions and laid back living there is something for everyone in Perth. As this city is a place to visit I thought I would share with you some of the ways you can see it. There’s a few tips as well as some suggestions of things to do. You will be booking your flight before you know it.

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Visit the big attractions

Perth is Australia’s only city where you can experience a vibrant beach life and a relaxed bushland experience. The only place where you can sample fine wines while watching an ocean sunset. It’s such a diverse place. Perth is situated along the Swan River, seeing the city at night with its glittering lights reflecting in the river is a sight worth seeing. With Kings Park and the Botanic Garden, which is one of the biggest inner city-parks in the world. However it isn’t just pretty scenery this city has, you will be spoilt for choice of the amount of museums on offer. Showcasing wonderful art and architecture. If music is more your thing, then a must-see would be to head to Swan Bells. Which fills the air with sound from one of the largest musical instruments in the world. There is so much to do the only tough decision would be where to start first.

International Airport makes visiting easy

With daily flights into Perth from all major cities, and plenty of regional flights coming and going. Heading to Perth has never been easier wherever you are in the world. Australia is so expansive that you may even live there and not had a chance to visit this city. But air travel is so easy and frequent that it has never been easier to head there.

Get around by car

Whether you land at the airport or head into Perth from another mode of transport, there are plenty of ways to get around. However, the best way would be by car as the area is so big. There is car hire from Perth Airport making it easy to kick off your vacation from the word go. Not only is the city iconic but you also have some of the smaller places that are worth visiting, places like Mount Eliza and Freemantle.

The weather is great

Perth is the sunniest state capital in Australia with an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. It has a real Mediterranean style climate meaning that it is warm for most of the year. However, February is the hottest month of the year. You do still get a little rainfall, but that would be mostly during the winter months of May to September. However, one of the great advantages is the sea breeze you feel in the afternoon. Making this city livable even though it is known as the hottest city in Australia.

I hope this has inspired you to book a trip to Perth in Western Australia. You won’t be disappointed.

Best Sunscreen Protection For Summer

It is undeniably hot! And it is undeniably summer in this part of the world. And when it is summer, all the more that we are exposed to the harmful rays of the sun. While it is fun to enjoy the great outdoors with the longer daylight and more activities to be had, it is very imperative that we also take extreme caution in keeping our skin well-guarded from the heat.

There are plenty of sunscreen lotions or spray sold in the market and not all of them are great for the type of protection that you need.

One way to ensure you get the best and highest protection is to buy a sunscreen lotion with higher SPF and have high water-resistant factor so that, when you use it in the beach area, it stays longer even when you're in and out of the water.

Check out these sunscreen lotion that tops the review charts in the market:

Neutrogena Ultimate Sport SPF 70+ lotion

The Neutrogena Ultimate SPF 70+ Lotion is one of the most effective spray lotion in the market. It is so effective that it is perfect for the active people out there. It comes in a spray can that you can apply to any hard-to-reach areas of your body. It can't be sprayed directly to your face though. It can be sprayed to your hands then apply to the face for extra coverage. It is breathable, lightweight and nongreasy. It is waterproof and resists rub-off. The product description for this spray lotion indicates that it is water resistant for 80 minutes. It also won't clog your pores nor cause any skin breakouts. It is PABA-free and oil-free.

Coppertone Sensitive Skin SPF 50 Lotion

This moisturising formula with Vitamin E helps prevent peeling and dryness while helping to maintain healthy-looking skin. It helps prevent premature skin ageing and provides protection against UVA/UVB sunrays,

Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen EX

Shiseido is a popular Japanese brand and it is known globally. It is known for its high quality beauty and skincare products that can sit in the same pedestal as the high-end American and European brands in the market. The Shiseido Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen EX has SPF 50+ so it has a high percentage of protection. It is also waterproof. And based on some reviews I have read about this product, it lasts the whole day which should be the case for a sunscreen lotion or spray.

Kiehl’s Activated Sun Protector Lotion for Face SPF 50

Kielh's is a famous American brand founded in 1851. It started as a pharmacy in Manhattan selling skin, hair and body care products. Based on consumer reviews, the lotion is very thick but it feels light when applied. This SPF 50 sun protector lotion has Vitamin E and a blend of sun filters that provide effective protection from harmful UVA and UVB.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid for Face

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen offers a high SPF 60 with a light and fast absorbing formula. It won’t leave your face any greasy after-feel. Perfect for use outdoors and at the beach. Also it is suitable for sensitive skin, fragrance-free, PABA-free and non-comedogenic. Since it is perfect for the outdoors, it is one of the best sunscreen fluid for the face for the always-on-the-go and travellers.

Vichy Capital Soleil SPF 60 Soft Sheer Sunscreen Lotion for Face and Body with Antioxidants and Vitamin E

Vichy is a prominent brand originated from France in 1931. The Vichy Capital Soleil SPF 60 Soft Sheer Sunscreen Lotion for the face and body combines effective UVA and UVB filters for broad-spectrum defense against damaging sun rays. With antioxidants such as White Grape Polyphenol and Vitamin E, it helps neutralise free radical damage. This sunscreen has a soft and sheer texture. It is water-resistant to up to 40 minutes, fragrance free, PABA free, oil-free and suitable for sensitive skin, including children from 6 months and up. 

(photo credits: credit to the owners)

Tips & Tricks For Finding The Best Eateries When Abroad

Travel is all about seeing and experiencing new places, and what’s the best way to do that? Via food, of course! Well, if you’re a foodie it is. When visiting a new country, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the places on offer to dine in. The ‘safest’ places to eat are, of course, chain restaurants. However, if you want to experience the country’s authentic cuisine, you need to find places that are independent.

Photo source: Flickr

Want to know how to find the best eateries when abroad? Have a read of this!

Read up before you travel

Before your trip, take the time to read up on the place that you are visiting. Find out about the types of food that’s on offer and what the most authentic dishes are. For wherever you are visiting, use Tripadvisor to get an idea of the best places to eat. Look at reviews, read the comments, and see where other travelers have recommended. When there are so many places to choose from, it can be a little overwhelming selecting where to eat.

Hire a car

If you want to explore the food a little further afield from where you are staying, it’s worth thinking about hiring a car. While you could opt to use public transport, if you want to see all the best local restaurants, having a car is crucial. To find out about the cost of hire cars where you are going, check out the Carrot website and have a browse. As long as you book in advance, you should be able to get a good deal on the car you choose to hire.

Ask the locals

One of the best ways to find the nicest restaurants while on vacation is to ask the locals. If anyone will know where the nicest places to dine are, the locals will. Most people are friendly and happy to help, so don’t be afraid to stop someone and ask. Explain that you want authentic food and take any recommendations on board. Don’t be afraid to ask a few different people for suggestions, as this will give you a better idea of the most popular places.

Have a list of must-try foods

Before your trip, spend some time Googling the area. See what cuisine the area is famous for, and write the dish names on your list. You can also use Google Translate to work out what is in each one, to ensure that you will like it. If you have friends or family who have traveled to where you’re going, ask them for recommendations as well. When it comes to finding the best foods to try, the more help you can get, the better.

Don’t skip street food

A lot of travelers steer clear of street food when abroad but there’s no reason to. As long as the stall is part of a reputable market and looks clean, the food is safe to eat. Sometimes, street stalls offer the nicest and most authentic foods, so skipping them is a real shame.

For us foodies, travel is all about trying out new dishes. What sets one place aside from another is the food on offer, which is why it’s so important to try a range of dishes while you’re away.

5 Good Reasons To Make Baltimore Your Next Port Of Call

If you’ve never been to Baltimore before, it’s high time you paid this Maryland gem a visit. Here are five good reasons to make Baltimore your next travel destination.

Image from https://pixabay.com/en/photos/baltimore/

1. The food

Baltimore was named runner-up in Zagat’s Top Food Cities of 2015 and it’s no wonder. In Baltimore, you’ll find everything from comforting, hearty fayre to fine dining. Head down the harbor to sample the catch of the day. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal and fabulous views. Food is celebrated here, and you can attend events, such as food festivals, throughout the year. If you’re a foodie, and you’re eager to embark on a culinary journey during your stay, join a city food tour.

2. The scenery

Baltimore is famed for its green spaces. Yes, you’ll find all the skyscrapers and bustling financial districts you’d find in other major cities. But you’ll also discover that there are plenty of tranquil parks to escape to after a hectic day of sightseeing. The Cylburn Arboretum is a highlight. This stunning urban park is bursting with color, and it boasts a series of themed gardens. Visit in the spring to catch sight of the beautiful blossom in all its glory.

3. The festivals

You’ll never get bored in Baltimore. There’s so much to see and do and there’s a festival of some kind happening almost every month. Whether you’re into music, art, dance or sport, there’s something for everyone. Look out for details online and sign up for mailing lists to get the latest information and book tickets.

4. The sights

There’s plenty going on in Baltimore, and you’ll find it easy to create a packed itinerary. Watch the Baltimore Ravens in action at the M&T Bank Stadium or cheer on the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park. Indulge in some culture with a visit to the Baltimore Museum of Art or the Walters Art Museum. Catch a show at the Hippodrome Theater. Or take a trip back in time at the Reginald F Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture.

5. The weather

Usually, the weather is mentioned as a selling-point when you can enjoy year-round sunshine. The beauty of Baltimore weather is that affords you the opportunity to enjoy distinctive seasons. The winter is cold, and you may be greeted with swathes of powdery snow. The fall and spring are mild with unpredictable conditions, and the summer is warm and sunny. You may not be guaranteed clear blue skies. But sometimes, it’s refreshing to experience the different seasonal changes.

If you’re thinking about going on a road trip or you’re looking for inspiration for your next US city break, why not consider Baltimore? There’s a vibrant blend of contemporary city living and rustic tradition. The influence of the sea port has not been forgotten, and the harbor is a stunning place to enjoy a delicious meal and a well-earned drink. There are hotels to suit all budgets and plenty of sights and attractions to keep visitors of all ages busy.

Image from https://www.flickr.com/photos/aukirk/10116790966

How To Get The Most Out Of A City Break In Houston

Houston is a bustling city bursting at the seams with things to do. There is something for everyone, from families, to a couple just wanting a break away. A city break in Houston can be fun filled. So I thought I would share with you some of the ways you can get the most out of a weekend or short break in this fantastic city.

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Do your research

Once you have decided that you are heading to Houston for a city break now is the time to do some research. Consider all the sights you want to see and the places you want to go. You can get some excellent insights online. Or you may want to checkout things like http://houstonhotelmagazine.com for more information. They can offer some great tips and advice and also may be able to unearth some secret hidden gems.

Make a plan

The next thing to do is make a plan. It may seem like you are trying to stick to a schedule but it is the only way to ensure you will get the most out of your short stay. A plan doesn’t have to be rigid or timed. But it will give you an idea on the times you have and will make sure you are not disappointed by not being able to see something. It’s always best if the person who most likes to be in control get’s involved with this. They will enjoy all the planning, and it will make the trip much more memorable.

Think about things logistically

You don't want to be too far away from restaurants and bars, and you also don’t want to have to travel too much to all the wonderful sights and museums. So it’s worth checking where your accommodation is logistical to everywhere. It’s worth considering booking a hotel or apartment that is centrally located to everything. This means you won’t have to spend too much time or money getting from one place to the next.

Consider a city pass to make the most of your stay

A city pass will allow you to see Houston's top five attractions with a saving of up to 48% off booking fees. This can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of the city without it costing you a fortune. Some of the places that are included on a Houston citypass is the space centre and the downtown aquarium. Also, there is the Houston Zoo and the many museums available to see.

Book ahead to avoid disappointment

Finally, the last tip would be to book things in advance. Especially if you are not planning on using a citypass. Most attractions offer a discount when booking online. It would also be worth doing this for any restaurants you want to visit during your stay. The last thing you want is one of the top restaurants not having any availability for your day.

I hope this has given you some useful tips to make the most out of your city break in Houston, Texas.

Teach Your Kids Geography

I love Geography! I think, I was only 4 or 5 years old when my mum bought me an Almanac. It was thick, hardbound and had pretty, colourful pages, and information about weather, farmers' planting dates, and many more. So, what is the relationship of that Almanac to my love for Geography. Well, that thick Almanac book opened another view of the world outside my own, outside my community, and outside my country. At that young age, I developed my love for learning more about other countries, their history, art and culture, the food, the locals, their customs and traditions, the many festivities in their land, and the beautiful places to see in their countries. Aside from the Almanac, my mum and dad also bought me coffee table books of other countries with glossy prints of famous places and destinations. That really cemented by love for travel and the world. I got hooked!

Kids these days are all hooked up on gadgets and online interactions are becoming a norm. Why not divert their fresh minds and let them explore more about the world around them by engaging them in Little Passports' many fun activities for the young ones to know more about other countries?

You can subscribe to their kits to introduce your kids to the wonderful world of Geography, the World, the culture of other countries, and other fun activities outdoors.

You can get your subscription here:
12-month subscription to Little Passports

For more information:
Read the Little Passports' blog, Introducing the World Edition Classroom Subscription

Fun Ideas For A Girly Weekend Away!

Having a weekend away with the girls is a great way of chilling out after a stressful time at work or in our home life. You can have a lot of fun, and it’s a great way to have a laugh. After all, friends have been found to boost our happiness and health. Here are some fun ideas for a girly weekend away!

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A spa break

If you are looking for something that everyone will enjoy, you should consider going on a spa break with your friends. It’s a great way of everyone chilling out and unwinding while enjoying some fabulous treatments. You can often find packages where you get to use the facilities, as well as have some lunch and a treatment or two. You can also book some accommodation so that you can stay and have a cheeky bottle of wine in the evening. Then you can wake up in the morning and enjoy the pool for a while before you all head home.

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A villa break

Another idea for a girly weekend away is a break in a villa. It gives you so much more privacy than a hotel to sit and chat with each other for the weekend. You could book one with a private pool so that you can have a lovely swim at the end of the day. They often come with beautiful surroundings so you can go for a long walk altogether. Some villas such as accommodation in byron bay offer packages where you can also get some spa treatments to help you relax.

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A city break

If you all love doing some sightseeing, why don’t your organize a girly weekend to a city so you can explore together. It’s a great way to spend time with your girls as you can have a natter and take a lot of brilliant photos to remember the trip. Try and decide what you want to see before you go, otherwise you could end up all arguing over what you want to see first. Plan transport in advance, such as a sightseeing bus so that you can get around the city.

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An adventure break

Chilling out is not for everyone, so if you love adventure, why not organize an adventure break for you all. You may want to go to an assault course where you can get involved and have a lot of fun. Or you may want to go trekking if you fancy seeing some fantastic views. An adventure break is something you will never forget, and will likely bring you together closer as a group of friends.

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A skiing holiday

Hitting the slopes is a fun way of spending the weekend with your girls. Decide where you want to go ski and then book a lodge where you can all stay in. After hitting the slopes during the day, you can then all chill out in the evening for a giggle in front of the log fire. It’s a healthy way to spend the weekend and something you could do again in the future.

Remember to spend quality time together, and you will have a great weekend!

10 Reasons To Visit To Thailand

Out of all the most famous holiday destinations in the world, you never really hear anyone mention Thailand. It’s a shame, because it’s a beautiful country, offering plenty for adventurists and historians alike.

So, in order to convince you of its merits, here are ten great reasons why a trip to Thailand should be on your calendar.

1. Who doesn’t love Thai food?

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Answer: nobody. Everyone has had Thai food back home, and in the country itself, it’s just as delicious. From fried chicken to noodle dishes and rice, there’s plenty of delicious grub to eat.

2. The wildlife

Thailand is home to a vast array of wonderful creatures, that make exploring its forests a treat for anyone. Exploring the Khao Sok National Park to trace the incredibly cute Gibbons is rewarding and exciting. Their calls can be heard for miles, and you may find some monkeys and tapirs during your trip.

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3. Intriguing focus on religion

Thailand is known for its Buddhist heritage, so if other cultures intrigue you, you’re in the right place. Most of Thailand’s cities, like Pattaya, contain beautiful Buddhist temples which have to be seen to be believed.

4. Bangkok

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You’ve seen it in the movies, but it can only be truly appreciated in person. The city of Bangkok, capital of Thailand, is a heaven for those who enjoy shopping. It’s packed to the brim with malls and markets, and there’s plenty of gifts to buy.

5. Beaches

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And, of course, there are plenty of beautiful beaches where you can simply have a sunbathe. Many of the Thai residents enjoy having a evening sports match on the beach, from volleyball to football. If you don’t want to get caught up in that, you can just relax and enjoy the sunset.

6. It’s a cheaper destination than most

Rather than jetting off to Ibiza, Barcelona or Paris, why not have a cheaper, but no less amazing trip? Thailand is an affordable place to visit for families and couples alike, with plenty to do.

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7. But you can go luxurious if you desire

Like any great country, Thailand caters to both the budget crowd and the expensive crowd. Sure, you can invest in a budget holiday if you require it, but you can also splash out on a luxury hotel.

8. It’s always sunny

Thailand is a tropical and humid country for most of the year. In fact, the north of the country only has three seasons, and the south only has two! No matter when you travel, you can be assured it’ll be warm.

9. Explore by boat

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There are many different ways to see a country, and in Thailand, this is one of the best. You can explore many of the country’s offshore islands and caves, discovering new wildlife and plants as you go.

10. Let loose your inner party animal

Thailand is famous for its wide array of bustling, energetic bars and nightclubs. Whether you want to dance the night away to some electro tunes or have a quiet drink, you’re covered! You can’t go wrong either way.

The Puffin Birds of Maine

I have always been fascinated with Maine and the many light houses in this beautiful state in the US. I haven't been there yet but we are planning to in the future. I want to visit the place with my family especially my daughter because she loves to see a puffin bird, up close.

I keep telling her that we can visit some aviary so she can take a close look at her favourite bird. However, she prefers to see the puffin bird in their natural habitat and breeding grounds in Maine. I would like that idea too.

Maine is the northern most state in the contiguous US. It borders New Hampshire and the Atlantic Ocean. It also borders the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Quebec to the east and north. Maine has easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, thus, making it a good breeding ground and habitat for the puffin birds who fly out to the chilly sea and come back during spring.

There are plenty of tour offered in Maine for puffin bird watching. Several places in Maine are home to many of these clown-looking birds who take shelter in the rocks' crevices in the many islands of Maine such as Eastern Egg Rock, Matinicus Rock, Petit Manan Island, and Machias Seal Island.

Stop in Houston on Your Way to Central or South America

Houston is a great location where individuals can spend a couple of days to enjoy the city and then get inexpensive flights down to Central and South America. Many individuals who plan to backpack in Central and South America like to enjoy a couple of days in Houston before they set off on their journey. There are many interesting things to do and see, and transportation and hotels are inexpensive and readily available.

The city of Houston offers a variety of culinary experiences. Individuals can find inexpensive food, or they can have wonderful fine dining experiences. There are a variety of hotel options that are located near the airport. This means that a person can get a free shuttle to and from the airport, without needing to worry about paying for transportation or renting a vehicle. Using the public transportation system in Houston is very simple. There is one bus that goes from the George Bush International airport and will take a person to almost any place in the city they can imagine. There is a page online that explains how individuals can set up routes using the public transportation system, helping them get within a block or two of their final destination.

One of the most popular things to see in Houston is the NASA Johnson Space Center. This is a fun and exciting museum that goes over the history of NASA and talks about their many missions. Individuals can see how aerospace steel has been used to construct the vessels that go into space. They can learn about past missions. Basically, they can enjoy an entire day at this space center in order to enjoy a fun and exciting learning experience. Houston also has a zoo, other museums, small theme parks, and much more.

Before you go off to Central or South America for an exciting backpacking journey, make Houston the place where you make your connecting flights. Spend a couple of days enjoying the city. Take advantage of the hot water available at the hotel and the ability to enjoy delicious restaurants and the many other things Houston has to offer. It will not be long before you are enjoying beautiful rain forests, hiking volcanoes, surfing the waves, and experiencing exciting and fun culture in new countries. In addition to enjoying a great experience in Houston, you will likely save money by taking this travel route.

Gap Year Ideas: How To Spend Your Year Abroad

Before you head off to university or college, are you planning on taking a gap year? A year abroad can be an extremely rewarding and enriching experience as it could be your very first time living away from home or traveling with your friends. There are so many ways to spend your gap year that the choice can be quite overwhelming. To help you make up your mind, here are my top five gap year ideas.

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Volunteering With A Charity

If you want your year to have a purpose, consider signing up to volunteer for a charity. This usually involves working in a deprived town or city, usually in Africa or Asia. There are various ways a charity will use your support. You could work in one of their schools to educate children, or you could help out in the local community and work in local business. Volunteering with a charity will look very good on your resume and will also help you grow as a person.

Become A Ski Instructor

Do you enjoy winter holidays out on the slopes? Well, how about turning this hobby into a job for your gap year. Choose a Ski Instructor Course so you can become qualified to teach ski lessons. Then you can head off on your gap year! Working during your gap year will give you a steady source of income, so you will be able to afford lots of fun activities during your time away. Not only that but becoming an instructor is another fab way to enhance your resume!

Backpack Around Europe

Why just visit one country when you can travel around an entire continent? Europe is a brilliant place to travel around, as there are loads of countries that you can hop between. The hostels in most European countries are extremely cheap, so this is one gap year you can do even on a budget. And staying in hostels means you are bound to meet lots of other travelers on your trip! Think about booking an Interrail ticket. This gives you unlimited rail travel in many different countries.

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Head To Australia

Traveling around Australia is another popular option for those who just want to travel for their entire year. This huge country has so much to see; you will certainly be busy for the entire year! Many people choose to backpack around. Most of the cities are located on Australia’s coast, and have fantastic views of the ocean. Melbourne and Sydney are very popular with travelers. But don’t forget to pop over to Perth on the west coast to sample Australian life at its most relaxed.

Study A Language

This option is especially popular with those who are going on to study languages at college. Most European universities offer summer language schools for foreign students. So why not learn a new language while discovering a new country? If you do, you’ll find you get more out of your foreign adventure!

Once you’ve decided what you want to do, it’s time to get excited!