Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia: What To Know Before You Go
This post was last updated on September 5th, 2017 If you’re planning a road trip through Croatia, then chances are Plitvice Lakes National Park is high on your bucket list. This fairytale setting of aquamarine water, dazzling waterfalls, colorful dragonflies and scenic woodlands is one of Croatia’s most renowned tourist attractions—clearly for a good reason. You’ll have to share the picture-perfect scenery with heaps of other visitors, (Plitvice Lakes National Park sees some 1.2 million tourists each year) but don’t let this deter you. Nearly every turn along the wooden trail is more beautiful than the last, revealing waterfalls of all shapes and sizes that plummet into sparkling, crystal-clear pools below. If you’re ready for the ultimate trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park, here’s what to know before you go: Navigating Plitvice Lakes National Park Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised of a series of 16 terraced lakes; the cascading lakes are grouped into the 12 upper lakes and four lower lakes, with some 90 waterfalls along the way. Convenient wooden walking trails make exploring the park simple and accessible. Avid hikers can opt to adventure further into the park along well-marked dirt paths. You’ll want at least three hours to do Plitvice Lakes justice, though you’ll likely find that’s not quite enough to walk around both the lower and upper falls. We parked at Entrance 1, walked around the lower falls, then took the ferry to the upper falls where we walked a...
5 Must Visit Places In The Philippines
The Philippines is one of those places we will always look back on with the sweetest memories. This place is the real deal: from the picture-perfect beaches to the phenomenal locals and the dishes that will make you drool, the Philippines has it all. We hopped over to this chain of Islands to celebrate one of our anniversaries while we were living in Taiwan and loved every minute we got to spend in this country. There is so much to do! We ended up concentrating our time on a handful of spectacular places that should be at the top of everyone’s Asia Bucket-List. Here our 5 favorite choices you should consider when planning your Philippines travel packages: 5 Must Visit Places In The Philippines 1. Boracay Boracay is hardly 4,000 sq. miles in area, but jams as much beauty and charm as is possible into every square inch. Along the West Coast, you’ll find White Beach. True to its name, this coastline has the crystal white sand and turquoise waters that fill our dreams. To the East Side, you’ll find the perfect conditions for water sports of all kinds. Finally, if you want a break from all of the commotion, the Northern Diniwid Beach is much more relaxed. If you’re of the adventurous type, you can take part in one of Boracay’s most popular activities: cliff diving at Ariel’s Point! There’s heights to jump off of to suit every level of daredevil among you. You can also partake in kayaking, stand up paddleboarding or snorkeling here. In 2013, Travel & Leisure readers voted...
3 Reasons Why You Should Visit Mt. Haleakala During The Day
This post was last updated on September 5th, 2017Mt. Haleakala, located in the Haleakala National Park, Maui, is one of the most stunning areas of Hawaii. If you’re planning on traveling to Maui, this is one place you just simply can’t miss. This National Park is mostly known for its terrific sunrise at Mt. Haleakala, but if early mornings and crowds aren’t your jam, then you should venture through this volcanic region during the day. Valley Isle Excursions offers Central Maui and Haleakala daytime tours that include the best of the national park and stunning Upcountry Maui. From historic Maui towns to fragrant gardens to a historic pond that’s been used by Hawaiians for centuries, this experience with Valley Isle is an authentic look at one of our favorite places in all of Hawaii. Here are a few more reasons why this is one experience you don’t want to miss in Maui: 3 Reasons Why You Should Visit Mt. Haleakala During The Day 1. Some Of The Most Incredible Views On Maui While seeing the sunrise at Mt. Haleakala is a stellar experience, it does only last a few minutes, and you’ll have to drive through the dark to get there. Unless you stay for a while to experience Mt. Haleakala in its morning glory, you’re going to miss some of the most spectacular sights in all of Maui. You can opt to drive up the winding mountain or hike. While you will have to use a level of caution in driving, as with any mountain roads, Mt. Haleakala is perfectly safe to drive up, although you...
Exploring Portugal’s Mesmerizing Minho Region
This post was last updated on September 5th, 2017 Many travelers to Portugal only make it as far north as the lovely—but increasingly touristy—city of Porto. However, continue a bit farther, and you’ll arrive at Portugal’s mesmerizing Minho region. This often overlooked destination is characterized by lush mountains, rolling vineyards, charming towns and sweeping beaches. Though our stay in the Minho was short, the spots we did visit were some of our favorite on our entire road trip. In fact, we added one city to our ongoing “I could live here list.” Whether you’re planning a similar road trip through Portugal or you’re just looking for a semi off-the-beaten-track spot for your next European adventure, here are a few things to love about the often overlooked Minho region: Highlights of The Minho, Portugal From the birthplace of Portugal to the home of Vinho Verde to some of the country’s most verdant landscapes, the Minho region offers a little something for everyone. Here’s a look at our top picks: Guimarães Considered the birthplace of Portugal, it was here that revered King D Alfonso Henriques was born and later declared Portugal’s independence. Visit the medieval Castle of Guimarães to see Alfonso’s birthplace, also the site of many key battles in Portugal’s early history. While you’re there, you won’t want to miss the Historic Center of Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site revered for its beauty and preservation. We recommend grabbing lunch amongst the gothic buildings in the lovely Largo da Oliveira, then taking the time to amble through the many winding alleyways. ...
The Highlights of Dubrovnik, Croatia
This post was last updated on September 5th, 2017If you’re planning a visit to Croatia, then chances are Dubrovnik has a spot on your travel itinerary. Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Dubrovnik offers stunning views, picture-perfect beaches, fascinating medieval architecture and plenty of adventure activities. Dubrovnik is also home to many locations used to film Game of Thrones, attracting quite a few travelers whose sole purpose of visiting is to see the real-life settings behind the hit T.V. show. Given its fame, beauty and UNESCO World Heritage status, it’s hardly a surprise that Dubrovnik also gets tons of tourists, especially within the Old Town. To be honest, knowing very little about Croatia prior to our road trip, I was shocked by just how touristy the city felt. Dubrovnik is still well worth the visit, but try to avoid peak season and know you’ll likely be sharing the views with many other tour groups. The Start To Our Croatia Road Trip After picking up the rental car in Split, Dubrovnik was the first destination on our road trip itinerary. The drive from Split to Dubrovnik is gorgeous, much of it hugging the coastline. Keep your passport handy, because you’ll even get to pass through Bosnia for a few miles! Our rental car was courtesy of Nova Rent A Car, and we could not have been happier. The car was brand new and super easy to drive throughout Croatia and Slovenia. If you’re visiting these two countries, you really want to have your own wheels. The most...Hi! We’re Dan and Casey!
Lovebirds, world travelers, and adventurers extraordinaire.
A Cruising Couple is for those seeking adventure travel with a dash of class.
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