Traveling can sometimes be stressful. Between the airlines, living accommodations, sight-seeing (although ALWAYS easier with the help of isango!-duh) and all while being on a time crunch could drive any totally-sane-completely-in-touch-with-reality-happy-go-lucky-person, kind of frightfully mad. And to throw in the conscientious effort to go green, you scoff ‘Well it can’t be done!’ But I assure you my friend, it can be done AND will make your travels all the more better because of it.

TIP # 1 - Starting with the home

Going green when you’re traveling starts with the home. Make eco-friendly decisions that not only helps the enviornment out, but also yourself once you’ve returned home from your travels.

-Take the time out and call your local newspaper to stop their services for the X amount of days you’ll be away. This not only saves you the hassle of dealing with the armfuls of newspapers once you return, but saves the paper for someone who will actually be enjoying the local happenings.

- Turn your heat or air conditioning to the lowest possible setting. Why waste money or fossil fuels for no one?

- Pull out any chargers (especially cell phones!) that are not using to charge anything. When left plugged in, these end up eating tons of energy.

TIP # 2 - On to your travels!

So you’re trying to figure out how to get to your destination, which usually consists of looking up airline flights, but how could you possibly go green when it comes to flying? Well being green is even possible with the airlines now, if you know where to look.

- Do a little research and look into airlines with a green friendly policy.

- For example, airlines like Southwest and British Airlines both have green policies and recycle all waste left in cabins.

- Look into electronically checking into your flight, the less paper the better!

TIP # 3 - Arriving at your destination

Once you arrive at your destination, you’ll probably be tired and just want to get to where you’re staying, but keep in mind how you’re getting there!

- Book ahead with a mini van or bus that will take you and fellow travelers to your hotel or place of stay. This option is much cheaper than a cab, and much more eco-friendly.

-If you’re feeling adventurous try public transportation! For the first day this may be a bit much, but try to use your destination’s public transportation as much as possible. This will give you a real feel for the location, and will give you a great chance to interact with the locals and find out some things you never would have known!

-When using public transportation look into a discounted travel card to help give you access to any form of public transportation for even lower prices.

TIP # 3.5 - A quick note about your living accommodations!

If staying in a hotel read this quick tip to turn your suite into a green paradise!

- Let the concierge know you are eco-friendly and ask that your towels/sheets need not be changed every day. Many hotels will assume you want this feature if you don’t tell them otherwise. Let towels air-dry, and let’s be honest how often do you change your sheets at home? Yeah, that’s what we thought.

TIP # 4 - Now, really start enjoying your travels

There are so many ways to make the most out of your trip, all while staying green and eco-friendly!

- Think about what activities and tours you really want to participate in and if possible try to find it through a local business. This way you’re not only sustaining the local tourist trade within the community, but you’ll recieve a more intimiate feel and understanding of your location with a local tour guide.

- This green tip is even easier with isango! We provide local businesses from every corner of the globe in order to give you the best vacation ever with their knowledge and expertise.

-Lastly, think about tours in a different way. Instead of taking an all day driving tour, think outside the box while still being eco-friendly. Ride a camel or swim with the dolphins

So now that you’re green savvy and know it’s possible to have the best travel experience while being eco-friendly, go out and test your knowledge! Happy travels!

As ever, we are committed to rewarding you for being a loyal customer with us – simply refer your friends to isango! and get up to £50* cash back from us! What’s more? Your referred friends will also get 7% discounts on their booking; making it a win-win situation for you and your friends! Get saving whilst spending!

How Does It Work?

Once you have confirmed a booking with us, you will be given an option on your confirmation page to refer a minimum of 5 to a maximum of 10 friends to isango! Your referred friends will then be emailed the discount code which will give them a 7% discount on their first booking with us.

How Do You Get Your Reward?

As soon as three of your referred friends have made a booking using their discount voucher, and have taken their tour, you will be promptly sent an email where you can choose any of the three options with which we would deliver our promise to you.

There’s no limit to the amount of cash back you can earn, so earn every time you book with us! Terms & Conditions apply*.

TERMS & CONDITIONS:

1. This offer is not applicable to bookings which have already been made.
2. Referred friends should not be existing isango! customers. You will be alerted at the time of entering your friends’ email addresses if they are existing customers.
3. Discount codes are not applicable on any products that are already discounted.
4. Only one discount code can be used per booking.

It is worth gearing up for, for the annual August festival of Edinburgh; which is also the largest annual cultural festival in the world. There are just so many things you can do at this time; with foreigners descending to the streets, the city is buzzing. In short, there is a lot of cheer and excitement everywhere.

The Edinburgh Festival is a collective term for many arts and cultural festivals put on by various unrelated organisations and are therefore officially separate events, but regarded as the same event as a whole, as it’s all taking place at the same time. There are so many festivals you’ll enjoy; out of which the Edinburgh International Festival and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe are the largest and original components of the festival. I personally love the Military Tattoo and the buzz and excitement I had in the Princes Street garden waiting for the fireworks display to start and setting up my camera to capture the night.

Fireworks on display

Edinburgh International Festival: This festival of performing arts takes place over three weeks from around the middle of August; and includes top class performers of music, theatre, opera and dance from all around the world. It also hosts a series of visual art exhibitions, talks and workshops.

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo: Don’t be misled by the term ‘tattoo’ here. There is no ‘ink’ involved : -) but rather it is used to describe the ceremonial form of evening entertainment performed at the esplanade of Edinburgh castle each year by Military musicians that composed of British Armed Forces, Commonwealth and International Military bands. It is Scotland’s best-selling spectacle and so is not a surprise that tickets for this big event is always sold out in advance; hence the need to be alert about it couple of months prior to the event. The Tattoo activity will entertain you with its high-tech illumination, imaginative graphics, thundering sounds of drums and bagpipes, impressive marching and specially commissioned fireworks.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe (or simply The Fringe): The Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival. It is an unjuried festival, meaning there is no selection committee and therefore any type of performance can participate; and includes a street fair which is located on the Royal Mile. Other shows include Music, Dance & Physical Theatre, Musicals and Opera, and Children’s shows, in addition to assorted Events and Exhibitions.

Other popular festivals include iFest, Edinburgh Comedy Festival, Edinburgh Interactive Festival, Edinburgh People’s Festival, Edinburgh International Book Festival, Edinburgh Mela, Edinburgh International Film Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival and a whole lot more. Enough of reading and hearing about it; only when you have been a part of this big event can you say you have really seen the best of Edinburgh!

Chilly foggy weather, shorter days, looming dark evenings – just plain cold and depressing! Could we all do with a bit of sunshine this winter to get us through until spring; and what better place for a family holiday than the Canary Islands to do just that! It is close to the UK, meaning low-cost travel; and for guaranteed heat where rain is rare during winter and where temperatures range between 20 and 30 degrees, it is a no-brainer. The Canaries can also provide you with that sought-after summer tan in January.

Costa Teguise

With a whole lot of beaches to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect location from the choice of beaches the Canary Islands have to offer. Miles of golden sands are the greatest attraction of Fuerteventura, while the beaches at Costa Teguise in Lanzarote are man-made and are a firm favourite for the windsurfing community. If naturist/nudist type of beaches is your thing, Tenerife’s Santa Cruz, San Miguel, Granadilla beaches are for you. However, if you are like me looking for less-visited and quiet islands, the islands of La Palma or La Gomera are ones to check out for!

Of course, some of the islands have more than just beaches. You can’t miss the Teide National Park in Tenerife, the highest peak in Spain. Or, you can take the family to the Camel Safari and Oasis Animal Park near Costa Calma in Fuerteventura. There are just simply loads of other things you can do on the Canary Islands; beaches, nature, wildlife, nightlife, restaurants, culture, activities and many more – you have it all here. My only regret is I didn’t have enough time!

We all know Venice as the “Floating City”; an exquisite array of architecture, masks and romance. But what of the islands located within a stone’s throw of this remarkable city? These lesser-known islands are not to be missed during your stay in the City of Bridges.

Murano

I will be the first to admit that when I see a shiny, gorgeous glass creation I have a hard time resisting the urge to buy it right then and there. Glass lovers like myself will be hard-pressed to find anywhere in the world that has a better selection of exquisite glass than Murano. In fact, this beautiful island is one of the leading locations for glassmaking and has been for hundreds of years. In 1291, Venetian glassmakers were forced to move their workshops to Murano, as there was too great a risk of fire in the mostly wooden Venice. It was on Murano that Venetian glass began to flourish and win the attention of glass lovers the world over. Murano glassmakers became known for their ability to create many different kinds of glass, including crystalline glass, aventurine (glass with threads of gold in it) and millefiori (multicoloured glass). Today, glassmakers on Murano continue to employ the ancient glassmaking techniques that their predecessors held in such high esteem. Some of the most renowned glassmaking companies are still located on Murano including Seguso, Barovier & Toso and Simone Cenedese. Also located on Murano is the Museo Vetrario or Glass Museum. Glass lovers can learn more about the history of the creation of glass and view exquisite glassworks from Ancient Egypt to today. So while in Venice, why not tour the home of Venetian glass, and pick up a piece or two while you’re at it?

Burano

In my travels, I am not sure I have come across a location that is lovelier than Burano. Burano is one of those places that must be seen to be believed, but let me try to explain anyway. Imagine a small, sleepy village with rows of houses leaning against one another, cobblestone streets weaving in and out and modest bridges crisscrossing sparkling canals. Now imagine each of those houses and bridges being painted a vibrant hue, no two alike. And when I say vibrant, I mean colours that could give the most beautiful bird of paradise a run for his money. This is Burano, a village painted in a riot of superb colours. While walking its streets, I couldn’t help but think I had stumbled into some sort of fairytale and that any moment the whole village would burst into joyous song, so happy was the atmosphere of that multi-coloured town. Of course, apart from its brightly painted houses and shops, Burano is also known for the exquisiteness of its lace. It would seem that there is nothing that is not beautiful on the island of Burano.

Torcello

Torcello is the oldest continuously populated region in Venice, though currently its population only consists of about 20 people. Though it once boasted the largest population in the Republic of Venice, today it is home to a slumbering, contemplative town that is as picturesque as it is petite. Despite the size of its population, or perhaps because of it, this is an island not to be missed. In fact, as I discovered, after the huge amount of people flooding Venice each day, Torcello will appear as a veritable paradise to a crowd-weary traveller. Apart from the delectable appeal of a moment in which to breathe and relax, Torcello also boasts some incredible attractions. The best known of these sights is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which was built in 639 and is home to some stunning Byzantine mosaics. There is something very earthy and innately charming about this cathedral. Perhaps it is the lingering presence of all of the souls who have travelled there to marvel at it’s beautify and antiquity. Whatever it is, the cathedral, and all of Torcello, is charming and deeply welcoming.

Isango

Singapore is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, with four official languages, and 62 surrounding islands, the main island of Singapore (or Pulau Ujong) has been a top destination for residents and travelers alike. The city promotes itself for medical tourism (yup, plastic surgery), which surprisingly attracts more than 200,000 clients each year. Instead, I like to think that Singapore is better known as being the “Garden City” and has more than enough things to do on your holiday, without going under the knife.

Botanical Gardens
As I said, Singapore isn’t called the Garden City for nothing. The famous Botanical Gardens are home to the some of the rarest and most beautiful plants. It’s open from 5am to midnight every day, so you can enjoy the gardens during sunrise, sunset, or all the time in between.

Having numerous different specialty gardens within, the one you cannot miss is the National Orchid Gardens. Housing more than 1,000 different species of orchids, visitors can appreciate these easily distinguished flowers. Even more spectacular is how the orchids are separated, which is by color. Separated into four different sections meant to portray the four different seasons. The golds, pinks, reds, and blues are all blended together expertly to show-off the flowers in a most unique way.

Because the gardens are developed on what they call a three-core system, there are other sections of the gardens all portraying and representing something different. The Tanglin core is to represent the history and the features that have been in the gardens the longest, including Swan Lake, Sun Garden, and many sculptures. The Central core is for impressing tourists with the Ginger Garden, Rainforest, Healing Garden, Evolution Garden, and of course the National Orchid Gardens. Finally, the Butik Timah core is meant to serve as an educational branch of the gardens, featuring bamboo, fruit trees, nut and beverage crops, herbs and spices, as well as the children’s garden.

With so much to see and do, it’s definitely a good thing the park hosts such long hours–you’ll need the whole day to explore!

Chinatown
Although Chinatowns are common in any major city, with the largest ethnic group in Singapore being Chinese, this Chinatown is unlike any other. The large neighborhood dedicated to showing off Chinese food, culture, shopping, and nightlife is divided into five different districts so you don’t have to feel like you’re wandering around aimlessly in a sea of chopsticks and sculptures of chinese dragons.

The five districts are called Telok Ayer, Bukit Pasoh, Tanjong Pagar, Kreta Ayer, and Ann Siang Hill. Over time they each became known for specializing in different areas. If you’re interested in unique bars, cafés and boutiques then Ann Siang Hill, and Telok Ayer have plenty. Telok Ayer is also known for housing many of the city’s old temples and mosques offering a bit of history to your excursion. Bukit Pasoh has mastered blending the old and the new with posh hotels and restaurants, but also history on many clans and cultural associations. A more residential area also sprinkled with traditional pubs, and karaoke bars is Tanjong Pagar. Finally to feel super-immersed in the culture, head over to Kreta Ayer for traditional trading and shopping (meaning you can bargain with vendors!), and the best cuisine.

If you stop by at night make sure to visit the Chinatown Night Market running through three of the major streets. In these old world shops you’ll find everything from food, to clothing, to opera masks! This area is especially busy during Christmas with extended shopping hours and ridiculously good sales, you might just need to buy another suitcase to fit all your purchases…

Singapore Flyer
This could easily be Singapore’s greatest tourist attraction. Standing at 165 meters tall gives it the title of the world’s tallest observation wheel. The views themselves could set some world records, as the 30 minute rides takes you high up in the air you get bird’s eye view of the city and can even catch glimpses of Malaysia and Indonesia on a clear day.

Although the stunning views are the main attraction, the Singapore Flyer offers much more to complete your experience. The main terminal offers many food options on all three floors, from Subway to four star dining. There is also shopping available for Flyer memorabilia, and even a retail store specializing in leather and exotic skins. One of the most interesting additional parts of the Singapore Flyer are all the activities available for visitors. If you’re not quite ready to leave after your ride there is karaoke, racetrack rides, reflexology and fish spas all located in the main terminal. And to stay in the “flyer” spirit, there’s a flight simulator where you can view a flight through a pilot’s eyes.

The Singapore Flyer is an international icon of both engineering and appreciation of beauty. Appropriate for all ages and with a myriad of activities and things to see on the site as well, this proves to be Singapore’s hottest tourist spot for a reason.

The Singapore Zoo
Like me, you might think that the concept of zoos are sometimes overdone, they’re a good idea and I love being able to see the animals, but why go all the way to Singapore for that? Well, besides the fact that 3,600 different animals, including rare and endangered species call Singapore Zoo their home, the zoo is set up in a nature-friendly way. That means that instead of looking through glass enclosures, or jail-like fences, the animals can be seen in open exhibits, being separated by hidden barriers, stone walls, and moats. Not only is this a more natural way to see the animals, but it creates a better living environment for them too, and who doesn’t want the animals to be happy?

Speaking of animals, theres tons of different areas to see all different types of mammals, reptiles, birds, and fish. From Cat Country to the Australian Outback, to the Rainforest Kidzone, there’s something for everybody. If you’re feeling brave you can go see the world’s largest snake, which can grow up to 10 meters! The Singapore Zoo is also known for housing orangoutangs, which are highly at risk of extinction, luckily they’re kept safe and sound in their new home.

Shows at the zoo are definitely one of the highlights, and with Singapore’s conservation attempts, the Rainforest Fights Back show can help you learn about the little things you can do to help, which make big differences. If you’re looking for a little more action, there’s the show with the jackass penguins, but I promise, they’re not as bad as they sound.

Finally, what would a tourist spot be without some food and shopping? The Singapore Zoo has food from snack stands, to pizza and ice cream, to even dining with the animals at a Jungle Breakfast! Don’t leave without checking out the gift shop, for adorable stuffed animals or even educational gifts. With such a wide variety of animals, shows, and ways to explore the park, Singapore Zoo is a must-see for animal lovers.

DUKw Tours
To ease up any confusion, I’ll tell you right now that it’s pronounced “duck”. Maybe it was just me who couldn’t figure out the pronunciation, but however you say it, DUKw tours are not something to miss. Originally used in World War II as a means of transporting goods and troops over land and water, this vehicle is unique in its amphibious functions.

Now remove the troops, weapons, and fighting, and what would you do with the vehicle? Well of course make a one-of-a-kind tour bus! Unlike the mainstream hop-on/hop-off, or coach bus tours, switch it up and see Singapore by land and sea. Perusing through the city you can pass by all the major buildings and monuments like the new and old Parliament Houses, and City Hall. Then you can make a splash in Marina Bay and cruise through the water for even more sights of Singapore.

Whoever thought to turn a military transportation system into a fun tour bus certainly understood the benefits of recycling. So if you’re in Singapore and want an unconventional way to tour the city, DUKw Tours are both entertaining and educational.

Berlin is certainly one of the most beautiful cities to explore, but once winter hits, you might find that walking and bike tours are more fitting for the warmer months.  Don’t rule out winter as a time to visit, as Berlin’s charm is still visible, if not accentuated by freshly fallen snow, Christmas decorations, and multiple activities reminding you that wintertime isn’t just for hibernating.

Christmas Markets

With over 50 different Christmas markets spread over the large squares and smaller allys, Berlin really captures the spirit of the holiday season wherever you run into them.  And you won’t be running into the same products over and over again, each market seems to specialize in different areas offering you a wide variety of gifts, gadgets, and goodies to browse through.

You can go to the Gendarmenmarkt which features not only local embroidery, woodwork, stonemasonry, and food, but also there are shows which include performances by acrobatics, jugglers, musicians, and artists.  Or if you’re looking for something more low-key (relatively speaking to the glitz and glamour that can take over these markets), you can try the international Market of the Continents which supports social and structural projects from around the world.  When the native, handmade products are purchased from these traders it goes to their community to help their development.  Even better, this market is held indoors so even the snow can’t stop you.

Shows and Ballets

Outside may be snowy, dark, and cold, but what better way to capture the spirit of the holidays than a show by a world-renowned ballet, soothing orchestra, or fantastical entertainment?

I’ll be the first to admit that anything with the word “palace” sparks my interest, and this experience wouldn’t fall short of any expectations.  Enjoying a sumptuous dinner by candlelight in the Charlottenburg Palace Orangery, followed by what feels like a personal performance from the Berlin Palace Orchestra couldn’t make me feel better about escaping the cold in the warm and cozy comforts of this palace.

The Friedrichstadt Palast Stage Show is another alternative, less emphasis on the romance and instead, a complete focus on putting the audience in awe.  It’s safe to say that goal is always accomplished at the state-of-the-art theater where the stage is a show in itself.  With the addition of talented dancers, acrobatics, singers, and musicians, you’re mind will be in disbelief at what is presented in front of you.  Just call it a Christmas miracle.

Who could forget the Nutcracker?  Follow the classic story of a young girl and her doll on a Christmas Eve adventure.  Music by the infamous Tchaikovsky, and performed by the internationally acclaimed Russian National Ballet, this is one show that is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit!

Pubs

Finally, there is no better way to warm up than having a drink at a local pub.  With authentic taverns and numerous choices of drinks at the cocktail lounges, live music and even rooftop gardens over looking the city, there is no shortage to your options.  Berlin is filled with a wide variety of relaxing pubs and lively clubs, but they all give you a taste of the nightlife culture.

With a city so full of culture and a location filled with beauty, it’s hard to narrow down what you should do in Rio de Janeiro.  That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 things for you to consider on your holiday, whether you’re looking to relax, party, explore, or all three!

Ipanema
Whether you’re looking for some leisure time in the sun, or a shopping excursion, the neighborhood of Ipanema is the perfect place to unwind after a long day exploring in Rio De Janeiro. The beautiful beach unfolds displaying people enjoying the sun in all different ways. If you’re looking to nap in the sun, surf and play in the water, or have a friendly game of volleyball, you’ll have company in whatever you choose to do. The locals are known for being as beautiful as they are friendly, and with what seems like endless supplies of beer and the traditional cachaça, you might want to become a local yourself.

Once you get off the beach, there’s streets upon streets of trendy shopping, and since Ipanema is known for being one of the most expensive places to live, these stores are top of the line. If you’re a bargain hunter or looking for something more unique, fear not–on Sundays they hold a “Hippie Fair”, which is a market proudly displaying homemade crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Also on Sundays, the roadway closest to the beach is closed to motor vehicles allowing visitors and residents alike to enjoy an open area for jogging, roller blading, skateboarding, or however else they choose to get out and enjoy the town!

Copacabana
The first thing I think of when I hear “Copacabana” is, unfortunately, the Barry Manilow song. Don’t worry though, there’s much much more to the name.  Most recognizably, the southern area of Brazil, home to a beach community that’s as beautiful as it is famous. Attracting the best looking beach-goers, Copacabana is a perfect spot for unashamedly people-watching. Although many people assume that Copacabana and Ipanema are similar, they have their distinctive features. While Ipanema is known more for being a sexy, young, lively, and high end atmosphere, Copacabana holds similar values but proves to be a little less ritzy for those who want to enjoy the local culture in a more laid-back fashion.

Another amazing feature of this area is the promenade. Spread over four kilometers and housing endless restaurants, bars, shops, and clubs, this strip has also hosted numerous concerts. One of the most noteworthy being the New Years Eve Rod Stewart concert garnering 3.5 million, making it the largest concert crowd ever.

Rio de Janeiro has a specifically laid back lifestyle, and if you’re looking for a beach area to enjoy the sunset and a drink, no place is more appropriate than Copacabana.

Carnival
Held 46 days before Easter and traditionally being seen as a way to indulge in some crazy behavior before the start of Lent, Carnival is known as Brazil’s biggest party, and why wouldn’t you want to attend?  Carnival is four days and four nights of partying, dancing, drinking, and parades. Most importantly, the Samba parades, which feature shows and competitions of numerous Rio Samba schools. Often with preparations starting months in advance to impress the judges and spectators, this is no ordinary street parade, and definitely recommended as a must-see during Carnival. All regions are brought together for this parade, not only increasing competition but also displaying a wide variety of costumes, techniques, and design of their parade.

After watching such talent through the streets, you won’t have to be just a spectator for long. Another great event of Carnival are the numerous Balls that you are able to purchase tickets to.  There is samba dancing all night, and if you’re feeling up to the challenge of meeting the high standards for Carnival costumes, you can dress up and become truly immersed in the culture.

The Balls and the Parades are just two of the many events that express the vibe of extravagant glamour, but no matter which events you choose to see, they’re guaranteed to blow you away. It is said that Carnival accounts for 70% of the annual tourism and 80% of the annual beer consumption, so if you’re looking for a good way to party like a local, Carnival is something you shouldn’t miss.

Corcovado
This mountain that lies west of the city, is so spectacular that it is still visible from miles away. However this is not just another mountain gracing Rio de Janeiro’s geography, it is also topped at the peak by a thirty-eight meter statue of Jesus, known as Cristo Rendenter. The homage to religion portrays this statue of Christ with open arms, which is a symbol of peace representing the local culture and their religious values.

The peak of the mountain and the base of the statue is accessible on a narrow path if you’re driving, or you can opt for the Corcovado Rack Railway. When you reach the top, you then need to ascend to the very top via the 223 stairs, also available are elevators and escalators if you’d rather preserve your energy.

Religious or not, this is an attraction that is popular for a reason. Whether you know it from the appearances it made in the Twilight films, or because you want to see one of the “New” seven wonders of the world, Corcovado is a moving way to appreciate natural beauty. The view from the peak looking out on the city and surrounding area is just as breathtaking as the inspirational view looking up at the statue from sea level.

Sugar Loaf Mountain
396 meters high, Sugar Loaf mountain towers above the Atlantic Ocean on the beautiful coast of Rio de Janeiro. In history, it was seen as a landmark to travelers as the entrance to the Guanabara Bay, today however it gives tourists endless amounts of spectacular views of the surrounding city.  Although it is similar to Corcovado in how it overlooks Rio, visitors to Sugar Loaf can experience the glass enclosed cable cars which bring them to the peak of the mountain offering an even more unique aspect to this experience. At the top there are souvenir and refreshment booths so you can both relax, and browse some of the shops before returning to sea level.

For all you explorers out there, hiking is an option, but it is highly discouraged as the trails are rugged and extreme. If you do choose to hike however, it is encouraged to buy a one way ticket before you ascend so that you can take the cable cars on the way down – hiking down the steep granite exterior is more dangerous than you’re trip up.

There is no doubt that Rio de Janeiro is graced with beautiful geography.  Mountains like Sugar Loaf let you look down on the beaches you may have been laying out on the previous day, and allow you to appreciate the beauty of the city.

The Northern Lights, more formally known as the Aurora Borealis, captivate the minds and spirits of all who witness them. It is impossible not to be moved by the flowing colours that move through the celestial heavens in a dance as ageless as the sky itself. In ancient Rome, Aurora was the goddess of the dawn and in Ancient Greece, Boreas is the god of the north wind. Thus, in 1621, the current of colour in the night sky was officially deemed the Aurora Borealis. In days long past, those who gazed at the lights believed that the neon colours were the souls of unborn children or the torches of ancestors long since past. Scientists as well as stargazers have been captivated by this strange aberration in the atmosphere. Today we know that the hypnotic hues of the lights are created by energetic charged particles colliding with atoms in the high atmosphere. Of course, when looking at the Northern Lights, it is just as easy to believe that it is a river of celestial spirits on their journey through the sky.

Now, as we enter into the darkest time of the year, the Northern Lights are displayed in the peak of their glory. The divine light show that dances across the evening sky is best seen between the months of November and February. One of the best locations from which to see this incredible phenomenon is in Iceland. What many do not realize is that this wild and stunning country is just as colourful and vibrant as the glowing colours that dance above its horizon.

Though the name distinctly brings to mind frigid days and desolate, icy landscapes, Iceland is, in all honesty, one of the most beautiful and untouched places on earth. This is a land where fire and ice coexist in a surreal setting of vast emerald valleys, black sand beaches, volcanoes and massive glaciers. Though ‘ice’ figures in the country’s name, ice only covers 10% of the country’s land mass. Having said that, the ice that there is comprises the largest glaciers left in Europe. Iceland is located in the middle of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, thus making it a very active volcanic area. The most famous of these looming beauties is Mount Hekla, which reigns over the nearby Landmannalaugar area. This area is rich in jade stretches of land and golden mountains streaked with ashen stripes and swathed in ghostly clouds. When snow falls upon these sleeping giants, a beauty unlike any other overtakes the land and stirs the soul with a sense of magic.

Iceland is also particularly famous for its incredible hot turquoise waters that form the Blue Lagoon. Here guests can relax and rejuvenate in what some believe to be the most restorative waters in the world. The Blue Lagoon is a natural spa with a man-made spa right next to it. You can hop from the naturally heated aquamarine lagoon into a luxurious steam bath or sauna at the spa. Visitors can also get intoxicatingly good massages while still enjoying the view of the lagoon (if they can manage to keep their eyes open). I personally think that the Blue Lagoon looks as if the Northern Lights had melted out of the sky into a massive, beautiful and deliciously warm puddle. Those who have soaked in the Blue Lagoon before will tend to agree with me.

Near Reykjavik, Iceland’s capitol, lies what is known as the Golden Circle, the best route to take in order to see some of the most exquisite earthly sites in Iceland. Trips around the Golden Circle involve seeing such things as the Gulfoss (meaning ‘golden falls’) Waterfall, Geysir Hot Spring and Þingvellir National Park. None of these are to be missed while travelling through Iceland.

So, if you head to Iceland to gaze at the hypnotic celestial lights of the Aurora Borealis, you are sure to find other exquisite, more earthly delights as well.

There’s no question why people flock to Northern Ireland to visit Giant’s Causeway.  With the natural beauty of the basalt columns arranged in a unique hexagonal patterns, looking out over the sea and distant landscapes, this natural beauty and geological wonder has gotten international attention and praise for years.  Due to the geography, Northern Ireland is sometimes best to visit in the warmer months, to make hiking and water sports possible.  Lately though, we’ve been finding that even during these months where the nights are progressively getting colder, travelers still are wanting to visit the Causeway.  Now, we know it’s breathtakingly beautiful, but still a little thrown on the high volume of visitors we decided to take a closer look at why Giant’s Causeway is desirable all year round.

First, as long as you have proper apparel to keep yourself warm, most of the outdoor activities are still within reach, walking along the infamous columns, crossing over the rope bridges, exploring around ancient castles and the rocky shores.

But if you’re looking to enjoy the warm and cozy qualities of Northern Ireland and the Giant’s Causeway, you’re in luck!  With multiple different trains to take you on a scenic rail ride, you can stay out of the cold while still enjoying this spectacular stretch of land.  In addition to great and unique shopping, the area is known for having luxury spas, so if you did explore the outdoor opportunities (or just because you want to be pampered!) you can reward yourself with all natural treatments that are common in Northern Ireland.

The area offers a wide variety of museums as well, many of which are great for kids and families.  And finally, you can’t forget about the charming localities with numerous pubs that are just as delicious as they are welcoming.

Don’t let the weather scare you off from an area that is beautiful all year round, Giant’s Causeway has proved to become a hot-spot for tourists 365 days a year.