BY Ariana SmithApr 30, 2021

If you ever plan on visiting the stunning Mediterranean island-country of Malta, you should be familiar with the means of transportation, which are available as well as their pros and cons. Thanks to the size of the islands, it’s relatively easy to get around, but every form of transportation has its fair share of upsides and downsides. It’s easy to make the wrong choice and be stuck with a form of transport which you don’t really like. To help you out – here’s a guide! Buses – always a favourite: Just like in any other country, Malta has a public transit system that consists of many different bus lines. There are close to a hundred different routes as well as dedicated bus lines that head to the airport or ride at night. Using the bus is cheap and simple enough, but the comfort won’t necessarily always be there. During the peak of tourist season, it could be difficult to get a seat which means that you might need to stand for the duration of your journey. The biggest pros are the price and that with enough time, you can go seemingly anywhere on the map. Rent a car – convenient, but costly: Most business travellers and people that want to get around to more remote locations, choose car rental service. With daily rates starting at ~20€, it’s definitely something worth considering, if you came to Malta for an active holiday with your sights set on getting to see as many sights, in the shortest amount of time possible. However, younger and international drivers could see higher rental rates and you might not always end up with an automobile that you fancy. It’s costly in the end, but very convenient if you prefer mobility over anything else. Taxi & ride-pooling – probably the best comfort to value ratio: There are white taxis of Malta which are available to pick you up from anywhere, except for bus stops. Most of them have fixed taxi rates and are located at the airport or sea terminal. White taxis are less popular amongst locals and favoured more by tourists and business people. They’re a very comfortable means of transportation, with the high cost being the only significant downside. Taking the comfort of a taxi but for a lower price is a service called ride-sharing and ride-pooling. This service, meaning ride-pooling in Malta is getting more and more popular because the rates are significantly lower than with a taxi. The service works by arranging pickups from a more centralized location and allows the driver to pick up multiple passengers along the way. You might share a cab with one or two other people, but the savings of cash and the reduced CO2 emissions are definitely worth looking into. For more information, you can visit https://www.cool.mt/, where you will find an app that is an easy and fast way to book your ride. Renting a bike or scooter: With the growth of ride-sharing applications and platforms around the world, Malta also has private and platform-based bike & scooter rental points where you can rent one. Why don’t you check out the best electric scooter online here? This might be the most exotic and fun way to travel during the hot spring or summer, but it isn’t the most convenient choice all of the time because of the uneven terrain as well as the limited number of bicycle lanes on the island. Water transport: Being an island, Malta also has a developed water transport system. A ferry goes back and forth between Malta and Gozo multiples times per day with the journey taking close to twenty minutes one way. There are regular ferries and smaller boats that can take you to other islands as well as the famous water taxi service, being serviced by traditional Maltese boats which are called dghajsa. Read Also: Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try Batista Restaurant Las Vegas – Restaurant Info, Ratings & Reviews Enjoy A Day Charter In Hong Kong Harbour And See The Sights

BY Deepanwita DeyDec 28, 2023

New Zealand, an enchanting realm of natural wonders and cultural richness, beckons discerning travelers to experience luxury like never before.  Nestled in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches.  In this article, we embark on a journey through the epitome of opulence in New Zealand, exploring exclusive resorts, fine dining experiences, and bespoke adventures that elevate luxury travel to new heights. 1. Exquisite Accommodations and Resorts: 1.1 Huka Lodge – Taupo's Riverside Retreat Located along the banks of the Waikato River, Huka Lodge offers a retreat into nature, where the soothing sounds of the river complement the tranquility of the surroundings. Private cottages, each a haven of elegance, provide a seamless blend of comfort and luxury. With spacious interiors, outdoor hot tubs, and bespoke furnishings, guests find solace in opulent seclusion. The culinary experience at Huka Lodge is a testament to New Zealand's gastronomic prowess. Locally sourced ingredients take center stage, paired with an extensive selection of fine wines, creating an unforgettable dining journey. Duration: Flexible depending on stay Price Range: $1,500 — $3,000 per night 1.2 Eichardt's Private Hotel – Queenstown's Lakeside Gem Eichardt's Private Hotel, an embodiment of Queenstown's charm, seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary luxury. Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, it offers unparalleled views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Exclusive suites, meticulously designed for comfort and sophistication, feature lakefront balconies, plush furnishings, and personalized concierge services, ensuring a stay tailored to the individual needs of each guest. Indulge in a private chef's table experience at Eichardt's, where culinary artistry meets the freshest local produce. The menu is a celebration of New Zealand's diverse flavors, complemented by a curated selection of wines. Duration: Flexible depending on stay Price Range: $1,800 — $4,000 per night 1.3 The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs – A Golf Retreat in Northland Set amidst 6,000 acres of pristine landscapes, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is a sanctuary for those seeking both golfing excellence and luxurious accommodations. Lavish suites, each offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Cavalli Islands, provide an idyllic setting for relaxation. The interiors exude sophistication, with attention to detail in every element. Helicopter excursions from the lodge allow guests to explore the nearby Bay of Islands and visit renowned wineries, creating bespoke adventures that complement the exclusive offerings of The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs. Duration: Flexible depending on activities Price Range: $2,000 — $5,000 per night 2. Gastronomic Delights: 2.1 Amisfield Winery – Queenstown's Culinary Haven Amisfield Winery, perched on the shores of Lake Hayes with the Remarkables as a backdrop, offers an immersive culinary experience amidst breathtaking scenery. Exclusive wine and dining experiences include private tastings guided by knowledgeable sommeliers. The degustation menus showcase the best of New Zealand's seasonal produce, ensuring a sensory journey through the region's flavors. The emphasis on farm-to-table dining at Amisfield underscores the commitment to sustainability, providing guests with not only a luxurious experience but also a connection to the region's culinary heritage. Duration: 2–3 hours for a dining experience Price Range: $200 — $500 per person 2.2 The French Café – Auckland's Michelin-Worthy Cuisine The French Café in Auckland stands as a culinary beacon, offering an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere for those seeking exquisite French-inspired cuisine. The curated menu is a testament to the chef's artistry, featuring locally sourced ingredients transformed into culinary masterpieces. The extensive wine list complements the flavors, with a focus on New Zealand's finest vintages. Impeccable service and an ambiance of understated elegance make The French Café a destination for discerning gourmands, where each dish is a symphony of taste and presentation. Duration: 2–3 hours for a dining experience Price Range: $250 — $600 per person 2.3 Hippopotamus – Wellington's Fusion of Art and Cuisine Nestled within the Museum Art Hotel, Hippopotamus in Wellington is a culinary gem that seamlessly blends artistry with gastronomy. The French-inspired cuisine at Hippopotamus takes on a Kiwi twist, featuring locally sourced ingredients. The result is a menu that reflects the diversity and richness of New Zealand's culinary landscape. The panoramic views of Wellington's harbor and city skyline provide a picturesque backdrop to the dining experience, making Hippopotamus a unique destination where art, ambiance, and cuisine converge. Duration: 2–3 hours for a dining experience Price Range: $220 — $550 per person 3. Bespoke Adventures: 3.1 Fiordland Helicopters – Milford Sound Aerial Escapade Fiordland Helicopters offers an unparalleled aerial escapade over the majestic landscapes of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Soar over cascading waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and the iconic Milford Sound, immersing yourself in the grandeur of nature. Personalized itineraries include alpine landings and gourmet picnics in remote, picturesque locations. The helicopter experience transforms a journey into an adventure, providing an exclusive perspective of New Zealand's natural wonders that few have the privilege to witness. Duration: 2–3 hours for the helicopter tour Price Range: $1,200 — $2,500 per person 3.2 Wharekauhau Country Estate – Wairarapa's Countryside Retreat Wharekauhau Country Estate, set against the backdrop of the Wairarapa region, invites guests to immerse themselves in a luxurious countryside retreat. The estate offers bespoke experiences, from horseback riding through the expansive grounds to private farm tours. Helicopter excursions unveil the rugged Wairarapa coastline and provide access to nearby wineries. Activities such as fishing, archery, and bird watching are tailored to individual preferences, ensuring that each guest can curate their own adventure in the picturesque landscapes surrounding Wharekauhau. Duration: Flexible depending on activities Price Range: $1,500 — $4,000 per night 3.3 White Island Volcano Adventure – Rotorua's Geological Marvel Embark on a private helicopter journey to White Island, an active marine volcano off the coast of Rotorua. Guided tours on the island explore the otherworldly landscapes of sulfur vents and volcanic craters, providing a unique blend of geological marvels and luxury travel. A gourmet picnic on the island's shores adds an element of indulgence to this adventurous experience, making the White Island Volcano Adventure a harmonious fusion of luxury and the raw beauty of nature. Duration: 4–6 hours for the helicopter tour and island exploration Price Range: $1,800 — $3,500 per person Conclusion New Zealand, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has firmly established itself as a haven for luxury travelers seeking unparalleled experiences. From secluded riverside lodges to culinary masterpieces and bespoke adventures, the country provides a tapestry of opulence that harmonizes with its natural beauty.  Whether soaring over majestic fiords or indulging in fine dining overlooking pristine lakes, luxury in New Zealand transcends expectations, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in a world where every moment is a masterpiece of refinement and beauty. Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit Is Machu Picchu Closing In 2023? Know It All Here!

BY sagnika sinhaMay 15, 2024

Did you know that the world's first "selfie" was invented in Australia? Did you know thatthat Australia has the world's longest fence? There are so many interesting and surprising things about Australia that will shock and surprise you. In this blog, I will share some interesting facts about Australia. You will be inspired to visit the country, especially because you will create symbiotic relationships. You can perform several adventurous activities along with beautiful landscapes. Furthermore, these are interesting facts about several states in Australia! The blog will teach you a lot about planning your itinerary to visit these interesting places. I will share several things to do in Australia related to these facts! I am sure you will be inspired to visit these places and enjoy yourself. You will also learn about various unique places in Australia! Interesting Facts about Australia that will surprise you! If you have heard a lot about Australia, what will you do when you go there? This huge country has so much to offer, from beautiful views to unique animals. It is a secure place to travel, and the beautiful locales around it are a delight. It is an interesting place because it includes several aspects that combine to create a beautiful lifestyle. There are multicultural communities, and the natural environment adds a beautiful flavour to the country, along with the diverse people, excellent food, and delicious wine. Did you know that Australia has about 60 regions that produce wine? Imagine the diverse flavors and the production process. Therefore, you cannot miss the restaurants in Australia! Let me share with you some of the interesting facts about Australia that will bring together the place's beauty and vibrancy. World's Most Unique Wildlife What do I even say when it comes to the diverse wildlife in Australia? It has the most unique animals on the global scale, as 80% of the wildlife is endemic to Australia. Can you imagine the significance of these animals, as we need to protect them? A report claims that about 87% of mammals, 94% of frogs, 45% of birds, and 93% of reptiles in Australia only exist there. From Koalas to iconic Kangaroos, wombats, and elusive echidnas, you can see various wildlife. Echidnas and Platypus are the only mammals that lay eggs, but did you know they are only found in Australia? The place is so filled with wildlife that, apart from zoos and national parks, you might encounter them in the open. The country has one of the oldest Island cultures, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, who experienced oppression and displacement at the hands of European colonization! A Country and A Continent   Did you know that Australia is both a continent and a country? Australia is the 6th largest country on the global scale. Geographically, Australia is a part of Oceania, which is inclusive of Melanesia, Polynesia, Australasia, and Micronesia. Oceania's subregions include New Zealand, New Guinea, and Australia. It is one of the smallest continents in the world, lying between the Indian and Pacific Oceans in the Southern Hemisphere. Hemisphere. If you are traveling to Australia, you also need to check out the beaches in Australia! The Majority of Uluru is Underground Uluru in Australia is known for its beautiful sunset, which is framed by a huge rock! It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it can be identified as a natural and cultural element of Australia. The place is quite sacred for the Aboriginal tribes as it is surrounded by scrubland! The rock is 2.5km underground and is believed to be related to Olgas. You will then see it emerge 16 miles away. You can also visit Uluru by railway between Adelaide and Darwin or by plane! The stark beauty of the rock against the beautiful sky with the best sunset offers an amazing view. You can also enjoy the pitch-black skies along with the several sparkling stars. If you are going from Alice Springs, you can enjoy it a lot, especially when you plan to visit Uluru. The Longest Straight Section of Train Track Did you know that Australia has the longest straight section of train tracks? Let me tell you, the rail journey between Perth and Sydney, known as the Indian Pacific, is the longest straight section! The tracks snake around the country, where you can check out the beautiful blue mountains! The train moves towards the mountainous Flinders Ranges, giving you some spectacular views! I would also suggest you stop in Adelaide. Of course, you cannot miss the gourmet food, the wide-open spaces of the city, and the art museums. Further, the train takes you across the fertile Avon Valley and into Sydney. You will receive luxury services on the train! The Largest Sand Island in the World Australia has the largest sand Island, which you can explore by hopping on a boat! Why don't you plan a trip to Queensland? The highlight of this trip will be the sandy shores of Fraser Island. There are some jumping-off points, and Hervey Bay is one of them. You must take a boat to discover this delightful place, an island paradise with white sands. Lake MacKenzie, surrounded by a white sand shore where you can swim, awaits you! You can also take a dip into the Champagne Pools, which have shallow water, and swim across the edge of the ocean. There are about 150 dingos on this island, so you can check out these wild dogs. However, keep your distance because they are wild and aggressive. Dingos, the wild dogs, are not like the local or domestic dogs and live in the national park of K'gari Island or Fraser Island! Dingos, the wild dogs, are not like the local or domestic dogs and live in the national park of K'gari Island or Fraser Island! If you love the beach, check out the beaches in Perth! No Active Volcano in Australia Can you imagine that with so many volcanoes worldwide, Australia is the only continent without any active volcanoes? If you are planning to travel to Australia, it is one of the safest countries in the world. With the wildlife which is quite notorious even though it is not deadly all the time! Of course, there is a location in Southeast Australia, also called Newer Volcanic Province, where there is a collection of about 400 volcanoes spread across 15000 square kilometers (about the area of Connecticut). The Largest Eco-System in the World Can you imagine that Australia has the largest ecosystem in the world? The Great Barrier Reef is the joy and pride of Australia, with about 2500 individual reefs. Did you know that these reefs are visible from space? Apparently, halfway down the eastern coast of the country, it is covered in it! There are several jumping-off points where you can go down into the water and check out the kaleidoscopic coral. The cities closer to these reefs are Cairns, Townsville, Airlie Beach, and Port Douglas. Several activities, namely deep-sea diving, snorkeling, swimming, and surfing can be attempted and done. Marines, like sea turtles and colorful fish, live in these reefs. The Australian Alps Receive More Snow Compared to Swiss Alps Did you know that the Australian Alps have heavy snowfall between June and September? It is shocking that it is heavier than the Swiss Alps. The Alps are across Victoria and New South Wales and are a perfect place for skiing! During the northern hemisphere summer, you can enjoy the environment, so you can go skiing. Apart from that, you can also enjoy the beautiful environment. There are two large resorts, namely Perisher and Thredbo, near Canberra. Finishing Off In short, the interesting facts about Australia will not only surprise you but also shock you! After reading the blog, you will learn how the continent has worked hard to create a sustainable and diverse ecosystem. There are many other interesting facts, but the ones mentioned are quite significant. The diverse aspects of Australia will not only interest you but also teach you a lot of things. Comment on which part of Australia you want to visit and why. Learn More About: How To Enjoy Your Night In Sydney? 6 Tips For A Luxurious Trip To Australia 8 Best Places To Live In Australia For You If You Have A Family Do You Know The Best Time To Visit Australia? Read All About It!