These Exotic Places To Travel Are Unusual: Explore The Must-Visits Around The World

BY  Sibashree Feb 17, 2026

Trincomalee has one of the closest gateways to Harbarana, the gateway to the Ritigara Forest Monastery.  However, as a tourist from India, Trincomalee is more than a tourist attraction for me. As Jaffna, Sri Lanka, connects the country with India, my homeland, with its Tamil culture and Top Hindu Temples, Trincomalee is important for political, economic, and security reasons.  That is why India has taken a keen interest in the development of the “socio-economic infrastructure and energy hub” in the region.  Also, Trincomalee, with adventure opportunities such as whale watching, surfing, and historical exploration, plays an important role in the tourism development in Sri Lanka.  However, it is unfortunate that most tourists think of only Uppuveli Beach when there is any discussion regarding Trincomalee.  This time, I will talk about the things to do in Trincomalee beyond the Uppuveli Beach.  What Are The Best Things To Do In Trincomalee? I know it’s difficult to avoid the allure of the Uppuveli Beach, which has a laid-back vibe. Also, its emerald waters attract the divers and snorkelers.  Still, there is so much to see beyond the Uppuveli Beach. I loved the beautiful beaches in Jaffna for their quiet and pristine vibes.  However, I found the Uppuveli Beach very touristy, and that was a big turn-off for someone like me, who believes in the principles of the LowDownUnder Travel.  So, here are the other and more exciting (for me) things to do in Trincomalee. 1. Visiting The Nilaveli Beach I took a tuk-tuk from the Uppuveli Beach and reached the Nilaveli Beach within 20 minutes. It was summertime. So, even if the Sun was very strong, the crowd was very small. Just the way I like it! The restaurants, shops, and resorts were not up from their siesta yet, and it was the surfing locals who kept the beach alive.  I started walking south back along the white beach toward Uppuveli, and fortunately, found a place that looked deserted. It was just the turquoise waters, white sand, and me.  However, the current was pretty strong, and I could not spot any lifeguards. So, I bunked the idea of swimming and again walked back toward the north. I had chilled beer with some snacks and watched the surfers in action.  The guy serving food asked me to come back in the peak season when the beach becomes a bustling coastal hub. I told him, “I like it this way!”  2. Visiting The Thirukoneswaram Kovil Temple  Entry: Free Hours: 6 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 6:45 PM Photography: Not Allowed Dress Code: Modest Clothing with Knees and Shoulders Covered  I again took a tuk-tuk from the Nilaveli Beach and started for the Sri Thirukoneswaram Kovil Temple. The temple is on the Trincomalee cliffs, and on my way, I found Fort Frederick, once a Dutch stronghold in the country.  Also, as I started walking upward, there were many sellers, market stalls, and fruit vendors lined on both sides of the road. So, the temple is not just a religious place. It is at the epicenter of the local economic and cultural activities.  Nevertheless, once I reached the temple entrance, the majestic statue of Lord Shiva evoked awe. The main temple in pastel shades is erected behind the statue.  The main temple and many of the statues were destroyed by the Portuguese, and they built Fort Frederick with the temple ruins. However, the locals saved many of the statues by burying them underground, and now they are restored again.  The interior of the current temple is as beautiful as its exterior. You will find intricate wooden work and Hindu deities everywhere you look. Also, as you take a walk around the temple, you eventually walk down the cliffs, enjoying the beautiful views of the bay.  3. Lover’s Leap  Lover’s Leap is an area in the Trincomalee cliffs themselves. Francina van Reed, the daughter of a Dutchman, sacrificed her life by jumping from the cliffs.  She saw the ship of her lover sinking in the waters of the Indian Ocean. Out of grief, she took her life.  4. Fort Frederick Fort Frederick was once a Portuguese stronghold, and now the Sri Lankan army uses it. So, you can only see the fort from the road.  Also, there are many old colonial buildings in the same area.  Furthermore, the Fort is occupied by the local deer. Spotting them here was unexpected and obviously a high point.  However, there are warning signs, and you must obey them. So, do not try to feed them, however tempting it may seem.  5. Visiting The Trincomalee Maritime And Naval History Museum Hours Open: 9 AM to 4 PM (Wednesday to Monday) Entry: Free I took a short walk from the fort and reached the Trincomalee Maritime and Naval History Museum. The barrel of a giant cannon welcomed me there.  I opted for a guided tour as I wanted to know the stories behind the exhibits. The museum has recreated a shipwreck, and among other exhibits, there are 3D models explaining the history and landscape of Trincomalee.  There are also archaeological exhibits and the display of naval uniforms.  However, the high point in the museum was yet to come for me. I learned that it was once the residence of a Dutch Commissioner. However, the building fell with the roots of a giant tree bursting through the property.  Still, it was restored to its glory after a reconstruction work of five years.  I was slowly soaking in the story of human resilience as my guide took me to the roof of the museum. I climbed up through a set of tiny stairs in the backroom.  The view was beautiful, and I could see the bay, Fort Frederick, and everything in the surrounding areas.  6. Exploring The Trincomalee Market Exploring the local market was at the core of my Jaffna food tour. Similarly, to know about the local culture, I decided to visit the Trincomalee Market.  Trust me, it is one of the best things to do in Trincomalee if you are planning to try activities that are not very touristy.  I spotted some beautiful street art while exploring the market. Furthermore, the textile shops were selling vibrant clothes, vegetables and fresh fruit. Also, the fish market has a separate section.  So, if you are a vegetarian or vegan, you can explore the market without hesitation.  The market is also easily accessible from various parts of Trincomalee, as the setup is around the Central Bus Station and the Clock Tower.  Lunch And Food At The Trincomalee Market For me, a trip remains incomplete until I try the local food. Food here is very much like Jaffna, only a little less spicy.  The hotels (restaurants) here serve warm vadas, rice and curry, samosas, and seafood. Lunch for a person at these hotels will cost you around INR 120.  Then, we walked opposite the bus station and found many fruit and vegetable stalls. We bought some bananas, dragon fruits, and the jackfruits there were the biggest I have seen. The Fish Market I was a little late, and most of the fish was sold by then. Still, the crowd of vendors and sellers was pretty decent there.  I bought some fresh crabs and prawns and requested the cook at the hostel to prepare our evening snacks and dinner with them. I made quite a few friends at the hostel. So, sharing the meal with them was a lot of fun.  7. Whale Watching  Whale watching is one of the most exciting things to do in Trincomalee if you are here between November and mid-April.  It is located at a distance of 2 hours, and Nilaveli and Uppuveli beaches are the best places to spot whales in Trincomalee.  In the peak season, you can spot at least ten species of whales here. Things To Do In Trincomalee: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the things do in Trincomalee. 1. What Is The Meaning Of Trincomalee? The name Trincomalee comes from the Tamil word Thiru-kona-malai. It means the Lord of the Sacred Hill. Furthermore, the name indicates the presence of the Koneswaram Temple on the hill. It is a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.  2. What Is The Trincomalee To Colombo Distance? The distance between Colombo and Trincomalee is around 260 km. Buses run by the National Transport Commission and the Sri Lanka Transport Board run buses on this route. The transport time is around 7 hours, and the ticket price is INR 250 onward. On the other hand, you will get direct trains from Trincomalee to Colombo. The travel time is close to 8 hours, and the ticket price is INR 400 onward. However, if budget is not a constraint, you can book a private car at around INR 3500 and 4500. Also, book a flight ticket to Colombo Airport, Bandaranaike International Airport. The flight ticket will be around INR 4000 to 35000.  3. What Is The Coldest Place In Sri Lanka?  Nuwara Eliya, with the nickname of “Little England,” is the coldest place in Sri Lanka. In the winter season, the temperature frequently drops to 10 degrees Celsius in this region. Furthermore, in January, sometimes the temperature is near freezing. Moreover, Horton Plains and Pattipola are some of the coldest places in the region. 4. What Is The Best Time To Visit Trincomalee? March to May and October to February are the best seasons to visit Trincomalee. From March to May, the temperature is around 30 to 36 degrees Celsius, and from October to February, the average temperature hovers around 28 to 30 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, from November to April is the best time for whale watching in Trincomalee. 

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 27, 2023

Zanzibar is known for being sloppy when wet and extremely hot in the summer. The protracted rains bring heavy torrential downpours every day, causing high humidity and silty seas to occur between March and early May. With its dry and sunny peak season from June through October on the beach (and in Tanzania's game reserves if you're on a safari first), most vacations to Zanzibar outside of these periods will be nice. While November and December offer Zanzibar's shorter spells of rain, these typically are isolated showers that won't cause holiday washouts. January to March are likewise dry and hot but a lot quieter. The year-round average temperature is roughly 30°C. Due to the warm waters, minimal wind, and high visibility, the months between March and November are typically regarded as the best for diving and snorkeling. September through December is the prime time to see whale sharks, reef sharks, and manta rays. If you want to know more details on when is the best time to visit Zanzibar, this article will help you navigate those questions. Best Time To Visit Zanzibar Image Source: gumlet.assettype.com Strictly speaking, the dry seasons of December to February and June to October are the best times to visit the Zanzibar islands. But in general, the beaches on the southern and western parts of the islands are more protected from wind during these months. On the other hand, the wind typically comes from the southwest from June to October. This makes the northern and eastern coasts ideal for holidaying. But in the end, these islands remain at the whim of the ocean, and their weather can be erratic throughout the year. Even in the “dry” seasons, afternoon showers do occur, but they usually last only a few minutes and are refreshingly cool. It is not an entirely bad idea to travel to Zanzibar during the rainy season when the number of tourists declines, and you will likely find affordable trips and lodging (among those that are still open). The sunsets are known to be stunning. The rain, although severe, is not generally consistent, and delicious pineapples come into season! You might find it tricky to navigate the roads and buses, but things eventually settle. Wet and dry seasons are Zanzibar's prominent climates, which are influenced by the movements of the Indian Ocean’s rainy season. From November/December to February/March, the northeast monsoon winds, or kaskazi (in local parlance), blow. And from June to September/October, the southwest monsoon winds, also called kusi, blow. There is a brief rainy season (the vuli) in November in addition to the main rains (the masika), which last between mid-March to the end of May. Weather Image Source: www.holidaysplease.co.uk Although it can be reduced by the winds and sea breeze, humidity is relatively high throughout the year. The average daily temperature on Zanzibar Island is roughly 26°C (80°F) from June to October and around 28°C from December to February. However, during the latter period, humidity levels are frequently greater, making temperatures feel hotter. Pemba has a milder climate with a little more rainfall than Zanzibar Island. The islands are crowded with tourists from outside and expats from Nairobi and Dar es Salaam during major holidays like Christmas and Easter. You can expect crowded flights and increased hotel prices. On the other hand, life moves more slowly as many restaurants and shops close during the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan. The annual Zanzibar International Marathon takes place in the first few days of November. This can be a good incentive for sports enthusiasts, making it the best time to visit Zanzibar. Festivals Image Source: www.gallerytours.net The majority of Tanzania's public holidays are observed on the islands as well. On these days, companies and offices are typically closed, while some tour operators are still open. Some of the public holidays with set dates observed on the island are: 1 January – New Year 12 January – Mapinduzi ‘Revolution’ Day 7 April – Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume Day 26 April – Union Day: Zanzibar and Tanganyika 1 May – Workers’ Day 7 July – Saba Saba (Seven Seven) 8 August – Peasants’ and Farmers’ Day 14 October – Nyerere Day 9 December – Independence Day 25 December – Christmas Day 26 December – Boxing Day The Muslim holidays of Idd il Fitri, which marks the conclusion of Ramadan, and Idd il Maulidi (also known as Maulidi ya Mfunguo Sita), which commemorates Muhammad's birth, are widely observed and serve as public holidays. These festivals fall 11 or 12 days early each year and have dates that are determined by the lunar calendar. If you are planning to visit Zanzibar in 2024 and want to be a part of their Ramadan, it is set to start on 10 March through 8 April. Places To Visit Image Source: zanzibardestination.co.tz Zanzibar is one of those rare treasures you keep to yourself, as a secret, as a deeply significant memory, and as the most joyful days spent. Now that you know the best time to visit Zanzibar, if you want to know a few places you can check out while visiting, here are a few: Slave Trade Image Source: pbs.twimg.com The Slave Museum is a must-see for anybody interested in learning about Zanzibar's sordid past. The last active slave market in the world was shut down in 1873. You will pass by rooms where slaves were housed before being sold as you move around the museum. To work on plantations, hoards of Africans were first transferred to this island. Slave traffickers utilized the port at Zanzibar as their center of operations to transport slaves to countries including Egypt, Arabia, Persia, and the Ottoman Empire. Sunset Dhow Show Image Source: www.tanzaniatourism.com If you miss taking a Sunset Dhow Cruise on the translucent, emerald seas of the Indian Ocean, your journey to Zanzibar will remain incomplete. The busy bustle of a busy town gradually disappears as the sunset cruise departs the coast that gets replaced finally by the musicians' melancholy ballad of lost love and found romances or a tune played on a taraab, violin, or oud. The crew will provide you with crackers and your preferred brand of beer or soda. Sip on your drink while you bask in the exotic vibe on the cruise. Mnemba Atoll Image Source: www.andbeyond.com Explore the fascinating marine life at Zanzibar, which is host to more than 400 species of fish, turtles, nudibranchs, and many rare forms of coral, while scuba diving at Mnemba Atoll. If you are lucky, you might see reef sharks, manta rays, and whale sharks. Mnemba Atoll is one of Zanzibar's top locations for water sports while being a conservation area and marine reserve. Mid-February through mid-May, as well as mid-October to mid-December, are the best times to go scuba diving in Mnemba Atoll since the sea is quiet, and there is high visibility to enjoy the experience even better. Darajani Market Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org A market is a location where we meet new folks, socialize, and engage in addition to trading and selling items. One such location in Zanzibar is the Darajani Market, which serves as the town's main market. You can find merchants selling everything from Chinese toys and other trinkets to indigenous Zanzibar spices, kofias (Zanzibari hats), and dates while you take a stroll around the streets. You will have an amazing experience wandering the market's winding streets. Wrapping Up The best time for either a rustic vacation or participation in Zanzibar activities is during the months of June and October. These are the months of spring in Africa when the weather is mild and delightful. You can also visit this island paradise in the tropics during December and February. Zanzibar experiences hot, dry weather while it is winter in other countries. Are you planning a visit and want to know when the best time to visit Zanzibar is? Or have you been to Zanzibar recently? Did you like the island? How was your experience? If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas! THIS Is When You Should Visit Maldives!

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 28, 2023

New Zealand, an enchanting realm of natural wonders and cultural richness, beckons discerning travelers to experience luxury like never before. For those seeking a truly personalized journey, Custom Luxury Travel of New Zealand by Into the Vineyard offers the opportunity to tailor every aspect of your experience to match your unique preferences. 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!