With the festive season knocking on doors, everyone is set for holidays and travel plans. The exotic places to travel offer you the best beach experience. You also get to soak in the Sun and have some fun in the tropical jungle.
How about some unusual experience this time? You can always add exotic places to your wishlist according to your preferences. From the cultural heritage of Fiji to the mountains of Sardinia, you must go for something unique.
What Is An Exotic Place To Travel, BtW?
An exotic place is a far-off destination from your country. These places are called exotic because they offer unusual experiences. Some bucket-list-worthy exotic destinations are Mexico, Madagascar, Fiji and Belize.
Most Unusual Exotic Places To Travel In The World: Curated For An Eclectic Experience
The exotic places to travel offer you the experience of a lifetime. Located in a distant country, these destinations are great for knowing about local culture and human history.
So, exotic tourism is beyond beautiful landscapes and outdoor pursuits.
To ensure you have the most amazing experience, I have listed the exotic places to travel worldwide. Let’s check out the entries.
1. Baja California Sur, Mexico
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Baja California Sur is a place of wonderful scenic beauty and diverse ecosystems. Further, you will love the following water activities here.
Visit Magdalena Bay to watch whales
Enjoy the best snorkeling experience in Cabo Pulmo.
Don’t miss Espiritu Santo Island and its diving fun.
Also, do you want to swim with sharks? La Paz is your go-to destination in Baja California Sur.
However, you can also have the most serene vacation at Balandra Beach. You will love paddle boarding, kayaking, and swimming here.
2. Madagascar
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Madagascar is home to fascinating rainforests and white-sand beaches. The beaches here are pristine. So, there is a lot to explore, and you can expect fewer crowds on the beaches.
Further, the canyons and limestone karsts make it one of the most exotic places to travel in the world.
However, Madagascar will win your heart with its diverse wildlife. Most of the wild animals you see here are not found anywhere else in the world.
Moreover, what can be more adventurous than swimming with sharks at the Nosy Be island?
3. Cappadocia, Turkey
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
Have you heard of “Fairy Chimneys” in Cappadocia? A UNESCO World Heritage Site, they are the rock formations in a cone shape, and you will find them in Monks Valley and Göreme.
Further, Cappadocia takes you on a history walk with homes made by troglodytes or cave dwellers. These homes are from the Bronze Age.
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cappadocia is the Gerome Open Air Museum. With rock formations, monasteries, and churches, Gerome tells the tales of the Byzantine Era.
Moreover, Cappadocia is popular for its hot balloon rides. It feels most amazing during the sunrise and sunset.
4. Fiji, Oceania
Best Time to Visit: May to October
A paradise of crystal clear waters and beaches, Fiji is exotic. Further, the sugarcane plantations here speak volumes about the livelihood of the local people.
Fiji also has endless attractions, such as the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, Kula Wild Adventure Park, Sobeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool, and Biausevu Waterfall.
However, for someone keen to learn about human lives and culture, the best experience would be visiting the Fiji Culture Village. The Kava Ceremony and the traditional dance performances are mesmerizing.
Moreover, you will get to gorge on traditional Fiji cuisine cooked on earth ovens.
5. Sardinia, Italy
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Sardinia is one of the most exotic places in Italy. Just driving in a car or scooter along the coastal paradise is an experience in itself. Further, swimming in the Emerald Coast and Costa Smeralda is something that I will cherish for a lifetime.
You can even take a chartered sailboat to visit the hidden bays. Furthermore, Cagliari, the capital city of Sardinia, introduces you to the local culture with many archaeological sites, museums, and churches.
Bosa and other small villages will also cast a lasting impression on you with colorful buildings. Don’t forget to visit Doria Castle in Bosa. It was built in the 12th century.
6. Belize
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Belize, a country in Central America, is a wonderful fusion of ancient ruins, lush jungles, marine life, and turquoise water. Further, Belize has the most amazing beaches where you can take part in the following activities.
Snorkeling
Scuba Diving
A Flight Over
If you want to have the best inland experience, you can visit ATM Cave, Rio Frio Cave, and various Mayan historical sites. If you want to learn more about the history of Belize and human life, you can visit Cahal Pech, an ancient city.
7. Kefalonia, Greece
Best Time to Visit: June to August
Kefalonia is the largest Ionian island in Greece. Its blue coastline looks the most amazing, with coves and limestone cliffs. Further, you will love the vineyards and rugged mountains here.
One of the exotic places to travel, Kefalonia stands out because of its Myrtos Beach. You will enjoy an amazing view of the turquoise sea here. Other places that will keep you intrigued are:
Melissáni Cave
Ainos National Park
Mount Ainos
Moreover, you must not forget a visit to Fiskardo, a quaint village with the best architecture from the 18th century.
8. Rajasthan, India
Best Time to Visit: November to February
The land of great Rajput warriors and rulers, Rajasthan is a living destination of human history. James Tod, an Oriental scholar, penned the most beautiful historical account of the state. The name of the book is “Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan.”
Further, “Rajkahini” by Abanindranath Thakur is a wonderful depiction of Rajasthan’s royalties. If you want to visit Rajasthan, one of the most exotic places in the world, you must read these books once.
Rajasthan has so much to offer that you need at least 15 days to touch upon its iconic spots, such as the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, Mehrangarh Fort, and many other fortifications. Don’t forget to explore the desert on a camel safari.
You will also fall in love with the local culture. Rajasthan has some of the most iconic dance forms, like Kalbelia, and the tunes of the Sindhi Sarangi are a sheer delight to the ears. Moreover, the local puppet shows are vibrant, and they depict historical and folk stories.
9. Sa Pa, Vietnam
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
Sa Pa in northwest Vietnam is a tranquil beach destination. The beautiful Hoàng Liên Son Mountains are also present here, making you cherish a scenic view.
Moreover, Da, Dao, Hmong, and other local tribes live here. An interaction with them is better than any book describing the culture and human history of the country. So, you can miss the best luxury hotels in Sa Pa and spend your days here in homestays surrounded by these tribes.
Also, you can collect the most aesthetic souvenirs from the local market. It has handicraft products.
10. Indonesia
Best Time to Visit: July to December
Indonesia itself is a wonderful travel destination. Indonesia’s tourism industry supports 12.5 jobs and is projected to contribute more than IDR 1,131TN to the country’s economy in 2024. (Source: World Travel & Tourism Council)
However, I want to discuss the Raja Ampat Islands, one of the most exotic places to visit in Indonesia. Snorkeling and scuba diving are the most amazing activities here. You will encounter amazing turtles, mata rays, and dolphins here.
Furthermore, a wildlife exploration here will allow you to meet the most beautiful birds and many endemic species.
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
So, lucky you – you’re off! Whether you’re doing like an increasing number of people and opting for a good old British beach holiday, or giving global warming a helping hand by jetting off abroad, you need to make sure your case is full of the things that will make your break a belter.
5 Important Things To Buy For Beach Holiday In 2023:
Here are five to get you started.
1. Towel
A towel isn't just to get dry with. It’s a beach statement. It says who you are and what you’re doing on that stretch of sand.
Are you an all-swimming all-surfing beach athlete, only stopping to dab yourself with your Finisterre before grabbing a frisbee, doing some cartwheels, and making everyone else feel tired? Or are you a beach goddess, who regards the shoreline as a place where people come to worship you as you drape yourself over a length of Lacoste luxury? Or do you just like a nice fluffy number?
Your choice of the towel will shout volumes about you, so take time to make sure it’s speaking your language.
2. Wrap
The perfect complement to a beach-beating towel is a game-over wrap. Mark the end of the beach day in style by standing up and swirling something stylish around your shoulders. Pick the right wrap and you’ll be counting the minutes until you can make that truly dramatic exit.
But you don’t have to wait until then. Wraps are useful as a cover for the bits of you that might be going a little pinker than you wanted, or any other bits for that matter.
3. Ebook reader
So, you’re there. The sun’s come through with its end of the deal. The sea’s doing its thing. The sand’s playing a blinder. What’s missing? The perfect book, that’s what. And of course, you don’t want to be lugging half a library with you, so you simply must pick something great from the range of ebook readers available.
They’re light, they contain shelf loads of books, and can go for weeks without a charge. What’s more, you can pick up amazing books for only 99p each. Some classic texts are even free. You can also make notes on books as you go (ideal for those times when you think you could have phrased things a little better than Tolstoy managed).
4. Ebook reader cushion
Why should you be the one with all the comfort? Give your ebook reader a nice cushion to rest against. It’s their holiday too.
5. Torch
One of the things that often surprises holidaymakers is how quickly it gets dark the closer you are to the equator. One minute, sunshine. The next, it’s like somebody switched the light off. Be prepared for those super-quick sunsets with a handy torch.
Also useful when you’ve got your sunglasses on and you want to find something at the bottom of your beach bag. Well, yes, of course, you could just take those sunglasses off. But you didn’t spend all that dosh on a pair of Celine Cat Eyes just to be seen out of them, did you?
Related: Top 10 Best Beaches In Florida
Happy Holidays
What you buy in the next few months can determine how good a holiday you have. Make sure you get the bits you need to make your holiday the best ever.
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If you are planning a trip to Jackson Hole, WY, you should try visiting Teton Village. Teton Village is on the bucket list of almost every new visitor to Jackson Hole. The village has places for beautiful scenic views and lots of other entertainment activities. The village isn’t even far from Jackson Hole. Teton Village is famous for being an expensive ski resort, but there are also some free activities to do if you visit during summer. In this article, you’ll learn who you should visit at Teton Village during your trip to Jackson Hill.
Not Much Crowded
One of the biggest pros of Teton Village is that it isn’t crowded like Jackson Hole. Being a popular tourist spot, Jackson Hole is crowded almost throughout the year. A stay in Teton Village is much cozier and more relaxing. The population of Teton Village is also less than 1000. Because the village is less crowded, you can get more places to roam around the village, discover new places, and create a great memory.
Close To Everything
Teton Village is located in a place where it is close to almost everything. The village is only 30 minutes drive away from Jackson Hole. Besides being close to Jackson Hole, the Village is close to Grand Teton National Park, The National Elk Refuge, Yellowstone National Park, Snake River, etc. That being said, Teton Village’s location makes it unique and reachable to other popular destinations.
Activities For Everyone
Teton Village offers activities for persons of every age. There are many family-friendly places and also some places, especially for the children, where they can have fun. Teton Village has a place for shopping, dining, and spending quality time with your family. You can do paragliding, hiking, mountain biking, etc. You can also book tickets to the Jackson Hole Tram, also known as “Big Red,” and view the scenic beauty from the top of Rendezvous Peak.
If you visit Teton Village, you must visit Mangy Moose Cafe; it’s the locals’ favorite place for entertainment. Mangy Moose Cafe hosts regular live music, and if you love music, you should visit Mangy Moose Cafe; it will be worth it, and you’ll get addicted to that place.
Some Of The Best Scenic Views
Though Teton Village is not as popular as Jackson Hole, Teton Village has many spots for getting a beautiful scenic view. The most famous place in Teton Village for the scenic view is Teton Village Wildflower Trail. It is not an easy hike, but you can also get a scenic view through a ride on Gondola. Some other places for beautiful scenic views are Teton Crest Trail, Cirque Trail, Granite Canyon Trail, Casper Ridge Loop, Saratoga Loop Connector, etc. If you are staying in the Village, you should visit these places for magnificent views.
Good Places To Stay
If you are wondering where to stay in Teton Village, WY, you don’t have to worry much about it because there are many good hotels to stay. Almost every hotel provides good facilities and will make your stay in Teton Village worth your time. Book the hotel rooms beforehand if you are going to stay in Teton Village because most of the time, these hotels are always booked by people in advance.
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Welcome to Lisbon, where Fado music fills the air, and places such as Jerónimos Monastery, São Jorge Castle, and the Belém Tower tell stories from the past.
Further, at the recently held ExpoVacaciones 2025, Lisbon stood tall with this tourism message. The focus was on the city's rich culture, heritage, sustainability, and gastronomy.
Also, with a handsome tourist inflow from various European countries, Lisbon is now ready to explore Asian and other international markets.
Vera da Cunha Serrão, the representative of the Touristic Promotion of Lisbon at ExpoVacaciones, said,
“We’re proud to show what others saw in us. This is vital in understanding the global Portugal story.”
However, around 314 km from Lisbon, Porto is another important location in the tourism landscape of Portugal.
The historic center of Porto, along with the Monastery of Serra do Pilar and the Dom Luís I Bridge, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Moreover, the Lisbon to Porto journey, especially by train, is the most beautiful experience you can have. However, you can also enjoy a bus or car ride and take a flight to travel the distance.
In this Tour and Travel Guide, we will discuss the various modes of transportation from Lisbon to Porto, the journey, food, accommodation, and more!
What Is Porto Famous For? The “Rival” Of Lisbon
Porto, with a touch of humor, is often called the “Rival of Lisbon.” And this comparison is beyond the origin of “Murder in Porto,” a craft beer that can blow your mind.
If you still have doubts about “Is Porto Portugal worth seeing?” here are the reasons why it’s a must-visit destination in Portugal.
1. Port Wine
Isn’t Porto famous for its port wine? Oh, Yes! The porthouses by River Douro sell the best wine and they also tell tales that go back to 1200s.
Local traders built these port houses or impressive buildings in the 1200s when the bishop of Porto introduced unfair taxes.
2. Historical Attractions
Furthermore, if you are a history buff, you will get lost in the historic center of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Palácio da Bolsa, or the Stock Exchange Palace, is a prominent landmark in the historical center.
3. The Most Beautiful Book Store In The World
Porto also has Livraria Lello, which was built in 1906. Housed in a neo-Gothic architecture building, the bookstore has wooden staircases and red velvet carpets spread on the floor.
Once you reach here, you will know why it introduces itself as “The Most Beautiful Bookstore in the World.”
And the “Little Birdie” here says that J.K.Rowling took inspiration from the interior of the bookstore.
4. Cruising Along The River Douro
You can enjoy a cruise ride in Rabelo or the traditional boats in Porto to enjoy a different perspective of the city.
These traditional vessels were earlier used to transport port wines from the Douro Valley to Porto.
5. A Trip To The Douro Valley
The Douro Valley is home to historical Fonseca and Crofts vineyards. You can have there the most amazing white port wine.
For a more serene experience, you can visit the small town of Pinhao and enjoy a ride in the Rabelo boat for two hours.
What Is Lisbon Famous For? What Are The Best Attractions In Lisbon?
Food, history, cultural heritage, and the love for Fado music come together in Lisbon. The Portuguese capital is now looking to achieve the perfect blend of heritage charm with modern amenities.
Furthermore, the city is now aiming to grow as a people-focused destination with a dynamic ambiance for local travelers.
Nevertheless, these are the top tourist attractions in the city.
The Best Attractions in LisbonDetailsBelém TowerIt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and this medieval fortress overlooks the Tagus River. Jerónimos MonasteryJerónimos Monastery is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lisbon. It stands out with its rich history and grand architecture. Alfama DistrictDo you want to listen to Fado Music and take a leisurely stroll along narrow alleys?The Alfama District, the oldest in Lisbon, will offer you all these opportunities. Oceanário de LisboaVisit Oceanário de Lisboa, an aquarium with diverse marine animals.
Furthermore, when you are in Lisbon, you must not miss a ride on Tram 28 from Martim Moniz to Campo de Ourique.
Tram services are available from 6 AM to 10:30 PM, and the ticket charge is 3.10 euros.
What Is The Lisbon To Porto Distance?
The distance from Lisbon to Porto by road is 314 km. The journey by bus or train takes less than 3 hours.
What Is The Best Way To Go From Lisbon To Porto? Know The Modes Of Transportation
You can take a train ride from Lisbon to Porto for the most beautiful journey. However, you can also take a bus ride or a flight to travel the distance.
Travel By Train From Lisbon To Porto
Twenty eight trains run between Lisbon to Porto on a daily basis. The train departs from the Gare do Oriente station in Lisbon and arrives at the Campanha Station in Porto.
The distance between these two places by train is 274 km and the journey takes between 2 hours 49 minutes and 3 hours 14 minutes based on the type of train you have boarded.
The Alfa Pendular trains are the fastest, and the regular intercity trains take a little longer to cover the distance.
You can book the train tickets online or by visiting the railway station. The ticket prices start from $30.
Also, the earliest train departs from Lisbon at 6:39 AM, and the last train departs at 10:09 PM.
Is It Worth Taking The Train From Lisbon To Porto?
Yes, it is absolutely worth taking the train from Lisbon to Porto. The journey gives you the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Atlantic Coast to the fullest.
Further, trains are frequently available between these two cities, and they are more reliable and comfortable as a mode of transportation.
Moreover, they consume less time than the buses, and the railway stations in Lisbon and Porto offer easy access to city centers and all important locations.
Can You Go To Porto For The Day From Lisbon By Bus?
Yes, you can travel from Lisbon to Porto by bus. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, and you can book the bus tickets online on platforms such as redBus.
RedBus daily runs 112 buses from Lisbon to Porto, and the buses take 3 hours and 36 minutes to cover the journey.
Traveling from Lisbon to Porto is a budget-friendly option as the ticket price on redBus starts from only EUR 4.99.
Buses depart from the Lisboa Oriente Terminal in Lisbon and reach Porto Garagem Atlantico in Porto.
Moreover, the earliest departure time of the bus is 12:15 AM and the last bus from Lisbon departs at 11 PM.
Traveling From Lisbon To Porto By Car
If you are traveling from Lisbon to Porto by car, the journey of 314 km will take around 3 hours.
You can take the main motorway A1 for the journey. However, if you want a more scenic road trip experience, you can choose routes such as A29, A17, or A8.
All the roads have tolls, and they offer excellent driving conditions.
Furthermore, during the road trip, you can stop by beautiful towns such as Figueira da Foz, Coimbra, Alcobaça, Pombal, and Nazaré.
Travel From Lisbon To Porto By Plane
If you want to save more time and you are willing to spend some extra Euros during your travel, you can take a flight from Lisbon to Porto.
The journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes and the ticket prices range from €30 - €120.
Flights depart from the Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon and reach the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Lisbon And Porto?
April to May or the spring season and September to October or the fall season are the best times to visit Lisbon and Porto.
Spring is the season of flowers. Further, the average temperature of 60-70 degree F make it ideal for exploring the outdoors.
Moreover, the Liberation Day Celebration on 25th April is one of the major reasons to visit Lisbon and Porto during the spring season.
On the other hand, the fall season, especially October, is the time of grape harvesting near the Douro Valley. You will also love birdwatching in October.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gemma Hadley | Wine Writer & Communicator (@gemmakatehadley)
What Are The Accommodation Options In Porto And Lisbon?
The accommodations, especially the boutique hotels in Lisbon, match the quintessential European vibe of the city. You will also get Airbnbs in Lisbon. While these Airbnbs are great for budget travelers and larger groups, they fail to replicate the charm of boutique hotels.
Nevertheless, these are some well-known boutique hotels in Lisbon.
The Vintage Lisbon
Lisbon Wine Hotel
Memmo Alfama — Design Hotels
On the other hand, the accommodations in Porto offer a cozier vibe, and there is something very quaint about the hotels and townhouses in this port city.
However, if you want to stay in a boutique hotel in Porto, you must explore options such as Wine & Books Porto Hotel, Bloom House By Sweet Porto, and PortoBay Teatro.
What Is Porto Famous Food?
If you love seafood and stew, Porto is the best location in Portugal for the ultimate gastronomic delight.
Tripas à Moda do Porto, or the triple stew, is hearty here, while the fresh seafood, especially cod, will allow you to indulge in coastal delight.
You can even try Francesinha or the sandwich here with melted cheese and layers of meat. However, the kick of this sandwich is the spicy beer-based sauce.
Moreover, if you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to try Tarte de Amendoa or almond tart in Porto.
Also, don’t forget to try Cachorrinhos, Porto’s answer to an American hot dog, Bifana sandwich, Alheira sausage, and pastéis de bacalhau, a type of croquette.
Why Do People Like Porto More Than Lisbon? Which Is Prettier, Porto Or Lisbon?
Lisbon is the most popular city in Portugal, and it should be the national capital. Also, the city's sunny vibe and quintessential European charm make it stand out.
However, if you want a cozier experience and you want to experience the old Portuguese vibe, Porto will be the go-to place.
Also, the port wine, wineries, and port houses around the Douro River have built a way of life that is unmatched, and the only reference here can be the history books or the stories you have heard.
Moreover, Porto has a unique visual appeal with well-preserved historic buildings and buildings adorned with azulejo or tile work. So, I find Porto prettier than Lisbon, and Porto would be my silent favorite if I had to choose between these two cities.
However, the choice will depend on your sense of aesthetics and the kind of experience you want to have in Portugal.
Lisbon To Porto Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the Lisbon to Porto distance and journey.
1. Is Porto Worth A Day Trip From Lisbon? Yes, Porto is worth a day trip from Lisbon. The journey by train, bus, or car allows you to explore the beauty of the Atlantic Coast. Further, if you are traveling by car, you can stop by towns such as Figueira da Foz, Coimbra, Alcobaça, Pombal, and Nazaré. 2. How Many Days In Porto Is Enough? Three to five days are enough if you want to explore the best of Porto. You can see the Douro River, visit the Ribeira district, and Livraria Lello during your stay. Further, you must not miss exploring nearby attractions such as Guimarães and Braga 3. Is Porto An Expensive City? No, Porto is not an expensive city. The prices of hotels and other accommodations during the peak summer season can be higher. However, the hotel charges, transportation costs and overall standard of living here are less costlier than many other European cities, including Lisbon. 4. Should You Spend More Time In Porto Or Lisbon? The choice depends on your choice. If you want to experience the vibe of a cosmopolitan European City, Lisbon will be your ideal destination in Europe. However, Porto, by the Douro River, offers you a more laid-back vibe, and it has the best port wine in the world. 5. How Long Is The Train Ride From Lisbon To Porto? The duration of your train ride from Lisbon to Porto will depend on the kind of train you take. The Alfa Pendular trains are the fastest, and they cover the distance within 2 hours and 49 minutes. On the other hand, the regular intercity trains take a little longer to cover the distance and take 3 hours and 14 minutes.
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