walking-in-the-lake-district

Top 5 Exciting UK Destinations for First-time Visitors

/ Adventure, Travel / , , , , , , /

There is something magical about the UK that you just have to see it for yourself. London alone is filled with iconic landmarks such as the historic Buckingham Palace. Other parts of the United Kingdom such as England or Wales offer famous ancient castles and stunning countryside. There are great opportunities for adventure seekers throughout the country, in the mountains, along the sea and in the cities. Here are the five exciting destinations first-time visitors should see in the British Isles.

Lake District

Lake District is another part of UK where nature lovers can enjoy the cool mountain air. You can also trek though the Lake District National Park which is more than 800 square miles in size. In addition, you get to enjoy interacting with locals in town markets. The food and drinks in the village pubs offer a memorable experience. Most people visit this area for the exceptional trekking options as there are thousands of miles of hiking trails in this area. Other popular activities include rock climbing, sailing, kayaking and wild swimming in the beautiful lakes that the park is known for.

London

The first stop in the UK is obviously the country’s capital, London. You could either book a bus or take a cab to visit all the famous landmarks of the city. Most likely, you will start the tour with a visit to the Buckingham Palace. If you are fascinated by the late Princess Diana, you can stop by at the Kensington Palace. The place is currently exhibiting plenty of items the princess used during her lifetime including her dresses.

For the history buffs, a trip to the historic Westminster Abbey is a must. The seven centuries old landmark receives more than a million annual visitors. If you want to know more about the city’s gory past, the Tower of London will satisfy your curiosity. The Tower is also rumored to be haunted due to the royal executions carried out there.

Adventure seekers will love the outdoor activities on offer in this great capital city. As well as walking and biking the city’s parks and waterways, visitors can enjoy a ride on the LondonEye visitor attraction, white water kayaking on an Olympic slalom course, stand-up-paddle boarding on the River Thames and an adrenaline-fuelled swish down Europe’s best inner city zip wire. For more ideas on things to see and do, take a look at VisitLondon.com

Cornwall

Cornwall is located in the country’s southwestern region. Even among locals, it’s known as the best place to spend a vacation.  Visitors are attracted by its beautiful beaches where you can bask in the sun or go surfing. You also get to enjoy the English cuisine of some of the best restaurants in the UK, and also discover art while visiting the numerous art galleries. The place also claimed that the legendary King Arthur most likely lived in North Cornwall. You could visit the town Camelford, a possible site of fabled Camelot. On Bodmin Moor, you can transport back in time by visiting King Arthur’s Down and Hall. In addition, the famous “Excalibur” is possibly hiding beneath the Dozmary Pool.

Cornwall is one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations attracting people from all over the UK and the world. The popular Poldark TV series is now being screened in many countries, and fans flock to the county to see where the show was filed. As a major destination for holidaying Brits and people on vacation from abroad, there is a wonderful selection of places to stay. Visitors can choose from hotels, cottage rentals, B&Bs and holiday park. Top Cornish resorts include fabulous Falmouth, surfy Newquay, scenic Penzance, foody Padstow and beachy Bude. Make a beeline for these towns for a wonderful base for Cornish adventures.

For those who like outdoor activities, there are many exciting options in Cornwall. Top of the list is surfing. Newquay is the hearn of European surfing but there are also numerous quality surf beaches around the county, and plenty of surf schools where visitors can learn to surf. Coasteering around the cliffs and coastline is also a very popular activity in this county. Other adventure activities in Cornwall include sailing, rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, diving and coastal walking. It’s an amazing place to visit for experiences in the great outdoors.

Devon

Devon also offers long beaches and countryside that is totally worth visiting.  The beaches and pebbled coves offer a different but no less stunning view. It’s a place where modern cities like Exeter and Plymouth co-exist with historic castles and famous houses. Popular activities here include sailing, mountain biking and hiking in Dartmoor National Park.

sailing-in-devon

Devon is also popular with holidaymakers on staycation from other parts of the United Kingdom. It’s an insanely beautiful part of the country with plenty of things to see and do for tourists. Top places to visit on vacation include Woolacombe, Ilfracombe, Salcombe, Dartmouth and Torquay. The area around Torquay and Paington is known as the English Riviera because of its mild and usually sunny climate.

Wales

Wales is a huge area to pick as one of the UK’s top visitor destinations. It’s a whole country but worth including because all of it is stunning. Highlights for new visitors include Snowdonia National Park, the Brecon Beacons national park and the UK’s only coastal national park in Pembrokeshire. Obviously, the hiking and biking options in these hilly and mountainous regions are exceptional.

As well as rugged mountain adventures, visitors will love this outdoor playground of rivers, sea and open countryside. Other popular activities include kayaking, surfing, canyoning and zip wire rides across vast mountain passes. It’s an awesome place to visit when you’re in the UK.

walking snowdon in wales

The United Kingdom offers a lot of enjoyable places to visit and unique experiences. A tour of the British capital, London will present to you the landmarks and icons of the country. You could visit places like Cornwall and Devon for their beautiful beaches and historic landmarks. Visitors who like to enjoy nature walks and travel will love Lake District and Wales.

Skydiving

Australia is for Thrillseekers, Too

/ Adventure, Default /

Australia may be a country filled with laid-back beaches but it also has its fair share of intense adventures. If you’re a thrillseeker, you would be pleased to know that there is so much to do in the country that will keep your heart racing. Check these 6 things that you can do starting from the highest altitude to the lowest depth.

1. Skydiving at Mission Beach

A lot of people dream of skydiving but only a few have the guts for it. Imagine flinging yourself out of a plane and falling towards Mission Beach. It seems easy, right? Not until you look down and see that there is nothing that can catch you save for the parachute that will help you land safely.

But once you get out of the plane, you know that all the fear was worth it. Apart from your terror, you will definitely love the view from the sky as you look down to the beach.

2. Scale Down the Gordon Dam

If skydiving was not enough for you, then you can test your fears at the Gordon Dam. This dam is 140 meters high and it is known to be the world’s highest abseil. What makes this scary is not so much the height of it but the view when you look down. Just knowing that there’s nothing below but water can definitely test your fears.

3. Climb Up the Sydney Harbour Bridge

The Sydney Harbour Bridge might be lower than the Gordon Dam but it is not any less scary. Going up through metal pathways just makes you want to be extra careful and focused on your balance. Although you have a harness and safety gear with you, you wouldn’t want to slip with all the metal surrounding you.

But after two hours of climbing, you are rewarded with the full view of the Sydney harbour. This is a perfect scene, especially during sunrise or sunset.

4. Ride a Rollercoaster at MovieWorld

Looking for something that will make you scream? Visit MovieWorld’s DC Rivals HyperCoaster. This rollercoaster ride runs with a speed of 115 km/hr and it has a drop of 61 meters. Sure, you’ll be holding on well to your seat but the drop is so steep you would think you’re slipping off! How’s that for a ride?

5. Stay in a Cage Surrounded by Crocodiles

Now for something up close. Face your fear and stay in a cage underwater while you are surrounded by saltwater crocodiles. At Crocosaurus Cove, you get to meet the crocodiles up close. But don’t worry, they won’t hurt you unless you do something distracting. This cage has been dubbed the “cage of death”.

6. Swim with the Whale Sharks

And finally, go deep underwater and experience swimming with one of the most feared animals in the world. When you swim beside a whale shark, you will realize how small and weak you are and no amount of bravery can overcome the size of the whale shark. You can try this exciting dive at Ningaloo Reef.

Excited for your Australia trip yet? These are just some of what you can experience in the country. Go ahead and find your adventure!

Bungee Jumping Taupo New Zealand

Visit New Zealand and Try These Popular Adventure Activities

/ Adventure, Travel, Zipwire /

The rugged beauty of New Zealand is also the perfect backdrop for some of the world’s most exciting adventure activities. If you like an action-packed holiday, then you have your pick when you visit this country. Here are some of the well-known ones you can choose from.

1. Bungy-Jumping

No adrenaline-seeking visitor to New Zealand misses out on the bungy jumping opportunities (yes, they spell bungee like that in NZ). There are also very few that offer wonderful scenery. The one in Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown was also instrumental in transforming this activity from being an unknown activity in Vanuatu to becoming one of the most heart-racing jumps in the world.

Visitors can also choose to take plunge in the Sky Tower and Harbor Bridge in Auckland, as well as Lake Taupo, where you can touch the water during your jump.

2. Roped Adventures

The Nevis Swing is another New Zealand invention that will make your heart race. Queenstown is where you find the biggest rope swing in the world, at a height of 439.6 feet or 134 meters. Newbies can also try doing this in tandem.

Another rope-based activity is ziplining, which can be done in the Waiheke Island forests, giving you a view of the magnificent Auckland Harbour. For a more thrilling, 3-hour adventure, you can head over to Rotorua. You can also try out the steepest ziplines ever in Bob’s Peak in Queenstown. On the other hand, ziplining in South Island’s West Coast will not just make you whiz through the trees, but you might also enjoy the sight of some glowworms as well.

3. Canyoning And Spelunking

Crawling through the caves is not for those who are scared of closed spaces, but if this thrills you instead, then the cave systems of Waitomo should definitely be in your bucket list. Beyond the breathtaking limestone formations and the secretive passageways, you will also love the sight of the glowworms that live here.

If you prefer to be outdoors, then try out canyoning instead. The Abel Tasman National Park, Mt. Richmond Forest Part, and the Kauharangi National Park have exciting canyons to explore. Wanaka also offers deep canyon tours that offer everything from rapelling to hiking, and swimming to rock climbing.

4. Water Adventures

Surrounded by the ocean, you can imagine that there are enough beaches for every kind of watersport you want to try out. But beyond the sea, there are also lakes and freshwater rivers that are great for kayaking. A heart-racing alternative is jet boating in Queenstown, Auckland, and Lake Taupo. For a unique adventure, Waitomo Caves is the top pick for underground exploration and black water rafting. You can also get the rush of rafting down the rapids of Kaituna River and its waterfall.

5. Skydiving

Skydiving is another popular adventure activity for both locals and tourists alike but if you want to add a twist, then try jumping off the airplane and landing on the snowy mountaintops of Mt. Cook, the highest mountain in the country.

New Zealand combines beautiful scenery and exciting adventures that will give you the holiday of your lifetime, so make sure to try these out during your trip to the country.

skiing-274763_1920

Extreme Sports to Enjoy in Canada

/ Adventure, Default, Hiking, Travel /

Canada is not just full of beautiful vistas and exciting cities, but it is also the perfect destination for an adventure-filled holiday. Adrenaline junkies will find activities that will make their hearts race and will give them memories to treasure for the rest of their lives.

1. Skiing in Whistler

Adventure is not just for the warm, summer days. Winter, in particular, is great for those who love to ski or snowboard. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will find the perfect piste for you in Whistler. There is truly no other way to enjoy the snowy days than exploring the 8,171 acres of pistes here.

2. Cross The Arctic Circle

Hiking is not really the most extreme sport, but if you do so here, then you will experience a more extreme version of hiking. Beyond being more challenging, it will also give you the chance to enjoy the breathtaking views. Plus, you can say you have crossed the Arctic circle on foot.

Visiting in June will allow you to enjoy the midnight sun and even at this time, experienced skiers can try out the off-piste powder. Climbers will also find some exciting peaks to try out. Other activities include dogsledding expeditions and tours on snowmobile.

3. Whitewater Rafting In Banff

There are few activities as exciting as whitewater rafting, especially when you choose the expert routes with the huge waves and even a cliff jump of Horseshoe Canyon in Banff. Newbies or those traveling with kids might want to start off with Kananaskis River, which still packs some excitement with their class 2 to 3 rapids. As you advance, you can try out Horse River and check out the Rocky Mountains on a day trip.

4. Hike Up The Grouse Grind

Beyond being very physically demanding, this hike is perfect for thrillseekers who want to go up quickly. While it will only take about an hour and a half and it is only 2.9 kilometers each way, you will go up 853 meters and will enjoy a beautiful view of Vancouver up top. Take note, however, that being very fit is a requirement before going up  because it truly is a grueling hike.

5. Glacier Skywalk

This place is known to be “where the eagles soar” and is definitely not for those who are scared of heights. The Glacier Skywalk is suspended between the dramatic cliffs, including a 918-foot drop at the end. It is open only during summertime and visitors will be rewarded with breathtaking views.

6. Edmonton Skydive

The highest jumps in Western Canada, as well as an elongated freefall, can be found in Edmonton. Beyond that, it is the place where the best instructors can be found.

7. Whistler Bungee

Bungee jumpers will not just enjoy the adrenaline rush here but will also find the most scenic setting for a hump in Whistler. Open all throughout the year, the views include the Cheakamus River, which receives its waters from glaciers in the area.

Tourists bored of the same old city tour will definitely find more exciting adventures in Canada, whether they visit in summer or winter. So prepare yourself for a trip like no other.

travels in sumatra

On the Shores of a Super Volcano in Sumatra

/ Travel / , , , /

People only know Bali as the most important tourist attraction in Indonesia. But in the main island of Sumatra, some 4 hours away from the city of Medan, lies an ancient super volcano that is now a lake and a magnet for adventure-seekers and nature-lovers. The 12,000 square-kilometer area of Danau Toba is one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse and is very unique to the Indonesian archipelago.

Heading there is easy, but making your journey more memorable can be quite a challenge. But that’s why we’re here.

Landing in Medan

Touching down at the Kualanamu International Airport in Medan from Jakarta, you’d be greeted by the warm hospitality of Bataks and Javans who have made Sumatra their home. Spending a day or two in Medan is well worth charging you up for the trip up north. Sample the many treats sold by street vendors at night or head over to one of Medan’s more popular night clubs.

Stopping Over in Berastagi

Located some 70 kilometers from the city of Medan is the hilly town of Berastagi, pronounced without the ‘e’. This mountain town is not a tourist destination so you get to really see locals doing their everyday stuff.

Sleeping over in Berastagi is a must so you can catch the early morning sunrise creating a fantastic halo on the towering Mt. Sinabung. This should help you gear up for a day in Berastagi. You can climb Mt. SInabung if you get a thrill from really steep climbs.

Head to the Tahura National Park and be greeted by waterfalls, hornbills, horses, elephants, and even gibbons. Enjoy a therapeutic bath at the numerous hot springs at the foot of Mt. Sibayak. Make sure to sample the famed ‘sotos’, ‘ikan bakar’, and ‘ayam penyet’ just before you head over to Danau Toba.

Enjoying Danau Toba

Depending on which side of Danau Toba you want to explore – there’s Pangururan on the lake’s western shores and Perapat and Tiga Ras on its eastern shores – you’ll be treated with a slightly different kind of adventure getting to the most famous spot on Danau Toba – Samosir Island. This island is smacked right in the middle of Lake Toba. From Pangururan, you’d be traveling on a car traversing a bridge and you’d be treated to the most spectacular bridge ride in your life. If you’re taking Perapat or Tiga Ras, it’s a ferry ride for you. It’s definitely slower, but more romantic and idyllic if you’re coming in with your spouse.

Enjoying Danau Toba is all about finding meaning in its pristine yet bountiful waters. You can go kayaking or even exploring the quaint town of Tuktuk Siadong where you get to mingle with the locals, down a drink or two at the local bars, or just be mesmerized by the beauty of the lake.

North of the lake is Air Terjun Sipiso-piso. Hop onto a rented motorbike or get an ojek to drive you around is much better and cheaper than getting a tourist guide. You might even be treated to a local beverage.

Toba may already be extinct. But the lake it left behind is surely a gem worth visiting.

bike riding with dog

Adventures in Cornwall With Your Dog

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Even if you just decided to bring your pooch with you on holiday to Cornwall because there is no dog-sitter available, it doesn’t mean it will just stay at the hotel room or at your cottage pining for you all the time. Cornwall happens to be among the best destinations for those with pooches because they also offer your four-legged companions a lot of fun as well.

Dog Walks In Padstow

There is no way to miss Rick Stein’s hotels and eateries while in Padstow and thankfully, Stein is such a huge dog lover. This means, most of his places have outdoor tables to let you eat with your pup. You just need to ask for the rules of the specific establishment beforehand.

Once you are full, you can enjoy the scenery with a walk, first around the harbor and if you are up to it, along the coastal path. Your pooch might not enjoy the view as much as you do, but it will definitely love the fresh air and exercise in the dog-friendly Harbour and Hawkers Coves. If your dog is up to it, you can go for a nice boat ride from Padstow to Rock aboard the Black Tor ferry.

Bike Ride With Your Dog

You can rent a bike and a dog trailer and go for a ride along the Camel Trail, enjoying the views of the Camel River on one side and the scenic rolling hills on the other. Your pup can sit back and relax, enjoying the breeze while you also happily pedal along. During your tide, you can drop by Tintagel, which is said to have inspired the myth of King Arthur. You can also explore the Trevaunance Cove and the Trevellas Porth. Just make sure you bring a leash while on these coastal paths to avoid any accidents.

Check In at a Dog Friendly Retreat

The best thing about Cornwall is that you can easily find hotels where your four-legged friend is also welcome. For example, The Scarlet allows dogs in the rooms and the lounges, so that you can have your pup with you at all times. More than that, the Mawgan Porth beach, which is a short walk away, is very dog-friendly and your pooch can happily splash in the water. For those traveling with kids, Bedruthan Hotel and Spa right beside The Scarlet will allow little ones and canine guests. There are literally thousands of canine friendly hotels, B&bs, cottages and campsites in Cornwall where you can base yourself and your four-legged friend for an adventure. The Dog Friendly Retreats website has a been in the news recently as the central resource for pet-friendly, self-catering holiday homes in Cornwall.

Try Some Fine Dining

If you and your best friend are eager for some grub, then opt for the restaurants that allow four-legged companions, though of course, they are not top fine dining places. The Lusty Glaze tops the list of dog-friendly places to eat close to the center of Newquay. Not only do they allow guests to bring their pooches with them, but they also have a very special menu just for them, available on Wednesdays between 12 and 9 pm. Moreover, the proceeds are donated to the St. Francis’ home for dogs.

Holidays can be spent with your whole family, whether they are two-legged or four and if you are looking for a destination which is open and also exciting for everyone, then you should head over to Cornwall. Thanks to hotels that accept dogs, you would not have to trouble finding your own cottage or worrying about where to keep your pup.

monsoon beach

Going for a Seaside Trip During the Monsoon Season

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Even locals will most likely shake their heads when you talk about going to the beach during the rainy season, or as it is called in Asia, the monsoon season. But beyond the obvious advantage of going at the off-peak season and all its benefits (cheaper rates, fewer crowds), the region is still a charm and adventures can still be found at the beach in this time of the year.

The Green Surroundings

Summer in the tropics turns the fields brown due to the lack of rain and moisture. On the other hand, once the monsoon begins, a slow transformation happens, turning everything green and alive. The turquoise waters and the green fields will more than make up for a few gray clouds.

The Cooler Weather

If you are coming from cooler countries, being on the beach during the hot and humid summer months can be stuffy and too draining. Add the crowds of people in the beach, and you would find yourself hiding in your air-conditioned room instead. But during the monsoon season, the weather becomes much cooler and the stifling heat goes away. While in the day, the wind may be rougher than what you expect, but the sea’s breeze is truly refreshing and wonderful while walking along the beach.

The Relaxed Environment

During the rainy season, there are fewer people on the beaches. This means no crowds and no overworked staff. You can expect better prices, better service, and simply, a better time for you as a guest. Moreover, you can enjoy lower rates and have the chance to get upgrades to the best rooms in the hotel.

The peace and quiet are also great for newlyweds, families, and even retired people who are not after wild beach parties. While there may be days when the rain prevents you from venturing out, there are also sunnier days that will be great for playing on the beach.

Safer Sunbathing

You would not have to worry as much about sunburns when the sun is not shining brightly every day. This is better for those with sensitive skin. However, you might have to swap it for mosquito spray as the rainy days also mean more insects around.

The Beauty Of The Monsoon

While the seaside views and the beach are already sights to behold, imagine watching the dramatic cumulus clouds starting to conquer the sky. It is also impressive to see the lightning lighting up the horizon before the loud grumbling. The monsoon is definitely not for everyone but those who love to appreciate nature and its wonders, this is a sight they should never miss.

The Great Water Sports

While certain sea activities might be off the table such as snorkelling, on the other hand, surfers love the monsoon season because of the rougher waves they can expect. Simply put, when the seas are rougher, the more exciting it can be to ride the waves.

Seaside holidays are wonderful the whole year round so long as you are not afraid of the rain. The sea views will be difficult and you cannot enjoy the sun for a while. But if that does not scare you away, you can then experience and see the beach in a whole different way altogether.

parachute-skydive-wales

Experience the Most Exciting Adventure Activities in Wales

/ Adventure / , , /

If you are looking for an adventure-filled holiday, spend it in Wales where you can find almost all kinds of adventures that can make your adrenaline shoot up and your heart to beat faster. From coasteering to zip lining amid spectacular scenic countryside, Wales has it all for you. Are you spending a short holiday in Wales? Then we recommend these exciting adventure activities that have made Wales the favourite destination of adrenaline junkies.

Sky Diving

Skydive Swansea offers skydiving lessons to those who dare. With a qualified skydiving instructor, you will be taken on a flight until you are 12,000 feet above the ground. You will jump out of the plane on a mind-boggling freefall at 120 miles per hour. Upon reaching 5,000 feet, the instructor will deploy the parachute and you will be able to make the parachute spiral around the sky. You can enjoy the fantastic view of the Gower Peninsula below.

Coasteering

Coasteering is an exciting activity where you explore the foreshore without the aid of a motorboat. Follow nature’s coastal trail by walking on the sand, climbing rocks, and swimming across a lagoon, riding swells, climbing steep cliffs and jumping off in order to reach your destination.

The best place for coasteering is Pembrokeshire in the south west of Wales where there are accredited operators and guides for your safety. Make your family holiday memorable by taking everyone along in this exciting and educational adventure.

Zip Lining

Experience doing the next best thing to flying and that is zip lining at the Zip World Velocity at Zip World Penrhyn Quarry in Bethesda, a town on the north west of Wales. This zip line is the fastest in the world and the longest in Europe. You will be able to enjoy great views from high up and experience a speed of more than 100 miles per hour. Once the zip line goes up, you will feel as if you are touching the sky.

Underground Zip Lining

Wales does not only have the fastest zip line; it also has the longest underground zip line in the world. You can zip down to the bowels of the earth, passing through spectacular abandoned mines. The route will take you deep under the mountains in the northern part of Wales. Those who took the trip have sworn that this is the trip of their lives. Indeed, underground zip lining is not for the soft-hearted.

Snowdonia Adventures

Enjoy varied adventures in the Snowdonia region located in the northwest part of Wales. It is part of the Snowdonia National Park, which has been made famous by the Snowdon Mountain Railway that goes up right to the summit of Mount Snowdon, the tallest mountain in Wales. Experience the thrill of rock climbing, abseiling, kayaking, canoeing, and many more activities that can drive your adrenaline glands crazy. If you are traveling with your kids, there are also child-friendly adventures that they can join.

There are loads of guides online dedicated to information about adventure activities in Wales, including the excellent VisitWales website from the national tourist board. Make Wales your next holiday destination and experience some of the most hair-raising and heart-stopping adventures that you will ever experience in your life.

cape town sea view

Top 5 Places in the World for the Best Sea Views

/ Travel / , , /

The best sea views are so awe-inspiring that you will travel the globe to search for them. They are scattered all over the world from Europe to North America, and Asia to the Pacific Islands, and as far away as Africa. Some of these beaches are famous while some are hidden from the heavy tourist traffic. Still, all of them offer stunning sea views that will take your breath away. There are numerous guides online which list the best sea view destinations and seaside holiday accommodation on the planet. This is our pick of the top five beach vacation destinations where you’d be tempted to can stay forever, while enjoying the intoxicating sea views.

Bermuda’s Horseshoe Bay Beach

Horseshoe Bay Beach is world famous for its pink sands. As the name implies, the crescent-like bay has a magnificent view that is worth visiting. You could lie down and get a tan or do some snorkeling in its clear waters. Schedule a visit from November to March, if you like catch island’s cooler climate. The place could get crowded quickly whenever cruise ships unload their passengers.

South Africa’s Camp Bay Beach

cape town sea view

Camp Bay Beach is just seven minutes away from the South African capital of Cape Town. This sandy place offers a memorable view of the Atlantic Ocean. The Twelve Apostle mountain range background is also an awe-inspiring sight. Camp Bay is the place where the country’s crème de la crème relax and unwind on weekends. The beach is filled with locals and tourists during the months of November until January.

Hawaii’s Makena Beach

Situated in Maui, Makena Beach features a spectacular view of the Molokini Crater. The Big Beach has one of the best sea views but it can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. Shore breaks are known to occur without warning. Please don’t ignore the warning notice posted at the island’s lifeguard stations. Despite the risks, Makena beach is perfect for surfers and picnics while watching boogie boarders at work.

France’s Pampelonne Beach

Located in Saint-Tropez, Pampelonne has a reputation as the playing ground of the rich and famous. The French beach owes much of its fame to Brigitte Bardot in the classic movie, “And God Created Woman”. The sea view is still a wonder to behold but it’s competing with countless scanty bikinis and sports cars. Spending a luxurious beach vacation in Saint-Tropez can dent your wallet but you get priceless memories in return.

Brazil’s Ipanema Beach

Rio Janeiro has two world-famous beaches to showcase but Ipanema has the mystic allure. Unlike Pampelonne, this Brazil beach was made famous in the 1960 song, “The Girl from Ipanema”. Aside from the wide expansive sea view, you can’t fail to notice the pale gold sand. In the background are the two mountain peaks simply known as “Two Brothers”. The place is also crowded with meager swimwear. The place is beautiful but make sure to leave your valuables at the hotel safe.

ipanema beach brazil

There is not one place but several where you can enjoy the best sea views. Islands like the Bermuda and Hawaii offer an unobstructed view of the tranquil seas. Other beaches also offer a place to wine and dine in addition to the magnificent view of the sea. Aside from the places mentioned, there are plenty of beaches near you that could provide fantastic ocean scenery.

coast-path-hiking-cornwall

Staying Safe While Hiking the Cornish Cliffs

/ Hiking / , , /

The beauty of the sea, with its blue waters reflecting blue skies and the glistening warm sand, has some hidden dangers. The wide waters of the ocean can be very unpredictable. In Cornish beaches, lifeguards do patrols to keep beachgoers safe while swimming and surfing. However, there is another danger to visitors in Cornwall that many do not realize.

Those rugged and picturesque cliffs are truly awe-inspiring, and one of the highlights of a trip to Cornwall is to do a walk overlooking the sea. However, many people get involved in accidents because they do not take precautions while walking, which is why you should take note of these tips to keep you safe at all times.

This guide was first published by local holiday company Harbour Holidays which devised these tips to educate their visitors about the hidden dangers of walking the cliff path in Cornwall. Like us, they think coastal hiking in Cornwall is a must-do activity for all holidaymakers and want to make sure safety is always at the forefront of their minds when exploring the cliffs, coves and caves.

Reasons to be Careful When Hiking the Coast Path

The cliffs might look like they are made of solid rock, and therefore, stable, but this is not always the case. Some try to go close to the edge and slip due to loose rocks and unstable ground. Worse, some of these edges are actually overhanging, which makes them even more dangerous. This is unfortunately not within your line of sight, so the best thing to do is to just avoid going too close to the edge.

If you are traveling with children or dogs, it is important to keep them close at all times. There is a risk of them wandering away and getting too close to the edge. Dogs might be entranced by the seagulls and might try chasing them, and kids might simply walk away from parents. Both situations are highly dangerous and proper precautions (a dog leash, for example) can help prevent untoward accidents.

Even if you stay away from the cliff edges, some risks are taken simply by taking a difficult path. Some attempt to reach the beach, going up and down the cliff. While there are paths created for this purpose, it might still be too strenuous and steep for some.

By not wearing the right hiking shoes or simply by attempting too much, you might end up with a sprained ankle at the very least. Worse, you might get stranded and if you are in a secluded path, no one might come easily to your rescue. So if you encounter a path that is too difficult, turn back and make sure to stick to purpose-built paths at all times. Bring a phone to be able to call for help in case of emergency.

Last but not the least, make sure you are wearing appropriate clothing to ensure that you will not get frostbitten (in winter) or encounter heatstroke (during summer). Bring water and snacks to keep you hydrated and to give you energy.

Safety Tips for Your Cornwall Walk

  1. When planning to take a walk, let someone know when and where you are going. Because phone reception might be bad in these areas, you might not always have a way to call for help. If you do not show up a few hours after your scheduled arrival, someone can alert the authorities.
  2. Take only the specified paths as they are the safest. Even if you are an experienced hiker, do not take any risks due to possible hidden dangers.
  3. When crossing the beach, make sure you take note of when the tide comes in so that you will not get stuck.
  4. Do your research on the path before deciding to go, especially to know how difficult it is.

Also see this safety message from the HM Coastguards.

Accidents will only ruin your holiday, so maximize your fun and minimize risks by putting these tips into mind when walking along the cliffs of Cornwall.

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