Category: TRAVEL

Unveiling the Supernatural: A Journey Through Memphis’s Haunted Heritage

Casino Halloween

Memphis, an enchanting city steeped in history, transforms into an alluring spectacle of spooks and thrills when the calendar flips to Halloween. With its enthralling haunted sites, abundant pumpkin patches, and child-friendly spooky events, Memphis has earned the title of one of ‘The Most Hauntingly Beautiful Cities in the United States’ by Fodor’s Travel. It comes as no surprise that a city deeply rooted in history, like Memphis, houses some intriguingly haunted locations. Earnestine & Hazel’s, a former brothel now a popular dive bar, is renowned as one of the most haunted structures of the city, and has been named by Yelp as the 4th most haunted spot in the USA. The bar is believed to be inhabited by several ghosts and is home to a haunted jukebox known to spontaneously play music with uncanny relevance to happenings in the bar. Memphis also boasts of other spine-chilling locations for the brave-hearted such as The Orpheum theatre – haunted by the ghost of “Mary” since 1921; the Victorian-era manor, Woodruff-Fontaine House, which houses numerous known apparitions; and Blackwell House that is believed to be haunted by a family who died shortly after moving in. For those who prefer exploring the city’s ghostly heritage in a group, Backbeat Tours provides an array of ghost tours through South Main Historic District, the city’s most haunted neighbourhood. The tours cover infamous locations like Ernestine & Hazels’, Morris Cemetery, and Woodruff-Fontaine House, with some tours offering after-hour access for ghost hunting. Memphis’s HauntedWeb is a popular option for those who… Read More

Discover the wines of Croatia with Sail Croatia’s new Elegance Cruises

Source: https://www.sail-croatia.com/specials/wine-cruise

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a casual sipper with a thirst for knowledge, Sail Croatia’s newly launched ‘Wines of Croatia’ Elegance Cruises promise an unforgettable journey through the ancient vineyards of Dalmatia. You’ll experience the finest Croatian wines, while luxuriating on an elegant small ship cruising the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea. This exclusive package, launching in 2024, offers guests an immersive experience in the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Croatia. The journey begins in the UNESCO world heritage site of Split, and includes a Wine Jeep Safari on the largest Island of Brac, sipping local varieties in the Stari Grad Plains of Hvar, and an extraordinary visit to the world’s only winery in a military tunnel in Vis. Further along, you’ll explore Marco Polo’s Korcula and bask in the serene beauty of Mljet, before concluding the voyage in the captivating medieval city of Dubrovnik. Sail Croatia’s Elegance Cruises provide unparalleled comfort onboard custom-built ships, featuring private ensuite rooms with air conditioning, spacious dining saloons and large sundecks. The select three ships chosen to operate the new itinerary, offering a maximum capacity of 38 guests, are among the most luxurious in Sail Croatia’s fleet. “Our new cruises give our guests the opportunity to indulge their passion for wine, whilst also enjoying a relaxing week exploring the Adriatic on one of our deluxe super-yachts,” says Helle Seuran, Managing Director of Sail Croatia. “Our wine cruises offer great value for money and are ideal for wine-lovers who want to explore a new region… Read More

London Fashion Week: stay at House of Sunny

Pink hotel room

This autumn, the wardrobe of your dreams takes on a new dimension as House of Sunny, a favourite label on TikTok, offers a unique Airbnb stay at their Hackney showroom. Timed perfectly with fashion week in London, founder and designer Sunny Williams invites guests to step into the whimsical, colourful world of House of Sunny, literally bringing celebrity-adored designs from the runway to real life, starting from 13 September 2023. Dubbed “Sunny’s House”, the showroom has been converted into an immersive fashion experience, with each room’s decor echoing iconic pieces from House of Sunny’s latest collection. Sunny Williams, expressing his excitement about the venture, stated, “House of Sunny’s design and ethos has always been inspired by the intersection of culture, architecture, interior and our community’s love for travel, home, and aesthetics. Welcome to my house; this immersive Airbnb is unique, crafted and eye-catching, the perfect partnership of fashion and special stays.” Amanda Cupples, General Manager of UK & Northern Europe at Airbnb, commended the innovative move: “Airbnb is the home of aesthetically beautiful yet surprising stays. Sunny Williams’ beloved styles coming to life in such an eye-catching, one-of-a-kind stay on Airbnb is truly an unforgettable experience, especially for any fashion fan.” The stylish sleepover for two guests will take place on 22nd September 2023 and can be booked, free of charge, on 20th September at 3am AEST at airbnb.com/houseofsunny. Guests can look forward to a 1:1 design session with Sunny, an entrance through a green oasis reminiscent of Sunny’s famous Hockney Dress, and a chance… Read More

Discover the most overrun holiday destinations: where tourists outnumber locals

Thailand Phuket boats Asia Bangkok pexels erik karits 3732494

Imagine strolling along the cobblestone streets of a picturesque city, getting lost in its rich history and vibrant culture. The sights, sounds, and flavours tantalise your senses, creating memories that will last a lifetime. But what happens when these beloved destinations become overrun by hordes of tourists? We delved into the data to uncover the most over-touristed cities and countries around the world, and the results are eye-opening. Here’s more about why we should stop descending on Mykonos, Greece! Topping the list of the most overloaded cities is Phuket, Thailand. With a staggering 118.5 tourists for every 1 resident, the bustling streets of this once idyllic paradise can get incredibly crowded. While the Old Town retains its charm, it’s hard to escape the throngs of visitors during peak season. In fact, Thailand dominates the rankings, with Pattaya and Krabi taking the second and third spots respectively. It’s clear that this Southeast Asian gem is a magnet for tourists from all corners of the globe. But it’s not just cities that bear the brunt of over-tourism. Austria takes the crown as the most over-touristed country worldwide. With an average of 3.6 international visitors per resident, the nation’s natural beauty and cultural treasures attract millions each year. From the stunning alpine landscapes to the historical charm of Vienna, Austria has captured the hearts of tourists worldwide. Following closely behind are Hong Kong and Greece, with estimated tourist-to-inhabitant ratios of 3.8 and 3 respectively. Curious to know which other destinations made the list? Here are the top 10… Read More

Travelling to Rome this Summer: tips for an unforgettable experience

Rome Colosseum ruins scaled

Visiting Rome, the ‘Eternal City’, is always an enchanting experience, but summer brings a unique charm that promises unforgettable memories. Here are several tips to make your Roman holiday truly remarkable. 1. Travel Smart: Flying into Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport, the major international gateway to Rome, is generally the quickest and most convenient option. Alternatively, Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport, though smaller, could be a cost-effective choice. 2. Stay Hydrated: Rome’s summer can be quite hot, so always carry a water bottle. Luckily, the city is strewn with ‘Nasoni’, or drinking fountains, dispensing cool, potable water – a real godsend in the sweltering heat. 3. Embrace Public Transport: Rome’s public transportation system can be a fantastic way to explore the city. The metro, buses, and trams cover most tourist destinations, and a Roma Pass allows unlimited travel for a certain period. 4. Early Bird Advantage: Famous sites like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums can get excessively crowded. Try visiting early in the morning or late afternoon for a comfortable exploration. 5. Dress Appropriately: Many religious sites require modest clothing – ensure shoulders and knees are covered. Also, comfy shoes are a must given Rome’s cobbled streets. This is a big one! Find out more on the Vatican’s website, for example 6. Night-Time Wandering: Summer evenings in Rome are magical. The city comes alive with outdoor concerts and al fresco dining. Be sure to wander around Trastevere, a vibrant neighborhood known for its nightlife. 7. Book in Advance: To save time and avoid lines, book tickets… Read More

A guide to hiking Mount Fuji, Japan

Japan Mount Fuji Pagoda

Ranked as one of the most popular activities in the Shizuoka Prefecture, the season for hiking Mt. Fuji has officially begun. From the 10th of July to the 10th of September, the trails to the summit are open to climbers. Both locals and tourists flock to this iconic natural landmark, standing tall at 3,776 meters. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it holds a special place in the hearts of the Japanese and is a bucket list item for travellers worldwide. Starting Point Shizuoka Prefecture is the prime starting location for the ascent. It offers access to three of the four Mt. Fuji trails: the Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya Trails. Each one showcases unique landscapes, from lush forests and stunning tree-lined pathways to panoramic views of surrounding rice fields. Depending on your preference and physical capacity, you can choose from challenging paths or more leisurely ascents. Subashiri Trail The Subashiri Trail is a favourite among morning hikers aiming to catch the sunrise, offering a variety of landscapes and many amenities along the way. Famous for its long stretches of volcanic sand, it takes approximately 6 hours to traverse this trail. Gotemba Trail For a less crowded, more leisurely hike, the Gotemba Trail is ideal. It has a much gentler slope and takes longer to complete, around 8 hours. The slower pace offers ample time to enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding rice fields. Fujinomiya Trail The Fujinomiya Trail offers the shortest ascent, taking around 5 hours. As the busiest trail during peak periods, it… Read More

Why vineyards make great holiday destinations

Vineyard grapes

Embarking on a journey through the world’s finest vineyards is not merely a venture into wine tasting; it’s an exploration into the heart of culture, history, and the art of winemaking. As you traverse lush vine rows, the intoxicating aroma of ripening grapes fills the air, an invitation to the exquisite experience that awaits. In the rolling hills of Tuscany, Italy, you’ll encounter centuries-old vineyards, their robust Sangiovese grapes poised to become the region’s famed Chianti wine. Here, amidst the stunning scenery and rustic architecture, the passion for winemaking is palpable, a legacy passed down generations. Cross the ocean to Napa Valley, California, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. This American wine mecca is known for its distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon, a testament to the region’s unique climate and soil. Wine tours here often include barrel tastings, a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, and, of course, breathtaking vistas. As you sip on the fruits of these lands, remember that every vintage tells a story, from the terroir that nourishes the vine to the winemaker’s personal touch. A vineyard journey is an adventure of the senses, a celebration of tradition, and an unforgettable experience to savour. Coming up in just two days’ time, the much-anticipated World’s Best Vineyards list will be unveiled! This prestigious compilation, which celebrates the absolute pinnacle of global wine tourism, is the product of discerning selections by the Voting Academy. This esteemed body, composed of over 500 leading wine connoisseurs, sommeliers, and travel experts, has meticulously curated the… Read More

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort introduces exquisite seasonal specials

Maldives hotel

If you’re seeking an unparalleled travel experience steeped in luxury and tradition, look no further than The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. Part of St. Regis’ “The House of Celebration” initiative, this pristine paradise is about to introduce two time-limited culinary and cocktail specials that will transport you back to the grandeur of the Astor family’s legendary festivities. Much like the changing collections of haute couture fashion, the House of Celebration adopts a unique theme for each season, curating exclusive cultural, dining, and fashion experiences. This summer, in one of the Asia Pacific region’s most exquisite locations, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli is set to launch the “Celebration of Place”, featuring a bespoke pairing menu at their newly opened Asian specialty restaurant, T.Pan. With a nod to Japanese Kaiseki cuisine, the new T.Pan set dinner menu brims with dishes that celebrate local ingredients. Kicking off the culinary journey is the Osaka Nights “Otoshi” appetiser, a tantalising blend of Roku gin, Aperol, Antica Formula Vermouth, and Ume Liqueur. Dinner starts from USD $350++, and for those who like their meal accompanied by the perfect drink, a beverage pairing option is available for $220++. Drawing from the St. Regis New York’s famed King Cole Bar’s focus on the art of drinking, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli introduces a taste of New York with a Maldivian twist at The Whale Bar. The star of the show is the limited-time Tropical Tuna Twist cocktail, a refreshing concoction of Clear Tomato Water infused with Maldivian Chili and Curry Leaves, Tuna… Read More

Need a hotel? Leisure Inn Penny Royal just upgraded

Hotel room bed

Get ready to experience the charm of yesteryears coupled with the comfort of the present at the historically significant and heritage-listed Leisure Inn Penny Royal in Launceston. The hotel, a part of the StayWell Holdings property portfolio, proudly introduces an array of exciting upgrades aimed at creating a rejuvenating and enhanced guest experience. Leisure Inn Penny Royal holds the exclusive distinction of being the only hotel in Launceston to offer a 4-bedroom apartment. The spacious lodgings are perfect for families and groups seeking the comfort of ample space. As part of the recent refresh, guests can now luxuriate in beautifully redesigned lounges equipped with contemporary furnishings and state-of-the-art smart TVs. The modern kitchen spaces have also been refreshed, offering guests the convenience of self-catering, replicating the comfort of their own homes. The hotel has further amplified the guest experience by installing new carpets throughout, replacing bathroom shower screens, and incorporating noise-cancelling windows in all apartments and hotel rooms. In addition, there’s a new lift coming up near the reception area by mid-September, enhancing the ease and convenience for guests. Starting its journey as a corn mill in 1840, the hotel is filled with a rich history and undeniable charm. Nestled beside the Tamar River, Leisure Inn Penny Royal strikes a harmonious balance between its alluring heritage and modern amenities. These upgrades are a part of StayWell’s progressive development plan, reflecting steady growth and performance year on year. Over the next two years, more Group hotels will be upgraded, including Leisure Inn Pokolbin Hill. Also, new… Read More