FOOD & DRINK, ARTS & CULTURE, LIFE & TRAVEL
For travellers, adopting a Mana mindset opens up a unique approach to exploring not just Tahiti but any new destination, particularly emphasising the importance of respect for nature, engagement with local culture and spirituality, support for community initiatives, and the practice of mindfulness.
The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO is a remarkable global initiative that sets the spotlight on exceptional villages globally, valuing the integral role tourism plays in conserving cultural heritage, promoting diversity, offering opportunities, and protecting biodiversity. These are they: Lephis, Ethiopia – Africa Nestled within the heart of Ethiopia’s Lephis Forest lies the lush village of Lephis. This hidden gem is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, pristine hiking trails, rich flora and fauna, and awe-inspiring panoramic views. A united and close-knit community valuing sustainability and eco-conscious living, the village of Lephis is involved in conservation efforts and ecotourism, ensuring that the natural beauty of the area is preserved for generations to come. Local artisans craft handmade souvenirs and organic products which reflect the harmony between nature and the village’s culture. The forest is home to around 2,000 households many of which are now supported by what’s called Lephis Ecotourism Village – a community-based initiative to preserve local heritage and help the community, while encouraging tourism through the provision of tour guide services and supply of local crafts. Visitors can purchase handicrafts such as beaded jewelry and wood carvings made from local grass and bamboo, thanks to the village’s Mishike Handicraft Association, which employs both men and women. Located just 160km south of the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, this village is a haven for nature enthusiasts, eco-tourists, and adventure seekers alike. Caleta Tortel, Chile – America In Chile’s XI region, Caleta Tortel is a historic timber port nestled between the Northern and Southern Ice Fields. It’s known for its charming Guaitecas Cypress wood boardwalks and structures. Explore the local culture through conservation activities ranging from traditional Guaitecas Cypress raft construction to immersive beekeeping experiences guided by friendly locals. Travellers can also enjoy culinary adventures with dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced and seasonal produce. Caleta Tortel offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic… Read More
Getting away from where you’re currently situated, and heading off to a completely new part of the world is one of the greatest things you can do in life. We’re naturally hunters and gatherers, you know? It might not feel that way because we’re all pretty domesticated, and we have to stay in one place for society to function properly, but our bodies and minds are supposed to explore. Nothing is supposed to be locked in a cage, and being cooped up in your own hometown for years and years may as well be the same as a pair of handcuffs. Hopping on a plane, a train, or an automobile, and getting to see what the world has to offer is a must for absolutely everyone. Yes. Everyone. You, too! Even if you’re pretty shy and get a little anxious at the thought of it, you should still jump at the opportunity. You won’t regret it, and it would increase the quality of your life tenfold. Sure, some parts might be quite difficult, and it’s quite challenging to sleep on a plane, but the majority of this stuff makes your life so much better. Still unsure? Still need a little convincing? Want to know a few things that travel can really do for you? Well, read on and see: Allow You To Break Free From The Status Quo Every single day, you wake up and go to work. You might not be in the strictest of routines, but you’re in a routine anyway. There’s nothing… Read More
We can all agree, that we can often get stuck in a rut when it comes to booking our vacations. We can often prefer to stick with what we know, after all, for some a vacation only happens just once a year. So it has to be right first time. But, because we can be a little fearful of the unknown, we can be less inclined to revert to our bucket lists and try somewhere new, even though we all would love to visit some of these places or do some of these things at some point in our lives. With that in mind, here are some of once in a lifetime experiences that are worthy of your bucket list, hopefully inspiring you to consider something a little different for this years vacation. Image source – Pixabay – CC0 License Witness the Northern Lights One of the most spectacular things to witness in the sky is the Northern Lights. The Aurora dance can only be seen at certain times of the year and you need to travel as far north as you can to really make the most of it. Countries like Iceland or Finland are some of the most popular ways to see them. While you are there, you could also make the most of other ways to enjoy your holiday. Exploring in the snow and even searching out Lapland. A safari or wilderness experience Maybe you like the idea of being in the wilderness and exploring, then a safari or trek could be… Read More
When it comes to holidays and travelling, few people do it better than Latinos. According to statistics from the National Tour Association (NTA), Hispanics in the US spend over $56 billion in vacations and leisure travel every year. Also, Hispanics are noted as being the fastest-growing demographic in the States. As the number of Latinos and their purchasing power grows, these fun-loving people are increasingly looking for new and exciting holiday destinations. If you are planning a trip for the summer, and you’re looking for ideas, you’ve definitely come to the right place. We’ll take a brief look at how you should choose a great vacation location as well as a few ideas on some great destinations. How to Choose a Great Holiday Location. Ok, you’ve been dreaming of your summer vacation all year, and now, it’s almost here. There’s just one big question on your mind, where exactly should you go? As Sophia King, travel expert from monederosmart.com says: “Answering the big question becomes more comfortable when you can answer a few smaller questions. For example – How much is your budget? How many people are travelling with you? Are you someone that loves the rough, rugged outdoors, or are you looking to be pampered and waited on? Are you planning a romantic summer vacation, or is this a girls’ time out thing? The clearer your answers to these questions are, the easier it’ll be to make a decision.” If you’re worried about taking time off work, it’s worth checking out some of the… Read More
Feeling a bit flat from spending too much time indoors under the doona, trying to escape the cold? Wish you could perk it all back up again and slam it all over Instagram just like the influencers do? Yeah, ya do. Then why not kick winter where it hurts and indulge in a little beachside glamour at QT Bondi, a vibrant hotel with loads of personality located across from Sydney’s most iconic beach – Bondi Beach. Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all that Bondi Beach and its surroundings have to offer. Conveniently located across from Bondi Beach, QT Bondi is surrounded by some of Sydney’s most popular bars, cafes, restaurants, coastal walks and activities. Think, Iceberg’s Dining Room and Bar, North Bondi Fish, Bills, Milky Lane, Bondi Markets during the weekend and of course the iconic Bronte to Bondi walk. And there’s no reason why all this can’t be enjoyed during the cooler months, including a quick surf – just head down to the friendly team at Let’s go Surfing to hire a wetsuit and a board. Sound good, right? Then drag yourself out from under the doona and treat yourself to a special $295 winter getaway at QT Bondi. Take your beau or just your fabulous self and enjoy the ‘Under The Influence’ package which includes the following features: Overnight stay in a QT King Deluxe room A complimentary Pilates session at MPower Pilates Vegan treats (including a deconstructed ginger and turmeric latte) Valet parking VIP reservation for dinner at… Read More
While you may have been to Nice, the Isle of Greece and sipped champagne on a yacht, doesn’t mean you’re the world’s foremost travel guru. Or, does it? There’s only one way to find out and that’s with Lonely Planet’s newest piece, the Ultimate Travel Quiz book. “This book is billed as a ‘travel’ quiz, but really it’s an ‘everything’ quiz,” writes Editor Joe Fullman in his Introduction. “After all, travel is about experiencing all the world has to offer, so we’ve tried to cram as much of the planet into these pages as we can. You’ll be tested on everything from capitals to currencies, tallest buildings to longest rivers, national dishes to international airports, ancient empires to modern art galleries, the deepest lakes to the biggest oceans, and even outer space – perhaps the greatest travel adventure of all.” Test you knowledge of countries and capitals, see if you know how many countries share a border with China, or which part of France a bouillabaisse comes from. Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel Quiz Book is split into three chapters: Day-Tripper: A gentle introduction to the world of travel quizzing. Traveller: A bit more challenging. Explorer: Taking it up another notch, these questions are occasionally downright fiendish. There are 100 quizzes in all, most of which have 20 questions, amounting to a grand total of just over 2000. The majority are general knowledge, covering a wide selection of topics and regions – the whole planet is represented. Get that brain working and the travel bug biting and find your… Read More
