The Stairway to Heaven lies in the subtropical mountains of the Mexican Jungle. This Garden of Eden, is a seven-hour drive north of Mexico City. Las Pozas ("the Pools") is a surrealistic group of structures created by Edward James, more than 2,000 feet (610 m) above sea level. It includes more than 80 acres (32 ha) of natural waterfalls and pools interlaced with towering surrealist sculptures created in concrete. The stairway to heaven is our favourite.
Travel to Rome (Roma), Italy’s capital, is an all-encompassing,
inspiring and romantic adventure to say the least.
Home to 3,000 years of globally influential art, architecture and culture. With an intoxicating mix of haunting ruins, awe-inspiring art and vibrant street life, Roma has it all. Vatican City, is HQ to the Roman Catholic Church, has St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, which house masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes.
Top Experiences in Rome:
The Iconic Ancient Colosseum - Rome’s ancient ruins such as the Forum and the Colosseum remind you of the profound power of the former Roman Empire.
Trevi Fountain – an 18th century sculpture. The Trevi Fountain is a fountain in the Trevi district in Rome. It was designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi and completed by Pietro Bracci. There is a legend requiring a visitor to throw three coins from the right hand over the left shoulder into the fountain. The first coin guarantees your return to Rome, the second will ensure a new romance, and the third will ensure marriage.
Roman Forum – the heart of the roman empire. A sprawl of ruins, the Roman Forum was ancient Rome's showpiece centre, a grandiose district of temples, basilicas and vibrant public spaces. The site, which was originally an Etruscan burial ground, was first developed in the 7th century BC, growing over time to become the social, political and commercial hub of the Roman empire.
Vatican Museum – Papal Palace, Renaissance Art. Vatican Museums boast one of the world's greatest art collections. Exhibits are displayed along about 7km of halls and corridors. Explore Egyptian mummies and Etruscan bronzes to ancient busts, old masters and modern paintings. Highlights include the spectacular collection of classical statuary in the Museo Pio-Clementino, a suite of rooms frescoed by Raphael, and the Michelangelo-painted Sistine Chapel.
Pantheon - A 2000-year-old temple, now a church, the Pantheon is the best preserved of Rome’s ancient monuments.
St Peter's Basilica – one of the many outstanding churches in this city. Housing spectacular works of art, including three of Italy's most distinguished masterpieces: Michelangelo’s Pietà, his soaring dome, and Bernini’s 29m-high baldachin over the papal altar.
TIP: Travellers - expect long lines and note that strict dress codes are enforced – so dress conservatively.
Rome is a spellbinding city and is a great place for visitors to Italy to stay. There and there are plenty of accommodation options that will suit all budgets. You can stay in a backpacker hostel or a luxury boutique hotel depending on your needs. Find flights & hotels in Rome here.
Rokotzsee - "The Devil’s Bridge"
As you Travel near the German & Polish border (160 km south of Berlin) you will find the Rhododendron National Park.
As you explore this park, hidden deep within the foliage, you will find the magnificent Rokotzsee - known as "The Devil’s Bridge".(Enter scary music - imagine an instrumental depicting the revelry of the Grim Reaper...dom dom dom dooooommmmm)
Alas, this bridge is far from scary. More so, a breathtaking & miraculous structure built in the 19th century. This delicately arched structure stretches over the waters of the Rokotzsee & is an architectural delight! The Rakotzbrücke is known as a “devil’s bridge,” due to the colloquialism that such bridges were so dangerous or miraculous that they must have been built by Satan.
The bridge looks unusual, dangerous and miraculous and is a Travel Photographers dream, as it creates an optical illusion.
Unfortunately crossing this bridge is strictly prohibited.
Not because if you cross it, it might open up satan's hollow and swallow you whole.... in fact, crossing this architectural masterpiece is prohibited importantly so we can preserve it for future generations.
Its high arch and favorable reflection in the water create an illusion of a full stone circle. Clearly, when the bridge was being built, the architects regarded the aesthetics of the bridge higher than its usability. One might actually wonder whether it was ever intended for the purpose of crossing the lake at all.
Rakotzbrücke was constructed by the hands of mere mortals using boulders and basalt from various quarries of Saxon Switzerland and Bohemia.
The best time to Travel to the Rhododendron Park is summer (May). The flowers are in bloom and you can be spoilt by a colourful Saxony.
The extraordinary sight of the Devil’s bridge is a top place to see in Germany!
The optical effect is breathtaking and it is definitely worth capturing.
In Germany transport is a no-brainer, it is possible to get to the Devils Bridge by Car, Train or Bus.
So, what are you waiting for? Feed your Soul!
Getting there: find flights to Berlin here.
Address: Halbendorfer Str. 6, 02953 Kromlau, Saxony, Germany & Phone: +49 3576 222828
Thailand – it’s a Jungle Out There!
Get away from the city, jump in a jeep and ride through snake-infested jungles!
Relish in the elegant temples and perhaps visit some majestic Thai Elephants in their natural habitat.
As you draw close to the Far North of Thailand and close to the Border of Laos and Burma, you can visit the Kayan Hill Tribe in Mae Hong Son.
In Mae Hon Son you will find and be spell bound by exotic giraffe-like, long neck women.
The tribe has a tradition where some women wear rings to create the appearance of a long neck. The derivation of the tradition mystifies even the Kayans.
Kayan long neck women wear the rings from childhood, starting as young as four and add new rings annually as they adjust to the increased weight. The Coils weighing up to 10kg press on the chest and shoulders & creates the illusion of a disembodied head hovering over a shimmering pedestal of gold rings.
An ancient legend claims rings protected villagers from tiger attacks, since the cats attacks victims at the neck. Another theory said the rings helped ward off men from rival tribes by lessening the women’s beauty. Today, people believe the opposite– the longer their neck, the more beautiful the woman—and Kayans wear the golden coils as an accessory.
Possibly the Goddess of the Greek Islands. Undeniably breathtaking, utterly gorgeous and a must not be missed destination when travelling to Greece. Colourful cliff faces and whitewashed buildings. Santorini has enchanting views, breathtaking sunsets and volcanic-sand beaches, it’s hardly surprising the island features on so many travellers’ bucket lists.
Mykonos
Best for Boutique Hotels. Mykonos is particularly famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and exciting nightlife. There are many things to do in Mykonos Greece, an island perfect for people of all ages: walk along the narrow streets of Chora, see the sunset from Little Venice, stay in luxurious hotels and swim in exotic beaches. Enjoy a night out in the many bars and clubs.
Zakynthos
Best for Beaches. Sandy Beaches backed by dramatic coastline. Photogenic as much as it is fun!
CreteCrete is not only coluorful but the place to be for flavorsome cuisine and wonderful wineries!
Delos
Best for History and Culture. The birth place of Apollo [according to greek mythoology]. Home to some of the most extensive remains & ruins of the Hellenistic age of Classical Greece. A Unesco World Heritage Site. Sadly you cant stay on this island, you must arrive for a day trip on boat via Mykonos.
Andros
Adventure truely awaits. Andros is the best island for hiking!
Symi
The GEM! Ruggered but picturesque harbors & neoclassical buildings. Like almost every other isladin Greece the cuisine will not disappoint.
BELGIUM EUROPE
DELICIOUS REASONS TO VISIT BELGIUM
Travelling to Europe for my first time last year, time poor but dedicated to seeing as much of Europe as I could, I asked myself and others the question, “Do I NEED to cross Belgium off of my travel list, or give it miss this time?”
I have since been asked the very same question by other Glam Globe Trekkers wanting to know if I enjoyed Belgium, what I did when I was there, and would I go back again? The final question is I suppose a way of determining just how much I liked it. So would I visit Belgium again…
Read on to find out my top reasons to visit Belgium!
Bruges
Bruges is undeniably a massive drawcard for Belgium. It is picturesque, charming and impossibly old-world picturesque. We visited just before Christmas so enjoyed sipping a warm mulled wine, whilst wandering the cobbled stones streets exploring the market stools. While the streets are filled with tourists in the warmer months, the colder months at the beginning of the year (December is impossibly busy thanks to Christmas) are some of the best months to visit, as the streets are much quieter. But don’t just come to Belgium to visit Brugge!
Belgium Chocolate
The Belgian chocolate industry became world famous following the invention of the praline, a chocolate shell with a soft centre. The man who came up with the idea, Jean Neuhaus, is often referred to as Belgium's most famous chocolatier, although he was born in Switzerland.
Whilst a major industry since the 19th century, today Belgium Chocolate forms an important part of the nation's economy and culture.
The country is littered with chocolate stores that house world famous treats.
Whilst we’re on the topic of all thing sweet – Waffles….
If a picture could tell a thousand words… this one would be breaking the quota. If you haven’t tried a Belgian Waffle at least once in your lifetime, where have you been hiding!? Belgian waffles are popular throughout Europe and the rest of the world, but nowhere do they taste better than in Belgium itself. One of the most underrated points to be made about Belgium is the food… and it doesn’t stop at waffles!
Frites (Chippies)
There is absolutely no time for diets in Belgium. Lets not forget about the national comfort food: Frites (chippies). Now let me say this once and once only, but you will not ever find chips that are better than those that you will eat in Belgium. Yes, they’re likely to be double-fried. Yes, they’re even more likely to be triple fried. But the most important part is they taste bloody amazing! One more tip: don’t pass on either the ketchup or the mayonnaise. Go hard or go home!
Incredible Architecture
The architecture throughout Brussels is impressive and among some of the most intricate in Europe. The main squares (known as Grote Markt) is regal and over Christmas you will be spoilt with a nativity display and giant Christmas Tree perfectly themed.
Comic Culture
If comics are your thing, then you just might have a reason to visit Brussels – home to an array of clever murals featuring the famous (and famously Belgian) cartoon, Tin-Tin. Also the birthplace of the Smurfs!
Beer
“…Beer! Morrrree Beer, More Beer, More Beer, More Beer!”. Beer is an institution in Belgium and it is here where you will find plenty of tasty delights to keep you busy or ladies, if you want to take a moment or two to yourselves to shop, send the hubby to the local watering hole for hubby sitting.
So as you can see - Belgium isn’t Boring!
Definitely stop by on your European travels. Belgium is a great country to stop in for a few days if travelling on popular train routes, especially if travelling from Paris through to the Netherlands and beyond. Be sure to make it a quick stop in Brussels, as the best of Belgium is arguably outside of the capital – a short train journey into the countryside (Brugge and Ghent) or further on towards Antwerp.
Have you been to Belgium? Or do you just love to travel…Share your Travel Story here
Chasing Waterfalls - A Weekend Away
The name “Iguazu” means big water.
Legend has it that a deity planned to marry a beautiful woman, who fled from the deity with her mortal lover, in a canoe. In a rage, the deity sliced the river in two, creating the waterfalls and damning the lovers to an eternal fall.
On the border of Brazil and Argentina you will find this wild, thundering natural beauty that is Iguazu Falls.
Iguazu Falls can be accessed from either Brazil or Argentina via a 14-16 hour overnight bus or a short flight.
Experience the thundering, untamed beauty of Iguazu Falls on a day tour from Puerto Iguazu.
Explore a series of trails, footbridges and vista points and witness more than 200 magnificent cascades powered by the rushing Iguazu River.
View the famous Devil’s Throat and discover native wildlife while soaking up different vantage points of this enormous world-famous waterfalls.
This world-famous 2.7km
natural wonder is not to be missed when visiting South America.
Immerse yourself in this beauty this waterfall has to offer from one of the
many vantage points of the falls, from single delicate spouts to entire cliffs
covered with curtains of rushing water.
For the ultimate Iguazu experience, step out on an overhang
above the thundering Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo), where the river makes
its initial descent more than 200 feet (60 meters) down around a powerful,
crescent-shaped cascade. From this vantage point, you can see across the river
into Brazil.
Enjoy free time to explore the park’s upper and lower sections, and choose from
a series of hiking circuits that range from easy to challenging. Break for
lunch at one of the restaurants inside the park (own expense), where you may be
greeted by resident coatimundi and exotic birds while dining
picnic-style.
After several hours at the falls, relax by the pool with a pina colada or
chilled cervaza or play a round of golf in of the beautiful Puerto Iguazu resorts.
A Day in BUENOS AIRES, Argentina
Well known as the birth place of the TANGO! The name "Argentina" comes from the Latin word for silver, argentum. The original European settlers believed the country was full of silver treasure.
A Day Tour in Buenos Aries – the Highlights
First Stop -San Telmo! Home of the sensuous Tango! A hub rich in immigrant history, colourful buildings & old cobblestone streets which are inhabited by antique treasure troves.
Vamos! Off to the historical city center (Monserrat), full of beautiful churches, Plaza de Mayo, the Pink House (Casa Rosada), the Evita Balcony, the City Cathedral, Avenida de Mayo, and many more important landmarks.
Break at the oldest & most beautiful cafe in Buenos Aires, Cafe Tortoni, THE cafe in a city of cafes, founded way back in 1858.
Next venture into the heart of the barrio of Retiro – Plaza San Martin, a leafy park surrounded by beautiful architecture and filled with monuments. Then explore the widest avenue in the world, Avenida 9 de Julio, home to the famous Buenos Aires Obelisk.
Dine at one of the traditional Argentine BBQ Steak House Restaurants– a place where locals eat, with a choice of dishes to cover all tastes. One of our favourites – Aires Criollos [ www.airescriollos.com.ar ]
Final stop - the Recoleta, known as one of the most prestigious & traditional neighbourhoods. Home to many grand old mansions and high class establishments, a suberb where you can stroll along the elegant and upscale Avenida Alvear and into Plaza Francia, the heart of Recoleta.
One of the highlights of Recoleta, is the Recoleta Cemetery, the last resting place of Eva Peron and many other rich & famous Argentines, plus the highest concentration of beautiful architecture in the city.
"A South America Holiday!!" I squealed with excitement! Watch out South America!
Like many travellers who visit Peru and even South America, the first adventure on my Bucket List was to Trek to the Inca city of Machu Picchu.
The anticipation of experiencing something physically, mentally and emotionally challenging, something that would give me an overwhelming sense of achievement on completion - was a highlight of planning my trip.
In a spectacular location, Macchu Pichu is one of the best-known & most beautiful archaeological site's in the world.
This awe-inspiring ancient city slept quietly dormant for many years, never revealing itself to the conquering Spaniards and was virtually forgotten until the early part of the 20th century. Surrounded by dense Jungle - exploring this beautiful city at the fresh break of dawn - is indeed something you will never forget.
The best time to visit this incredible site is from late May until early September. Beware - over 2500 people arrive to explore this ancient and mysterious city daily. Despite this great tourist influx, the site manages to retain an air of grandeur and mystery, and is a must for all visitors to Peru. Ensure you get there as early as possible to avoid the lines and crowds. No one wants people photo bombing their selfies of this breath taking ancient city!
7 Day Adventure -
Day 1 -
We arrived in Lima, Peru airport in the afternoon. I recommend staying a night in Lima and just indulging in the food. Enjoy a night out and completely dedicate it to colourful, spicy and fresh flavours of Peruvian cuisine. We stayed at the Business Tower Hotel - a Boutique Concept Hotel. A beautiful hotel with luxury cars, amazing food and close to the airport. Very comfortable for one night.
The BTH Hotel Quimera Restaurant serves Peruvian/Spanish fusion dishes in a relaxing ambience - the food here was hands down some of the best hotel food I've ever devoured. Both the breakfast and dinner here were on point.
- Ceviche. ...
- Chupe de Camarones (Shrimp Cioppino) ...
- Papas a la huanciana (huancayo-style Potatoes) ..
Welcome to Cuzco, Peru - once capital of the Inca Empire. A peaceful and quaint little city with cobbled stone streets and laneways. Enjoy a coca tea whilst you adjust to the altitude. Once the dizziness subsides, explore the markets and purchase some keepsake scarfs, beanies, gloves, arts or crafts -all handmade by locals
Your adventure starts at 4 pm in a group meeting. Meet your fellow travel companions, then you’ll visit the facade of Qoricancha temple, the local San Pedro market, the main square, past the 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square.
Day 3
We woke before dawn in the bitter cold to pack our small duffle bags we received to carry our belongings in for the few days. A team of porters carried these bags, together with the food and equipment for the trail.
Off to a super early start - we met the small group and team for breakfast then drive to Choquequilla, a small ceremonial place where Incas worshipped the moon. We drove to the starting point of the trek, Rafq'a, and meet the local horsemen who joined us on the hike. We warmed up quickly, starting our trek on a slight incline. An hour’s walk in, we reach the small community of Socma. Carry on to the Perolniyoc cascade lookout to take pictures in front of a waterfall. Careful not to slip, there is ample opportunity to stop for panoramic photos of the country side and a meal break. We hike a gradual incline throughout the day as we continue to the campsite, which was 3,700m altitude (above sea level). We reached the around lunchtime. After lunch, we set off to explore the Q'orimarca archaeological site, which once served as a checkpoint to the Incas. Throughout day 1 the hike is challenging. You have to really push yourself as majority of the day is spent trekking up a steep incline. Having a reasonable cardio fitness level will really help you to enjoy the experience, tackle the altitude sickness and help you to breath the fresh air.
Day 4
This is the most challenging but rewarding day of the hike. A three-hour walk took us to the top of the first pass of Puccaqasa (approximately 4,370 meters high). After enjoying picturesque and breath taking views of the ice capped mountains and views of the valley, it’s a short walk before stopping for lunch. Afterwards, we made the two-hour hike to Kuychicassa, the highest pass of the trek at 4,450 meters. From here, descend to the sacred site the Incas called Intipunku (Sun Gate), with views of the Nevado Veronica mountain. Head to the campsite, only a stone’s throw away at Choquetacarpo to enjoy another cold, cold night of camping. Ensure you pack a few pairs of quality thermals and invest in a quality sleeping bag.
Day 5
Today’s hike was all downhill, so this is where the trekking boots with good grip will really help you stay on your feet. (Something I didn't do much of). The first stop is the incomplete Kachiqata quarry, where the Incas were intercepted by the Spanish. Around midday, come to the end of the trek. Explore the cobbled streets of Ollantaytambo before taking the short train journey to Aguas Calientes. This is where you’ll meet up with the travellers in your group who didn't hike. Visiting the natural hot springs in town is a soothing way to spend the late afternoon (you will need it after the wear and tear on your body after the trek - treat yourself). Treat yourself and capture the essence of Peru in a glass with a classic local cocktail Pisco Sour , featuring the South American grape brandy Pisco.Spend the night in a comfortable hotel before tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 6
Depending on weather conditions, take a bus at 5:30 am this morning along the winding road to Machu Picchu. I highly recommend you get up at 4am to line up for the Bus - the wait is long - as everyone wants to get in early and take photos before the crowds arrive. The bus journey takes around 30 minutes. At Machu Picchu, join up with the travellers in your group who hiked the Classic Inca Trail. If skies are clear, enjoy a spectacular sunrise over the ancient city from the Sun Gate, before going on a guided walk around the ruins. Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains in Peru, above the Urubamba River valley. Built in the 15th century and later abandoned, it’s renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone walls that fuse huge blocks without the use of mortar, intriguing buildings that play on astronomical alignments and panoramic views. Its exact former use remains a mystery.
Finish your day at a local bar or restaurant in Machu Picchu where you can enjoy a local beer, a roasted Guinea Pig or Alpaca Steak.
Day 7
After taking a moment to take in the achievement of the last few days, we farewell our new found Gecko family and the The Inca Trek & Machu Picchu adventure comes to an end. With no more activities planned we left for Cuzco via bus and returned to Lima via Plane.
With new found friends and memories to last a life time - this is an adventure I can't more highly recommend.
So Book your Trip, See the World, Enjoy a New Culture, Meet New People, Learn & Feed your Soul!
