For many people, planning a vacation is something that takes time, consideration, and even a little research. Picking the right destination can make the difference between a memorable and fabulous trip, or one that doesn’t exactly leave you enthused. If you’ve been dreaming of a trip that takes you to an exotic destination where you can immerse yourself in culture, architecture, history, and dining experiences than there’s a good chance Singapore is exactly what you’re looking for.
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Located off southern Malaysia, Singapore is a small city-state that offers a tropical climate, modern conveniences, a bustling city centre, and all the historical architecture, recreation, dining, and culture you could possibly wish for. If you’re convinced that Singapore would make the perfect destination for your next trip, here’s a look at some of the top rated tourist attractions you simply must check out.
The Singapore Flyer
Are you looking to get a bird’s eye view of Singapore, because if so you’ll want to check out the Singapore Flyer. This is the world’s biggest observation wheel and provides riders with the unique opportunity to take in the island from above. You’ll be able to see all the way to Malaysia’s Straits of Johor and the Spice Islands of Indonesia. The ride lasts a full 30 minutes, giving you lots of opportunity for sight-seeing.
Gardens by the Bay
If you’re the type of person who appreciates green space and nature then a stroll through the Gardens by the Bay is a must. What makes this so unique is that it acts as an escape right in the middle of the city-centre. Be sure to check out the Cloud Forest Dome while exploring, as this is the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.
Marina Bay
This is easily one of the most well-known spots in all of Singapore. Marina Bay has just recently gone through an S$5.5 billion transformation and the result is nothing short of astonishing. You’ll find shopping, a casino, the Science Museum, a resort, dining and even a vibrant nightlife scene. It is just as spectacular to visit during the day as at night thanks to all the lights.
Universal Studios Singapore
Just because you’re in Singapore to check out its culture and natural beauty doesn’t mean you can’t also throw some theme-park action into the mix. Universal Studios Singapore features more than 20 attractions, including roller coasters and water-themed rides. It’s perfect for families looking for a day of fun and adventure.
Getting to Singapore
A couple of transportation tips for travellers to be aware of: reaching Singapore is quite simple since it is located near so many other top tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. You could even combine Singapore with a trip to other exotic destinations such as Mumbai. Yatra makes it possible to book a Mumbai to Singapore flight ticket at low cost.
Make It What You Want it to Be
Despite its small size, Singapore is able to pack a real punch when it comes to what to see and do, giving you the opportunity to make the trip whatever you want it to be.
The rugged land of South Africa with its incredible diversity brings you back to the most primal forms of nature. Wilderness that runs free, scenery that rises from dramatic backdrops, vineyards, snow-peaked mountains and much more await you.
Quite simply, South Africa is incredible. A country that so effortlessly caters to all types of travelers is on top of almost every traveler’s bucket li list. With its beautiful beaches, enticing safaris, primal jungles, and golden savannahs – South Africa is perfect for everyone. From the adventure seeker to the luxury traveler! Adrenaline-inducing activities? Check. Sipping wine in a vineyard? Check. Following the footsteps of a lion in a savannah? Check! Lazing by a beach? Yup, check too!
Whether you want to jump off a bridge or get lost in Cape Town’s wonderfully colorful streets – there’s always something to do. With the world of adventure at your disposal, it may be quite overwhelming trying to figure out the best time to visit South Africa and that’s completely understandable. South Africa is a piece of this great continent that you can enjoy almost any time of the year.
South Africa is also a year round destination, so no mater when you decide to travel, you’re always bound to find something to do. In this article I will talk about when you will enjoy which SA activity the most; from visiting national parks, to eating, to safaris and etc. Of course, the best time to visit completely depends on what you want to do.
Best Time to Visit
What is the climate like?
South Africa has two main regions – the northern and the southern region, and both have differing weathers. The winter months are different from what you’d be used to if you live in the U.S or Europe, for example, as the winter months are May-August and the summer months are from November to March.
This makes it the ultimate “winter vacation” where you can enjoy hot weather mid-January if you’re looking for an escape from the freezing cold.
In winter:
The winter months are mild and are superb times to fit in some wild-life watching in your schedule. South Africa is known for its incredible game-viewing experiences, from Kruger Park to Kgalagadi. For the best time possible, visit from August to October.
Spring and autumn:
Both seasons enjoy sunny weather, and warm atmospheres, and are great shoulder months to visit in. The crowds are a lot smaller, and the rates are not as expensive as the peak seasons.
Summer:
Of course, there is no doubt that the best time to visit is during the summer. You can watch whales, enjoy the beaches, and do all the activities without having to worry about the weather.
Main Activities and When to go for each.
Best time to go on a safari!
A lot of people go to South Africa for the sole purpose of enjoying some of the best game-viewing experiences in the world. There is something about being surrounded by miles of endless bush, and knowing you’re right there in the wild. The national parks are some of the best in the world, with animals roaming freely, striking backdrops of limitless savannahs and much more.
The best time to go on a safari is definitely during the dry season. This season runs from May to October. The weather is generally and most importantly does not experience any rain. You’ll be met with clear skies, and even clearer game-viewing. This is due to the fact that there’s generally less greenery and bush, so game-spotting is made a lot easier.
You’ll also find that this is not the wet season for South Africa, so you’ll be experiencing more dry weather and more comfortable and convenient safari rides, along with safer driving conditions. There will be less insects, less heat, less rain, and more wildlife to view – an overall win-win situation!
Best time to visit Cape Town
The best thing about Cape Town, South Africa’s most famous and definitely most vibrant city, is that it’s a year-round destination. There are endless things to do and seasons don’t really differ in terms of things you can do.
The best time to go is definitely during November to February. This is the peak tourist season with the best, warmest weather. You’ll have the chance to explore the outdoors, hike up Table Mountain, explore the city on foot, revel in the vibrant colors of the buildings or even go to a beach!
The best thing about Cape Town is that it’s near so many of the other attractions – so you can ether take road trips to wine lands or fly with flysafair to nearby cities.
Needless to say, however, this is also the most expensive season so if you’re trying to save money, try to avoid the peak tourist season.
Best time to visit the wine lands
Apart from South Africa’s ravishing scenery, its natural attractions, its safaris and its bustling towns, the country is blessed with the ultimate wine lands. Bright sunshine coupled with a glass of wine and being surrounded by striking mountain backdrops sounds like a dream – but South Africa is blessed with dozens of those wine lands!
The two best times to visit the pinelands are:
- Between March and May due to the autumn harvest in the southern hemisphere.
- The summer months from November until January.
Visiting in winter may not be as rewarding as you want it to be, as the weather is usually cool and wet.
Best time to for wildflower blooms
You don’t need to be a flower lover or a flora-enthusiast to enjoy the wildflower blooms in South Africa. An almost magical phenomena; you will be able to see an unreal explosion of colors as the blooms roll over vast swaths. The best time to see the sea of colors and the blooming of thousands of flowers is between July and September. The blooms are dependent on rain, however, so make sure you check the weather forecast before you book your trip.
Best time for whale watching
If you want to watch whales in their natural habitat and get enamored with their majestic presence in South Africa, then go in winter or spring.
To watch the southern right whale: go from June to November
For the humpback whale: Go from May to December.
For the Bryde whale: you can go anytime of the year.
If you want to swim with a shark, make sure you go when the water is warm, so time your trip from December to April.
To witness the unbelievable Sardine Run and witness one of the most magical underwater events – go from June to August!
The best thing about South Africa is the fact that it’s a year-round destination with plenty of things to do all year. No matter the time you decide to travel in, you’ll always find something to do. Whether it be diving with sharks or relaxing with a glass of wine – South Africa caters to all your travel needs.
With its stunning beaches, great scenery to bask in, happening nightlife, and milder winters, Cairns, Australia is a well-known haven for visitors both local and abroad. Want a few tips of exactly what you can check out when you’re there? Opt for a Cairns car rental to make this memory worth cherishing by taking a road trip. Here’s a look at what more you can enjoy while traversing through Cairns.
1. Fishing. In Cairns, you can take pleasure in the company of professionals who take fishing very seriously. There are plenty of guides and tours who can tell you all about the environment in these parts and the best places to place your rod. You can try catching a barramundi while here!
2. The Great Barrier Reef. This is the world’s largest coral reef comprising of 3,000 individual reefs and covering an area of 344,400 square kilometers. This is truly an experience of a lifetime that can’t be missed. You can cruise along the waters, snorkel, scuba dive, or simply lounge on the nearby beach.
3. Palm Cove. This is a seaside village that offers tons of aquatic activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, and kayaking. You can also spend some quality time in the 9-hole golf course, which is just a kilometer away from the beach.
4. Botanical Gardens. There is something special about the climate of Australia, and this botanical garden ensures that you get a view of the country’s most unique and exotic tropical plants. You can walk through the tracks and explore how native species of animals and birds make Australia a land of fantasy.
5. Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Experience Australia’s rich cultural heritage that dates back 40,000 years. You can listen to stories, music, and witness beautiful tribal dances, all while roaming around this cultural center.
6. Kuranda Scenic Railway. With its 120 years old railway service, Cairns plays an important role in the modern history of Australia. You can complete a journey on this rail within two hours.
7. Daintree Rainforest. If you’re a nature lover, then you will find trekking up this rainforest irresistible! You’ll not only find abundance of flora and fauna in this region, but also a picturesque view of this country from above.
8. Dolphins and whales. Do you find intelligent, aquatic mammals particularly fascinating and majestic? Then Cairns is the place to be! The Great Barrier Reef happens to be a great escape for these cetaceans as they migrate to Australia from Antarctica and make a splendid sight for tourists and residents alike.
9. Cairns Night Markets. If you’re interested to take a souvenir, then you must pay a visit to these markets with your car rental Cairns service. They are open all throughout the year between 5 and 11pm and offer tons of food options, handmade souvenirs, and family activities.
10. Undara Volcanic National Park. You’ll be surprised to know that only 23 countries have lava tubes – Australia is one of them. This is a perfectly safe trip and you can even spend a night in a tent at this park to add a little extra adventure.
If you’re a night owl on your way to choose from RV rentals San Diego, you will want to check out the Gaslamp Quarter. It’s a fabulous place to let your hair down and enjoy something new. There are many reasons why San Diego visitors make it a point to check out this neighborhood.
If it’s your first time in San Diego and more specifically in the Gaslamp Quarter, we have compiled just a few of the must-do experiences while in town. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, these places and things to do will surely be good use of your time. While many will say that the Gaslamp Quarter is only for the party goers, there is something for everyone in one of San Diego’s favorite spots.
The Best of the Gaslamp Quarter
To help you start planning the perfect trip to San Diego, check out the following ideas for a rewarding Gaslamp Quarter experience:
- Walk down the street and explore the glorious architecture. If you’re a big fan of architecture and more specifically of older buildings, then don’t hesitate to visit this area of San Diego. The Old City Hall is a favorite, as is the Baroque Revival Louis Bank of Commerce. Although really, anywhere you go in the Gaslamp Quarter will bring you back in time. If you’re not into the night scene, this is still a very valid reason to check out the Gaslamp Quarter.
- Visit during one of the many iconic events that take place here. From the Mardi Gras Parade to Comic-Con, there are several events that happen in this area of San Diego, on a yearly basis. If you’re a fan of participating in fun festivities such as the above events, make sure to research dates beforehand. The good news is that not one month goes by without there being some type of fun event happening in the Gaslamp Quarter. Whether work brings you to these parts or you have San Diego on your road trip itinerary, make sure to enjoy some off time at one of the many events.
- Go bar hopping during a night out. This is where the Gaslamp Quarter really shines. The night scene is unlike anywhere else and it is definitely a place for the night owls who love a good party. A good place to get your started is The Shout! House. It’s a place with a fun, lively atmosphere with musicians so talented that they get you enjoying the ambiance and music. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy good drinks and food. Other places that bring in clubgoers in the Gaslamp Quarter are The Tipsy Crow, Whiskey Girl, and Gaslamp Tavern.
- Catch a play at one of the theatres. The Horton Grand Theatre and ArtsTix are two places to get you started. From musicals to heart-grabbing stories, the theatres in the Gaslamp Quarter are excellent places to enjoy time spent stepping out of your reality. If you’re traveling around in RV rentals San Diego, go ahead and park somewhere and enjoy the rest of your day on foot. You can easily get to the theatres in the Gaslamp Quarter on foot.
- Browse the art galleries and museums in the Gaslamp Quarter. Contrary to common opinion, the Gaslamp Quarter isn’t only for the partiers. It’s a perfect spot for the culture buffs who want to enjoy some time browsing the exhibitions and fascinating exhibits to be found at the art galleries and museums in the area. From Sparks Gallery and The Art of Tim Cantor to Michael J. Wolf Fine Arts and The New Children’s Museum, and more, there is plenty to see and experience for the art fanatic visiting San Diego.
As you can see, for those who like to keep busy, there is plenty to see and do in the Gaslamp Quarter. It’s the perfect place for enjoying new experiences, getting to know San Diego’s nightlife vibe, and seeing some of the oldest buildings in town.
It’s a place that you can enjoy on your own or a great spot for celebrating with friends. A sole traveler will have plenty to keep them entertained yet a group of pals will enjoy the sites together.
It’s also the perfect place for planning that perfect date night. From good food to fun bars, art galleries, and theatre, what else do you need to have a good time? Whether you want to treat yourself or someone else to a memorable day, the Gaslamp Quarter is a must-visit neighborhood in San Diego.
If you’re planning on checking out the RV rentals San Diego, make sure to start off your road trip in one of the best locations in the country. The Gaslamp Quarter is worth your time. Entertainment, culture, arts, and fabulous drinks; it’s the perfect place to start off an unforgettable road trip.
Planning for a trip is exciting. You get to choose your lodging, your mode of travel, all the great attractions you’ll see, the restaurants you’ll visit, and the insurance policies you’ll activate.
If you don’t think insurance looks at home in that list, you’re not alone. It is not one of the fun things we think about as we plan a trip, and it’s certainly not one of the things we get excited about. But sometimes the things that are most exciting are the ones that prevent a nightmare, and insurance definitely fits the bill in that area.
Most people assume they’ve got the coverage they need already. They just need to hop in the car and go. But the reality is that there are certain considerations you should make to protect you from a costly and inconvenient experience while you’re on the road.
There are several different types of insurance you should consider before you travel.
Vehicle Insurance
Yes, you should already have liability on your own vehicle, but you might need to make other provisions for the trip. If you plan to rent a vehicle, review the insurance offerings. Remember that you’ll be driving an unfamiliar car–one that belongs to somebody else. The dents and dings that you would tolerate on your own car are unacceptable to the rental company, and they’re expensive to repair. Take the policy they offer.
What about your own car? The first thing you want to do is make sure that your insurance is paid up until at least after your trip. There’s nothing worse than letting it lapse as you drive the country and then having an accident. You’ll also want to review your policy and see if it might be a good time to buy new car insurance that offers a better plan for your circumstances. You might also want to activate comprehensive coverage for the duration of the trip. It will cover repairs you’ll need to complete the trip if you suffer storm damage, hit a deer, or experience other mishaps.
Travel Insurance
It is heartbreaking to book that perfect island getaway only to watch a hurricane churn across the ocean straight toward your destination. You cancel your travel plans and lose your deposit.
You may also lose your luggage while in transit, forcing you to pay tourist-trap prices for essentials. Or you could fall ill while overseas, running up medical bills that your domestic medical insurance won’t cover.
While there are very few vacations that actually meet this fate, the financial impact when it does happen can be painful. We often save up our money for months or even years to take a trip, so it is a significant financial blow when something derails the plans or increases the cost. Getting travel insurance will help you protect yourself financially from these and other disasters. Investigate it before traveling.
Coverage For The Home Front
Vacation is all about getting away, but that doesn’t mean we don’t care about our homes. After all, we’ll probably feel pretty good when we first walk back inside it after the trip.
Before you leave town, review your homeowner’s insurance. Certainly the prospect of a theft or fire is foremost in your mind, but other issues can emerge as well. Do you have enough liability coverage if the housesitter or dog walker gets hurt coming over? Could seasonal threats like wildfires threaten things while you’re gone? Talk with your agent and make sure that he or she knows your situation. You might be able to increase coverage temporarily to provide extra protection during the time that you’re away.
Stress relief is often one of our goals when traveling. Yet sometimes the trip itself can add more stress to our lives. When we are worried about what might go wrong on our trip or even back home, it’s hard to relax and have fun. Getting the right insurance coverage will prevent that worry and make traveling fun for your family.