Travel

Do you want to soak, steam, and rest in a relaxing hot spring where you can enjoy it at the same time? I got you covered! Calistoga is well-known for its hot springs, sparkling mineral pools, and mud baths. If you want to relax here and have no place to stay, check out Calistoga vacation rentals for a better experience. Let yourself be transfixed by the natural splendor of the Napa Valley Wine Country, which is ideally situated in Upper Napa Valley’s quaint downtown Calistoga and provides a peaceful haven for all visitors. Let us have a splash and discover springs you must visit in Calistoga.

• UpValley Inn & Hot Springs

Since 1862, Calistoga, California, has been famous as a sought-after wellness destination and is best known for its tranquil vacations in the Napa Valley wine region. The town now offers a new boutique hotel with soothing natural hot springs and local hospitality. UpValley Inn & Hot Springs provides visitors with an opulent, cozy, and friendly home base for everything from rejuvenating hot springs to countless outdoor activities and Napa Valley vineyards. UpValley Inn & Hot Springs is the ideal “upvalley” escape, only a convenient 90-minute drive from San Francisco. It features a swimming pool and whirlpool with 100% natural geothermal mineral water, new steam rooms, a dry sauna, and all-new “rustic-meets-modern” remodeled public areas and guestrooms. Come and enjoy it all.

• Golden Haven Hot Springs Resort

The Golden Haven has 28 rooms and natural hot springs pools for soaking and is situated on a quiet side street just outside of downtown Calistoga. Its distinguishing feature is the opulent mud bath treatments offered at the resort, including a mineral bath and a flannel wrap for cooling. The indoor natural hot spring pool on the property has water that varies in temperature from 85 to 88 degrees depending on the time of year. Two hot spring jacuzzis with 98 and 104 degrees temperatures are also located in the pool area. Some rooms have jacuzzis with mineral water piped directly if you prefer to soak in privacy. Overall, the resort is cozy, spotless, efficiently run, and has excellent amenities at a very reasonable price.

• Calistoga Motor and Lodge Spa

Inn and spa called the Calistoga Motor Lodge is a grand ode to the spirit of exploration and the Great American Road Trip of the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. It is situated about 40 picturesque minutes north of the City of Napa and 75 scenic miles from San Francisco. It’s anything but conventional, whether it’s a tranquil mineral bath or a backroads wine region. Our chic Mid-Century Modern residences, surrounded by vineyards and biking paths, the perfect home base from which to find their next big adventure, are the best place to start. The Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa is ideally situated at the beginning of the Silverado Trail, in the center of California’s picturesque wine region. It offers 51 camper guest rooms and 12-view guest rooms, two mineral pools, a mineral hot tub, a full-service spa, and a restaurant. At the Calistoga Motor Lodge, a hotel is more than just a place to sleep, and the ideal way to live is to play, soak, eat, drink, go to the spa, explore, sleep, and then repeat.

• Calistoga Spa Hot Springs

The geothermal hot springs resort Calistoga Spa Hot Springs recently finished an enormous remodeling project that completely changed a place that has been luring repeat visitors for generations. The 56-room hotel and spa in downtown Calistoga had a thorough remodel with a look and feel contemporary lodges influenced that. All areas of the resort were renovated over 18 months, including the bedrooms, which now feature bedding inspired by spas, showers with honed Italian porcelain tiles, kitchenettes with microwaves, and contemporary comforts like full-HD LED televisions. The four geothermal heated mineral pools are the main focus of the remodeling. Travertine tiles, new pool furniture with designer-inspired details, and arbors covered in grapes were all added to the pool deck.

• Spa Solage

The core of the Solage Napa Valley Resort experience is health and wellness. Spa Solage, which was thoughtfully created and is environmentally sensitive, provides calming and energizing services and modern takes on the well-known Calistoga mud and mineral water therapies. The Solage offers a top-notch, all-inclusive luxury resort experience interwoven with Napa’s gastronomic and wellness culture. The 89 rooms at this resort provide lovely yet opulent suites and studio accommodations. Take a plunge in the hot spring-fed pool while you’re there, dine on the chef-driven farm-to-table fare at the Solbar restaurant, and relax at the award-winning spa.

 

There is one thing that travellers often regret and that is not packing a decent set of clothes in their luggage. There will always come a time when a nice suit or dress pants are needed for the fellas or an event calls for a lovely dress for the ladies. The beauty of traveling is experiencing these kinds of things along that way. Whether it is an invite to a local celebration or attending a fancy dinner with new friends, these are the kind of events where you will be grateful for bringing that nicer outfit along with you.

Pack lightly, but pack well

There is nothing like your own choice of clothes from your home country but, understandably, people don’t always want to pack a full wardrobe selection. There are key items that you can carry with you that will make dressing up on the go that much easier. For women, a summer dress is a small and lightweight item and one that you can find in a material that won’t hold too many wrinkles. For men, it might be a little more difficult. Packing a full suit isn’t always an option, especially if you are travelling with a backpack. Lightweight dress trousers can usually fit well at the bottom of your luggage and can be paired with a nice shirt that you carry or even something that you pick up locally to suit the occasion. It is imperative to look your best at these events so be sure to choose your clothes carefully.

Travel plans that constitute a nice outfit

If you are heading to Australia during the spring there are plenty of things to see and do, especially in Melbourne. This happens to be the time of the coveted Spring Racing Carnival and it encompasses all the glitz and glamour one can expect from the world of horse racing but you can’t just turn up to the Melbourne Cup wearing shorts and a t-shirt. A nice outfit will see you weighing in on the Victoria Derby odds, just like a local.

If you are an art lover, then your travel plans may include visiting several galleries along the way. Though most art galleries don’t have a dress code, you might find yourself lucky enough to be invited to the opening of a new gallery or art exhibition during your stay which requires a more refined look. The beauty of traveling is that anything is possible and with a nice outfit neatly stashed in your suitcase, you can be ready for any kind of occasion.

Taking care of your clothes on the road

It is understandable that if you are traveling long-term, creases in your clothes are somewhat inevitable. Be sure to check with the front desk of your accommodation for laundromats and dry cleaners in the area that can cater to your needs. If you are staying in a hotel or guesthouse is it good to see if management can assist you by providing an iron and ironing board, to make sure you look your best on the day.

You never know what the road will bring you and as you move through each country, you will continue to be exposed to a variety of people. There is nothing more fun than taking up a last-minute invitation and when you’ve got the outfit ready to go, there is nothing more you need to think about.

 

What does a place look like when nature decides to bless it generously? Perhaps it looks like the Bahamas. The country has more than 700 islands spread out over 800 kilometers in the Atlantic Ocean. Out of these, only 30 are inhabited. About 50% of its GDP comes from the tourism industry, which shows its popularity with travelers. For honeymooners, it is the top choice since every corner seems to exude a romantic vibe. Expect turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches, picturesque sunsets, delicious seafood, amusement parks, yachting, and water sports during your Bahamas honeymoon. Here are some other top activities you can try out during your romantic vacation.

Explore Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas

Nassau is a hot favorite with romantic couples because of the vast experiences on offer. You can stay in world-class resorts that boast swimming pools, marinas, casinos, access to private islands, nightlife, and exquisite dining. One of these, the Atlantis, has the world’s largest marine habitat and a gigantic Aquaventure water park. Sightseeing options include the Queen’s 66 steps, Christ Church Cathedral, the Retreat gardens, and the Pompey Museum. Go shark diving in Shark Buoy, blue hole diving in The Lost Blue, explore its unique art at National Art Gallery and have a fun day at beaches like Cape Santa Maria, Cabbage, Orange Hill, and Iron Barge.

Soak in its Culture

During your romantic vacation in the Bahamas, explore its culture. Find out why the Androsia Batik is called the unofficial fabric of the Bahamas and its handmade process on Androsia Island. Go to Arawak Cay to gorge on seafood delicacies like grilled shrimp, fried snapper, lobster tails, and the conch, the national food of the Bahamas. If you plan your honeymoon in December (after Christmas) and January (New Year’s Day), you could attend the Junkanoo festival that celebrates Bahamian culture and is marked by a parade comprising colorful costumes, music, and dance. At downtown Nassau, explore the murals, museums, monuments, and bay street artists. At the island of Eleuthera, meet Lady Di, famously known as the Pineapple Field Lady, and find out what makes her pineapples so unique.

Go Swimming with the Pigs

That is if you and your partner agree to it. How often do you come across things like this? Make your way toward Pig Beach, located on Big Major Cay in the district of Exuma. The pigs do not belong to the island, and how they got there is also a matter of speculation. Some say they came from a shipwreck. Others say that some sailors left them behind. There are about twenty friendly pigs and piglets that are a favorite with tourists of all kinds. You can swim with them and even click a selfie.

The Raw Beauty of the Bahamas in Long Island

At Long Island, you and your loved one will get to see the Bahamas at its purest. Stay at boutique beachfront inns, family-owned villas, and resorts where you wake up to the sound of waves and breathtaking views of the horizon. Go sightseeing at Columbus Point and Twin Churches. Take a boat ride from Long Island to Conception Island National Park, with its protected cove and where you can swim across stag-horn corals, one of the most important in the Caribbean. In June, if you find yourself here, enjoy the Long Island Regatta, a competition with traditional Bahamian boats. Hamilton’s Cave, an ancient cave system with 10 feet ceilings and passages 50 feet wide, is another attraction you should not miss.

These are some things that will make your Bahamas honeymoon exciting, adventurous, unique, and memorable. Honeymoon is as much about fun as it is about romance, and the Bahamas offers you plenty of both.

 

San Francisco is a thriving cultural, financial, and commercial center of Northern California. From the modern city square, Victorian architecture to scenic beauty, the city has a lot to offer.

A private tour provides you with an expert, local guide. The best part of such tours is that you get to customize your trip according to your interests. While your private tour guide prepares the best itinerary for you, it takes some planning from your side as well.

Read on to know how to plan a San Francisco private tour to get the best experience.

Places to Visit

The San Francisco Travel Association states that 26.2 million people visited this vibrant city in 2019. With so many places to visit here, make sure to do some research. You can pick the places that pique your interest the most.

The magnificent Golden Gate Bridge is a popular destination. You can bike or drive across it. Another excellent method to explore it is by waking with your private tour guide. A ferry trip to Alcatraz Island to see the former military fortification can take you down its history.

Appreciate the splendid Roman-style architecture of the Palace of Fine Arts. Design your tour in a way that leaves you enough room to admire each destination as much as you desire.

Things to Do

A private tour is flexible. You can curate it according to the things you would like to try. If you are in a mood for some mild adventure, include hiking in your itinerary. The Golden Gate Park has many walking and hiking trails. You can spend quality time amidst scenic nature.

A cable car ride can slowly lounge through the city. You can try this unique experience. Make sure to incorporate the activities you find interesting. Go shopping at UniSquare, San Francisco’s shopping epicenter. Or enjoy the view from the Twin Peaks.

Your private guide will also give you some recommendations. Discuss with them beforehand to zero in on the best activities for you.

Place to Stay

The hotel occupancy rate by tourists in San Francisco has been increasing ever since 2001. It is essential to discuss your accommodation options with your private tour guide. They may be able to give you some good recommendations according to your budget. Proximity to the places you are going to visit is another factor to consider.

Hotel accommodations can be expensive. It also depends on the amenities you receive. You can opt for local hostels if you want an affordable stay option. Each neighborhood exudes its charm.

What to Eat and Drink?

San Francisco offers a wide variety of cuisines. Your private guide can offer you a list of some of the best diners and restaurants. Select the ones that appeal to your palate. However, do not forget to get adventurous and try some new dishes.

You can explore the radiance of San Francisco with a personalized tour. Clam chowder with a sourdough bread bowl is a favorite of many tourists. You can also visit North Beach for a classic dinner. Or head to the smoky dive bars for fresh appetizers and wine.

A San Francisco private tour allows you to explore this vibrant city at your pace. Plan ahead with your private tour guide and design your itinerary in a way that gives you the best San Francisco experience.

 

I often see conflicting reports when it comes to Mexico City, a fascinating place which offers a wide range of experiences to those who come here. Having lived here for just over 5 years now I can say that I have seen pretty much all sides of the place, and that is why I wanted to offer something of a more honest breakdown, based on what many people say about the place. Is this paradise? No, it’s a bustling city with plenty to offer, and it does take a certain type of person to live here. For me however, it is one of the coolest cities on Earth, and here is a more truthful look at the place.

The Food Makes You Sick

One of the first things that people say to me when they come here is that the street food makes them sick, some even say the same about the restaurant meals. My take on it is that yes, foreigners do struggle with the food here, be it on the street or in restaurants. In some cases this is down to poor hygiene, in most cases however it is because of the growing conditions. Different soil, different plant treatments and different ways of raising all contribute towards an upset stomach. My advice is to eat at places with good reputations and not to try all new foods at once. Ease yourself in.

Narcos Everywhere

If you have been watching the Netflix special Narcos then you may very well believe that narco violence takes place across the capital. There is no doubt that there is a lot of money here from drug trafficking and to suggest there is no activity here would be like saying there is no mafia activity in New York. The reality is however, we don’t see any of it, there are no street shoot outs, and there are very few events which take place that you would ever notice.

Get Mugged

Many of my friends who grew up in Mexico have stories about getting mugged and assaulted, it happens here just as it does in any big city. For my part however, I have been here for 5 years and never even had a wrong look. I think much of it comes down to just being street smart and knowing where you should and shouldn’t be at certain times.

Always Earthquakes

The first quake which I had here back in 2017 was a pretty scary experience, and following that we had a series of mini-quakes too which were no joke. After that first one however I was talking to my friend here Rose Burillo, and she was saying how there hadn’t been an earthquake for many years before 2017. Since 2019 I cannot remember a single one, not even a small one, and the reality is that whilst it can happen, this is not something which takes place every day. Furthermore, it is important to know that the earthquakes actually don’t hit the city, generally, and that is why they have an alarm which gives you about a minute to 90 seconds to get to safety.

Any more questions you have, feel free to write them in the comments below.

 

Traveling in style is as simple as planning. No matter where your destination, you can travel in style with a little prep work and some research before leaving for your trip. If you’ve got the travel bug and want to settle your wanderlust in style, read on.

Plan to commemorate your trip.

Before you step out your front door, pick up a travel book or journal. If you love taking photos, think about picking up a scrapbook or one of the best photo books out there too. You’ll want to document your trip from beginning to end and might be surprised at how many things you come across while planning y our trip that will work as travel journal embellishments. This photo book will make the perfect keepsake, too.

Whether you’re a professional photographer, digital photographer, or prefer readily available, basic clip art google photos of your favorite destinations, a great way to commemorate any trip is to capture it in style. Sure, an iPhone will work for capturing snapshots and selfies for family and friends but walking away with a custom photo book for your trip will be all the more stylish and help keep those memories fresh too.

Research destinations ahead.

If style’s what you’re going for, but your destination involves camping in a place like Zion national park, fear not. There are ways to camp and sleep under the stars that give class and luxury living a nod. Often known as glamping, glamorous camping has become popular with crowds who love adventure like exploring Kolob Canyons but want to sleep with the comforts of home. By planning, you can make this happen too.

Whether traveling in a rented RV or flying and staying in the Zion Lodge, the best way to know your adventures will be in high-quality style is to do your research. Great photographs of canyons, ledges, hot springs, and more are temping. But consider giving that ranch by the waterfalls a call to find out the specifics before booking your next glamper vacation. You’ll want to ask about bathrooms, food, water, and other accommodations if considering traveling somewhere more rustic like a national park.

If you plan to visit Las Vegas, the same thing applies. While five-star hotels hosting casinos are the norm, smaller motels along the strip can be deceiving. Remember, you get what you pay for, and if you want to travel in style, your best bet is to do the research and read reviews.

Pack with style.

One of the best ways to travel in style is to pack that way. From clothing, you can layer to costume statement jewelry pieces, take as much time with packing as you do your destination research. Think about bringing clothing in neutral colors, which will give you more style options depending on if you’re heading out for a waterfall picnic by day or to a dance club at night. Don’t forget to pack your camera too. Street photography in the places you come across can be quite stylish, too, and will make great additions to that travel blog, travel journal, or vlog thumbnail.

Consider alternative accommodations.

Part of style is standing out from the cloud. Think about your favorite images online. Backgrounds matter. It’s likely most aren’t in the fanciest hotels, but instead, on the edges of rivers, mountains, or other stunning spots. When planning your trip, keep your mind open to alternative accommodations that will not only give you something to brag about but make your trip stand out too. A cute Airbnb tiny house, a converted RV, a bungalow, or a cabin could be exactly right for you.

In the end, the work you do ahead will make for a better. Whether the plan is to post your unique memories all over social media or in a travel blog or vlog, you can travel in style if you do your homework ahead. Happy, stylish travels to you.