World Tourism Blog

Last year I actually won a sweepstakes (one of those that no one ever wins) for a trip to the Galapagos Islands. Beyond Darwin, I knew nothing of the archipelago and went only because it was free. However, my week touring this eco-wonder changed my life and perception of ecotourism forever.

The staff and crew of the Lindblad/National Geographic ship Endeavour quickly stepped in to fill the massive knowledge deficiencies I had regarding the Galapagos. Before arriving the only thing I knew was to expect very large turtles and to never, ever touch anything lest it become extinct and bring about the end of the world. Almost immediately though, the biologists onboard began an immersion course into all things Galapagian and we even took a nature hike that first afternoon.

Over the course of several days, my ability to be completely overwhelmed by nature was surpassed by every new experience. Everyone knows that the wildlife on the islands have no fear of humans, but to experience this unique phenomenon in person is quite another thing. To be able to stand inches away from blue-footed booby hatchlings and listen to them cry for their parents etched a sensory memory that can never be erased. This endemic trait does have its drawbacks, more than once an angry pelican tried to take a nip and seeing spitting iguanas crossing the path ahead is certainly an eye opening experience.

At the end of the week, we said our teary eyed goodbyes and took with us memories and experiences to last a lifetime. As I watched the group of islands disappear from the airplane window, I began to think about our responsibility to preserve such natural wonders.

The ability to keep areas such as the Galapagos pristine is a delicate balance between much-needed tourist dollars and limited access. I began to wonder if our presence there is really a benefit or not. Fifty years ago, the Galapagos was an all but forgotten island chain with just a handful of inhabitants. Today more than 20,000 people call this tiny place home and many more visit each year. Following in the wake is the expected pollution and general ecological maelstrom in one of the last untouched biospheres on the planet.

However the presence of these scientists and visitors has also accomplished the impossible. The Charles Darwin Foundation and other notable organizations have brought back several species from the brink of extinction, including the giant tortoise, ensuring their presence for centuries to come. Their research has also allowed biologists to better understand these endemic creatures, which in turn adds to our collective scientific knowledge and abilities.

Ecotourism and sustainable travel are oft used and very trendy travel buzz words, but most of the experiences do little to protect the designated areas. As with all things, there are both good and bad actors. I have encountered organizations, companies and properties that truly “get it” and do offer a sustainable experience. However, I fear that there are many more bad actors who are ruining the utility of the terms for everyone else. These terms are being used everywhere as a way to describe travel to important and delicate natural areas. Unfortunately though these are areas which, because of that very tourism, may very well cease to exist past another generation or two.

By Matt Long

Giant tortoises Galapagos Islands

Take a ferry to a remote island or see Sweden’s answer to Nantucket

For years I’ve flown over Stockholm’s famed archipelago, or glided by it on a big cruise ship heading for Helsinki. Finally, I filmed one of my TV shows here, diving into the 80 miles of scenic islands that stretch out from downtown Stockholm. Locals love to brag that there are 34,000 islands — but they must be counting mossy little rocks, so I don’t use that figure. Ferries serve a hundred of them, providing Stockholmers with the ideal island escape.

The local name for this area is “Skargarden” — literally “garden of skerries,” unforested rocks sticking up from the sea. That stone is granite, carved out and deposited by glaciers. The archipelago closer to Stockholm is rockier, with bigger islands and more trees. Farther out (such as on Sandhamn), the glaciers lingered longer, slowly grinding the granite into sand and creating smaller islands.

One of the joys of an archipelago trip is to grab a perch on the breezy sundeck with the Swedes as they enjoy their island wonderland. Even if your island isn’t an official stop, ferries will dock on request … or to plop down the day’s mail.

Two major companies run public ferries from downtown Stockholm to the archipelago. Waxholmsbolaget’s big ships depart across from Stockholm’s Grand Hotel, at the stop called Stromkajen. The smaller Cinderella Batarna ships — generally faster, more comfortable, and a little pricier than their rival’s — leave from near Stockholm’s Nybroplan. Because the routes and schedules can be confusing, it’s smart to review and confirm your plans in advance, ideally at a tourist information office.

Your archipelago options are endless in this idyllic land-and-seascape. For a quick look, consider one of the many half- or full-day package boat trips from downtown Stockholm. For more flexibility, freedom, and a better dose of the local vacation scene, do it on your own. Overnighting on an island really lets you get away from it all and enjoy the island ambience. Don’t struggle too hard with the “which island?” decision, although nature-lovers might want to travel well beyond the island of Vaxholm, where the scenery gets more striking.

With thousands of islands to choose from, every Swede seems to have his or her favorite. Here are four possible island destinations, listed in order starting from Stockholm and sailing toward Finland:
The self-proclaimed “gateway to the archipelago,” Vaxholm is more developed and less charming than the other islands. Connected by bridge to Stockholm, it’s practically a suburb. But it also has an illustrious history as the anchor of Stockholm’s naval defense network. Its main attraction is its “new” fortress, dating from the mid-19th century, when an older castle was torn down and replaced with this imposing granite behemoth.

The rustic, traffic-free isle of Grinda — half retreat, half resort — combines back-to-nature archipelago remoteness with easy proximity to Stockholm. The island is a tasteful gaggle of hotel buildings idyllically situated amid rustic charm — walking paths, beaches, trees, and slabs of glacier-carved granite sloping into the sea.

The remote and lesser-known isle of Svartso (”Black Island”), a short hop beyond Grinda, is the “Back Door” option of the bunch. Unlike Grinda, Svartso is home to a real community; islanders have their own school and library — but only 80 year-round residents. While the island is less trampled than others (just one B&B and a great restaurant), it is reasonably well-served by ferries. It’s perfect for those who want to slow down and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Out on the distant fringe of the archipelago — the last stop before Finland — sits the proud village of Sandhamn on the island of Sandon. Literally “Sand Harbor,” the town has a long history as an important and posh place — Sweden’s answer to Nantucket. It is an extremely popular stop for boaters — from wealthy yachties to sailboat racers — as well as visitors simply seeking a break from the big city. You’ll find two halves to Sandhamn: In the shadow of the iconic yacht clubhouse is a ritzy resort/party zone throbbing with big-money nautical types. But just a few steps away, around the harbor, is an idyllic old town of colorfully painted, shiplap cottages tucked between tranquil pine groves. While most tourists come here for the resort, the quieter part of Sandhamn holds the real appeal.

No matter which island you plan to explore, the best way to experience the magic of the archipelago is simply stretching out comfortably on the rooftop deck of your ferry. Enjoy the charm of the lovingly painted cabins as you glide by, your lounge chair positioned to catch just the right view and sun, the steady rhythm of the ferries lacing this world together, and people savoring quality time with each other and nature. The journey truly is the destination.

By Rick Steves

With its swanky yacht club, Sandhamn is often regarded as Sweden's answer to Nantucket.

The town of Dillon, Colorado sits at 9,156 above sea level, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains. A weekend vacation in Dillon Colorado is an ideal way to explore the town and surrounding Summit County.

History of Dillon

Dating back to the late 1800’s, Dillon was the site of trading posts and stagecoach stops, serving both the mining community and the ranchers that lived and worked in the nearby valleys. Originally situated near the convergence of the Blue River, Ten Mile Creek and the Snake River, the town was relocated to its present location on the shores of Dillon Reservoir, as a result of construction of the Dillon Dam in 1963.

A small town with only 800 full time residents, Dillon attracts thousands of weekend vacationers due to its proximity to Denver and its numerous recreational activities. With 26 miles of shoreline, Dillon Reservoir boasts two marinas, five camping areas situated around the lake and a bike/pedestrian path that can take the visitor for as many miles as they wish to go.

Dillon Farmers Market

Start your weekend by arriving on a summer Friday morning and enjoy strolling through the Farmers Market, sampling food from local restaurants and viewing the wares of the many vendors, including food, wines and jewelry from local and regional artisans. Take a stroll along the pedestrian/bike path. Enjoy stopping at the several pocket parks to view the lake and mountains, and admire some of the sculptures that have been sponsored by various local residents.

Bike rentals are available for the more adventurous weekend vacationer. The bike paths can take the rider to Keystone in one direction, Breckenridge in another and Vail in another.

Dinner in Dillon

Rest up Friday evening by enjoying dinner at one of the local restaurants (try Pug Ryans or the Arapahoe Café). Before dinner, the Tiki Bar is a favorite spot for enjoying a beverage as the sun sets and the sailboats come in.

Hiking in Summit County

Wake up Saturday morning to the sunrise over the eastern edge of the lake. If hiking is your desire, there are several easy hikes for families with children. The Old Dillon Reservoir is an easy trail, climbing 160 feet to the site where the old reservoir sits in a meadow. Sapphire Point Loop is also a short drive and then a walk with a high point of 9,500 feet with commanding views. Lily Pad Lakes is a 1.6mile hike that makes a good picnic spot. Depending on your fitness, there are more moderate or strenuous hikes that can occupy your entire day. A good guide for descriptions of these hikes is the Summit Hiker by Mary Ellen Gilliland. The author also provides information and tips for the hiker at high altitude.

Shopping Summit County

Shopping and browsing the main streets of nearby Breckenridge, Keystone and Frisco is an excellent way to spend the afternoon as well. Throughout the summer months the visitor will find craft fairs, art fairs, music and other local festivities.

Saturday Night Concerts

Saturday evenings bring concerts to the Dillon outdoor amphitheater throughout the summer weekends. This amphitheater is nestled in the hillside by the lake and enjoying a concert is a great time for the whole family. Dancing is optional!

After Sunday breakfast at one of the local eateries, enjoy a final stroll along the recreation path. Stop at the Marina to watch the boats head out onto the lake for an afternoon sail. Charter a cruise on the lake or take the local ‘ferry’ that shuttles passengers between the marinas of Frisco and Dillon.

Dillon Year Round

As you wrap up your summer weekend vacation, remember that Summit County is also home to four world class ski areas-ready to be explored on a winter weekend getaway.

By Lesley Radocy

Lake Dillon - Lesley Radocy

Johannesburg lies in the heart of South Africa. Tourists have been flocking this fascinating country and it has a multidimensional quality that attracts tourists from all over the world. The older surroundings have been well maintained in conglomeration with the rising needs of modern living. People coexist with history in this city and one has to visit to know what it is. This is more evident in cities like Gauteng.

Nevertheless Johannesburg is a very modern city and since it is the financial capital it holds many attractions and shopping centers in it.

Things to do in Johannesburg

The Saturday flea market is really the most ideal shopping place and if you are looking for that special memento to carry back then this is the place you would find it at a steal deal.

Museum Africa unlike any other museum reveals the utmost African struggle in a critical way and also takes you through the troubled times of the nation. History buffs can spend one whole day in this museum to learn its vast findings.

People with kids should head to the Gold reef City theme park which has the state of the art rides and water theme parks.

What to expect when you visit Johannesburg

Most people come with the mind set that Africa is poverty stricken however you would be sadly mistaken when you visit some wealthy Northern Suburbs of the city. Places like Sandton, Bryanston, Fourways have some of the best restaurants, pubs, discotheques and bars. The slick environment can have you partying sooner than you think. However as a tourist the best way to explore the city is by taking a tour. There is everything here from fossil tours to theme parks and gold digging or shopping. In a nutshell you don’t have to go elsewhere for fun and entertainment when in Johannesburg.

By Besttouristdestinations

Johannesburg

The most popular attraction for visitors of Peru is of course Machu Picchu. This sacred site, completed by high (Sapa) Inca Pachacutec in the early 15th century, was invisible from view from the valley below; this is one of the reasons why the Spanish, during the conquest never discovered it, and also why it remained more or less in a state of hibernation until 1911, when the American archaeologist stumbled upon it.

Contrary to popular myth, Hiram Bingham was not the first person since the fall of the Inca civilization in 1533 to look upon and walk on the grounds of Machu Picchu. In his own autobiography, entitled “Lost City Of The Incas” he openly admits that native farmers were living in, and growing crops in the main plaza.

Sacred Inca Road of Pilgrimage

The route which takes tourists up from the train at Aguas Calientes, also called Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a hair-raising zigzag bus trip. This road was built after Bingham’s discovery of the site.

The road used by the Inca was, in fact, what is now called the Inca trail. It starts from one of two points: km 88 or km 82 from Cuzco on the Urubamba river, approximately 2,800 m altitude. Both of these trail segments meet above the Inca ruins of Patallacta (Llaqtapata); a site used for religious and ceremonial functions, crop production, and housing for soldiers from the nearby hilltop site of Willkaraqay, an ancient pre-Inca site first inhabited around 500 BC.

The actual beginning of this section of the Inca road, at and before the time of the Spanish conquest, was the Plaza de Armas in the center of Cusco. It has now become a major modern road, and leads through the small town of Chincheros, and then down into the Sacred Valley town of Urubamba.

An Ancient Royal Meeting Place

Machu Picchu was probably not, as some suggest, the winter playground or palace for Pachacutec and the Inca royal court. Archaeo-astronomical studies of the layout of the complex reveal that it may well be as old as 5000 years or more.

According to oral tradition, Machu Picchu was most probably the equivalent of the “Camp David” that modern day United States presidents use to meet, in private, with government officials, and foreign dignitaries. It is also suggested that Machu Picchu was a place for the high (Sapa) Inca, and his guests to relax and receive medical and recuperative treatments.

The location of Machu Picchu was therefore a military secret, and its deep precipices and mountains provide excellent natural defenses. The Inca Bridge, an Inca rope bridge, across the Urubamba River in the Pongo de Mainique, provided a secret entrance for the Inca army. Another Inca bridge to the west of Machu Picchu, the tree-trunk bridge, at a location where a gap occurs in the cliff that measures 6 metres (20 ft), could be bridged by two tree trunks. If the trees were removed, it would leave a 570 metres (1,870 ft) fall to the base of the cliffs, also discouraging invaders.

By Brien Foerster

Misty Machu Picchu

Now that Dubai’s glory days are over, it’s a great time to visit.

That sentiment is true enough to guide your travel plans. In a city where $600 per night hotel rooms were once routine, a premium vacation now comes at a nice discount. But once you land in the emirate and start taking in the city there’s a buzz that defies the economic downturn. World-class restaurants are full enough, but will still give you a table at late notice. Hotels abound, at much friendlier rates (a 5-star stay goes for $150-$400 per night). With fewer crowds, service staff are happy to see you, striking just the right deference toward a paying customer.

Here’s what happened: over the past year, while Dubai’s corporate giants downsized and the city stared down payments of roughly $100 billion in debt, a half-built city was largely completed. The over-construction of luxury hotels, swanky apartments, and all-age entertainment meant they all virtually went on sale. The result is that there is now, at last, a way to do a Dubai vacation on the cheap.

That’s especially true in August, when a combination of desert summer heat and the holy month of Ramadan coincide. Travel in the Muslim world slows down, leaving surprising low rates. Just prepare to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours (just keep your consumption indoors - hotel restaurants and many eateries remain open, but draw curtains over the windows). On the other hand, Dubai during Ramadan can give you a great local experience, with lush nighttime tents and lavish buffets that open at sunset.

Choosing your hotel is, in some ways, the fun part – a multitude of luxury resorts, some with enough self-contained entertainment to fill a short vacation. The 5-star Monarch Hotel, which played host to Paris Hilton’s Dubai visit last year, starts at $106 on Expedia . A beachside Westin starts at $162. At the bottom, a Holiday Inn Express in Dubai Internet City, at $36 per night (all prices on Expedia.com). Go to the hotels directly and you can get a rich package deal; the Atlantis Hotel, an entertainment mega-complex, offers deluxe rooms at $243 along with unlimited access to its Aquaventure water park and Lost Chambers aquarium. Otherwise Aquaventure and its competitor, Wild Wadi, cost $54 per adult, with a slight discount if you enter after 3 pm (Aquaventure is running sessions by dark, called ‘Cool Summer Nights,’ charging $40 for access from 7 pm to midnight. Available most Thursdays).

By LARA SETRAKIAN

Now that Dubai's glory days are over, it's a great time to visit.

Spain’s running of the bulls kicks off with no gorings but 2 runners hospitalized.

Thousands of daredevils dashed through Pamplona’s historic old quarter Wednesday for a goring-free first bull run at the San Fermin fiesta, a raucous event that ushers in Spain’s summer party season.

The thrillseekers raced to keep ahead of six fighting bulls and six bell-tinkling steers tasked with trying to keep the beasts together along the 930-yard (850-meter) course from a holding pen to the bull ring in this northern city.

Several runners were knocked to the ground and some were trampled on by the animals weighing more than 1,100 pounds (500 kilograms) but there were no gorings or life-threatening injuries.

An 18-year-old man from Melbourne, Australia, suffered an eye injury and a 20-year old Spaniard suffered multiple contusions, Navarra state government said on its web site. Both were hospitalized but their injuries were not considered serious. They were identified only by their initials.

The 8 a.m. daily run is the highlight of the nine-day street drinking festival, and comes after a full day and night of hard partying.

Dozens of runners, dressed in the festival’s traditional white shirts and pants with red sashes, sang a chant to a statue of San Fermin at the start of the route seconds before a firecracker rocket blast signaled the release of the bulls from the pen.

Waiting on a corner was retired American pilot Peter Rostow, who then dashed about 35 yards (meters) alongside the bulls on a cobblestoned street before taking cover in a doorway, his heart pumping with adrenaline. He drank only water the day before to prepare.

“I know bulls, but they came about a hundred times faster than I thought they would,” said Rostow, 58, of Austin, Texas. “I wasn’t prepared for that, and the intensity of the senses was overwhelming, the smell of the bulls, the sound of them running, and the fear.”

The run, broadcast live on national television, lasted 2 minutes and 45 seconds, a relatively fast sprint that saw the bulls staying together and paying little attention to the runners.

By ALAN CLENDENNING

Revelers run next by Penajara ranch fighting bulls during the San Fermin fiestas on Wednesday, July 7, 2010, in Pamplona, Spain. Thousands of daredevils dashed through Pamplona's historic old quarter Wednesday for a goring-free first bull run at the San Fermin fiesta, a raucous event that ushers in Spain's summer party season.

Brazil is a superb place to visit for that long awaited vacation. The largest country in the South American continent and the fifth largest in the world, Brazil has a lot to offer the global tourist who is always looking for the out of the ordinary. Rio de Janeiro’s beaches and their annual carnival attract people in thousands. Apart from this, Brazil is the best place for nature lovers as the Amazon rainforest exists here ready to enthrall people with its natural wonder. It is a land filled with adventure and excitement, numerous picturesque surroundings like mountains and hills. The Tropic of Capricorn and the Equator pass through Brazil.

Amazonia National Park

The place is one of natural splendor spreading over seven of the 27 states of Brazil. The Rainforest is home to many animals such as the boa constrictor and the jaguar. You can also see the beautiful which is a favorite of scientists. Bird watching, climbing, trekking and boating along the river are some of the things that you can get to do in this wonderful place.

Amazonia National Park - Green Inferno

The Iguassu Falls

The Iguassu Falls are composed of 275 cataracts and is a splendid sight acting as a natural border to the countries of Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina.

The Iguassu Falls

Things to do

The Federative Republic of Brazil is filled with natural resources. Visit Pantanal which is one the world’s greatest wildlife reserves.

Manaus is situated right inside the Amazonian Basin and is a popular destination for tourists wanting an excursion inside the forests.

Visit the city of Salvador situated on the Bay of All Saints. Get the unique experience of walking down narrow cobblestone streets and also visit the Igreja de Sao Francisco which has the inside of the church covered in gold leaf! 17th century antiques are also on display at the Museu de Arte da bahia and Museu de Arte Sacra.

Do visit Sao Paulo, the commercial center of Brazil with huge buildings, pubs and clubs. It is a more modern side to Brazil.

Recife is another place worth visiting in Brazil. It is filled with canals, bridges, museums and churches.

Sao Luis named after Louis XIII of France is one of Brazil’s most beautiful cities. It is a wonderful combination of the Brazilian and African cultures.

How to get there

Going by bus is the best way to reach places in Brazil. In fact, it is the only efficient way of reaching your destination due to the lack of good train and car services. The bicycle is a common means of transport taking you to places where a car or bus may not be able to. For moving around in the Amazon areas, the boat is the only way out and the most recommended means of transport.

By Besttouristdestinations

Welcome to the tiny little village of Huacachina, Peru.  It’s a village that grew up around a oasis, in the desert, and it used to be where rich people would have retreats.  Nowadays, it’s part of the “Gringo Trail” in Peru, and known as a party stop for white people.  I’ve found out why, too!  The whole region is a giant playground!

In the massive sand dunes that surround the oasis, you can hire a driver to take you out in a dune-buggy – an experience much like a roller coaster, except that you could pick your own route, and encourage the driver to go faster or to try to get air.  It was a very unique experience, one I can’t imagine experiencing anywhere else in the world.

After driving around in the dunes for a while, we got to the top of the dune and pulled out the sandboards!  They were actually snowboards but modified so they’d work on sand.  For starters, they don’t have edges, and have modified bindings so you could use your regular shoes.  You can either go down with your board strapped to your feet, snowboard-style, or go down on your belly, tobboggon-style.  Going down on your belly is fast and exhillerating, and so much fun.  Going down on your feet is more difficult, but if you get a chance to get good at it, it’s much more controlled.  It was confusing for me because I snowboard, so I was trying to board like on a  snowboard, but you don’t have as much control with the bindings and sand responds differently than snow.

The best part of the whole experience, hands down, was the fact that you can do it in the blazing sun.  Usually this sort of whizzing down slopes is reserved for cold climates and mountains with snow.  But in Huacachina, you don’t need to worry about hot chocolate breaks!

Huacachina - Peru

Sandboarding

Mexico Drug War Doesn’t Stop Americans From Moving South of the Border.

Bill Engle is outside, sweating in work clothes while he oversees renovations to his colonial house in Mérida, Mexico. It sits on a street dubbed “Gringo Gulch,” a pretty row of baby blue, violet, and mustard facades where expatriates outnumber Mexicans.

“It is not the climate,” says Mr. Engle, explaining why he moved to the Yucatán Peninsula. “It is the people. It is the most welcoming place.”

Americans scared off by violence in Mexico? Not here.

In towns far from the US border such as Mérida, Mexico’s drug wars seem like another world. In fact, according to a recent survey by the International Community Foundation, violence reduced the frequency or duration of trips to Mexico for only 7 percent of American retirees who live or travel frequently to Mexico.

No one knows how many foreign retirees, entrepreneurs, and families relocated to Mérida in recent years, but judging from real estate deals, new members to the English-language library, and observations by locals, it is not a few – nor is it ebbing.

‘As Safe as Seattle’
“I feel more part of a community here and safer or as safe here as I did in Seattle,” says Martha Lindley, a retired chaplain and lawyer who moved here three years ago.

Of 5.25 million Americans living abroad, 1 million are estimated to live south of the border. Some communities, such as San Miguel de Allende (a Heritage Site in central Mexico), seem virtual US suburbs. Mérida is becoming a magnet as transplants rush to buy old mansions and haciendas from the 19th century boom in henequen (a fiber used to make rope).

“I do not feel any violence here,” says Dan Karnes, a retired lawyer from New Orleans who moved here last year. He purchased an 18th-century colonial mansion, last used as a warehouse, and on a recent day was overseeing workers digging a pool foundation and laying an oval courtyard. When done, Mr. Karnes will boast an 18,300-square-foot home.

By SARA MILLER LLANA

Tourists enjoy the beach at the resort city of Cancun, Mexico in this photo taken on June 12, 2009. In towns far from the US border such as Mérida, Mexico's drug wars seem like another world. In fact, according to a recent survey by the International Community Foundation, violence reduced the frequency or duration of trips to Mexico for only 7 percent of American retirees who live or travel frequently to Mexico.