National Parks In The USA You Can Explore From Your Couch

As many people practice social distancing — or staying home and avoiding crowds and public spaces — to help curb the spread of the coronavirus, several museums, and theaters have temporarily closed in the name of public health.

But amid the coronavirus pandemic, many places of leisure and cultural institutions are opening their doors virtually to provide resources, online activities, and tours to give people a fun way to stay entertained and connected to the outside world while they’re spending more time at home.

While the National Parks Service hasn’t closed any of its parks to the public due to the coronavirus at the time of writing, making a special visit to a national park may not be in the cards for many Americans and travelers around the world for the time being. Here’s how to virtually visit at least 8 US national parks — all from the comfort of your couch or bed.

Arches National Park.

It’s no surprise that Arches National Park is one of the top national parks in America: it’s a 73,234-acre wonderland of eroded sandstone fins, towers, ribs, gargoyles, hoodoos, balanced rocks, and, of course, arches northwest of Moab. The park protects an amazing landscape that includes the largest proliferation of arches in the world. Over 2,000 arches have been cataloged in Arches National Park. At sunrise, rays of light break over dramatic horizons. Click here to virtually visit Arches National Park.

Badlands National Park

This striking South Dakota landscape boasts a maze of buttes, canyons, pinnacles and spires. Skeletons of three-toed horses and saber-toothed cats are among the many fossilized species found here. Wildlife abounds in the park’s 244,000 acres and can often be seen while hiking, camping and traveling the Badlands Loop Scenic Byway. Click here to virtually visit Badlands National Park.

Big Bend National Park.

On the border with Mexico, separated by a huge bend in the Rio Grande river, Big Bend National Park is one of Texas’ most impressive natural wonders. Mountains, desert, and the river combine to make this area an outstanding outdoor playground for hikers, campers, canoers, birders, and nature lovers in general. Even if you are just up for a drive through the park, you’ll find interesting sites and scenery along the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, and a quick stop at the Fossil Discovery Exhibit or a soak in the hot springs will make for an outstanding day.Click here to virtually visit Big Bend National Park.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

The curve of the Cuyahoga makes its mark in the woods of Ohio. Step through the trees, away from the city, and immerse yourself in the history of this vast and boundless country USA. Cuyahoga Valley, a national park in Ohio, is very close to Cleveland and Akron and provides recreational opportunities along the Cuyahoga River. Click here to virtually visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Denali National Park.

Larger than the state of New Jersey, Denali National Park and Preserve is a vast wilderness that is mostly untouched by human hands, save for the one park road and a few scattered services. It is known for legendary wildlife and big adventures, from backcountry camping to mountaineering. Even for those who stick to a bus tour of the park road, and its scenic overlooks, wild adventures often await to surprise and delight. Click here to virtually visit Denali National Park.

Everglades National Park

To visit the Everglades is to step into a haven amongst the mangroves, to immerse yourself in the sense of wonder that surrounds you, and to sink deep into the slow, languid pace of life in a swamp. And thanks to National Park Foundation supporters like you, acres upon acres of this mysterious swampland are protected for generations to come. Click here to virtually visit Everglades National Park.

Glacier National Park

“Crown of the Continent” is an apt nickname for this pair of parks, which feature some of the most impressive mountain scenery in North America. Joined together since 1932 as the world’s first international peace park, Glacier National Park in Montana and Watertown Lakes National Park in Alberta offer a contiguous high-country wonderland of rock, ice, water, and wood. Click here to virtually visit Glacier National Park.

Grand Canyon National Park

Imagine the Grand Canyon with no people. Just the psychedelic-colored canyon walls, the wind, and the river silent and milk chocolaty at the bottom of the gorge. That’s how it must have looked to the Native Americans who lived in and around the Grand Canyon 12,000 years ago, and to the Spanish explorers who laid eyes on the rift in the 16th century. Click here to virtually visit Grand Canyon National Park.

Explore these national parks at the comfort of your couch this spring and make memories that surely will last a lifetime.

Traditional Costa Rican Food To Savour During Your Vacation

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There are so many delicious dishes that are a must-try when visiting Costa Rica. Traditional Costa Rican food is definitely a blend of comfort food and grandma’s home cooking with a flavor-bursting Latin flare. In Costa Rica, family-owned and operated small restaurants are called sodas. Sodas, which there are a countless number of throughout the country, is where you are likely to find some of the best varieties of traditional Costa Rican cuisine.

Gallo pinto

You cannot come to Costa Rica without having gallo pinto at least once; though it is highly unlikely that you will be able to resist eating it more. Gallo pinto is traditionally served with breakfast, but can also be served later in the day. Gallo pinto is a slowly blended and married together dish of rice, beans, onions, red peppers, and cilantro. Gallo pinto served with eggs, fried cheese, sweet plantains, and homemade corn tortillas is a breakfast plate you must indulge in.

Chifrijo

Chifrijo is a compact dish that is usually served in bars. It is a bowl of rice and beans topped with fried pork meat or fried pork skins and topped with avocado, pico de gallo, chimichurri, and lime. There are few things that go better with an ice cold Pilsen than a cup of chifrijo. Often this dish is accompanied by homemade tortilla chips or plantain chips. Every bit will make you smile.

Chicharrones

Chicharrones are something you should absolutely try, but maybe only once during your visit. Chicharrones are a very popular snack that are usually served at fiestas, family gatherings, bars, and any other type of celebration in Costa Rica. They are nothing short of scrumptious, but tip the fat and cholesterol scale. Chicharrones are fried pork rinds. It is so well-loved in Costa Rica that there is even an annual Chicharrones Fair in Puriscal to celebrate and serve up mass quantities of the delectable dish.

Patacones

Patacones are made from green plantains. The green plantain is peeled and sliced into quarter- to half-inch thick pieces and quickly boiled on each side. Then, each piece is flattened and fried on both sides until crisp. They are then topped with lime and salt. Sometimes they are served with refried beans on top and avocado, pica de gallo, or shredded cabbage salad. It’s impossible to eat just one.

Sopa negra

Not all places in Costa Rica are hot. In elevated zones or in the Central Valley temperatures can be quite moderate and sometimes even chilly. It is in these places that a bowl of sopa negra will taste its best. Sopa negra is traditional black bean soup. This is also Costa Rica’s answer chicken noodle soup and served when people are sick. Sopa negra is typically served with two hard boiled eggs, a cup of rice, and a side of corn tortillas. A warming dish that is good for the soul.

Casado

A casado — strangely translating as “married man” — is a typical plate of Costa Rican food. While there are all sorts of varieties of this plate, traditionally it includes rice and beans, a salad, fried sweet plantains, and a protein — either fish, chicken, pork, or beef. Some casados will come with a slice of fresh cheese, French fries or grilled vegetables. A casado basically has all the staples of a perfectly balanced meal and is the comida typica (typical food) of Costa Rica. This plate is served for lunch or dinner.

Traditional Costa Rican food to savour during your vacation with XcelTrip] and make memories that last a lifetime.

Visit The Wonderland Of Natural Attractions, Costa Rica

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Costa Rica is a wonderland of natural attractions, with volcanoes, beaches, cloud forests, and unique wildlife. This is a country that appeals as much to birdwatchers and luxury focused travellers as it does to surfers and backpackers. The busy city of San Jose is home to the country’s best museums and lovely squares, but the real treasures lie beyond the capital, in the forests and small coastal villages. Endless stretches of beach line the Pacific Coast, with small towns that cater to surfers and sun seekers. Inland, the forest-covered mountains offer their own adventures, from volcanoes and waterfalls to ziplining and extraordinary wildlife viewing. Costa Rica also has shoreline on the Caribbean. While this is a lesser visited area of the country, it offers something a little different in terms of culture and attractions, and is known in particular as a breeding ground for green sea turtles.

Arenal Volcano

The Arenal Volcano National Park is found in the rugged Cordillera de Tilarán and is one of the top volcano viewing areas in the country. The main attraction in the park is the Arenal Volcano, reaching 1,633 meters. It looks just as one might imagine a volcano; a cone-shaped mountain with huge ash columns streaming from the crater.

Arenal was dormant from 1500 AD until a massive eruption on July 29, 1968, which killed 82 people and destroyed two villages. Since then, it has seen regular activity and, depending on the day or week, visitors can expect to see anything from a cloud of ash to glowing red lava flowing down the mountain.

The Arenal Observatory Lodge, originally a private observatory established in 1987, is the only lodge within the Arenal Volcano National Park boundaries. It is located on a macadamia nut farm on the south side of the volcano. From the lodge, there are excellent views of the volcano and Arenal Lake in the opposite direction. Numerous hiking trails are in the area, some of which lead to waterfalls, as well as old and recent lava flows.

Dominical

Dominical is a tropical backpacker’s haven, with dirt streets, beautiful beaches, cheap accommodation, casual open-air restaurants, and its own unique vibe. Surfers who come here find it hard to leave, and visits often turn into extended stays. But Dominical also attracts an upper-end crowd who can find small luxury inns and bed and breakfasts on the outskirts or in the hills overlooking the town. These places are often set off on their own and allow for close up wildlife viewing, with howler monkeys waking guests in the morning and toucans flying by the pool.

The town’s main claim to fame is a wide stretch of open beach, backed by shady trees, where vendors set up tables and sell crafts and other items to tourists. Outside of town are quieter beaches where it’s possible to find a peaceful space all to oneself. Due to Dominical’s southern location, it is lush and steamy even in the dry season when northern areas are dusty and the trees have dropped their leaves.

Mal Pais and Santa Teresa

Mal Pais on the Nicoya Peninsula, is an area along the coast known for great waves that attract surfers from all over. The town of Santa Teresa is the main hotspot in the area, but a chain of villages and beaches lie along the Mal Pais, including the villages of Mal Pais and Manzanillo. Today, the area is a mix of backpackers, surfers who never managed to leave, and tourists who wish they had planned a longer vacation. The area is more trendy and has more of a scene than places like Dominical, and development in the area has turned it more upscale.

The National Theater in San Jose

Costa Ricans take pride in the National Theater, which is considered to be the most impressive building in San José. In the 1890s, the ruling coffee barons voted for a tax on coffee exports in order to fund the construction of the theater, and European artisans were imported to design the building.

Completed in 1897, the building features a classical Renaissance columned façade topped by statues symbolizing Dance, Music, and Fame. Inside, the pink marble foyer features allegorical figures of Comedy and Tragedy, and painted murals depicting themes in Costa Rican life.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park

The Rincón de la Vieja Volcano is the main attraction in this park. This active volcano last erupted in 2011 and as a result, hiking trails to the summit are no longer open, but there is still hiking in the area with trails leading to waterfalls and hot springs. This park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, with tapirs, sloths, monkeys, and large cats such as the jaguar, puma, and ocelot still inhabiting the park.

Monteverde and the Cloud Forests

The Cloud Forests near Monteverde and Santa Elena have become popular ecotourism destinations within Costa Rica. For those itching to immerse themselves in nature and see unique plants and wildlife without venturing too far off the beaten path, this is definitely the place to come. The clouds that cover these forests provide the moisture necessary to sustain the area’s unique habitats that are only found here. While many people come simply for the bird watching, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve sustain all kinds of mammals, amphibians, and reptiles, from jaguars and pumas to frogs and monkeys. Organized hikes are one of the best ways to see the forest, along with canopy tours that may involve zip-lines or bridges and even cable cars.

Visit The Wonderland Of Natural Attractions, Costa Rica, with XcelTrip and make memories that last a lifetime.

Plan Your Vacations To Beautiful Wineries Around The World

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When you think of the best wineries in the world, you probably think of a winery in France, stretching across rolling hills. Maybe a Spanish-style ranch, surrounded by vineyards in California’s Napa Valley. Or perhaps Marlborough Sound in New Zealand, home to some of the best wine from a cool climate. Whatever your idea, a good winery often comes with a beautiful landscape, so the best wineries in the world aren’t that far from some of the world’s most beautiful places.

Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou, France

Named for the large gem-like stones growing in the winery’s 18th estate, this prestigious French winery is located 25 miles north-west of Bordeaux in the heart of the Haut Médoc region and has been long renowned for its location and grand estate as for its wines. A comparatively small winery, Ducru Beaucaillou was established in the early 18th century and is considered one of the finest vineyards in Bordeaux, and a classic example of French winemaking at its best. While there are dozens of wineries in this region of France, Ducru Beaucaillou is one of the most striking, situated overlooking the Gironde estuary in a castle still inhabited by the winery’s owners it’s a classy old-school example of grand cru-grade winemaking, the culmination of centuries of harvests.

Chard Farm Winery, New Zealand

While many New Zealand wineries could be candidates for the best winery in the world, Chard Farm stands apart for several reasons. Firstly, it is an estate that could be appreciated by any teetotaller. Spread over five vineyards in the Central Otago region, the only part of New Zealand that experiences a continental climate, Chard Farm is a family-run operation that channels the best of the region into their bottles. Their wines are not entered into competitions, instead Chard Farm prefers to experiment, chasing ‘interesting’ rather than ‘special’, an approach matched by their eccentric architecture, their engagement with the Otago community and the deep knowledge of the environment. Chard Farm is the perfect example of a small winery whose produce epitomises a place. In this case a pinot noir worth the 20km drive from Queenstown.

Marques de Riscal, Spain

From integration into a remote New Zealand community to an ostentatious jewel in the Spanish crown. Some wineries will make do with a small functional building as their centre, but not Marques de Riscal. When they decided to build a hotel and function centre for their estate they called in superstar architect Frank O. Gehry who designed a building named The City of Wine. Located in the heart of Spain’s Rioja Alavesa region, Marques de Riscal is best known for Gehry’s architectural clash between the estate’s mid-19th century cellars and his 21st century avant garde design that also houses a Michelin-starred restaurant. While it seems that distractions from wine abound here, the wines have won an inordinate number of medals and few were surprised when Wine Enthusiast magazine awarded Marques de Riscal its Best European Winery award in 2013.

Chateau Montelena, California

No list of the world’s best wineries would be complete without at least one from California’s Napa Valley. Ever since the legendary Judgement of Paris blind tasting competition in 1976 in which the European judges unwittingly named Californian wines as better than the French and inadvertently globalised the world of wine, wineries like Chateau Montelena have been setting the pace for the world to follow. Renowned as one of the oldest and most picturesque of Napa’s wineries, Chateau Montelena offers tours, tastings and cellar door sales in its distinctive Gothic castle chateau with private lake and grounds. An absolute must-see on any Napa Valley visit.

Yarra Yering, Yarra Valley, Australia

Though many of the best wineries in the world are right here in Australia, few cool-climate regions have grown as fast in reputation and significance as Victoria’s Yarra Valley. To find a world-class winery within a day trip of a major city is a rarity. To find one with the reputation of Yarra Yering is even rarer. Though the Yarra Valley is thick with dairies, fruit orchards, breweries and bed and breakfasts, this foodie paradise is best known for its wines, with Yarra Yering one of the most awarded and respected. Established in 1973 by Bailey Carrodus, one of the pioneers of Australian winemaking, Yarra Yering saw Sarah Crowe become the first woman to win winemaker of the year in a perfect example of tradition and breaking trends.

Holden Manz Winery, South Africa

The dark horse of global wine production, South Africa has been producing quality wines since the 1650s but only recently has its production been enough to make inroads internationally where it has been consistently awarded. The Hugenots may have brought their French winemaking traditions to South Africa’s Franschhoek Valley, but the ingenuity and resourcefulness that have lead to the region’s success are purely down to the locals. A visit to a winery like Holden Manz is a perfect accompaniment to the typical African outdoor adventures. Other regions boasting established wine routes, with high-quality restaurants and stunning scenery, include Stellenbosch, Constatia and Overberg.

Mission Hill Winery, Canada

Described as “the centrepiece of the Canadian wine tourism industry” by Travel and Leisure magazine, Mission Hill is as renowned for its dazzling location on British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley as it is for its wines. With five vineyards spread out along the valley, many bordering its glacial lakes, the diverse microclimates and wide range of soil varieties produce an unusually wide variety of grapes. The Okanagan Valley, located inland from Vancouver and just north of the US border, is lined with hiking trails, ski slopes, stunning panoramas and villages with outstanding restaurants. Unlike California’s wineries, the northern latitudes mean that visiting during summer often gives 14 hours of daylight, more than enough time to explore other nearby wineries and the stunning landscape.

Lavaux vineyards, Switzerland

Other wineries on this list may be more productive, they may have better reputations for their wine and they may be easier to reach but no other is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and few would argue that any other has a better location. The Lavaux Vineyards lie along 30km of the shores of Lake Geneva and can be traced back to the 11th century. By a quirk of geography, the winery lies in a pocket of Mediterranean climate meaning the chasselas grapes grow easily and with a distinctive character. This means the visitor experiences a tranquil and uniquely timeless place. Lavaux’s 830 hectares of terraced vines can be accessed by ferry, car or hiking trail.

Visit these top wineries around the world with XcelTrip to make memories that last a lifetime.

Crypto Events To Attend This Quarter

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World Blockchain Conclave, Bangalore, India

World Blockchain Conclave will explore the industries that are set to be disrupted the most by this new technology. It connects global blockchain gurus and technology players in this space including emerging startups with regional businesses, governments, and IT leaders from across key industry verticals. Come learn from the best in the space at World Blockchain Conclave!

Address: DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Bangalore

Sarjapur Main Rd, Amblipura, PWD Quarters, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102

Mallorca Blockchain Days 2020

The Mallorca Blockchain Days will provide the attendees with the opportunity to gain insights relating to The importance of technology, Cryptocurrencies and ICOs: short-term hype or long-term complement to the existing monetary and financial system, Bitcoin’s value proposition, Blockchain in the supply chain, Can we accelerate side chains for privacy and is it still blockchain, etc.

Address: GPRO VALPARAISO PALACE & SPA
C/ Francisco Vidal Sureda 23 07015 | Islas Baleares, Palma de Mallorca | España

Synchronize 2020: DLT, Crypto & Smart Contracts for Financial Institutions

Synchronize 2020 will bring together financial services executives, technologists and innovators who are serious about implementing these technologies and positioning their businesses for the next generation of growth. Delegates of Synchronize will hear from the DLT pioneers in financial services who are leading these game changing projects, network with like minded peers, and identify what opportunities exist to realize the significant efficiency gains in their own business.

Address: 117 West 46th Street
New York, NY 10036
USA

Symposium on Applications, Challenges and Opportunities in Blockchain Technology

The International Conference on Information Technology — New Generations (ITNG) is an annual event focusing on state of the art technologies pertaining to digital information and communications. The applications of advanced information technology to such domains as astronomy, biology, education, geosciences, security and health care are among topics of relevance to ITNG. Visionary ideas, theoretical and experimental results, as well as prototypes, designs, and tools that help the information readily flow to the user are of special interest. Machine Learning, Robotics, High Performance Computing, and Innovative Methods of Computing are examples of related topics. The conference features keynote speakers, the best student award, poster award, service award, a technical open panel, and workshops/exhibits from industry, government and academia.

Address: Tuscany Suites, 255 EAST FLAMINGO RD. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 89169

Internet of Things World 2020

Internet of Things World is North America’s largest IoT event, bringing you the top technologies, strategies, and case studies for the key industries implementing IoT. Over four days, you will meet leaders and innovators from across the IoT community. The ultimate opportunity for you to get out of the office and build valuable connections all in one place. The conference agenda includes keynotes and tracks covering industrial and consumer verticals, and technical focused sessions. Whether you are just starting out or want to scale your IoT projects, there is content designed for you.

Address: San Jose Convention CenterCA, USA

Book your tickets to fly out to the above crypto conferences with XcelTrip, keep your eyes open for discount codes on our website and make memories that last a lifetime.

Concerts that you cannot miss this 2020

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Take a step back, look at how much you’ve accomplished and realize that your workload is never going to end. There is never going to be a time in your life when you can actually be “done” with your work or responsibilities. So take a breather. There are some concerts happening around the world by various artists that you just cannot afford to miss. Be it Metallica or K-Pop, concerts give you an adrenaline rush but leave you feeling nostalgic. They also etch vivid experiences into your memory. Have a look at the events happening around the world this year. Go. You’ll have a good time. Also, bring some of your friends and family along — it’s not like they’re almost “done” with work.

Artist — Metallica

Metallica are an American heavy metal band from LA, California featuring James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo. They are performing an event in Porto Alegre on the 21st April, 2020 at the Arena do Grêmio with a capacity of 60,540 fans. Sit down or stand up and enjoy the music and the spectacle. They put one hell of a show, and not just the music. You are going to join the Metallica family — Be excited. It’s going to be one of the best experiences you’ve ever had.

For tickets: Visit https://www.eventim.com.br/metallica

Artist — Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift on her tour of Werchter Boutique 2020 is performing in Festivalpark, Werchter, Belgium on Saturday, 20 June 2020 12:00. People are known to be on a high after listening to songs they heard growing up. Flashy wristbands, smoke, fireworks and lights are what you can expect in this concert. It is an extremely energetic atmosphere.

For tickets: Visit https://www.viagogo.com/in/Concert-Tickets/Country-and-Folk/Taylor-Swift-Tickets/E-4073723

Artist — Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish is performing at the Chase Center, San Francisco, USA onTuesday, 07 April 2020 19:30. The excitement in the air as people anticipate when Billie would take the stage is something you’ll need to experience. Once the lights go down, you’ll know that you’re in for a treat. With amazing energy and stage presence — her vocals are very impressive. When Billie hits a note — it leaves members of the audience with chills running up and down their arms. Somethings like before playing a new song that has yet been released, Billie asks everyone to put down their phones and just be in the moment. This is a sentiment that this young artist extends to her fans.

For tickets: Visit https://www.viagogo.com/in/Concert-Tickets/Other-Concerts/Billie-Eilish-Tickets/E-4098919

Artist — Khalid

Khalid is doing a Free Spirit — Asia Tour 2020 in Mumbai in the JioGarden, BKC. Multi-platinum selling global superstar Khalid, who was recently named one of Time’s Most Influential People of 2019 is performing in Mumbai this year. The album — Free Spirit, which has been certified platinum by the RIAA, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 and features the multi-format #1 single “Talk”. Catch this vibrant, young artist perform live. Expect mellow vibes and catchy tunes and nothing short of phenomenal.

For tickets: Visit https://in.bookmyshow.com/events/khalid-free-spirit-asia-tour-2020/ET00118958

Artist — Drake

He’s performing at XS Nightclub At Wynn Las Vegas, Nevada, USA on Saturday, 02 May 2020 at 10pm. With his set 44-song playlist — he performs many of his songs but not in entirety. After listening to Drake’s music, listening to him live will be a real treat for you. This is a concert that will leave you nostalgic and also make you reminisce about it for days to come.

For tickets: Visit https://www.viagogo.com/in/Concert-Tickets/Rap-Hip-Hop-Reggae/Drake-Tickets/E-4375224

Artist — BTS

BTS is performing live on Saturday, 25th of April at 7:30 PM in the Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA. The boys glow. They are beautiful inside and out. Their stage presence, charisma, and kindness is so evident and unreal. They speak English throughout and occasionally speak very little Korean. Even at the end of the shoe — they linger as long as they can to show that they really love the audience. This really gives the fans the feeling that they are connected to them wholly and completely in that moment. Do expect a lot of fan-chants. Also — a word of advice would be to wear light, comfortable clothes for this concert and nothing too warm.

For tickets: Visit https://www.ticketcity.com/san-francisco-tickets/levis-stadium-tickets/bts-bangtan-boys-apr-25-2020-3412301.html

Consert hop with XcelTrip and make memories that last a lifetime.

Enjoy Comida Colombiana With Your Bae This Spring

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Colombian food is meaty, flavorsome and filling. Wash it down with a sip of the strong alcoholic spirit aguardiente and crank up the salsa. Here’s our guide to some comida Colombiana(Colombian food) you must try.

Empanadas

The perfect snack to eat on the move, empanadas are much like an English pasty or Jamaican patty. The stuffed pastries can be filled with whatever you like, but popular fillings include meat, chicken or cheese. Empanadas are eaten all over Latin America, but the distinctive aspect about Colombian empanadas is that they’re almost always deep-fried.

Almuerzo corriente

Colombians know how to do lunch. Almuerzo corriente is a kind of power lunch. With a soup to start followed by a big main, invariably consisting of rice, meat or fish, some kind of lentil and a little salad on the side, the Colombian version of this midday meal is an absolute must-try.

Fritanga

Fritanga is a wonderful mix of fried offal. While it doesn’t sound delicious, and it is most certainly an acquired taste, fritangais a great way to try out bits of meat you wouldn’t normally eat.

Sancocho

Many Colombian dishes are based around the concept of making a meal out of basic ingredients. A great way to get the most flavor out of tougher cuts of meat is to cook them for a long time in soups and stews. The traditional Colombian stew is called sancocho. Chicken, pork and beef sancochos are all delicious, but for a real hearty dish, opt for mondongo — tripe soup.

Chuzo desgranado

Chuzo desgranado is the ultimate post-party snack, often served in 24-hour cafes that fill up once the clubs close. The dish is a mixture of sausage, chicken, beef and pork, served on a bed of lettuce. It’s topped with sweetcorn and crisps along with a triple hit of salsa — tartare, burger sauce and pineapple. This meal won’t win any health prices however, visitors should at least try it once, and they’ll see why it’s so popular.

Chocolate con queso

Chocolate con queso translates as chocolate and cheese. Cheese dipped in hot chocolate might not be your go-to meal but Colombians love it. Particularly popular in the capital, Bogotá, chocolatecon queso is either eaten for breakfast or at around 4 pm, as an afternoon snack. The hot chocolate and stringy, melted cheese are a surprisingly good combination.

Enjoy Comida Colombiana With Your Bae This Spring with XcelTrip to make memories that last a lifetime.

Tips For A Perfect Balinese Vacation

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From navigating the crowds to being monkey-savvy, there are a few tricks to getting the best out of a trip to Bali. We’ve rounded up 6 tips for a perfect vacation at the Island of the Gods.

Respect religious customs

Religion rules the roost in Bali. Don’t get your knickers in a knot when a street is blocked off for a ceremony or your driver pulls over mid-trip to make a blessing — this is all part of the magic of the island. Plan accordingly if your travel dates fall on Nyepi when everything in Bali (even the airport) shuts down for the day, and always dress modestly (covering the shoulders and knees) and conduct yourself appropriately when visiting temples and holy sites.

Don’t fret about ‘Bali belly’

Strict dietary habits are no longer required to prevent spending your Bali break within two steps of a toilet. Once upon a time, salads, cut fruit, ice cubes and most meats were on the danger list, but hygiene standards have improved markedly across the island, and many kitchens offer good quality organic produce. While dodgy prawns will always be out there, by staying hydrated, avoiding notorious local liquor arak and consuming street food with a degree of caution, the dreaded Bali belly should be kept at bay.

Expect crowds

One of the most touristed islands on earth, Bali isn’t exactly an untouched paradise. But while it can be difficult to escape the throngs in southern Bali and Ubud, determined solitude seekers will be pleased to find loads of secluded corners beyond these primary tourist centres. Tip: head to the central mountains, or Bali’s more chilled-out north and west coasts.

Prepare for a mixed bag of price tags

It’s still possible to visit Bali on a shoestring by staying in guesthouses, dining at warungs and shopping at local markets, but you can just as easily blow your life savings as drinks, meals, spa treatments and room rates at high-end establishments are priced similarly to that in Australia, the UK and the US. Look out for online discounts and happy hour deals to keep your bank balance happy.

Choose your base carefully

It pays to put some thought into your Bali base, as chaotic traffic and hot weather are likely to make you stick close to your hotel or guesthouse rather than wander far on foot or sit in stuffy taxis. If you’re looking for real R&R, Kuta probably isn’t your thing. If you want to shop up a storm and eat more than your body weight in fine food, a week on Nusa Lembongan isn’t likely to leave you fully satiated.

Avoid plastic water bottles

Bali’s heat and humidity call for constant hydration, but consider the environment before purchasing another bottled drink. An estimated three million plastic bottles are discarded in Bali each month; help reduce this figure by investing in a stainless-steel bottle that you can refill; most good cafes and restaurants have a water filter available that you can use for free or for a small fee. Earth Café in Seminyak has stainless steel bottles available for purchase.

Use the above tips for a perfect Balinese vacation with XcelTrip to make memories that last a lifetime.

A Solo Adventure Trip To Hawaii

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Hawaii is one of those places that’s a bit tough to get around if you’re flying solo. If you use a bit of creativity however, it can be an even more magical experience than going with anyone else. Here are our picks for must try adventure sports and we’ve also added a few places to relax between your adventure schedule:

Learn How To Surf

The cozy town of Kihei on Maui has long been recognized as a tourist hot spot for family travel, but solo travelers can make the most of their trip here too. Venture into the water with some of the best beginner waves in all of Hawaii. Maui Wave Riders give expert advice and lessons to help you ease into the sport. Joe, the valet, reminded me that the hardest part of surfing is in your head. “Surfing is about letting go and just getting out there and showing up.”

Hike Maui

Waterfalls, lush rainforests, and volcanic craters…Maui offers some of Hawaii’s best hiking trails. Hiking with a naturalist from Hike Maui can help you get even more out of your trip. Traveling the trails with a group will help you feel safe and see private trails.

Visit the House of Joy

When I heard there was a house of joy in Kauai, I had to visit. The concept incorporates the healing properties of Hawaiian indigenous plants and the essence of this island in a healing wellness centers. Located in the Halele’a Spa at the St Regis in Princeville, this healing center uses traditional Hawaiian medicine that incorporates both botanical and ocean related resource found in the Ahupua’a and uses locally farmed lavender to aid in the healing process for many of the treatments.

Snorkel Molokini & Whale Watch

Molokini is a wildlife protected zone off the coast of Maui which is home to more than 250 species of fish! You can only access it by boat, but making the most of this trip should include a whale watching tour. Maui is a prime spot to catch sight of migrating humpback whales, and for a good time the Pacific Whale Foundation, a non-profit organization that protects our oceans will educate you about the sea creatures you come in contact with during their amazing tours.

Sail the Na Pali Coast

A trip to Kauai would be incomplete without a venture into the fifteen-mile stretch of rugged coastline on the northwest shore, which literally means “the Cliffs.” As a single gal, I felt safe and had a blast cruising with the friendly crew of Captain Andy’s. Much of the Na Pali Coast is inaccessible due to its sheer cliffs that drop straight down thousands of feet into the ocean, so the only way to experience these immaculate hot spots is by boat.

Experience Taurumi Healing

Healing modalities have been an integral part of the Pacific cultures for generations, but up until a year ago, there was no spa in the United States that practiced traditional Tahitian Massages. That is until Kamala Nayelo, the director of the Spa Halekulani at the luxury Halekulani Resort in Oahu, Hawaii created this unique ritual for their guests. Originating in Tahiti, this unique method is a deeply spiritual and therapeutic practice inherited from the practitioner’s Polynesian ancestors.

Take a solo adventure trip to Hawaii with XcelTrip and make memories that last a lifetime.

A Weekend Getaway To Budapest

The city successfully mixes its fascinating history with a brilliant, laid-back contemporary artistic style. There are a wide range of different things for visitors to see and do, from museums to thermal spas, so everyone should be able to find something that tickles their fancy. Let’s explore what the city has to offer for a weekend getaway (Friday- Sunday):

House of Terror

The House of Terror holds exhibitions about the successive Fascist and Communist regimes which ruled Hungary during the 20th Century. The building itself was the former headquarters of the Fascist Arrow Cross party, and the building was subsequently used as a prison and torture venue by the State Security services of Hungary.

There is the opportunity to tour some of the prison areas in the basement. The exhibition includes information about both regimes, as well as testimonials from some of the victims. As well as exhibitions about the fascist and communist “security services”, the building often houses other temporary exhibitions.

Hungarian State Opera House

This Neo-Renaissance building was first opened in 1884, following a commission from Emperor Franz Joseph. Outside of the building, you can see statues to Ferenc Erkel (composer of the Hungarian National Anthem) and Ferenc Liszt (Hungarian composer).

The 1200 seat auditorium is considered to be one of the best in the world for operatic performances, and it is well worth it to buy a ticket to a show.

Ticket prices start from as low as 500ft. If you cannot find time to see a show, guided tours of the Opera House are available during the day, although these usually need to be booked in advance.

Invisible Exhibition

The Invisible Exhibition aims to give visitors the chance to experience what life is like for people who are completely blind. A registered blind guide will take you on a tour through various different artificially created environments (garden, supermarket, bar etc) which are in completely dark rooms.

On arrival, you will be asked to turn off any potential light sources, such as mobile phones or digital watches, so that there will be no light at all in the rooms. After the exhibition, you can enjoy dinner in the dark, served by blind waiters, who will help you to find your way around your dinner plate.

Danube Promenade

This stretch of the Danube walkway goes from the Elizabeth Bridge to the Chain Bridge, and is perfect for those who want a short, but interesting walk. Promenading along the Danube is a great way to see many of the most famous sights in the capital.

Looking over towards the Buda side of the river, you will see the Buda Castle, the Liberty Statue on Gellert Hill and the Fisherman’s Bastion. On the Promenade side of the river you can enjoy restaurants, cafes, Szechenyi Istvan Square and a range of different sculptures, including the Little Princess.

Gellért Baths

One of the grandest spas in the city is the Gellert Bath and Spa centre, which includes an open-air pool (which turns into a wave pool), an effervescent swimming pool, a Finnish sauna, and a range of other saunas and plunge pools.

Massages and other spa treatments are also available at an extra fee. The complex was originally built between 1912 and 1918 in an Art Nouveau style, but it sustained serious damage during World War II. The whole spa was extensively renovated in 2008 to bring the baths back to their former glory. The baths are open all week for mixed bathing.

St. Stephen’s Basilica

This basilica is one of the most important religious buildings in Hungary, and visitors to the reliquary can see the (reported) right hand of Stephen, first King of Hungary. As this is a holy site, visitors who plan on entering the church are asked to keep their knees and shoulders covered.

Those with a head for heights can travel up to the base of the dome and look out over the city. On a clear day, this is a great vantage point from which to survey Budapest from the air. Classical music concerts and organ concerts regularly take place inside the Basilica, and sometimes spill out into the square outside.

Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building, which was designed and built in the Gothic Revival style, is one of the largest buildings in Hungary, and is home to hundreds of parliamentary offices. Although the impressive building looks fantastic from every angle, to see the whole building in its full glory, it is worth viewing it from the other side of the Danube.

Tours of certain areas of the building are available daily, and run in different languages. You will need identification to get in, and your bag may be searched on entry.

Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square (Hosök tere), which marks the end of Andrássy Avenue is home to an iconic monument which features depictions of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars, who are believed to have led the Hungarian people from central Asia to the Carpathian basin.

Atop the central pillar is the Archangel Gabriel, who is holding the Hungarian crown. On either side of the central column are two matching colonnades, which depict a variety of other historical Hungarian figures. The impressive buildings on either side of the square are art galleries. Take care when crossing to the statue, because traffic around the monument can be erratic.

Plan your weekend getaway to Budapest with XcelTrip and make memories that last a lifetime.