20 Amazing Places To Visit In 2020 With KAU

With 2020 just around the corner, the lists of “20 in 2020’s” are becoming a trend and for those that love travelling here is a list of 20 amazing places to visit in 2020. If you are wondering how you could cover all these places, invest in a cryptocurrency that allows you to travel in the lap of luxury. The best crypto to invest in is the KAU, a Gold backed cryptocurrency that eliminates storage fees for physical gold bullion, in addition to offering holders a unique fee-sharing yield model that adds an extra layer of value to gold holders in the form of monthly payments. You can use this investment on the XcelTrip platform to book your travels and make memories that last a lifetime.

Now that we’ve made sure that the finances of the travels are sorted here are 20 amazing places to visit in 2020:

Armenia

Armeniais on its way to being one of next year’s most talked-about destinations, and there’s more to the tiny Caucasus nation than what makes the nightly news (or Kim Kardashian’s semi-regular visits). Ryanair will begin flying to Armenia in 2020, marking the first time a low-cost airline has serviced the country and ringing in a new era for travel there. The routes will debut with Rome to Yerevan and Milan to Yerevan in January, followed by Memmingen to Gyumri and Berlin to Yerevan the following summer. One-way tickets start at $33, making Armenia a budget-friendly — and blissfully offbeat — add-on to your next trip to Europe.

Bahia, Brazil

Brazil has had a momentous year when it comes to travel. The country has dropped its visa requirements for U.S. citizens. New flight routes have added better connections to Brazilian cities like São Paulo and Salvador from hubs throughout North and South America.

Salvador is the main gateway into the northeast state of Bahia — a region with a rich Afro-Brazilian heritage and a coastline that rivals Rio’s. The capital city has recently seen a slew of notable hotel openings. Hotel Fasano Salvador sits in the headquarters of a former newspaper and overlooks the Bay of All Saints, and the nearby Art Deco Fera Palace, prior to reopening last year, once hosted the likes of Carmen Miranda and Pablo Neruda. The downtown Pelourinho district, where the Fera is, was the site of the first slave market in the Americas in 1558; today it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has just emerged from a restoration of its cobblestone streets and colonial façades. And some things never change: West African dishes, beating music, candomblé religion, and rich history make the state as magnetic as ever.

Botswana’s Salt Pans

Littered with fossils and Stone Age artifacts, Botswana’s Makgadikgadi salt pans are the remains of an ancient super-lake — a salt-encrusted expanse covering more than 6,200 square miles of the Kalahari Desert. Fifth-generation safari operator and naturalist Ralph Bousfield put the harsh yet hypnotically beautiful pans on the safari map 25 years ago when he opened Jack’s Camp, named for his father, who first set up camp here in the 1960s. Marooned on a grassy island on the edge of the pans, it’s still the only safari operation for almost 100 miles. Over the years, royalty and rock stars have been humbled by the landscape and enchanted by the 1940s campaign-style furniture, Bousfield family heirlooms, and Persian-carpeted Rajasthani tents.

Canadian Arctic

The Canadian Arctic is “the world’s last and most pristine wilderness, with places man has not walked upon for over 500 years,” says Tessum Weber, a member of the esteemed family of explorers that runs Weber Arctic. It’s the ultimate destination for travelers, with a certain starkness that only polar regions can provide — though it’s rapidly losing its battle with the ever-rising tides.

Canary Islands, Spain

This archipelago of islands off Africa’s Atlantic coast has attracted sun-seeking European travelers for decades, thanks to its black, white, and buttery-golden beaches. But it’s the mountainous interiors of the seven main islands that are grabbing the global spotlight in 2020. International airports on Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote are the archipelago’s main access points, with a network of car ferries that makes it easy to hopscotch between ports.

Guyana

Though it has plenty of reasons to stand out — as South America’s only English-speaking country, and with a strikingly diverse population of Indian, African, Chinese, European, and Amerindian descent — Guyana has long hovered under the radar. But this relative quietness isn’t going to last long. The 2015 discovery of oil offshore has led to surging interest in the country. What that means for Guyana is still playing out, but so far, its abundance of natural beauty has remained shielded from the masses.

Nashville

Nashville may be nearly synonymous with country music, but it’s no one-note town. The long-awaited National Museum of African American Music will open this summer on Broadway, home of Honky Tonk Row, and will showcase the history and impact of black music from the slave era to the present. Inside the museum — the first of its kind — five interactive galleries are dedicated to 50 genres of African American tunes, including blues, jazz, hip-hop, and rap. Don a choir robe and virtually sing “Oh Happy Day” along with Grammy winner Bobby Jones and his 30-member Nashville Super Choir. A recording of your performance will be sent to the smart bracelet you receive at admission. You can also step into the role of a record producer and arrange vocals and rhythms to create a personalized soul track that can be sent to your bracelet as well. Be sure to check out the 1963 poster for civil rights activist Sam Cooke’s legendary soul performance with Otis Redding at New York’s Paramount Theater, and don’t miss seeing Ella Fitzgerald’s leopard-print coat and a kimono from Alicia Keys’s personal wardrobe.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen doesn’t need to sell itself as a worthy travel destination, what with its long summer days, hygge-filled winters, and unparalleled food scene. Yet the city keeps finding ways to become more travel-friendly, most recently with the extension of the City Ring Line subway line. Areas like the leafy Frederiksberg neighborhood and industrial Nordhavn waterfront are now much more accessible by rail — major for those scared of tackling Copenhagen’s busy bike highways. (Skilled pedalers, however, can breeze down the new Lille Langbro, a pedestrian-and-cyclist swing bridge, which now links both sides of the inner harbor.) Last August the city unveiled Kongens Nytorv, a plaza that for years was hidden under scaffolding. Located in the heart of Copenhagen, the roundabout is a one-stop shop for historically significant buildings like the Royal Danish Theatre, as well as Christmas and flea markets.

Dominica

Although Hurricane Maria made landfall in 2017, its impact is still felt throughout the Caribbean. The tiny, lush island of Dominica — located between Guadeloupe and Martinique in the Eastern Caribbean — sustained intense damage and remains one of the world’s most vulnerable places in the face of climate change. To help protect the island from future storms, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit appeared at the United Nations four days after Hurricane Maria and declared that Dominica would become the first climate-resilient country in the world. To achieve this goal by 2030, the island is banning single-use plastics and Styrofoam; harnessing the renewable energy of the country’s geothermal, hydro, and solar resources; developing sustainable fisheries; and realigning and improving roads to resist flooding and other damage.

El Chaltén, Argentina

On the Patagonian travel circuit, Argentina’s off-grid El Chaltén is often overshadowed by its more sought-after Chilean neighbor, Torres del Paine. The pocket-size Argentine village was founded in 1985 and quickly became a popular base camp for intrepid alpinists on a mission to summit the fabled granite spires of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre in the UNESCO-listed Los Glaciares National Park. However, you don’t have to be a die-hard hiker to enjoy the area’s scenic trails. Beginner to moderate routes offer access to Patagonia’s unmarred beauty: primeval forests packed with southern beech trees, snowmelt lagoons, rushing rivers, and jagged zeniths topped with outsized glaciers and floating condors. The upside to El Chaltén’s lower profile is that climbers enjoy less-congested trails. Yet for decades the remote frontier town has remained largely a backpacker outpost due to its lack of top-tier accommodations with high-end amenities like a spa and in-house guides.

Metz, France

It’s a mystery why France’s historic region of Lorraine is still largely overlooked, especially since there was an international tug-of-war over this northeastern province that started in the Middle Ages and lasted for centuries. The region is poised for global attention in 2020, when Metz, the province’s elegant capital, fetes the 800th anniversary of its St.-Étienne Cathedral, a masterpiece of gothic architecture. After a fire threatened to topple Notre-Dame de Paris this past spring, and as the Parisian icon undergoes restoration, consider a visit to the Metz monument, built from local golden limestone. With a 138-foot-tall nave, it’s one of Europe’s tallest gothic buildings. But what really sets it apart are its stained glass windows, which are the world’s largest by surface area, at 70,000 square feet. A highlight is the Old Testament depictions by artist Marc Chagall, whose stained glass will be the focus of an exhibition in October 2020 at the Centre Pompidou-Metz — which is celebrating its 10th anniversary that year.

Dubai

What does a city that manufactured an archipelago of 300 islands on a whim create for a landmark event? As Dubai prepares to make history as the host of the first World Expo to be held in the Middle East, the answer is emerging from the sand: an entire new city. To welcome the 25 million visitors expected to attend the six-month-long event that kicks off in October, the City of Gold has spent billions building up a sprawling site that’s double the size of Hong Kong island. If ever there was a metropolis of the future, this is it: There will be 130 buildings connected by smart technology that can do everything from monitoring the charging of electric vehicles to making sure the buildings’ temperatures are just right for visitors. At the site’s core is Al Wasl Plaza, an engineering feat crowned with a steel dome that can be turned into a 360-degree projection surface.

Rwanda

A country forever marked by its genocide 25 years ago, Rwanda has made exceptional strides in building itself into a place that celebrates and protects its natural resources. A closer look at the East African nation reveals its focus on the future, with the development of its fourth national park, Gishwati Mukura, set to open next year. As the forest develops, it will eventually connect Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe National Park, creating a wildlife corridor that enables local species like chimpanzees and mountain gorillas to flourish.

Tangier, Morocco

We’ve been talking up Morocco as a long weekend destination for a while now, especially with the 2019 launch of two flights on Royal Air Maroc’s Dreamliners, from Boston and Miami to Casablanca. That momentum isn’t slowing down: In June, American Airlines will start a new flight from Philadelphia to Casablanca’s shiny new airport, which recently doubled its capacity to 14 million a year. In the same month, Royal Air Maroc joins Oneworld Alliance, making it much easier for those same travelers to connect to other destinations around Morocco.

Mokpo, South Korea

There’s much more to South Korea than the popular tourism destinations of Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island. Located in the Jeolla region at the southern tip of the peninsula, Mokpo is a big port city that attracts the world’s most in-the-know food lovers, thanks to its fertile lands and easy access to the sea.

A visit to the colorful and electric Mokpo Specialty Seafood Market, an arcade-style covered market, is an absolute must. The best time to visit is in the early hours of the morning, when the market is full of shoppers crowding over the catches of the day.

Southwest Michigan

Ocean-like coastlines and a laid-back vibe have always been southwest Michigan’s biggest draws. But recently the lakefront region has embraced a grown-up take on agritourism and reemphasized its focus on family farms — after all, Michigan is the country’s second most agriculturally diverse state, behind California. In South Haven, a two-hour drive from Chicago, The Fields has opened the Midwest’s first glamping experience, with 10 tents set on 30 acres of blueberry farm. Guests are escorted to their porches in a vintage Ford pickup, wash down fresh fruit pies with locally roasted coffee by the fire, and snuggle up in the stylish, 320-square-foot tents. In 2020 it’s adding five additional tents and an on-site food truck.

Okinawa, Japan

When a catastrophic blaze gutted the 500-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site Shuri Castle last year, Okinawa’s tourism sector fretted that one of the top reasons for visiting Japan’s southernmost prefecture had been wiped out. But as the castle’s restoration fund grows (thanks largely to a crowdfunding campaign), so do fresh reasons to visit these ancient islands in the Pacific Ocean. Across a mile of sugar-soft sand in Okinawa Kaigan Quasi-National Park, the iconic Hawaiian hotel Halekulani has opened its first overseas outpost, bringing with it 360 plush rooms and a taste of Michelin-starred glamour in the form of Shiroux restaurant, where chef Hiroyasu Kawate — of two-starred Florilége in Tokyo — consults. Come April, seek out the remote Yaeyama Islands, where Hoshino Resorts’ revamped Risonare Kohamajima is relaunching along a bougainvillea-laced beach. At this most far-flung part of Japan — it’s actually geographically much closer to Taiwan — there’s little to do but cycle through sugarcane fields and swim in the ridiculously blue Sekisei Lagoon, with one of the largest coral reefs in the northern hemisphere beneath your feet and manta rays by your side.

Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast

It’s only been a decade since Sri Lanka emerged from a brutal 26-year civil war that devastated its residents and decimated its tourism industry. But since 2009, global travelers have flocked to the country, drawn to its alluring beaches and misty tea estates. Sri Lanka regularly found itself topping lists like this one — until this past April, when tragedy struck again, this time in the form of an Easter terrorist attack at Colombo hotels and churches that left about 250 dead. Overnight, the beaches and tea estates were empty of tourists once again. While thousands of citizens were impacted by the slowdown, resilience is part of Sri Lanka’s ethos. Despite a decline of more than 20 percent in tourist numbers since 2018, a clutch of new hotels along the country’s southern coast have been readying themselves for guests, and travellers are trickling back.

Slovenia

The fact that Slovenia, a postcard-perfect Eden of Alpine meadows, red-roofed villages, and shimmering Adriatic coastline, remains a low-key hideaway might be one of the great miracles of modern European travel. Let’s face it: If the country didn’t have such show-offs for neighbours — Croatia with its Game of Thrones filming locations; northeastern Italy with, well, Venice — it would have been overrun eons ago.

Southeastern Australia

The southeastern Australia coast is ideal for a road trip — unless you’re short on time. Now there is a faster, more luxurious, and infinitely more relaxing way to explore it. Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions, the company behind the premium Ghan (Adelaide to Darwin) and Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth) train routes, is adding a new adventure: Great Southern. Launching in December 2019, the 28-carriage twin-locomotive train will carry up to 214 guests between Adelaide, South Australia, and Brisbane, Queensland, traversing Victoria and New South Wales en route.

Use KAU on XcelTrip to travel to these 20 amazing places to visit in 2020 and memories that last a lifetime.

Cities To Visit In Greenland

Greenland is a Danish territory, with Denmark having granted its home rule in 1979. Since a majority of the population is Inuit, the culture of Greenland is mainly dominated by Inuit beliefs and practices. However, the rest of the populace includes the descendants of Norse colonists and is associated with the Lutheran Church. Therefore, it is a mix of traditional Inuit and Scandinavian cultures.

17,000 people are settled in the capital city of Nuuk. Subsequently, icebergs and glaciers make for the highlight of this country and contribute to its ethereal beauty. The inhabitants of Greenland are the various immigrated people who possess unparalleled abilities that help them survive unusual temperatures. There are quite a number of cities to visit in Greenland that will make your vacation in this country worthwhile.

Ilulissat (meaning Icebergs)

A magical town located approximately 200 km (120 miles) north of the Arctic Circle. The most visited place in Greenland is home to Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour by air, sailboat and on foot — all three if you can afford to. Stay in an igloo at Hotel Arctic overlooking the Icefijord and Disko Bay.

Kangerlussuaq

Site of Greenland’s largest commercial airport, the entire city is built around the runway. The only reason to visit is to see Ice Cap Point 660 along the Arctic Circle. Drive through the moraine landscape and walk directly on the vast ice sheets that make up the Greenland Ice Cap.

Nuuk

Nuuk is the capital and largest city in Greenland. Admire traditional Danish homes as well as modern housing projects. The city offers museums, malls, restaurants and cultural centers where visitors can learn about Greenland’s ancient civilizations dating as far as 2200 BC.

Narsarsuaq

This is the place to see blue ice glaciers; a phenomenon caused by compressed snow and increased the size of air crystals. The best way to soak in the Narsarsuaq Glacier, or the Dead Glacier, because it doesn’t produce any icebergs is by hike.

Ipiutaq

The area around the settlement is home to many sheep farms that were inhabited by Norsemen. The only reason to come here is to relax at the Ipiutaq Guest Farm, a working farm with a two-bedroom guesthouse and French-Greenlandic cuisine. Picturesque valleys, vast pastures, and glaciers surround it, and there is nearby fishing and hiking.

Narsaq

Another sleepy little town in south Greenland where photographers can have a field trip. With a backdrop of mountains, colorful homes and beautiful shore of Tunulliarfik Fjord, there is no reason to stay indoors.

Qaqortoq

The capital of South Greenland can be identified as the Portofino of the Arctic. A dramatic approach from water captures the bay lined with shrimp boats and homes spread across the hilly slopes. The destination is known for kayaking, guided hiking, whale watching, cross-country skiing, and boating.

Use XcelTrip to plan your vacation and follow the list of cities to visit in Greenland to make memories to last a lifetime.

Culture of Cyprus

The Mediterranean island of Cyprus has a culture that is a merger of many cultures. The Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, the two key ethnic groups of Cyprus, share numerous cultural features together but also have several changes. In both communities, good hospitality is highly valued. Both love to celebrate special occasions with music, dance, and other performances. They also share many traditional foods and beverages. However, the Greek and Turkish Cypriots have dissimilar religious cultures.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Cyprus is heavily influenced by Greek and Turkish culinary traditions. French, Byzantine, Ottoman, Italian, Middle Eastern, and Catalan cuisines also helped shape the Cypriot cuisine.

The food tastes of the medieval-era French Lusignan monarchs of Cyprus led to the development of a refined Cypriot cuisine that fuses French, Middle Eastern, and Byzantine cuisine. The Lusignan kings imported cooks from Syria to work in their royal kitchens. They helped invent the fusion dishes. In fact, Middle Eastern cuisine reached France and other Western European nations through Cyprus.

Today, Cypriot cuisine indulges heavily in seafood like sea bass, octopus, squid, red mullet, etc. Some of the most usually used vegetables include tomatoes, okra, carrots, lettuce, cucumber, potatoes, cauliflower, taro, beets, and asparagus. A variety of pulses are also consumed like broad beans, lentils, chick-peas, peas, etc. Dried or smoked meat, charcoal-grilled lamb, mesentery-wrapped minced meat, etc.,are some popular non-vegetarian dishes on the island. Bread and bulgur are the major sources of carbohydrates in the cuisine. Cypriots also eat a variety of fresh fruits like apples, pears, grapes, figs, melon, lemon, almond, etc. Some of the most well-known desserts are Soutzoukos and lokum.

Literature And The Arts

The Cypriot literature is found mainly in Greek, Turkish, and English. The Island has a long literary history dating back to at least the 7th century when Cypria, an epic poem was composed by Stasinus. Cyprus also finds indication in ancient Christian literature like the Acts of the Apostles. In the Middle Ages, the laws of the Kingdom of Cyprus were written in the local dialect and French. It was named the Assizes of Jerusalem and is one of the medieval world’s largest written account of law. Many historical works were also written in Cyprus during the medieval period like the chronicles of Leontios Makhairas. A large part of Shakespeare’s play Othello is staged in Venetian Cyprus. The island continues to produce many notable writers and poets to date. The local dialect is used for producing works involving folk songs and poetry. The culture and scenic beauty of Cyprus have also influenced many non-native writers like Lawrence Durrell to produce literary works during their stay in the country.

The history of art in Cyprus goes as far back as 10,000 years when carved figures of the Chalcolithic period were discovered on the island. During the Middle Ages, the island was well-known for religious icon painting. Church paintings from this period are also remarkable. Two of the most influential Cypriot painters of the 20th century were Adamantios Diamantis and Christopheros Savva. The country has several art schools like Cyprus College of Art, University of Nicosia, etc., to train the budding artists and painters. Many of the most talented Cypriot artists have acknowledged their training in London.

Performance Arts

Music, dancing, songs, and poetry are integral to the culture of Cyprus. The folk music scene of the island is influenced by Greek, Turkish, and Arabic Music. It uses instruments like lute, accordion, violin, flute, and oud. Tatsia, sousta, karsilamas, syrtos, etc., are some of the folk dances of the island. Chattista is a form of musical poetry that is popular among the Islanders and is performed during many traditional ceremonies and feasts. In recent times, Cypriot rap, urban, and rock music has gained popularity, especially among urban youth. The Greek Laïka scene has a major impact on the island’s popular music. Cyprus also has a significant metal following.

Life In Cypriot Society

The traditional Cypriot society is strongly patriarchal in nature but the current trend is towards the establishment of a more gender-equal society. Very few women enter politics in Cyprus and hardly any can become religious functionaries. Although the number of women in the workforce has been increasing over the years, a large section of the employed women hold jobs of lesser status or lower pay or both than men. For working women, the burden is greater as they are also expected to manage the household duties and children, unlike working men. In the elite classes of Cyprus, however, working couples can afford to hire female workers from Asian nations for home-keeping and childcare duties.

Most people in Cyprus marry. Arranged marriages were common in the past but now, most marriages are based on a couple’s choice. However, parents still have an important say in marital choices. They also consider it a responsibility to ensure that the newlywed couple has the proper resources like a place to stay after marriage. Most households are nuclear in nature but couples maintain strong ties with their parents and extended family members.

Children are highly valued in Cypriot society. Many couples favour having two children. Quality education for a child is considered extremely important and parents go to great lengths to provide the best possible education to their children. Parents start saving early to fulfil this goal.

The Cypriots are social and friendly people. Personal space is not rigidly maintained in Cypriot society. Daily exchanges like greetings take place casually. Since societies are small on the island, people tend to many people they meet on the streets. Thus, foreign visitors often comment about Cyprus being a place where “everyone knows each other.”

10 Luxurious Destinations To Visit With KAU

Taking a vacation is a period for you to relax and enjoy doing some of your favourite activities. It’s a chance to try new things, give yourself a treat and to have memorable experiences. There are many factors that contribute to making a holiday a fantastic experience. These comprise of the location, the facilities and conveniences accessible at your destination, the services offered and the activities available to keep you entertained during your stay. Choosing for a luxury holiday has the potential to be an astonishing experience as this type of vacation provides you the best of everything. If you have the cash to splash, then the world certainly is your oyster and you can select between the most luxurious destinations from across the globe. You can now access these destinations with KAU on XcelTrip.

Kinesis, a globally accepted cryptocurrency that is reforming and transforming the precious metals industry. Kinesis eliminates storage fees for physical gold (KAU) and silver bullion, in addition to offering holders a unique fee-sharing yield model that adds an extra layer of value to gold and silver holders in the form of monthly payments.

If you are thinking of taking a luxurious vacation with KAU and XcelTrip, then consider the following 10 destinations:

The Seychelles

When thinking of beautiful places, The Seychelles is one of the first places that comes to mind. With rare wildlife, crystal clear waters, lush rainforests, and breath-taking beaches all outlined before a striking backdrop of rocks, this truly is like paradise. One of the best ways to fully experience this archipelago is to take a cruise around the islands. ‘Esprit’ from Crystal Cruises is a fantastic way to take in the views while enjoying luxurious surroundings. ‘Esprit’ has just 30 cabins, so it feels like a private yacht but still has all the facilities and services of a luxury liner.

Tanzania

A visit to Tanzania combines a safari experience with luxury. It is one of the best options for people who want to enjoy a fantastic climate and get back to nature while also enjoying high-class accommodation and catering. The Highlands camp is located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and has spectacular views, including views of Kilimanjaro. The luxury domed tents come equipped with everything you need for a relaxing break and gourmet meals are prepared suing local organic ingredients.

Aguas Calientes, Peru

The culture of Peru makes a trip here stand out against any other destination in the world. From the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the Peruvian Amazon, this country is a nature lovers’ dream. There are many locations you could choose to stay in this country that would allow you to absorb the culture but to add a touch of luxury to your stay, you should head for Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in Aguas Calientes. This ecotourist hotel combines the cultural experience with luxury accommodation.

Tokyo, Japan

Japan is becoming an increasingly popular tourist spot and this country is particularly good at catering to the higher-end of the market. Tokyo is surrounded by an amazingly diverse landscape that will suit people who want to spend their time outdoors, while the urban areas have a fantastic buzz and are ideal for a spot of retail therapy. There are some amazing places to stay that offer a luxurious experience to their guests but one of the best options isThe Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho. The rooms are finished to the highest standard and offer panoramic views across the country’s capital. The hotel also offers top-quality Japanese cuisine.

New York, NY

If your preference is for an urban buzz over a rural retreat, then there is nowhere on earth quite like New York City. This city is a hub of high-end boutiques, spas and beauty treatments, historic buildings, and fine dining restaurants. You are also spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing your luxury accommodation. The Plaza, Mandarin Oriental, and Four Seasons Hotel are just three of your options. Each of these hotels offers their guests stunning rooms and all the services and facilities they need to enjoy their stay.

Langkawi, Malaysia

Malaysia is a beautiful country and you can’t get a location much better than the cape of Tanjung Rhu by the Andaman Sea. It is there you will find the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi on one of the best beaches on the island. The resort boasts 91 villas by the UNESCO-protected mangroves., the rainforests and the dramatic cliffs. Four Seasons resorts are well-known globally for the luxurious accommodation and service they provide.

Andaz Peninsula, Costa Rica

If you are hoping for an exotic break in a naturally beautiful setting, then the Andaz Peninsula in Costa Rica is ideal. TheAnda Peninsula Papagayo Resort is located where Culebra Bay and the Gulf of Papagayo meet. The mountainous backdrop and lush surroundings make looking out of the window of your luxury suite when you wake in the morning an absolute treat. The resort is surrounded by a golf course, two secluded beaches and two national parks.

St. Lucia

St. Lucia is well-known for offering visitors amazing and luxurious vacations. There are many places to stay on the island and each will allow you to take advantage of the wonderful climate and the beautiful surroundings. However, if luxury is a key element of your vacation, then stay at Boucan by Hotel Chocolat. The rooms are designed in a contemporary style and boast four poster beds and open sky rainforest showers. One of the best aspects of a stay in this hotel is the food. They are chocolate specialists that offer exclusive cacao cuisine.

Lake Como

Lake Como is a popular destination for the rich and famous. In fact, have a second home at Lake Como so they can spend as much of their free time there as possible. It is no wonder this area is so popular among the wealth as the surroundings are outstanding and the area offers visitors so much to see and do. For a luxurious vacation, stay at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo which overlooks the lake and provides the highest level of hospitality.

London

Another great choice for an urban getaway is London as this historical city offers both the urban vibe and a cultural experience. The city is filled with amazing buildings and structures, fashionable boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants and exciting attractions. Just like New York, there are many different hotels where you can enjoy a luxury vacation and London excels in providing visitors with the experience of regal grandeur that is typically associated with England. The Savoy, The Dorchester, and The Ritz are three of the most famous hotels in England’s capital and each offers their guests almost every service imaginable.

Relax and rejuvenate at one of these luxurious destinations with KAU on XcelTrip and memories that last a lifetime.

XcelTrip Nepal is Now Live!

In the wake of the new decade and the beginning of the year 2020, Nepal is gearing up to welcome 2 million tourists for the Visit Nepal 2020 initiative. To promote tourism the country’s first Online Travel Aggregator- XcelTrip Nepal launched on the 17th of December, 2019 at the Governor of Nepal’s Central Bank Chiranjivi Nepal amid the presence of tourism authorities and entrepreneurs.

XcelTrip Nepal is a subsidiary venture of XcelTrip Global– A Next- Generation travel platform powered by the blockchain technology, has been built solely to disrupt the ever-growing trillion-dollar travel industry. The features are scrupulously created to democratize crypto use-cases, that challenges the monopoly of the ecosystem by giving the power back to the users by providing the users full control over their bookings and their anonymity.

Book your flight tickets now with over 400 airlines and check-in to more than 1.5 million hotels using not just XcelToken Plus but also using Ethereum, Bitcoin, Binance coin, VERGE, Litecoin, KAU and Dash

XcelTrip Nepal is a home-grown online hotel, and airlines booking engine adopting advanced technology and marketing skills to connect them directly with domestic and international travellers.

“Our vision is to make Nepal on the top 10 global travel destinations and drive in-bound travel and economic growth by leveraging the power of technology and tourism,” said Gyanendra Khadka, promoter of the company, who is the CEO of XcelTrip Global and a Silicon-valley based entrepreneur.

5 Amazing Things To Do In Paphos

Paphoswas the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite so you can be sure that you’ll have a lot of ancient archaeology on the agenda in this town in western Cyprus. Kato Paphos on the water’s edge is the ancient city where the mosaics of Roman villas are as vibrant now as the day they were laid.

It’s a guarantee that you’ll eat and drink well in Paphos, where you can feast on meze and sample the range of wines that are grown in the hills to the east of the town. And for the little ones: A water park, zoo and an almost endless array of beaches. Let’s have a look at the amazing things to do in Paphos:

Kato Paphos Archaeological Park

You could easily spend hours pottering around this fantastic attraction close to the harbour. There are structures here that go back to prehistory, but the most famous remnants are from the Roman era.

The ruins of four villas survive from this time and boast stunningly detailed mosaics, all dating to the year 100 and depicting scenes from Roman mythology.

From the same era is the Ancient Odeon, a small arena that is still used by the town as a performance venue, while the Tombs of the Kings is an underground burial complex, supported by intact Doric columns and dating back 1500 years.

St. Paul’s Pillar

This is one of Cyprus’ most significant pilgrimage sites. Back in 45 AD it wasn’t a great idea to try to spread Christianity to places that didn’t want it — if you were interested in self-preservation.

Paul the Apostle came to Paphos to convert the ruler from Paganism, and for his efforts got 39 lashes. In the grounds of Panagia Chrysopolitissa, a handsome Orthodox/Anglican church on the site of an ancient basicila, you’ll find the pillar to which the saint was tied for his punishment.

The pillar has been eroded down the years but is still standing amid two millennia of ruins that include some stunning mosaics.

Paphos Archaeological Museum

This museum documents human activity in western Cyprus from the Neolithic age to the 18th century.

The artefacts on display were excavated from as many as 15 archaeological sites, including the ancient settlements that predated modern Paphos and the neighbouring town of Kouklia.

You’ll get a real sense of location when you see the collection of coins that were minted right here in Paphos thousands of years ago.

Each room at the museum represents another stage in the area’s history, so after the Ancient Greek exhibits you can admire the wonderful marble sculptures of the Roman era: The Bust of Aphrodite is a real standout here.

Medieval Castle of Paphos

This structure, guarding the mouth of the harbour has had a very chequered history.

Originally a Byzantine fortress stood on this spot and this was reinforced by the Lusignans, whose territories extended across numerous Mediterranean locations in the 1200s.

Later the Venetians dismantled the old stronghold, but when the Ottomans took Cyprus they built the castle that you see today.

It’s a squat, rectangular building that for the past few hundred years has served as a prison and warehouse for salt, but now it’s a cultural landmark and emblem for the city.

Aphrodite Water Park

A family-favourite for those long summer days, Aphrodite Waterpark is the largest attraction of its kind on this side of Cyprus.

In all it has 17 rides and attractions with something for both the big kids and toddlers.

There are four high-speed plunges for people who want to get the adrenaline pumping, including Racer, in which you face off against your friends to see who can get to the bottom of this tube ride first.

More sedate is Lazy River, a mile-long float beneath waterfalls and fountains that drops you right back at your sun lounger.

Use XcelTrip to plan your vacation to Cyprus and follow our list of amazing things to do in Paphos, to make memories that last a lifetime.

XcelTrip Announces Partnership with Kinesis

[Singapore, 17th December, 2019] XcelTrip is proud to announce its partnership with Kinesis, a globally accepted cryptocurrency that is reforming and transforming the precious metals industry. Kinesis eliminates storage fees for physical gold and silver bullion, in addition to offering holders a unique fee-sharing yield model that adds an extra layer of value to gold and silver holders in the form of monthly payments.

With this new partnership we are excited to announce the integration of KAU, a new digital currency based on a 1:1 allocation with physical gold bullion (1 KAU = 1-gram gold), that can now be used as payment on the XcelTrip booking site.

XcelTrip, is the brainchild of Silicon Valley entrepreneur Gyanendra Khadka and allows users from around the world to book over 1.5 million hotels and resorts, along with having access to over 400 airlines. XcelTrip allows users to book their travels using cryptocurrencies; including BTC, ETH, Dash, Verge, XcelToken Plus (XLAB), LITECOIN and now KAU via XCELTRIP.COM and its Android & iOS app. XcelTrip has over a half million active users and has been featured on CNBC, Forbes, Bitcoin.com, Finance Magnate, Entrepreneur, INC, Blockchain Expo and many other popular media outlets.

The Founder & CEO of XcelTrip, Mr. Gyanendra Khadka regarding the partnership has stated that “XcelTrip’s vision is to create a decentralised economy by offering real, value-adding mass use-cases that positively impact global community and empower the end-users.” — Mr. Gyanendra Khadka, Founder & CEO, XcelTrip

Kinesis CEO, Thomas Coughlin’s comments on this new partnership. “This is a tremendous breakthrough as it provides Kinesis currency holders with the unique ability to book flights and hotels around the world, improving the accessibility of basic services. Simultaneously opening up the Kinesis system to an even larger audience who can also benefit from our revolutionary gold and silver-based monetary system which rewards users for their participation.”

This is an amazing opportunity for both Kinesis and XcelTrip to empower the crypto community to use their digital gold and cryptocurrencies for everyday transactions, increasing usability and making cryptocurrency more mainstream.

XcelTrip is committed to building a decentralised economy, our innovative community engagement program and like Kinesis, doesn’t simply reward users but also works towards creating sustainable income opportunities for people around the world.

The first project under this initiative is XcelTrip’s “Independent Marketing Partner” program, where individuals around the world can register, recommend, and list hotel properties on the XcelTrip platform. Once the property is verified and listed on XcelTrip platform, the individual will earn a percentage of booking revenue earned by XcelTrip from the properties listed by them as a sales commission.

“This is a great way to create an income opportunity for all travellers and people around the world for their contributions.” said CEO, Gyanendra Khadka.

“Driving community engagement and usage is important to drive growth” adds CMO, Raghav. XcelTrip also runs a program called “Share and Earn”, where individuals, who share their travel posts or stories with the hashtag TravelWithCrypto (#TravelWithCrypto) and promote XcelTrip’s post to various user communities, will earn XLAB and pay-outs in USD too.

XcelTrip with Kinesis is on a path to create more such partnerships with major cryptocurrencies and institutions to provide real use-cases to users in order to drive mass adoption worldwide.

10 Amazing Places To Visit During Christmas

Here is a list of amazing destinations to visit this Christmas using XcelTrip, this winter:

Quebec City, Canada

Why we go: Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America, and its colonial French architecture gives it an unmistakably European feel. The cobbled streets of the Old Town are packed with quaint shops and delicious bistros, all merrily decorated for the holidays.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The toboggan run at Château Frontenac (open from mid-December to March) is one of the city’s oldest traditions — and quite the thrill. Zoom down icy tracks overlooking the city on a wooden sled reaching speeds up to 45 miles per hour.

Dublin

Why we go: If your idea of Christmas merriment includes an authentic Irish pub crawl (we get it), then book a December flight to Dublin. There’s no better way to warm up on a cold Christmas night than joining the locals for some black pudding and a few pints — trust us, this city has enough cozy bars to last you through New Year’s. But the city isn’t just about drinking, of course. Holiday offerings include Christmas markets, extended store hours on Grafton Street, and tree lighting ceremonies galore.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Irish Baroque Orchestra’s annual production of Handel’s Messiah is held at the incomparable St. Patrick’s Cathedral (December 6, 7:30 p.m.).

Paris

Why we go: It’s hard to dampen the spirit of Paris at Christmastime — the city shines on, from the lights along the Champs-Élysées to the Christmas market at Les Halles to some of the most decked-out window displays in the world.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Take in the visual feast that is the Galeries Lafayette Christmas tree — an annual display comparable to NYC’s Rockefeller Centre.

New York City

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Rockefeller Center, window shopping down Fifth Avenue, or lurking around 34th street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Watch the Rockettes do their thing during the Radio City Christmas Spectacular (showing this year through January 5, 2020).

Taipei, Taiwan

Why we go: Christmas isn’t a public holiday in Taipei, but that doesn’t stop the city from celebrating with incredible lights displays and festive attractions and events. During the weeks between mid-November and the New Year, pretty much the entire Banqiao District transforms into Christmasland — which is exactly what it sounds like. We’re talking massive Christmas trees, rides, concerts, and markets selling local goods.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The LED displays at Christmasland are truly on another level — don’t miss the giant tree and 3D light show in front of City Hall.

Copenhagen

Why we go: According to the World Happiness Report, Denmark is one of the world’s happiest countries, making it a great place to spend the holidays. In Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, antique amusement park rides decorated with lights are surrounded by yet another adorable, alpine-village style Christmas market selling gifts and snacks through the end of December.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Book a table at Restaurant Vita for some andesteg, a traditional Danish holiday dish of crispy, succulent roast duck served with potatoes and cabbage.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Why we go: Reykjavík shines on the streets and in the sky in December. Strings of glinting Christmas bulbs illuminate the city during its very long nights; and on the clearest evenings, the Northern Lights can be seen from the city’s darker streets.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The 13 Yule Lads, a group of holiday trolls you’ll see about town, are — in local folklore — Iceland’s equivalent to Santa Claus (and have actually been around a lot longer than St. Nick).

Dubai, UAE

Why we go: Dubai does Christmas the same way Dubai does nearly everything — in true, over-the-top fashion. Don’t miss the tree lightings happening around town, including ones at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa (December 6) and Five Palm Jumeirah (December 9). And since no visit to Dubai is complete without several shopping sprees, set aside time to stock up on goodies at one of the city’s Christmas markets.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Cirque De Cuisine at Atlantis, The Palm (December 5), a three-hour dining experience that includes food from some of Dubai’s best restaurants — plus circus performers and dancing snowmen, of course.

London

Why we go: Christmas in London has timeless appeal — chalk it up to the decorated Georgian townhouses, cozy, packed pubs, and a dash of Dickensian charm. Our editors recently mapped out a step-by-step guide to spending the holidays in London, which covers the perfect place for afternoon tea, a steak to tuck into after a day spent gift shopping, and a martini to sip on Christmas Eve — and that’s just for starters.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Rent skates and glide around the frozen 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House, a sprawling neoclassical building off the Strand.

Inari, Finland

Why we go: While most tourists flock to the Lapland city of Rovaniemi come Christmas, we suggest heading even further north (like, within reach of the Arctic Ocean north) to the village of Inari. Located in the heart of the incredibly scenic Ivalo region — reachable via a 1.5-hour flight from Helsinki — Inari is a pure winter wonderland dotted with hotels and restaurants that keep things nice and cozy. It’s hard to imagine a more authentic winter holiday than one spent riding dog sleds, feeding reindeer, and chasing the Northern Lights.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: A private Northern Lights safari will have you sitting in a heated sleigh and sipping sparkling wine while waiting for the aurora to dance.

Use XcelTrip to plan your winter vacation and celebrate Christmas to make memories that last a lifetime.

5 Amazing Things To Do In Limassol Cyprus

The beautiful town of Limassol on the island of Cyprus is a treasure trove of exciting experiences for travellers and locals to enjoy. Limassol promises countless unforgettable moments for any type of holiday. This list of attractions will satisfy the adventurer, thrill-seeker, party animal, child-friendly family, and history enthusiast, ensuring that your time in Cyprus will be filled to the brim with perfect memories.

Fasouri Watermania

Whether you’re spending the day with family or friends, Fasouri Watermania water-park is the perfect place for fun and to cool down under the blazing Cypriot sun. The water-park is committed to a safe an all-inclusive experience and their Polynesian style decor will add that extra feeling of paradise to your day. There are attractions for a range of ages, from children’s pools, to large rides sure to give you an adrenaline rush. Other facilities include a massage parlor, a temporary tattoo station, shops, photo spots, and restaurants.

Kolossi Castle

Kolossi Castle is a former stronghold castle just outside the village of Kolossi in Limassol. During the Middle Ages its predominant function was to store reserves of sugarcane, a crop the region was known for. A visit to this castle is a reminder of Cyprus’ invaluable role in history. The castle, now a ruin, still bears the coats of arms of its former owners on its walls and a visit is essential for all guests with a keen interest in history.

Limassol Zoo

Limassol Zoo prides itself on its function as an educational and scientific facility. They are dedicated to studying, and conserving the animals in their care as well as helping to increase population numbers through their breeding program. The zoo houses pygmy hippos, meerkats, an array of birds, otters and many more animals. It may not be the largest zoo in the world, but it’s certainly a must-see for any guest in the area.

Limassol Marina

Limassol Marina is the height of luxury in Cyprus. It is a cosmopolitan hub for waterfront developments that have breathtaking views of the sea, shopping opportunities, dining, cruises, and exclusive beaches. Activities that you can take part in include water-skiing, windsurfing, scuba diving, sailing and fishing. Cyprus has always had an ability to blend eastern and western cultures, and Limassol Marina demonstrates this perfectly.

Limassol Castle

The earliest account of the Limassol Castle dates back to 1228. As well as chambers and stretching corridors, it also houses a large basement that has undergone extensive refurbishment and decoration. There are basilicas dating back to the Early Christian occupation, Byzantine monuments, and structural features that bear medieval hallmarks. Limassol Castle is a veritable time capsule of history’s great empires and the vibrant tapestry of the island’s history. This is just one example of the countless, gorgeous monuments embellishing the Cypriot coast.

Cyprus is the best place to visit for multiple reasons, read our previous blog to find out why Cyprus is the best country to visit. If you like our content then follow us on Instagram for more travel inspiration.

6 Amazing Things To Do in Nicosia

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is home to many beautiful landmarks that embody the island’s fascinating history. From ancient monuments to exquisite galleries, here’s what shouldn’t be missed when you’re in Nicosia.

Taste homemade cakes and Cypriot coffee

Source: https://www.facebook.com/toapomeron/

Café culture is an essential part of life in Cyprus, so be sure to indulge in a hot drink with one of the many delicious pastries and traditional cakes on offer in coffee shops across the city. Locals love To Apomero, a small café hidden in an alley just off Ermou, its name aptly meaning ‘secluded’ in Greek.

Walk along the Green Line

Splitting the island in two, Nicosia’s Green Line extends across the capital, with various checkpoints along the way. The main one can be found at Ledra Street, an entry point where people can cross over to the other side. Nicosia is the only divided capital in the world, and visiting the city’s Green Line is a great way for visitors to explore the social and political situation on the island, as well as its fascinating history.

Visit the Farmer’s Market

Head toOXI roundabout where local sellers lay out their goods every Wednesday and Saturday from 6am to 4pm. Here, you’ll find all kinds of fresh products from fruit and vegetables to eggs and nuts — it’s the perfect place to savour the local produce. Even if you’re not planning on cooking anything, a visit to the farmers’ market is an experience in its own right. Watch how the locals interact and how the sellers shout out and announce their products to entice customers. It’s best to head here in the morning, as things sell quickly and there’s not much action after lunchtime.

Nicosia’s museums

Visiting some of Nicosia’s greatest museums and collection galleries is a fantastic way to gain insight into the island’s art scene and ancient traditions. For an overview of Cyprus’ complex and fascinating history, visit the Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia in the heart of the Old Town. Expect to find engaging exhibits, clear information in Greek, Turkish and English, and a cool interior that makes a welcome break from the baking sun. Admission is free, and this makes a great stop for keen historians and families alike.

Another must-visit museum is the iconic Cyprus Museum, the largest and oldest archaeological museum on the island. Its rich collection demonstrates the turbulent and significant role that this tiny country has had in European history, while the building itself is emblematic of the pride Cypriots have in their heritage and culture.

Old Town

The best-known street in Nicosia is the pedestrian Ledra Street, which is filled with shops, bars, cafés and eateries, and ends at one of the most popular checkpoints on the Green Line. Parallel to Ledra is Onasagorou, an equally busy street that has flourished in the last decade with bars and restaurants, bringing life back into the Old Town. A bit further down NiMAC is Ermou Street, which is home to many old Cypriot craftspeople.

Athalassa National Forest Park

This large stretch of greenery is the closest thing to a forest you’ll find in Nicosia. Located in the suburbs of the city, it stretches over 840 hectares (three square miles) and hosts a beautiful lake, the park’s signature feature. There’s plenty of space for children to play, either amongst the trees or at the playground near the park café. For animal lovers, there’s a designated dog path that circles the park and offers fantastic city views. Head to Athalassa for a picnic, a walk or to get your dose of nature.

Use XcelTrip to plan your vacation to Nicosia Cyprus and make memories that lasts a lifetime.

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