Archive for the ‘Travel & Leisure’ Category

Longyearbyen, Norway

Longyearbyen, Norway

Who would have thought that a settlement of coal miners in the Arctic can be a base of tourism?  Longyearbyen, the “only” town in the archipelago of Svalbard, still bears its coal-mining roots.  Although large-scale coal mines have long been gone, the roadsides and mountainsides are still littered with mines and their equipment.  However, tourism is slowly becoming the town’s main source of income.  The town is considered as the largest settlement and the administrative center of Svalbard, locat…

The Russian Town of Barentsburg Norway

The Russian Town of Barentsburg Norway

Although the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard is administered by the Norwegian government, an international treaty declared that any other country has absolute equality in exploiting the area’s mineral resources.  Russia has taken this opportunity and has established a settlement in the 1930s. Nowadays, Barentsburg is the second largest town in Svalbard with about 400 inhabitants who are almost entirely Russian and Ukrainians, most are working for the Russian-owned Arktikugol.  Russia is currently…

Budget Day Trips in Puerto Rico

Budget Day Trips in Puerto Rico

For a steamy Caribbean island with first-rate beaches and facilities, it seems that Puerto Rico is not the ideal holiday getaway for travelers tight on budget. But surprisingly, this island can be very affordable for savvy travelers who are looking for an exotic destination. You can find great bargains and many deals and incentives tailor-made for budget visitors. If you’re visiting Puerto Rico for more than three days, it’s a good idea to explore the island by taking a day trips, which can be v…

Popular Hiking Destinations in Ireland

Popular Hiking Destinations in Ireland

Ireland is one of the more hiking destinations in the world. It is gifted with colorful wildlife, rugged coastline, majestic mountains, and charming villages, not to mention rich history and the Irish hospitality. Its wide range of terrain – from forest tracks and coastal paths to mountain passes – offer hikers from all over the world an experience of a lifetime. Here are some popular hiking areas in Ireland that you should not miss: Aran IslandsLocated in Galway Bay, the Aran Islands are compos…

Savings Money on Business Trips

Savings Money on Business Trips

The economic crunch has dampened the spirits of every American.  However, that does not mean you do not deserve to have a well-deserved break and go on traveling to your favorite vacation spots.  You can have the vacation you have wanted for the whole year without having to spend so much money.  Here are some suggestions for the travel-savvy businesspeople. Have a layoverWhen traveling across the country, plan on having a connecting flight and have an overnight, or two, layover.  For instance, i…

Security Mandates in Airports

Since the 9/ 11 Attacks, air travel has never been the same again, and it is most likely to stay that way for a very long time.  Security has tightened further and more check-ins are being conducted, sometimes to the point of being ridiculous.  Here are what you should know about the security mandates in airports across United States. Security is inconsistent across the countryAlthough all airports in the US must adhere to the security guidelines mandated by the FAA, some local conditions may di…

Cherry Blossom Viewing in Japan

Cherry Blossom Viewing in Japan

If you are spending your holidays in April, Japan is a great choice as the much-awaited cherry blossom viewing season is at its peak. Cherry blossom festivals in Japan are a feast for the senses. Here you will get to experience exquisite tea ceremonies, watch traditional Japanese dance or music performance, and sample delicious Japanese foods while viewing the delicate white and pink blossoms. It is the time of the year when Japan’s time-honored culture and traditions are celebrated best.Locally…

Haines Alaska Bald Eagle

Haines Alaska Bald Eagle

Witnessing scenic views along the Alaska Highway, visitors are instantly at awe with the beauty of the community of Haines in Alaska’s southeast.  Established by missionaries, gold prospectors, and the US Army, Haines has been able to mix the American infrastructure with the rich cultural heritage by the indigenous Tlingit people.  Long been dismissed as an isolated town, the creation of Haines Highway and the Alaska Highway has enabled this small community to be connected with the rest of North…

Trekkers Guide to Mount Kilimanjaro

Trekkers Guide to Mount Kilimanjaro

Looking like a magnificent bas relief in the Tanzanian grassland, Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in the African continent, is a remarkable sight. But the sight is even more breathtaking when you get to the snowcapped summit.You do not have to be an elite mountaineer to climb Kilimanjaro. Here is the catch: It is the highest mountain in the world that can be reached by trekking alone. So if you are a fit and experienced trekker and want to experience a classic walking holiday, then a hike up K…

City of Portland Maine

City of Portland Maine

It is the largest city in the easternmost state of the United States.  Visiting Portland, Maine, is a treat of the senses, with a ménage of eclectic sights, soothing sounds, and the moist, salty air.  It also brings together the bustling city atmosphere with a cozy, vintage appeal. Portland is located only 1½ hours from Boston.  It is on a peninsula in Casco Bay on Maine’s southern coast.  The city offers all the establishments one can find on big cities such as arts district, museums, parks, el…