Family Day Trips in Sydney Australia

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Taronga Zoo

Introduce your kids to animals from around the globe at Taronga Zoo. Situated on hillside above the harbor, just 12 minutes travel from the city; it’s an experience not to be missed. Taronga dates back to 1916 and boasts of huge number of animals, all housed in big landscaped enclosures. Highlights include more than 2000 endangered creatures, koalas, kangaroos, performing seals, red pandas, Sumatran tigers, snow leopards, and Asian elephants. If you fancy something more adventures, camp overnight at the zoo in safari tents and wake up to the roaring sounds of lions as part of the zoo’s “roar and snore” sleep over program.

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Treetop Adventure Park

It’s not often that your kids get to climb on trees or swing like a Tarzan though the forest-in safety. But at the treetop adventure park you can slide down the cables, fly through the air on flying boxes and move from tree to tree on suspension bridges. The park is a great day out for the entire family where kids as young as three can take part. Of course the experience is carried out at the participant’s own pace. Located less than an hour of west Sydney in the Western Sydney Parklands, Treetop Park aims for minimal environmental impact on the forest.

Luna Park

Luna is a classic old time amusement park located at Milsons Point. Full of thrills and action, it is one of the top attractions in Sydney for families. With spectacular views of the harbour and all your favorite crazy rides, it’s a fun-filled experience where younger ones can go wild and adults can channel their hidden kid. The giant smiling face welcomes you on arrival and invites all visitors to experience a fun and action packed day.

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Overall, Sydney is a great family destination. There is always something going on in the city for kids and adults alike. Moreover, getting around Sydney and nearby areas with whole family is also easy. Just pick a travel pass and you will be able to travel on cheap on trains, ferries, and buses.

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Traveling may have become cumbersome to you if you’re only anticipating long lines and layovers. Instead of worrying about the time spent on waiting to reach your destination – how about making the experience more pleasurable?  You do have the option to be productive when traveling.

When you travel for a business or pleasure, you have to take every minute of your time as productive as possible. This should take you away from boredom or any dull moment. Spending your time wisely while traveling is a great practice. Here are some helpful ideas on how to be productive while traveling:

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• Search for the best seat available

Finding the best seat means finding comfort. Needless to say, you can’t be productive with anything or at anywhere without being in a comfortable situation. And what better way to gain comfort is by having a nice seat. Nowadays, you can easily reserve a great seat through online booking.

• Purchase the things you need ahead

Whether you’re flying, sailing or by any means of transport, anything you buy inside the craft or vessel is always higher than its retail price. This is understandable. Besides, you don’t have any other choice than the in-store offer. The good thing is that you have the option to buy everything ahead. Make sure you have packed everything you need for traveling.

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• Consider lounges

This may sound expensive but think about the perks. When you’re in a lounge, you have free food, internet connection, comfortable couch and ample working space. It’s definitely the ideal place for people who wanted to relax and be productive. You can be sure that it’s not crowded and noisy.

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These are just some of the helpful ideas on how to be productive while traveling. Consider them seriously for your next travel and be productive.

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What is worse than traveling around from country to country and having to lug all of your bags around behind you? Not only the things you originally packed but also the trinkets and souvenirs you pick up along the way can turn into a lot of luggage quickly. Most people aren’t aware of this, but international shipping can really benefit your travel experience.

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No lugging your luggage

You won’t be bothered by broken wheeling suitcases and backpacks weighing you down. Just box it up and ship it to your location. Apple LTD recommends using powerful tapes like stretchable or duct tape when packaging up your shipment so they aren’t tampered with or shift while moving. If you are traveling, ship it home so it’ll be there when you arrive.

Don’t worry about customs.

Without the extra baggage customs will be a breeze. Just handle your paper work and walk on through. The same goes for all of the security check points in airports. With only a small carryon, security won’t hold you up at all.

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No lost luggage by airlines.

Besides flying, what is everyone’s biggest fear when traveling? Losing their luggage. This happens frequently when checking bags and switching airlines during travel. By shipping, this fear is gone. Shipments move from point A to point B and in most cases are track-able so you know exactly when and where your things are at all times.

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No baggage claim.

The dreaded baggage claim; waiting for the men and women behind the scenes to load the conveyor belts made to spit out the luggage from your flight that landed hours ago. All of this wasted time can be avoided and you can get out and explore your destination as soon as you land.

Of course international shipping might not always be the best option when traveling depending on duration of trip, how far you are going and how much stuff you are bringing, but it can save a lot of time and effort when it is.

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Summer is the time when we start daydreaming at work about hitting the hottest beach spots or traveling to the national parks for a thrilling vacation. However, as we wake up, we realize that we need to start saving up for that summer vacation to happen. Even though it is a great way to spend quality time with our loved ones, the reality is, summer vacation can lead to a financial drain, if unplanned. So, we point you these easy cost cutting methods to get the most out of your next trip.

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Be flexible when planning summer vacation

Being flexible with your travel plans is the best way to save money during summer trips. Due to the cutthroat competition, many travel companies offer discounted last minute deals. You never know who is going to come up with the next awesome deal, so keep your alerts activated. Moreover, being spontaneous about your travel dates and destinations can be really exciting.

Package deals are always available

Going for package deals is a smart way to beat skyrocketing airfares. Online travel portals can help you find discounted deals if you book your hotel and flight together. That’s because they lock airfares well in advance, so they can easily offer lower prices.

Do your research on exchange rates

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Bagging a good deal on airfares and accommodation is just half the battle, you will also spend on food, shopping, and, entertainment while travelling. If you end up getting higher exchange rates, your summer vacation can turn up to be a serious investment. So, when planning your trip do take the currency difference into consideration. Always try to exchange cash at your bank as they offer wholesale rates and avoid using airport exchange counters or withdrawing cash with your credit cards.

Pack light

If you are unable to bag a good deal or being flexible is not an option, at least you can avoid the hefty baggage fees. When booking for air tickets, choose your airlines wisely. There are few airlines like Southwest that offers two free checked bags, whereas, some offer one or none. The prices for checked bags vary from $25 to $100. So, pack light or consider shipping your luggage if you must carry overweight or oversized bags.

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While planning ahead of time is always a great way to save money especially when travelling during the summer season, these tips will help you take a relaxing vacation without overburdening your wallet.

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Bangladesh, the most understated part of South-East Asia, has all the beauty that nature can bestow upon a country. So inspired was Bernier with Bangladesh’s beauty that he said, “it has a hundred gates open for entrance but not one for departure.” Although blessed with such diverse natural beauty, much of its beauty is still unexplored and only a few people are aware of its allure. With one of the largest river system in the world and an extensive marine ecosystem, Bangladesh’s picturesque beauty is worth acknowledging.

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Revealing Landscapes of Bangladesh

Bangladesh has one of the largest water systems of the world, tributaries of which fall in to the Bay of Bengal making it the largest Bay around the globe. Many major rivers flow into this bay and two very important seaports reside on it, Chittagong and Chennai. The Bay of Bengal also houses some very beautiful and picturesque islands of Bangladesh such as St. Martin’s island and Cox’s bazaar.
World’s largest mangrove woodlands “Sundarbans” is also a part of Bangladesh. National park of Sundarban is the reserve for tiger, for which Bangladesh is popular worldwide.

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Flora and Fauna of Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s biodiversity is immense, ranking among the most bio-diverse countries of the world. The flora and fauna of Bangladesh is so rich and extensive, full of unique biological creatures. The Sundarbans offer a wide range of flora to the country with its wide spread distribution of mangroves and multiple other plant species.
The Sundarban also provides an extensive habitat to a diverse group of animals and different varieties of birds. Tigers of Bangladesh are famous all over the world; marine fauna is just as extensive including fishes, shrimps, and crabs. The Bay of Bengal is full of coral reefs, estuaries, fish, and mangroves. Dolphins are also common in River Ganges.

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With such extensive biodiversity and world’s largest river systems in the world, Bangladesh deserves much more importance and exploitation then at present. The vast water system makes it an agricultural country and allows production of some major crops thus aiding in Bangladesh’s economy. The beautiful bay of Bengal along with its islands and huge forests make its landscape very attractive and worth seeing.

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Planning a vacation to Asia in the near future? Nepal is a beautiful, hilly country located in South-East Asia, locked between India and China.  This is a country that is literally located in the Himalayas. Nepal has been a country with a monarch and only recently turned a Republic in 2008. There are two basic routes to get to Nepal. You can go directly by flight to Kathmandu’s Tribuvan International Airport. The second option is to land in India and proceed by bus or train to Nepal. I would really recommend this route because it means you can spend a few days in wonderful India as well!

Kathmandu and Pokhara

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Kathmandu is the largest city and capital of Nepal. Religion makes a great part of what the country is and in Kathmandu, you will find many religious locations. Swayambhu and Boudha Stupa are two Buddhist stupas that are a must see where one can enjoy the Buddhist mythology, history and culture. Explore the monarchy of Nepal, through Narayanhiti Palace Museum, a palace turned museum. Pashupatinath is an important Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. At the end of the day if you are looking for a place to relax, drop by the Garden of Dreams. Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a mini-city in itself.

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Pokhara is an interior city of Nepal. There many activities to immerse yourself in, from trekking, biking, rafting, etc. and many places to see such as Shanti Stupa and Devi’s Fall. Yet the most famous is the serenity offered by Phewa Lake.

Parks and Lumbini

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Nepal has managed to maintain much of its forest cover. Chitwan National Park or Sagarmatha National Park is great place to check out, if want to explore mother-nature in Nepal. You can take an elephant ride around the park. Chitwan National Park is home to the famous Bengal tiger, Sloth Bear, Asian Rhinoceros, Gharial and more. The national parks have much to offer that will help you experience nature.

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Many may associate 1^st Century BCE India to causing the spread of Buddhism, but Nepal is the birthplace of Buddha. He was born in Lumbini and throughout history, it has been showered by royalty resulting it in being rich with Buddhist structures. Emperor Ashoka visited the place and a famous Ashokan pillar stands there till today. Dharma Swami Maharaja Buddha Temple and the Lumbini Buddha Vihar are two temples that you will want to visit.

Everest Base Camp and Namje

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There is no point coming to Nepal, the Himalayan country, if you don’t feast your eyes on the tallest point in the world – Mount Everest! This is a trek that will take you across a large part of Nepal, crossing many beautiful villages such as Namche Bazaar. From the Everest Base Camp you will enjoy a breath taking view and realize the sheer height of Mount Everest.

Namje is a little hamlet that has been featured in CNN’s ’12 Best places you’ve never heard of’. This village is accessible only by trekking and is near the fifth tallest peak in the world, Mount Makalu. This is a village that is famously known to give spiritual enrichment to visitors.

As small as Nepal is, the country has a lot to offer. There are many cities, trekking paths and religious structures to explore. The best time to visit is between September and November, and March and May. This is when you will find a pleasant climate and avoid the mid-year monsoons.

If you feel like life has taken a toll on you, Nepal is your spiritual refreshment. Take a gulp!

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Over the years, various travel lists have been complied to document the most wonderful and awe-inspiring constructions around the globe. While, someone who is hungry for travel and experience would want to witness and explore all the wonders of the world-natural, ancient, manmade, we have created a list of three wonders of the modern world that are a must have on every traveler’s bucket list.

Christ Redeemer: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Located at the top of Corcovada Mountain, this statue of Jesus stands approximately 38 meters in height and is considered to be one of the tallest sculptures of the world. It was created by a French sculptor Paul Landowski and designed by a Brazilian designer Heitor da Silva Costa. Today it is one of the most widely recognized monuments that symbolize the warmth of the Brazilian people and Christ’s love for all.

To see the Redeemer up close, you can travel by car or a 20-minute train ride. If it may interest you to get to the foot of the statue, you will have to climb more than 200 steps at the rails’ end.

The Great Wall of China

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Snaking its way through various landscapes, The Great wall of China is disputed as the only man-made structure visible from space. Myth or not, it is certainly a modern marvel and rightfully sits amid the other wonders of the world. This enduring symbol of the Chinese civilization was built as a defensive structure to protect the country against invaders from the north. It is believed to be made of several separate structures and offers a breathtaking view of the countryside.

Taj Mahal, India

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An enduring Indian icon, Taj Mahal is an elegant monument built by a Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan to honor the memory of his beloved wife. This mausoleum has exquisite carvings and is regarded as a perfect jewel of Muslim art. Every detail of the Taj is absorbing- walled gardens, elaborate designs on semi-precious stones, and, the reflecting pool. It is believed that 20,000 artisans and laborers who created this beautiful memorial had their hands amputated to ensure the uniqueness of the Taj Mahal.

A visit to any of these incredible sights is truly a lifetime experience! Chosen democratically by more than 100 million voters, these wonders of the modern world are certainly unparalleled man-made structures.

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If you are planning a vacation, then Bali just has to be one of the places you should be considering! Bali is also known as Island of the Gods! It is a small island which is part of Indonesiaand a former colony of the Dutch Since its independence in 1949, Bali has experienced turbulence in political conflict and many challenges, and it was only until the 1980s that some form of political balance grew on the island.

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Ngurah Rai International Airport is your best option to enter the island by air, while you can always head on by boat from Java. Bali is a tropical island, so expect it to be really hot. Between December to March is the wettest season and you should really avoid this season. June to September is the coolest time on the island and is the best time to visit.

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Kuta is a good place to enjoy your first day. This is the most developed part of the island. The beach front is the best place to relax after a traveling to Bali. The beach is also known as a surfing paradise and if you have are a first timer, no worries; there are plenty of classes to learn surfing. There are also many, many spas in Kuta to enjoy a relaxing massage. Try Villa de Daun, Reborn and Cozy – these are some of the popular ones.

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If you are searching for the cultural center of the Island, then head to Ubud. You will find many Hindu structures around town. Gunung Kawi is temple where you will find a burial ground of a former King and beautiful rock cut architectures. You can spend a whole day Ubud’s Sacred Monkey forest where you will find a variety of Macaque monkeys and plenty of ancient temple structures hidden in the forest. If you have time and a whim for cooking, drop by Janet de Neefe, a restaurant that offers introductory classes for the island’s cuisine – this is one of my favourites. On the outskirts of the town, a walk through the paddy fields will prove relaxing. If you are searching for something adventurous, there is a variety of rafting, kayaking and mountain cycling that can be done.

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And finally, there is no better way to escape the world than by making a trip to Lembongan Island. You will find this paradise on the south-east coast of Bali. This island is completely devoid of any hawkers, traffic or crowd. You will discover the white sandy beaches and be tempted to go snorkeling all day long! If you are taking a stroll on the south-east part of the island, prepare to be pleasantly surprised when you discover seaweed farms. There are a few temple structures that you can check out.

Legian is another beach town where you can practice your surfing skills. If you are tired of the slow life of the island, you can hit one of the many nightclubs in town.

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Bali culture is derived from Hinduism, but it is very distinct from what you may see in India. This distinctiveness has bought out a unique mythology you will discover in the ancient structures. Often, you will find offerings of leaf trays called canang sari filled with goodies and incenses. It is best not to stamp on them since it is believed that it brings bad luck. The island has its own music and dance, so watch out for Barong (lion dance) or Kecak (monkey dance). If you arrive during March or April you may catch, Nyepi, or the Hindu New Year which is great festival to enjoy.

If you are a seafood lover, you will love Bali! You must try out the nasi goreng (fried rice), nasi campur (steamed rice with various vegetables and meats), and mie goreng (fried noodles).

While you may be able to travel through Bali in a single day, the tiny island has enough to keep you occupied even if you stayed on for months! Amed, Kintaman and Mount Agung are places that you can also check out if you’re staying for long.

If you are looking for a world away from the world, Bali is the place for you.  Fall in love with it like I did!

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A wine tour is not just about tasting wines, it’s about enjoying the whole experience of your travel. You get to learn about the history of the vineyards and the stories behind the labels. Whether you hire a guide or brave a wine tour on your own, these tips will help you make the most of your experience.

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Limit your vineyard visits

Visit no more than 3-4 wineries a day. Lingering around allows you to really savor the wines and understand what’s happening at every location. Rushing through the wineries will only take away from the experience. To get the most out of your wine tasting tour, consider visiting the vineyards during the off-season or midweek.

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Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water between tasting different wines. Staying hydrated will help you to avoid hangovers and keep your palate clean. Also, to save yourself from intoxication, make sure to eat small portions of food along the way.

Avoid fragrances

Take it easy on smell goods when going for a wine tasting tour, as smell is an important aspect of how you perceive a wine. So, avoid wearing perfumes, colognes, or, any other beauty products that contain fragrances.

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Say no to mouth fresheners

Stay away from chewing mints or gums during a wine tour. These items can significantly affect the taste of the wine, and generally in a negative way.

Ask questions

Winemakers love to talk about their wines and seek opportunity to discuss about it. Ask questions about the founders or the making process. Every question will surely proffer some valuable information. Learning during a wine tour is the best way to get the most out of your wine. Taking notes is a great way to keep a reference of your experience.

Designated driver

Even though wine tastes are small, they add up over the day. So, choose a designated driver or consider hiring a cab. It’s likely that you will consume much more than the legal limit. Be sure to follow the respective state laws in this regard.

Whether you are a wine aficionado or someone who is new to wine, these simple tips will help you take a wine tasting tour that you will surely remember for years to come.

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Prague-historical pearl of Europe has its own unique charm and is one of the most beautiful cities across the globe. It is a perfect blend of ancient and modern, and romantic and successful. The city is fancied for its magical atmosphere, great cuisines, monuments, and, rich culture. If you are planning to take a walk in its tiny little medieval streets, you might want to check if your trip will coincide with most talked about Prague’s annual events. Here is the selection of events that can enrich and enliven your stay in Prague.

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Prague Beer Festival

Since 2008, Prague’s annual beer festival has gained much popularity throughout the world. It takes place every year in May and stretches for about two weeks. Here you get to taste more than 70 brands of Czech beer, served by 200 boys and girls in national costumes. Specialties of top chefs and live music add on to the fun. The festival has its own uniform currency called beer Tolar. You can use it to pay for tents, food, and, drinks.

Prague Easter Festival

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Easter is a very special time in Prague. Those who visit the city during Easter can look forward to enjoying its special customs and atmosphere. This holiday tradition can be traced back to pre-Christian, pagan times. The festival is followed by Easter markets that run from mid March to first week of April. Beautiful wooden huts offer a variety of handcrafted items such as, metal wares, candles, embroidered cloths, crystals, and, more. Brightly colored hand painted Easter eggs are quite common. Moreover, you can satisfy your taste buds with traditional food of Prague like large hams roasted on spits and Czech pastries ‘Trdelnik.’ Not to forget the stunning performances by dancers and folk groups.

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Prague International Jazz Festival

One of the oldest of its kind across Europe, The International Jazz Festival in Prague is much more than an average music event. It takes place every year in autumn and includes everything from traditional to Brazilian samba, classic, funky, acid-jazz, music with African roots, and much more. Since its inception in 1964, it has been attracting many international jazz players. So, if you happen to be in Prague around October, don’t forget to jazz it up!

Prague has events at all times, for all tastes. Once you have figured out what’s in store for you, it will be difficult for you to stay back home.

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