DREAM VACATIONS WORLD SPECIAL 2
Here’s
your excuse to escape into dream-like vacations with ET-Travel...
Pitch your camp in the world’s most enchanting forests or dock alongside the many exotic islands to feel the romance, adventure, relaxation and exclusivity. Nature truly has its ways of gifting tranquillity to us, humans. And at most times, dream vacations are only just a plan away, tucked amidst nature. ET-Travel chalked out a fun pack so you can soak up the sun, relax, have the best cuisine, indulge in some therapeutic spa sessions and then push your limits. Listed on page 1 and 4, are world’s most memorable dream vacations. They are the best bets for you to trot to this season. Page 3 celebrates the Indian spirit with holiday abandon, laced with luxury with a bent toward rich culture. When you go off the suggested track, chances are you will explore the true persona of the destination. Let the discovery begin...
TOP FIVE DREAM VACATION OPTIONS
Romancing in Italy and New Zealand Cruising along the exotic Caribbean islands Eco touring in Costa Rica and Argentina Soaking up the culture in Japan and Indonesia Discovering natural highlights in Australia and Canada
WHERE: RIVIERA MAYA
REGION: Mexico.
BEST BETS: Forest trails, reef snorkelling, fishing, underground river
diving and Mayan temple walks
The Mayan Riviera, also known as ‘Riviera Maya’, is located in Mexico’s easternmost state, Quintana Roo. It is along the Caribbean coastline from the northeastern point of the Yucatan Peninsula, just southward to the Mayan ruins. Tourists love to vacation here for way more reasons than the romantic warm climate, sandy beaches, and the world’s second largest coral reef. They come here to imbibe the unmissable earthy energy and feel the mystique attached to this Maya region.
MUST DO: ET-Travel recommends a swim by the only archeological site located by the sea in Tulum: Built on the top of a cliff facing the pristine Caribbean waters, you can see over 60 structures within three massive walls, which surround the site. There is a small beach beside the main temple, apt for a quick dip as you gaze in awe at the Maya’s architectural beauty. Many cabanas and ecohotels are lined on the lively stretch of Tulum. Visit Xcaret, a place where Mayans came to purify themselves. It is now one of the world’s unique eco-archeological park. You can spend the day swimming in the underground river, enjoying the aquarium and aviary, and experiencing other attractions, like a popular Mexican show. On the powdery beaches of Akumal, that are protected by off-shore reefs, the diving spots are brilliant for you to get started. Explore the mystery of the Mayan caves in Aktun Chen. It’s an enlightening way to understand the local history. Indulge in the entertainment and nightlife that’s extended here. We can assure great fun at the La Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) main pedestrian walkway that provides amazing dining and entertaining options. Unwind at the local bars, restaurants and shops. Pick some artefacts to take back for friends and family. You must go climbing the pyramid Nohoch-Muul’s steep incline. This is the highest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula and a rope is hung for easy movement by walkers upslope. At the Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka’an, a local guide will tell you that this place is named literally from the words ‘where the sky is born’ or ‘gift from heaven’ in the Maya language. Unique due to the diversity of biological species, both animals and plants here, this area has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Top up your visit to the Riviera Maya with a therapeutic treatment at a local spa. As you enter the Mayan spa, you can choose to unwind with a therapy comprising aromatic tropical flowers, fresh sap of the trees, and special algae from the oceans. In case you make your way here in the month of November, then you must cheer on at the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival (Nov 28, 29, 30).
www.rivieramaya.com
The Mayan Riviera, also known as ‘Riviera Maya’, is located in Mexico’s easternmost state, Quintana Roo. It is along the Caribbean coastline from the northeastern point of the Yucatan Peninsula, just southward to the Mayan ruins. Tourists love to vacation here for way more reasons than the romantic warm climate, sandy beaches, and the world’s second largest coral reef. They come here to imbibe the unmissable earthy energy and feel the mystique attached to this Maya region.
MUST DO: ET-Travel recommends a swim by the only archeological site located by the sea in Tulum: Built on the top of a cliff facing the pristine Caribbean waters, you can see over 60 structures within three massive walls, which surround the site. There is a small beach beside the main temple, apt for a quick dip as you gaze in awe at the Maya’s architectural beauty. Many cabanas and ecohotels are lined on the lively stretch of Tulum. Visit Xcaret, a place where Mayans came to purify themselves. It is now one of the world’s unique eco-archeological park. You can spend the day swimming in the underground river, enjoying the aquarium and aviary, and experiencing other attractions, like a popular Mexican show. On the powdery beaches of Akumal, that are protected by off-shore reefs, the diving spots are brilliant for you to get started. Explore the mystery of the Mayan caves in Aktun Chen. It’s an enlightening way to understand the local history. Indulge in the entertainment and nightlife that’s extended here. We can assure great fun at the La Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) main pedestrian walkway that provides amazing dining and entertaining options. Unwind at the local bars, restaurants and shops. Pick some artefacts to take back for friends and family. You must go climbing the pyramid Nohoch-Muul’s steep incline. This is the highest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula and a rope is hung for easy movement by walkers upslope. At the Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka’an, a local guide will tell you that this place is named literally from the words ‘where the sky is born’ or ‘gift from heaven’ in the Maya language. Unique due to the diversity of biological species, both animals and plants here, this area has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Top up your visit to the Riviera Maya with a therapeutic treatment at a local spa. As you enter the Mayan spa, you can choose to unwind with a therapy comprising aromatic tropical flowers, fresh sap of the trees, and special algae from the oceans. In case you make your way here in the month of November, then you must cheer on at the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival (Nov 28, 29, 30).
www.rivieramaya.com
WHERE: ST BARTHS
REGION: Caribbean
BEST BETS: Exotic photo shoots, beach holidays and amazing water sports
Saint Barthélemy, is an overseas collectivity of France, often abbreviated to St Barts or St Barths in English. This volcanic island, scenically encircled by shallow reefs boasts of 14 beaches, all gifted with gleaming white sand. The popularity of the beaches attracts top fashion brands to do their model photo shoots here. Good news is, the beaches do not usually get crowded, even in peak season. And that attracts Hollywood celebrities to this locale in the Caribbean. The capital Gustavia holds the main harbour to the island.
From the Gustavia harbour, we suggest you board a special submarine. In this semi submersible vessel, you can admire the beauty of the Caribbean marine life.
Nightlife and food are big attractions that you must indulge in. You will find the language, cuisine and culture, distinctly French. The beach boasts of some great places to soak up the sun
and fine dine. While here, taste some Creole cuisine. Hit the traditional eateries that serve Creole dishes such as stuffed crab, fish or blood sausage, ‘cristophine’, a local squash prepared with codfish, and of course, the popular ‘accras’, small, deep-fried codfish fritters.
Getting around: Trying the different beaches and restaurants is part of the St Barths experience, so wherever you stay on the island you will need a car. Renting a car is easy and St Barths is quite small in area, so you can drive to any other part in about 20 minutes. A valid driver’s license of your own nationality will work just fine here.
Everyone’s favourite indulgence - shopping is great fun at St Barths as it is a duty-free port. Big brand stores are lined up in Gustavia, followed by St Jean.
Plan a trip in the month of August and you will be able to attend the Windward Fete (Aug 3-4): A fishing tournament with regattas and loads of dancing. Stay on for a bit longer and witness festivities of St Barthélemy Saint’s Day on Aug 24. The entire region marks it with cultural shows, games and entertainment activities. Indulge, it’s a treat!
www.st-barths.com
Saint Barthélemy, is an overseas collectivity of France, often abbreviated to St Barts or St Barths in English. This volcanic island, scenically encircled by shallow reefs boasts of 14 beaches, all gifted with gleaming white sand. The popularity of the beaches attracts top fashion brands to do their model photo shoots here. Good news is, the beaches do not usually get crowded, even in peak season. And that attracts Hollywood celebrities to this locale in the Caribbean. The capital Gustavia holds the main harbour to the island.
From the Gustavia harbour, we suggest you board a special submarine. In this semi submersible vessel, you can admire the beauty of the Caribbean marine life.
Nightlife and food are big attractions that you must indulge in. You will find the language, cuisine and culture, distinctly French. The beach boasts of some great places to soak up the sun
and fine dine. While here, taste some Creole cuisine. Hit the traditional eateries that serve Creole dishes such as stuffed crab, fish or blood sausage, ‘cristophine’, a local squash prepared with codfish, and of course, the popular ‘accras’, small, deep-fried codfish fritters.
Getting around: Trying the different beaches and restaurants is part of the St Barths experience, so wherever you stay on the island you will need a car. Renting a car is easy and St Barths is quite small in area, so you can drive to any other part in about 20 minutes. A valid driver’s license of your own nationality will work just fine here.
Everyone’s favourite indulgence - shopping is great fun at St Barths as it is a duty-free port. Big brand stores are lined up in Gustavia, followed by St Jean.
Plan a trip in the month of August and you will be able to attend the Windward Fete (Aug 3-4): A fishing tournament with regattas and loads of dancing. Stay on for a bit longer and witness festivities of St Barthélemy Saint’s Day on Aug 24. The entire region marks it with cultural shows, games and entertainment activities. Indulge, it’s a treat!
www.st-barths.com
Compiled
by Nimisha Tiwari ETTR130725
No comments:
Post a Comment