The second largest country in the world, Canada offers a vast variety of activities for travelers that want to vacation in the area. With a climate that varies from offering four distinct seasons to areas that are fairly hot or intensely cold, it is almost a one stop shop in terms of vacation planning.
Located to the far east of Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador is the combination province of the mainland, Labrador, and the island of Newfoundland. The province proudly calls itself home to the oldest settlements and cities in North America. Home to approximately half a million people, Newfoundland and Labrador is one of the must visit vacation destinations in Canada.
When visiting Newfoundland and Labrador, iceberg viewing is definitely a must. Even on a sunny day, 10,000-year-old icebergs can be seen along the northern and eastern coasts. The main location to spot the ice giants isIceberg Alley,which spans from the coast of Labrador to the southeast coast of Newfoundland. The best ways to watch icebergs is by boat tour or kayak.
Hiking:
There are approximately 29,000 kilometers (18,000 miles) of coastline that can be explored. This includes beaches, sea stacks, and around 300 hiking and walking trails. It also is not uncommon to spot seabirds, whales, and icebergs on these adventures. Must visits are Green Gardens and Burnt Hill,both in Gros Morne National Park, and the East Coast Trail. Check out this linkfor the best hiking trails.
Raymond’s Restaurant debuted in 2011 and is operated out of a building dating back to 1915. A classic example of architecture in the area, the restaurant is also named after the grandfather of the head chef and the father of the sommelier- both of which were named Raymond.
The restaurant gets all of its ingredients locally, which includes the fresh seafood that is always served. Canada has wonderful fresh ingredients. While the menu changes regularly, there are certain staples that one can try at any point during the year such as roasted Quebec duck with savory duck sausage or smoked pork shoulder.
Java Jack’s is located directly in the center of Gros Morne National Park in Canada. Java Jack’s began as a cafe in 2000 but became increasingly popular and, in 2003, opened a restaurant in the upstairs portion of their building. They serve fresh fish and seafood, wild game, and even offer vegetarian options. All of the restaurant’s vegetables are completely organic and grown in a large garden behind the building. They also grow flowers to place upstairs in the restaurant dining room and downstairs in the cafe.
Newfoundland and Labrador is undoubtedly an underrated travel destination. With its own rich culture in one of the largest countries in the world, it still manages to offer a unique experience unmatched by other parts of Canada.
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If a pool with a view is what you’re looking for when making travel arrangements, this is the blog for you. Whether you find solace in overlooking cityscapes, rustic greenery, or calm waters, it’s almost inherent for vacationers to seek a hotel room with a stunning view when prepping for a getaway.
What if your fix of soothing scenery didn’t have to end at your hotel room’s window? If this seems enticing to you, you should add Travel + Leisurepools with scenic views to your list of hotel criteria the next time you’re in the market for a refreshing vacation.
The Loren at Pink Beach: Tucker’s Town, Bermuda
If you’re a fan of crystal-blue waters, travel no further than The Lorenin Tucker’s Town, Bermuda. The Loren features two outdoor swimming pools overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. If the waves are tempting to you, you can even venture down to the private white sand beach for a closer view.
Grand Ferdinand: Vienna, Austria
The Grand Ferdinand, located in the center of Vienna, Austria, is home to a rooftop pool that is kept at a relaxing 73.4° F (23° C). From the pool, you can oversee the beautifully crafted buildings that make up the Vienna skyline.
Four Seasons Resort O’ahu at Ko Olina: Oahu, Hawaii
If you find serenity in sunsets, travel to the Four Seasons Resort O’ahu at Ko Olinais the place for you. The resort, which sits on a white-sand beach bordering the Pacific Ocean, features four pools. Three of these pools were strategically placed on the west-end of the resort so guests can relax while they watch the breathtaking sunsets of Oahu.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo: Lake Como, Italy
At the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, located at the edge of Lake Como in Italy, features three pools which the hotel refers to as their “three turquoise jewels.” Their featured poolis a floating pool that rests on Lake Como and overlooks the province of Bellagio. Their “Piscina dei Fiori,” more commonly referred to as their Flowers Pool, is a quiet pool surrounded by trees, shrubs, and of course, flowers. While this pool is a bit more secluded, guests can still catch a glimpse of Lake Como in the distance. Though the hotel’s Infinity Poolis located indoors, the glass walls surrounding it allow for a full view of Lake Como.
Kimpton Everly Hotel: Los Angeles
Located in Los Angeles, California, the Kimpton Everly Hotelfeatures a contemporary rooftop pool that allows a view of the Southern California skyline and the Hollywood Hills. If you’re in the pool in the evening, you might even be able to catch a film screening or a musical performance.
Gansevoort Meatpacking: New York City
Vacationing in the winter? That’s not a problem at New York City’s Gansevoort Meatpacking. This hotel houses a rooftop pool that’s heated year-round. With a 360-degree view overlooking Manhattan and the Hudson River, it’s the perfect place to watch the New York sunset.
Mulia Villas: Bali, Indonesia
The Mulia Villas, which overlooks the Indian Ocean, features six outdoor swimming pools. From their infinity Oasis Pool, guests can see a hilltop temple. The peacefulness is enhanced by stone statues of Balinese women located on the outskirts of the pool.
Snake River Sporting Club: Jackson, Wyoming
The infinity pool at the Snake River Sporting Clubin Jackson, Wyoming mimics the shape of a grand piano and overlooks the Snake River Canyon and Bridger-Teton National Forest, which allows for a view of luscious green hills for miles. If you get tired of wading in the water, you can settle next to the area’s fire pit to watch the sun set behind the hills of trees.
The Palms Turks and Caicos: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
While the Mosaic Pool at Montage Laguna Beachin Laguna Beach, California, is a sight within itself, the pool also overlooks the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by palm trees and perfectly-sculpted grass. If you’re in the pool during sunset, you’ll be in for an experience as the sun’s rays produce a shimmering effecton the mosaic tiles that make up the pool.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba: Riviera Maya, Mexico
At the Banyan Tree Mayakobain Reviera Maya, Mexico, guests can relax in either of the resort’s two outdoor pools. One of the pools allows for a view of the Caribbean while the other overlooks the resort’s golf course and a peaceful canal surrounded by mangroves.
The Curtain: London, England
The Curtainis home to one of the few heated rooftop pools in London, England. Located in East London, the pool overlooks the neighborhood of Shoreditch, giving guests a view of the urban skyline.
The Inn at Dos Brisas: Washington, Texas
AtThe Inn at Dos Brisasin Washington, Texas, guests can get a taste of life on the homestead. The Inn’s infinity pool offers a view of meadows that are home to several horses. Since The Inn is tucked away and far from city lights, their outdoor pool is the perfect location to star gaze.
Grace Santorini: Santorini, Greece
TheGrace Santorini, located on a hilltop in Santorini, Greece, features an infinity pool with a view of the Aegean Sea and Skaros Rock. This pool, which is also the largest infinity pool in Santorini, is the best place to sit back and watch the Santorini sunset.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
The rooftop pool at Hotel Xcaret Mexicoin Playa del Carmen, Mexico sits right above the oceanside and even has a clear glass bridge for guests to swim through. Just make sure you’re photo ready; as you swim through the bridge, a camera will capture a picture of you to take home as a souvenir.
Regent Porto Montenegro: Tivat, Montenegro
If the infinity pool overlooking Boka Bay and the marina doesn’t satisfy your scenic craving, Regent Porto Montenegroin Tivat, Montenegro houses two additional pools that give alternative views of the bay. All of the pools are equipped with high quality sunbeds to enhance your relaxation experience.
Sagamore Pendry Baltimore: Baltimore, Maryland
At the Sagamore Pendry Baltimore, positioned on Baltimore’s Recreation Pier, a private pool overlooks a lively waterfront. From the pool, guests are offered a sweeping viewof the harbor, marina, and cityscape.
If you’re in the mood for a historic view, consider the Orient Jerusalemin Israel. The hotel’s rooftop infinity pool overlooks the Old City of Jerusalem. From the pool, guests have clear views of popular landmarks of the city.
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If you ever find yourself with some extra time in Shreveport, Louisiana, here are some of the top experiences there you wont want to miss out on.
1. R. W. Norton Art Gallery
Named after Richard W. Norton, a discoverer of the Rodessa Oil Field in northern Louisiana, the art gallery began as a fine art collection by his wife and son. In 1946, Mr. Norton’s mother and son created the R.W. Norton Art Foundation, which later became the R.W. Norton Art Gallery.
Surrounding the art gallery is 40 acres of beautiful botanical gardens, described as “one of the South’s favorite spots” by Southern Living Magazine. Indoors, the gallery has an extensive fine art collection including over 400 paintings from over 100 artists. The collection spans at least four millennia. The gallery also takes part in an oral history project. Created in 2003, the project has grown to include stories of World War II, the Civil Rights Movement, Louisiana Musical Pioneers, and more.
2. Louisiana Exhibit Museum
The Louisiana Exhibit Museum was one of the Public Works projects during the New Deal and was completed in 1939. The building holds 23 scale dioramas showing life in 1940s Louisiana. There are regional art collections, Native American Artifacts, and natural history exhibits.
3. Beef Jerky Outlet
Recently ranked by Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500®, Beef Jerky Outlet is a top beef jerky retailer. Being in Louisiana, this is a prime place to go for some alligator jerky. With other jerkies ranging from the traditional beef to kangaroo and even ostrich, Beef Jerky Outlet is a place to visit for an eccentric and out of the ordinary experience.
3 Places to Stay
1. Fairfield Place Bed & Breakfast Inn
Built by a Louisiana Supreme Court Judge, Thomas Thompson, and his wife Mary Eliza, this bed and breakfast was built in the early 1870s and is possibly one of the oldest houses on its street. With beautiful New Orleans style patios and an old-timey feel, Fairfield Place is almost a blast from the past featuring modern amenities such as WiFi, Cable TV, private bedrooms, and more. Begin each morning with a feeling of Louisiana and a full breakfast.
2. Clarion Inn
With over 200 rooms and suites, the Clarion Inn is the perfect place to stay. With a free continental breakfast, marketplace, fitness center, high-speed internet, and more, it’s the place to stay for a nice and classic getaway. The Clarion is also pet friendly for those traveling with their four-legged friends. It is a perfect stay for group travel and even includes business spaces.
3. Remington Suite Hotel and Spa
The Remington Suite Hotel and Spa may be small, but it’s mighty. It has 22 rooms and one penthouse. The beds and mattresses are custom made. Rooms come equipped with a kitchenette, a jacuzzi, flat screen televisions, iPod docking stations, and more. Hotel amenities include complimentary WiFi, a full service spa, a media room, and an indoor pool.
3 Places to Eat
1. Food Shack
A self-described Southern Experience, Food Shack serves Southern Style food. A locally owned and operated business, Food Shack serves Louisiana classics gumbo, po-boys, and jambalaya.
2. Frank’s Louisiana Kitchen (Cajun/Creole Food)
Frank’s Louisiana Kitchen is on a mission to bring southern Louisiana style cooking to the northern part of the state. Everything here is made from scratch and served in a more upscaled and relaxed, casual setting. There are chef’s specials Thursday through Saturday with live jazz on Sundays. He has recently partnered with Artemis Gourmet Mushrooms to offer gourmet Louisiana-grown and harvested mushrooms in his dishes.
3. Cold Stone Creamery (Sweets)
In case of a sweet tooth, Cold Stone Creamery is the ultimate destination. They offer what they call a “10-Minute Vacation®.. that 10-minute getaway you deserve from the world outside our doors.” They’ve been in business for 25 years and show no signs of slowing down. Each dessert is prepared individually for each customer, providing a truly encompassing experience.
Post-New Year’s Day January travel
plans are ALWAYS a good idea. Prices have dropped, lines are shorter, and
deals are abundant. Not to mention, more travel is a pretty standard resolution
for many people, so why not get started ASAP? Depending on where you
live, you are probably looking for a change in climate. In other words, if you
live in Denver, you most likely aren’t looking to go somewhere snowy. Wendyperrin.com compiled the following list and we couldn’t agree more-
these are some of the very best destinations for the month of January no matter
what you have in mind for a vacay. Click here for the full list.
1. Rocky Mountains
Yes, you can plan a casual expedition
over organic burgers but these lands are far from tamed. Vast mountain ranges
remain unscarred by roads or summer homes, largely thanks to the USA’s
brilliant public lands system. This is America’s playground, where
there’s still plenty of wild places to be wild in. Walk in solitude amongst
aspens and pines. Open yourself to the serenity of a clear mountain lake. Push
past boundaries as you summit a mountain. Take in breathtaking views as far as
the eye can see. Watch spectacular sunrises over rocky mountain peaks.
Connect with nature doing a variety of activities: mountain climbing,
hiking, camping, fishing, and hiking to breathtaking views of jagged peaks,
glaciers, and high-mountain lakes. A visit to the Rockies is sure to reset you
for a wonderful 2019. Try the conveniently located Prestige Rocky Mountain Resort. The property also includes several restaurants, a
hair salon, spa, indoor swimming pool and athletic center. Guests are also
encouraged to borrow their complimentary bikes, sporting equipment, board games
and beach toys for added enjoyment.
2. Costa Rica
The perfect place to enjoy lovely
tropical beaches, grand adventures, the wonders of nature, and unique culture;
all the necessary components of an ideal vacation. No wonder thousands have
made Costa Rica their top travel choice! Costa Rica extends from the
Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea, and its distance is just at 200 miles. La
Amistad International Park (PILA) is not only the largest natural park in Costa
Rica but also the only bi-national park, created by the governments of Costa
Rica and Panama in 1982. It could explain the name La Amistad, which means
friendship in Spanish. The total portion of protected land in both countries
covers a great variety of humid, rain and cloud forests in the Pacific and
Atlantic sides, as well as indigenous towns. The isolation of the region,
thanks to the difficult geographical conditions, has allowed enormous
cultural richness and extraordinary natural habitats. Species in great danger
of extinction such as the jaguar live in the park as well as a great variety of
wildlife including 400 species of birds, 263 species of amphibians and reptiles
and 213 of mammals. Many other species are found only in this giant rainforest.
Experience the Four Seasons Costa Rica as your launching pad into boundless adventures. After a day of
zip lining, surfing or hiking a volcano, return to our tropical retreat for
farm- and -sea-to-table dining, refreshing swims or relaxing spa treatments.
With customized itineraries for families and couples alike, experience “pura
vida” at Peninsula Papagayo.
3. Florence, Italy
Florence is the capital city of the
Italian region of Tuscany. It is the most populous city in Tuscany and
considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, and has been called “the
Athens of the Middle Ages.” The city attracts millions of tourists each
year and is popular for its culture, Renaissance art and architecture and
monuments. The city also contains numerous museums and art galleries, such as
the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Pitti. If your jam is art and architecture, this is the place for
you- it has been ranked by Forbes as one of the most beautiful cities in
the world. Fashion your passion? Florence is the leader in Italian
fashion and is ranked in the top 15 fashion capitals of the world. Right
in the middle of a park is the wonderful Hotel Villa Betania. It is well quiet and private and an ideal site for
those who prefer to relax in an elegant, calm atmosphere, yet it is walking
distance to many of the top attractions It has only 20 rooms and is family
managed.
4. Nicaragua
The country has three regions which
vary greatly in weather, geography, and population. These three areas are the
Pacific Region, Central Region, and the Caribbean Region. Visitors to
Nicaragua are able to enjoy the natural beauty of dozens of volcanoes, rivers,
and lakes, as well as two oceans. Nicaragua is an ideal place to visit for
anyone looking for something uniquely different and adventurous.
Nicaragua’s nickname is “The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes” and it’s easy
to see why: it’s dotted with bodies of water and volcanoes that you are able to
experience in a variety of different ways: by foot, boat, air, even riding
animals like donkeys and horses. The options are as endless as Nicaragua
is beautiful. Retreat to nature, the jungle, and the beach at Costa Dulce Eco-Resort and Retreat Center. Costa Dulce has become one of the premier wellness centers
in Central America. It consists of eleven individual Bungalows, two yoga shalas,
sea turtle hatchery, spa, surf school, food garden, and a restaurant.
Life is short: eat the cake, wear the swimsuit, buy the shoes, travel as much as you can, TAKE THE TRIP! 2019 could be your year; one full of new experiences and adventures that keep being put off in the name of work, kids, responsibilities. Lucky for you, Forbes has compiled the ultimate 2019 travel bucket list and we condensed it to our top faves. If you take any trips on this list it is sure to change you internally and bring you on the wildest ride of your life. Keep reading!
1. African
Safari: East Africa’s Mara, Crater & Serengeti Migration
The definitive East Africa adventure,
this superb 8-night luxury fly-in safari combines the four most celebrated game
reserves in Kenya and Tanzania. The tour encompasses the vast open plains
of Kenya’s Masai Mara, the delightful diversity of Tanzania’s Lake
Manyara, the extraordinary Ngorongoro Crater, and the rolling grasslands of the Serengeti. Arguably the most
spectacular game viewing itinerary in Africa, this is the journey of a
lifetime. Ideal for seasoned travellers and first timers alike, this
wildlife and gourmet adventure combines easily with a romantic Indian Ocean
island getaway to make a perfect honeymoon itinerary.
2. The Northern
Lights
The most reliable chances to see
Alaska’s northern lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) are in Fairbanks, and above the Arctic Circle. The aurora belt in Alaska’s great Interior and Arctic regions is
among the most active in the world, and there are few other places on earth so
suited for an Aurora Borealis vacation.
While there are no guarantees that the northern lights show will happen on any
particular night, Northern Lights trips are typically best made in late fall
and winter/early spring, though they can be seen throughout the winter months
on nights with clear skies. If you visit Alaska in November, December or
January, you will experience a very short period of daylight providing a unique
experience in the high northern hemisphere. In February and March, there
are longer daylight hours for you to enjoy with evenings that still offer
maximum viewing chances. No bucket list is complete without experiencing
Alaska’s Northern Lights!
3. Maldives
A 45 minute seaplane ride away from Male International
Airport is Adaaran Prestige Water Villas located on the exclusive Meedhupparu Island in Maldive’s Raa Atoll Area. This is frequently the site of
filming when the movie calls for a tropical oasis. And tropical oasis it
is! Despite its remote location, this resort features an outdoor pool, private
spa baths, personal butler and chef service, not to mention the air-conditioned
over-water villas are built over the Indian Ocean with glass panel floors. Each
room boasts all the technology that one would need such as flat-screen TVs, DVD
players and high-speed internet access. Make sure to take advantage of an
in-room massage and fitness center. Bathrooms come with a hot tub. Water sports
activities and diving are offered. International fine dining is available on
the 5 restaurants on the island. Guests repeatedly rate this resort higher than
it’s competitors.
4. The Grand Canyon
Vast and stunningly beautiful, the Grand Canyon is easily one of the
world’s most famous landmarks and a natural wonder you have to see to believe.
277 miles from end to end with mile high rocky crag walls stretching from the
top of the craters to the canyon’s floor, it is truly a sight to behold.
The gargantuan Colorado River follows a swift course southwest. There are
tons of ways to see the canyon and a variety of places to stay such as Historic
lodges, hotels and even rugged campgrounds, but be sure to book early as
internationally, it is one of the top visited places. You can even choose
to see the canyon from the air by booking a helicopter tour!
5. Great Barrier Reef
Encompassing around 3,000 individual
reefs and almost 900 islands and cays, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most unforgettable natural treasures.
With an unparalleled array of marine life such as thousands of different
varieties of fish, birds, and clams, hundreds of types of birds, seaweed, and
turtles, it’s understandable why snorkelers and certified divers often place
the reef at the top of their bucket lists. Since experts expect that the reef
will be hugely negatively impacted by external causes such as climate change in
the next decade, there’s never been a better reason to plan a visit to this
natural wonder.
What’s on your travel bucket list? Antarctic Expeditions? Sailing Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands? What made the cut?? We have compiled the ultimate Top 10 travel bucket list for any willing globetrotter. One could consider themselves lucky to do even one of the trips on this list. Have you done any?
Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Nestled far away from bustling Guatemala City, Lake Atitlan in the Guatemala Highlands of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range is a majestic place where you can relax and be immersed in your natural surroundings. Consider staying at Casa Palopo, where you’ll have sweeping views of the lake and the volcanoes. Don’t forget to bring home plenty of the beautiful textiles from the local markets.
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Take the flight into St. Thomas and then hop on the ferry over to the idyllic island of Tortola. Book a stay through Airbnb with a group of friends, rent a car so you can get around the island with ease, and enjoy sunshine, sparkling blue waters, and forget about the struggles of life until it’s time to check in for your return flight. Truly paradise!
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Head to Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming for some of the most spectacular natural settings in America. Camping will be your best, most affordable bet, but you had better start booking a campsite now.
Santiago, Chile
Travelers have often overlooked Chile’s capital city in favor of more popular South American cities like Lima or Cartagena but the city is attracting more world-class chefs than ever, and has more and more design-centric boutiques and breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
Thanks to budget airlines like Norwegian Air, getting to Norway is more affordable than ever. Make the journey to the Lofoten Islands, north of the Arctic Circle, and stay in a fisherman’s cottage for a few days of majestic landscapes, tasty fresh fish, and more.
Isla Holbox, Mexico
This under-the-radar island off the Yucatan Peninsula is a must this year. Stay at Casa Las Tortugas (super affordable), and unwind on the beach for a few days of good food, yoga, and sunshine.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
Make the trek to the majestic Blue City of Morocco, Chefchaouen. Situated in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen was painted blue by Jewish refugees in the 1930s and has stayed that way ever since. It’s no wonder Instagrammers are flocking to this blue gem.
Kyoto, Japan
As one of the best-preserved cities in Japan, Kyoto is home to hundreds of Shinto shrines and thousands of Buddhist temples. Spend a few days in Tokyo and then head to Japan’s imperial capital.
Bocas Del Toro, Panamá
An archipelago made up of nine islands, Bocas Del Toro is a true sanctuary. Full of tropical rain forest, empty beaches, and beautiful coral reefs, this rugged retreat is a great place to escape from it all. Stay at the stylish Sarani Resort, and spend your days eating the fresh local catch and enjoying the area’s natural wonders.
Jaipur, India
You’ll want to head to the Pink City — widely thought of as one of the most beautiful places in the world — with an empty suitcase and a full wallet. The goods and textiles are all still made by hand. How much is it to check 10 suitcases full of handmade Indian goodies?
