The Purple Passport

Seasoned advice for British Travellers

destinations

8 of the Most Amazing Beaches on the Globe

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There are a lot of beautiful places on planet earth. There are stunning mountain ranges, raging waterfalls, city skylines, and more. One of the most fantastic views, though, has to be the ocean’s crystal clear water from a beach with pristine white sand. There is something about this contrast of colors on a sunny day that calls out to so many. 

Outside of the beauty that the beach provides, it also offers a sense of calm and tranquility. As visitors set up their beach chairs and towels, the rest of the world seems to fall away. 

The other great thing about the beach (and these beaches especially) is that beachgoers can choose between relaxation and beach activities. There are watersports, beach sports, shopping, and more that each of these beaches offers. They are dream beaches for anyone that loves the sand and saltwater. 

So, if you are planning your next trip and not sure where you are going yet, make sure to have an open mind with this list of beaches. We apologize in advance, though, if you cannot decide between which of these amazing beaches you should visit. You may just have to plan multiple trips. 

7 MILE BEACH 

Location: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

This award-winning beach is a stretch of oceanfront that is enjoyed by people from all around the world. The white sand and crystal clear water are as fun to look at as it is to enjoy. And, with it being a vast expanse of beachfront, there is plenty of space for everyone and every type of beach activity. Off the beach, there are plenty of resorts, dining options, and fun activities for everyone. Lastly, if you are looking to explore and experience multiple beaches, Grand Cayman also offers several other beaches to enjoy as well. 

Ka’anapali Beach

Location: Maui, Hawaii

With amazing resorts, spas, and delicious restaurants, there is as much fun out of the water as in it at Ka’anapali Beach. In the water, you have snorkeling, surfing, and so many other water activities. If you are like most of us, though, and enjoy simply relaxing on the beach, there are plenty of opportunities for that as well. You will be able to sit back, enjoy the views, and bask in the sunshine. With all that Ka’anapali beach offers, there will be something for everyone. 

NUSA DUA 

Location: Bali, Indonesia

Located in South Bali, Nusa Dusa is a beachgoer’s dream. From five-star resorts to fine dining to golf resorts, the area is set up perfectly for visitors. On the beach, you will get picturesque views and access to calm and peaceful waters. The reason why the waters are so calm is because of an offshore reef that protects the shore. This allows for plenty of fun and relaxing dips in the water for everyone at the beach. Also, for those interested in being able to check out multiple beaches on their trip, Nusa Dua has several different beaches that you can explore. 

 

NAVAGIO BEACH 

Location: Zakynthos, Greece 

Navagio Beach is an interesting beach for a couple of reasons. The first is that it can only be accessed by boat as white limestone cliffs completely surround it. The second reason it is so interesting is that it has an actual shipwreck on the beach that has been there since the ’80s. Add in the pure white sand and crystal clear blue waters, and you have a beach that is well-deserving of being on this list. So if you ever find yourself in the Greek Islands, make sure to visit Navagio Beach and all that it has to offer. 

BONDI BEACH 

Location: Sydney, Australia

With a large number of activities, Bondi Beach has so much to offer visitors. This is especially true if you enjoy surfing, as Bondi Beach offers excellent surfing opportunities, among other water sports and activities. With resorts, fine dining, shopping, and a number of seasonal events, there will be something for everyone at Bondi Beach. But don’t worry, there is still plenty of opportunities for lying on the beach, catching some rays, and relaxing the day away. 

NISSI BEACH 

Location: Ayia, Napa, Cyprus

Located in Cyprus, Nissi Beach is a unique beach as it offers a large amount of shallow water off the shore. A small islet splits the beach, allowing for shallow waters that can be explored and enjoyed. This also makes the waters great for many different water sports. Outside of the water, visitors have access to stunning views, soft sand, and world-class hotels and resorts. With all of the resorts comes plenty of activities and fun in the sun for all.  

PIHA BEACH 

Location: North Island, New Zealand

With black sand and a rock known as “Lion Rock,” Piha Beach is anything but average. Its uniqueness and beauty are enjoyed by many, and the wild and mysterious waters make for excellent surfing. Another highlight of the beach is what is going on behind it. Butting up to the beach is a protected parkland consisting of subtropical forests and a large variety of wildlife. So if you are looking for a beach that is as unique as it is beautiful, Piha Beach may be the choice for you. 

AS CATEDRAIS BEACH 

Location: Galicia, Spain

Also known as the Beach of the Cathedrals, this is one beach that was made for exploring. Over time, the waters have carved out different formations in the rocks and even some natural passageways. So when the tide is low, visitors can go exploring through these different rock patterns. Also, when not exploring, visitors can sit back and enjoy the stunning views that the beach, rocks, and water all combine to provide. 

8 of the Most Amazing Beaches on the Globe Conclusion

There is just something about the natural beauty that the beach and ocean come together to provide. And as you can see from this list, there are a number of different types of beaches that offer this. 

Outside of the views, though, these beaches offer so much more. From resorts to water sports to fine dining, everything you will need to enjoy a vacation is right there. 

So start planning your trip, and get ready to enjoy the journey of a lifetime. 

5 Amazing, Breathtaking Costa Rica Destinations

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With over 1.7 million visitors each year, Costa Rica is a popular destination for tourists — and it’s not hard to imagine why.

There’s something for everyone.

With its bustling cities, beautiful scenery, and amazing wildlife, there are very few people in the world who wouldn’t find somewhere they loved in this amazing, diverse country.

The main issue is narrowing down your options!

Although Costa Rica has endless, stunning places, these are the Costa Rica destinations that should be top of your list.

1. San José

San José’s first impression doesn’t do the city justice. It doesn’t have the amazing scenery that some other places in Costa Rica do but with its charm, food, and nightlife, the capital of the country is well worth a visit.

It’s a great base to explore or start off from. You could even spend a day there before moving on. Fortunately, most major cities have places to store your luggage if you’re only there for a few hours and don’t want to get a hotel.

2. Conchal Beach

When planning your trip, chances are you’ll want to look into the best beach destinations in Costa Rica.

Look no further than Conchal Beach.

Costa Rica beach destinations are plentiful, but Conchal Beach is special. This beautiful beach with its white sand and tranquility is the ultimate place to go to relax and soak up some rays.

3. Monteverde

Home to the cloud forest, there’s nowhere else like Montverde on earth.

It’s one of the top destinations in Costa Rica due to the amazing tour of the plants and wildlife. It can be beautiful and relaxing if you stay in one of the reserves, or you can visit somewhere like the Bat Jungle for a little more excitement.

4. Tortuguero

A little town on the northern Caribbean coast, Tortuguero is famous for its wildlife. Sea turtles aplenty can be found here, and there’s a dense jungle with exotic species of monkeys and birds that people desperately hope to get a glimpse of.

If you’re an animal lover, this is the place to visit. You can hire local guides to explore on foot or by boat, and they’re sure to help you get the most out of your trip.

5. Arenal Volcano

The youngest volcano in Costa Rica’s activity hasn’t put tourists off visiting. It’s safe to do so if conditions are allowing it though, so don’t worry!

See an active volcano, take a dip in the hot springs there, and visit the nearby town of La Fortuna. There’s plenty to do around this place, and seeing an active volcano is, in itself, pretty awesome.

These Costa Rica Destinations Are Only Some of What’s on Offer

More and more people are beginning to realize what Costa Rica has to offer. It’s truly a wonderful country, with so much exotic wildlife and wonderful scenery that it makes for a dream vacation.

It doesn’t matter what you like or don’t like — there are Costa Rica destinations for everyone!

For more travel advice and tips, check out the rest of our blog!

Top Tips to Make Your Vacations More Exciting

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However much you love going on vacation, if you choose to travel to the same area each year, or if you revel in the same activities that you participate in at home, your trip can quickly become boring. If you are fed up with the traditional family vacation and want to enjoy something a little different, here are some top tips to spruce up your next getaway.

1. Stay Somewhere Different

Although hotels might be the easiest option when you have a family, staying somewhere different can allow you to hear about new activities and can help you to feel as far from home as possible. For instance, if you are planning to visit the Arctic Circle on your next trip, why not consider staying in an igloo or an ice hotel? If you are not adventurous to try different types of accommodation, then you should consider staying at themed hotels, such as Animal Kingdom Lodge at Disney World, which allows you to look out over the park’s animals throughout your stay.

2. Go on a Unique Group Tour

If your family members are starting to argue and get fed up with one another, you should consider going on a group tour. These will allow you to see your surroundings in a new light while also enabling you to meet and mingle with other like-minded travelers. For instance, at Silverscreen Tours, they allow you to participate in Game of Thrones location tours that can take you around the locations of the key scenes from the hit television show in the heart of Dubrovnik.

3. Dump Your Luggage

There is nothing that can dampen your enjoyment of a vacation more than having to carry around heavy luggage throughout your trip. If you are struggling with the weight of your bags, and this is preventing you from being able to participate in all the activities that you have in mind, you should find somewhere safe to store it. If your accommodation does not offer a luggage hold, you should consider researching your local luggage storage centers, which are often located in stations or using luggage storage apps.

4. Be Spontaneous

Although it is essential to make an itinerary for your trip to ensure that you do not waste precious vacation time, there is value in being spontaneous. Rather than creating a timetable for your trip, you should allow yourself to explore and try any activities that catch your eye. This will enable you to experience new things that you did not even know existed before you got on your flight.

5. Enjoy the Journey

Many vacation-goers are put off from traveling long distances because their journeys can often feel like a waste of time. To make your vacation as exciting as possible, you should find ways to enjoy the trip as well as the time spent at your destination. For instance, you could read a book or watch a film that you have always wanted to, play games with loved ones, make exciting stops along the way, or go on scenic detours.

6. Experience Local Culture

If you are tired of the cultivated tourist landscape and want to see the real country that you have decided to visit, you should visit independent restaurants away from the tourist hotspots, speak to residents and consider couch surfing with a local family.

10 Pro Tips for Traveling to London

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About 37.9 million tourists visited the UK in 2018. In 2017, tourism reached an all-time high with 39.2 million visitors. Before you head out and start traveling to London, though, it helps to have a plan.

Charting your adventure will ensure you make the most of your trip. Otherwise, you might unintentionally miss out on an amazing opportunity.

Keep reading to discover the 10 pro tips you need to consider before traveling to the UK. With these tips, you can plan an epic adventure you’ll remember for years to come. Start charting your course with these 10 London travel tips today!

  1. Chart Your Course

Before traveling to London, try to plan as much as possible. You’ll want to consider where you’re going, when you’re leaving, and who you’re going with.

Take the time to make a list of all the places you want to visit. What type of trip are you planning? Are you hoping to see the sights, or relax?

You can chart your course based on whether or not you want to:

  • Relax at a resort
  • Ride on a road trip
  • Explore cities
  • Venture the countryside
  • Shop in the city
  • See the sides

Who are you traveling with? How do they want to spend the course of the trip?

Decide whether you want to stay in London or travel throughout the UK. If you plan on leaving London, you’ll need to plan a way to get around. You’ll also need to consider different places you’ll explore.

Don’t forget to consider the duration of your trip. How long you plan on visiting London can determine where you’ll go and when.

If you’re planning with a group, confirm everyone’s travel days. Make sure everyone is on the same page.

You might want to consider hosting a meeting. Make a list of what everyone wants to do during the trip. Then, plot your course to maximize your time.

  1. Plan How You’ll Get Around

Don’t forget: London is big! There’s a lot you’ll want to see and do.

To make the most of your London travel plans, consider getting an Oyster Card. An Oyster Card is free (though you have to pay a deposit) and will allow you to travel the tube.

Getting an Oyster Card at the beginning of your trip will help minimize travel-related expenses. You can get an Oyster Card at most tube stations, already preloaded.

Otherwise, take the time to walk between tube stops. Keep your head up and take in the view around you.

When planning your travel to London, consider flying into one of the low-cost airports. For example, you can arrive at London Stansted or London Southend. The downside, however, is that you’ll need to travel from the airport to the city center.

Don’t forget to check out these Tailwins loyalty programs to get rewarded for your flight.

If you’re traveling with a student, as a couple, or with a senior, you might receive a discount rail or tube fare.

You can also rent a bike in London! Instead of relying on the tube, you can cycle around the city and take in the sights. Biking around London is a great way to learn your way around.

  1. Find Free Attractions

Americans spent about $782.4 billion on leisure trips in 2019. Before traveling to London, make a budget for your journey. Consider how much you’ll spend on travel, hotels, entertainment, and food.

If you don’t make a budget beforehand, however, you might not realize you’ve overspent until after your trip.

There are plenty of free attractions you might consider during your trip. For example, many of the museums are free. These museums include the:

  • Tate Modern
  • British Museum
  • Science Museum
  • Natural History Museum
  • National Portrait Gallery

Take in the city’s rich heritage and history by exploring one of these museums.

You can also visit Big Ben for free! Big Ben is the bell located in Queen Elizabeth II Tower.

  1. Schedule a Show

Consider watching a show in the west-end during your visit, too. The TKTS booth in Leicester Square sells unsold tickets for each day at a discount. You can take in the theatre at a discounted price and add a little entertainment to your trip.

  1. Take a Tour

Before traveling to London, consider scheduling a tour. There are plenty of hop-on-hop-off buses that will carry you around the city. If you want to save money, hop onto one of the red London buses and head upstairs.

From there, you can see sighs like the Houses of Parliament, Leicester Square, The London Eye, and Big Ben. Then, hop off and explore on foot!

  1. Try the Cuisine

Don’t forget to get a taste of London while you’re there! Consider trying one of London’s favorites such as fish and chips.

You can also visit the markets in London, including Borough Market, which is full of tasty treats. Don’t forget to visit the dessert stalls while you’re at it!

  1. Head Inside Buckingham Palace

During the summer, consider scheduling a tour of Buckingham Palace.

Make sure to purchase your tickets online before you travel to London. Otherwise, you might find all the tours booked! Touring the palace can give you a better sense of what it’s like to live like royalty.

  1. Carry an Umbrella

While you’re out and about on foot, don’t forget to take an umbrella with you. London’s weather is often unpredictable, so you never know when it might rain.

Otherwise, make sure to wear your favorite pair of comfy shoes as you start walking around the city.

  1. Notice Notting Hill

If you’re visiting London’s East-End, don’t forget to explore Nottingham Hill. Stop by for brunch before exploring the area on foot.

While it’s a great stop for the foodies in your group, Notting Hill is also known for its annual carnival, high-end shops, and Victorian townhouses!

  1. Meet the Locals

Take the time to learn from the locals, too. Londoners are friendly and ready to aid your travels. Ask them about local hot-spots or restaurant suggestions.

You never know where you might end up based on their recommendations!

Plan It Right: 10 Key Tips for Traveling to London

Ready to plan a trip you’ll never forget? Keep these 10 tips for traveling to London in mind. With these tips, you can chart a course for an amazing adventure!

Searching for more seasoned advice for your trip? Explore the Europe section of our blog for more helpful travel guides!

Making The Most Of Your Trip To Niagara Falls Canada

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Right about now you’ve probably had your fill of puttering around the house and spending more time with your family than you’d ever imagined, and you might be yearning for a getaway to someplace where you can see and experience different things and explore new vistas in the great outdoors.

As soon as those options are available again, then, you should consider a vacation across the pond in Canada, with a nice long stop to visit the famous Niagara Falls and the vast recreational and sightseeing area surrounding them. It’s a destination that offers a magnificent setting with plenty of outdoor and indoor activities to engage family members of all ages. Not to mention that for over one hundred years it’s been known as the honeymoon capital of the world.

For starters, there are actually two cities named Niagara Falls, one on each side of the international border between Canada and the United States. The Canadian side is at the southern edge of the province of Ontario, an easy 116 km (72 miles) drive or train ride from the provincial capital of Toronto. There is usually a wide choice of nonstop flights to Toronto from the UK.

Choices of accommodations abound on the Canadian side, from full-service resort hotels to bed & breakfasts, motels, and a variety of affordable campgrounds with amenities. Restaurants range from family-friendly to fine dining establishments showcasing farm-to-table specialties and a wide variety of international cuisines. The famed Canadian friendliness will make you feel welcome wherever you go.

Here are some don’t-miss things to do and see:

See The Three Falls

Niagara Falls is comprised of three magnificent waterfalls that are a wonder of the natural world. For a complete experience, join up with one of the Niagara Falls boat tours that includes an excursion on a Hornblower cruise into the basin of the falls either by day or by night when they’re illuminated. You’ll get wet for certain, but a nifty rain poncho that’s yours to keep is included in the price of admission.

If you haven’t gotten your fill, you can see the falls from another perspective with the Niagara Parks Journey Behind The Falls that takes you down 150 feet in an elevator to a series of tunnels that lead you right to the edge of the wall of water thundering down from the top.

And for the truly adventurous, you can get another perspective yet by taking an exhilarating ride on a zipline right over them. If you’ve got a Go-Pro, this is definitely the time for it.

Bike Along The Countryside

A great way to see the natural beauty of the region is on one of its many cycling trails. Take along a picnic lunch and choose one of the more than 200 trails, catering to riders of every level. Named one of the top ten cycling routes in the world is the Niagara Parkway that runs 58 km (36 miles) along the Canadian side of the Niagara River.

Enjoy A Day On The Water

For a lovely way to spend some time, take a lazy afternoon outing on the Niagara River via canoe or river raft. For a wilder go, you can take a kayak trip on a fast-moving current. If you’ve got the kids along, head over to the huge indoor waterpark with slides and wave pool where everyone will have fun.

Explore The Trails

If you want to stretch your legs, set out for the Niagara Gorge trails which offer1.1 km (6.8 miles) of glorious views. Hike them on your own or take a guided tour through the pristine, old-growth forest of Niagara Glen. For a real challenge, the Niagara Glen Bouldering Trail is for you.

Do Some Wine Tasting

The Niagara Region is known for its award-winning wines, including the unique ice wine, made from grapes harvested in the winter when temperatures are way below freezing and sugar content is highest. The Niagara Wine Route features dozens of wineries with tasting rooms set amidst acres of beautiful vineyards.

Take In The Nightlife

Nothing stops in Niagara Falls when the sun goes down. There are seven nightclubs as well as casino gaming, comedy clubs, and live entertainment with headline stars. If you’d rather kick back, you can relax in one of the city’s many pubs with a pint of local Moosehead lager and a big bowl of poutine, Canada’s national dish. A good way to end any day, eh?