These hot-spots are most preferred by those who feel tired of a life of routine and are looking for the ultimate thrill and rejuvenation. Here is a list of  Top 10  offbeat things to do in India:

1. Snorkeling with an elephant – Diving or snorkeling with the Elephant, Rajan, is an exceptional experience which  adds that extra zing to your Andaman experience. It’s a once in a lifetime  opportunity and is truly a magical experience which invites many snorkelers and  divers from across the world. Every year many professional underwater  photographers and magazine journalists flock to the Emerald Isles just to have the  opportunity to interact and photograph this amazing swimming elephant.

2. Vintage car rally in Jaipur – Reviving the vintage automobile era: More than 100 vintage cars rally on the roads of the historic Pink City and these  classic beauties dating back as far as 1923 attract the spectators as they travel  majestically from Jai Mahal Palace to Castle Kanota. This Vintage & Classic Car  rally has attracted many people and the awareness created by the rally has helped  Jaipur become one of the prominent destinations for restoration of old cars.

3. Snake Boat Race in Kerala – A true example of sportsmanship: It is one of the famous festival celebrated in Kerala and is usually conducted in the  months of August and September every year. The crew members begin to practice  for the race many months before the competition day. On boat race day, the racing  boats are slicked down with a special oil to make them glide effortlessly through  water. There is excitement in the air as the 130 feet Chundan Valloms, each manned  by over a hundred rowers, fly through the waters at break neck speed.

4. Offroading in Kutch – Experience the wilderness: The Rann of Kutch consists of wilderness of salt flats in north western Gujarat,  extending all the way up to the Arabian Sea. The Rann of Kutch has an exceptional  range of wildlife and landscape that is difficult to find anywhere else in India. Many  parts of the Rann of Kutch are unreceptive during most of the year due to the  extremes in the climate.  This region is sparsely populated with vast stretches of  absolute wilderness making it ideal for offroad experiences.

5. Visit Karni Mata Temple – The temple of Rats: The 600-year-old Karni Mata Temple is famous for its rat population and many  people offer sweets, milk and other edible offerings to the rats. The food bitten by  rats is also consumed as Prasad. There are about 20,000 rats in the premises and  they are considered to be reincarnations of Karni Mata and her sons. Sighting of a  white rat is considered very auspicious and many devotees offer sweets and food  to entice them.

6. Mumbai Local Train Journey – Glimpse of the local culture: If one wishes to travel from one end of the city to the other (north/south), there’s no  faster way than travelling by the local train.  Riding the Mumbai local train gives a  unique glimpse into daily life of Mumbai people. The local rail network is the lifeline  for many commuters in Mumbai and it carries an astonishing eight million  commuters per day and to travel on one of these trains is a whole new experience.

7. Magnetic Hill in Ladakh – A magnetic experience Can a car drive on its own due to a natural phenomena? Yes, it is very much  possible in the case of the Magnetic Hill, located 30 kilometres outside Leh on the  way to Alchi and Kargil.  A sign at this spot invites one to stop the car over a white  square marked on the road, switch it off and leave it in neutral and one should  follow the instructions. It is an unbelievable experience to see the car actually  moving on its own at the speed of 10-20 km per hour. Pilots play it safe by not  flying any aircraft over this hill.

8. Participate in Kumbh Mela: A bath to be freed from the temporal  bondage: The Kumbh Mela is a congregation of God fearing people and it is believed that the  people who attend this festival become part of the universal soul.  To millions of  Hindus, the Ganga is not merely a life-giving, life supporting river but is the  Goddess incarnate. To bathe in the river or to have one’s ashes scattered over its  surface is considered spiritual. Hundreds of foreigners join the Indian pilgrims in the  festival.

9. Elephant Polo in Rajasthan – Experience the flavor of Rajasthan: This festival is held annually, during Holi, at Rambagh Polo Ground in Jaipur  (Rajasthan) where elephants are the centre of attraction. Dressed in saffron and red  turbans, the teams try to score goals with long sticks and a plastic football riding on  the Elephants. During the festival, Jaipur comes alive with elephants, dancers,  musicians and attract visitors from all over the world.

10. Yak Safari in Ladakh – A ride to cherish:  While in Ladakh, enjoying a safari on a yak can bring one closer to local culture  and lifestyle that locals lead in Ladakh. Yak, or dong as the Ladakhi’s call it, is the  largest animal in the cold deserts of trans-Himalayan Ladakh. It can easily be  distinguished by its long black hair, tinged with gray, at the muzzle. Yak safari can  be a life time experience by exploring the lakes, glacial valleys, gurgling streams and  meadows on a Yak.

[Post written by Atish Udayshankar: "My motivation to travel the world is to find the meaning of life. The best part of my search is I come across some of the most  beautiful people from many amazing places from all over the world". You will find more of his articles on Indian traveling on Thrillophilia ]

The post Top 10 Offbeat Things To Do In India [Guest Post] appeared first on Tourism On The Edge.

Off to see the world? Here are seven destination that will feed your appetite for charming and original architecture along the way. From Yemen to China, prepare to get a glimpse of the world’s most creative small towns and villages ever built.

1. Alberobello, Puglia Region, Italy

Alberobello is inhabited by 11,000 lucky Italians and is famous for its unique 14th century Trulli huts. The Trulli of Alberobello are part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites list since 1996.  Modest and lovely looking, the trulli are built using roughly worked limestone boulders collected from neighboring fields. They have pyramidal, domed or conical roofs developed by using corbeled limestone slabs. Most of the unusual homes are currently used as accommodation or gathering places (restaurants, cafés).

2. Al Hajjerah, Yemen

Al Hajjerah is an unusual town in Yemen and one of the most impressive settlements in the Arabian Peninsula due to its unique architecture and isolated position. With a population of 2000 people, it is located 40 km northwest of Yemen’s capital Sana’a, up in the Haraz Mountains at an altitude of 1850 m. These innovative multi-story constructions were built in the 16th century to serve as a strategic observation point, as the wild environment was considered proper for rejecting invaders. Although most of Al Hajjerah’s buildings have been around for hundreds of years, the city’s architecture seems very modern and innovative when it comes to engineering. The unusual dwellings lie suspended on the cliffs like they are at the point of collapsing, of disappearing into the gap.

Unfortunately, traveling to Yemen is strongly discouraged due to a state of severe political crisis, as well as a very high threat of terrorist attacks, abductions, tribal violence and general lawlessness.

3. Monsanto, Portugal

The Portuguese countryside offers many pleasant surprises to the wandering traveler. Monsanto is an incredible, architecturally delicious village where you can see granite houses squeezed between giant boulders. While in Monsanto, be sure take your camera along the narrow, spectacular streets and hike to the top of the 400 feet high hill, where you will discover the old castle.

4. Setenil, Spain

Traveling to Setenil de las Bodegas in Spain may prove to be a real adventure for those suffering from symptoms of claustrophobia. Located in the scenic province of Cádiz, Spain, the unusual village was creatively built using local stone as construction material. Walking through Setenil is like a never ending discovery. Get to observe the ruined Moorish castle and the nearby church of the Encarnación; enjoy discovering the narrow streets in this compact, cliff-enclosed town.

5. Chuxi Village, Fujian, China

Chuxi Tulou cluster is a part of Chuxi Village, located in Yongding County, scattered in the mountainous southeastern region of Fujian province, China. Known for  its imposing earthen buidings called “tulou”, Chuxi was inscribed in 2008 as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Fujian tulou has its architectural influences from the Chinese traditional houses which are  “closed outside, open inside”. This architecture principle is represented by an enclosure wall with living quarters around the peripheral areas and a common courtyard at the center of the tulou. Some of the buildings have a small construction inside the courtyard that serves as an ancestral hall for worshiping, festivals, meetings, weddings, funerals and other ceremonial functions. Jijinglou, the largest round tulou, was built in 1419 during the Ming dinasty and consists of two concentric rings: the outer ring is a four-storey tall buiding with a number of 53 rooms per level and the inner ring is a one-storey bilding.

The Chuxi Tulou is representative for the Hakka culture and unlike other housing types which reflect social hierarchy, Fujian Tulou exhibits its unique characteristic as a model of community housing, where all the inhabitants are equal. When they built the tulou, Hakka people decided to create  all rooms of the same size, with the same materials, without any differences in decorations, windows and doors. If you happen to travel to Fujian, visit a tulou, stay at a Hakka family- they will be happy to have you in their homes. In Chinese, the name “hakka” means “guest families”.

6. Göreme, Cappadocia, Turkey

Göreme, located among rock formations known as “fairy chimney”, is a town in the historical region of Cappadocia,  in Central Anatolia, Turkey. Hidden labyrinths and lunar landscapes are just two of the features that could describe the unworldly Göreme, a town that is “hiding” centuries of unwritten history, created by lava layers deposited over time and consisting of caves, tunnels and underground settlements.

It is said that being present here is a memorable experience due to the fact that the settlement is not only composed of unique, imposing towers of stone carved by time and excavated by men, but also the visitor’s journey through historic time, ancestral, with strong religious significance. The origins of this town date from the third century, during the Roman period, when Christianity was the prevailing religion in Cappadocia, which is revealed by numerous well preserved churches and chapels in Byzantine style.

The historical setting of Göreme, the rock-hewn churches and the massive eroded landforms combine in such unusual way that unveils an astonishing cultural and natural patrimony that made Cappadocia region a world icon.

7. Kandovan, Iran

Kandovan is an extraordinary ancient village in the province of East Azarbaijan, near the city of  Tabriz, Iran. With its at least 800 years existence, this remarkable place is inhabited by 670 people and offers scenic landscapes. With homes carved inside rocks, some of them 700 years old, the Kandovan village is said to have been partially formed by volcanic remains from a strong Mount Sahand eruptions hundreds of years ago.

The most interesting aspect about these “houses” is the fact that the rock acts as an energy efficient material, keeping the house cool during summer and warm during winter. This is why most of the inhabitants here do not use heaters or air conditioning systems. It takes ten months for four people to dig a room in Kandovan. The intriguing architecture of this village, with its incredible slopes and irreverent paths, seems to defy all rules .

The post 7 Architecturally Surprising Destinations for the Wandering Traveler appeared first on Tourism On The Edge.

Hiking Half Dome Yosemite is our idea of a perfect day. Some say it takes 12 hours to go all the way to the edge of the dome and back, but with experience, good equipment and perfect weather conditions, you could make the trip faster.

Half Dome is situated in Yosemite National Park, in the northeastern Mariposa County, California, at the eastern end of Yosemite Valley. Probably Yosemite’s most familiar rock formation, this unusual granite dome rises more than 1,444 m above the valley floor. It seems like a solitary rock that has been cut, but the truth is that Half Dome is nearly as whole as it ever was.

Photo by Rainer Hübenthal

Here are just 10 useful tips you should consider before hiking Half Dome Yosemite:

1. Download a trail map. If you are new to hiking, chances are you might get lost. Sure, in the rush season there will be many people around to follow, but it is best to have things covered on your own.

2. Check the weather in advance. Avoid hiking Half Dome on cloudy days-being exposed to lightnings is probably not what you would like ruining your day. Rain is also dangerous, as the cable route will become slippery.

3. Half Dome permits can be procured here, by submitting a lottery application. I assume this new system is looking to avoid crowds.Without a permit, you can only go as far as the subdome. This will also help.

4. Best time to hike Half Dome is when the cables are up, from mid-May or early June through Columbus Day weekend in October.

5. Stay safe. Don’t get overwhelmed by the past accidents, but keep in mind that this is no child’s play. Bring along good shoes (snickers are not enough) and gloves- if you don’t want to hurt your hands while gripping the cables. You can find more tips for staying safe in the cable area here.

Photo by Av9

6. Don’t take things lightly. Hiking Half Dome is extremely difficult, so you might want to be physically prepared for it.

7. The Mist Trail Route is absolutely spectacular, with unsurpassed views of Nevada Fall. In order to make the most of it, take the hike to Half Dome during spring.

8. Be patient. Be aware that your hike may be delayed. And expect crowds.

9. Bring plenty of water and food, but keep them zipped in your backpack.

10. Have a look at the video at the end of the post.

And last but not least, we welcome you to improve this list. Have you been to Yosemite? Did you go on this magnificent one-day hike? Please leave a comment below with suggestions and impressions.

Photo by Netwalker

Photo by Evan Stevens

Photo by Calhiker

Pictures via 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,10

The post 10 Tips for Hiking Half Dome, a Phenomenal Mountain Trail in Yosemite appeared first on Tourism On The Edge.

People usually fail to correlate traveling towards hedonistic and utterly relaxing places, with a tight budget. This is particularly true with seaside escapes, which most tend to label as “expensive” from the very start. Well, we have done some research and discovered some beaches in Europe, where you can stay for a week or even more, without worrying about your finances.

#1. Agia Pelagia, Crete, Greece

Photo by Michael Goth

Agia Pelagia is a coast village, with a beach that is not very big, yet perfect for a relaxing and interesting day in Crete. When one thinks about Greece, the white houses and the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea come to mind. Agia Pelagia is all of that and more. The golden sand and the vegetation seem to come out from a beautiful painting.

In order to arrive to one of the beaches from Agia Pelagia, you must go through very narrow streets, where you have to drive very slowly or better yet to walk. The best part is that you get to see that unique panorama. If you like adventure, you could take long walks to see all the small gulfs that are not so populated. Nearby, you can visit a small cave, close to Evresi. The legend says that the locals found the icon of Saint Marina here or “Agia Pelagia”, hence the name of the village.

Photo by Michael Goth

Before you leave, remember to make a stopover in the Rodgia village, from where you can admire the entire Heraklion. You will see the most representative landscape from Crete: narrow streets, with Cretan traditional houses and one of the most beautiful monasteries from Crete, Savanthiana. If you are looking for a cheap place to check in, the best option is Marianna Apartments, where you will pay about $175 for 7 nights, in June.

#2. Zlatni Rat Beach, Brac, Croatia

Photo by RobinWGlasgow

If you want to visit an unusual destination for you vacation, you should not miss Zlatni Rat Beach (Golden Cape Beach), from Croatia. This golden sand beach is one of the most special from the whole world: it can change its shape right in front of your eyes!

Photo by Hrvoje Stancic

Also known by the name of Golden Horn, this beach changes its shape and position depending on the wind direction. Tourists come here from every part of the world just to see this phenomenon. The water is pure, because the seabed is all covered in gravel. So, when the sea is calm, the visibility of the water can go up to 10 meters. In Zlatni Rat and everywhere in Brac Island you can admire the pine woods. There is a pine species that you can find only here, in Brac. Another great local feature is that there are few cars, so less pollution and a fresh air. It is believed that the smell of pines combined with the salty air of the sea is very beneficial to the persons with pulmonary diseases.

A very good and budget- friendly place for you to check out is Adria Apartments, at about $180 per 7 nights. From there, you can take the tourists train to arrive at Zlatni Rat Beach.

 #3. Sabbie Nere Beach, Catania, Italy

Photo via

If you have had enough with the golden, fine sand, maybe it is time to try something more spectacular. In Italy you will find one of the most original beaches in the world.

Its name means Black Sand Beach, entitled this way because of the volcanic origins of the black sand. It is situated in the Volcano Island, in the North of Sicily. Aside from relaxing in the sun, you may also want to take a trip to visit the volcanic crater Gran Cratere, which erupted the last time in 1890. Make sure you always have some kind of shoes, because the sand can get very hot during the day.

You can choose to stay at Villa Matter, in Catania, for $20 per night. It is not very far from Sabbie Nere, close to the Etna Mountains.

 #4. Gulpiyuri Beach, Spain

Photo by jonbgem

Gulpiyuri Beach is located near the city of Llanes, in Spain. It is situated in the middle of a chain of rocks, in a bay. The landscape it offers seems sprung out from a fairytale. The beach was formed by the water of the Cantabrian Sea, which made its way here through the cracks in the caves. Although you cannot see the ocean from the beach, the waves hit the shore, like by some kind of magic. The specialists affirm that this 40 meters beach was formed in millions of years, by rock erosion.

In the present this place is a magnet for adventure travelers from all over the world, even if its waters are very cold. You cannot find camping spaces nearby, or hostels. However, if you want a nice resort and you are not interested in luxury, we advise you to check into a two stars hotel, like San Jorge. You will pay only about $200 per 7 nights.

#5. Sesimbra, Portugal

via iPhil Photos

Sesimbra is a small fishing harbor, on the West coast of Portugal. Its beach is very long, with white sand that ends in the turquoise of the sea waters. Even if it is a modern resort, it still manages to keep its rustic charm.  It is a place for relaxing and enjoying the sun, swimming with dolphins and eat delicious fish specialties.

Photo by akikoo

Close to Sesimbra, there is a hill of 240 meters, where you can visit a Moorish castle. It was conquered by the king Alfonso Henriques, with the help of the crusaders, in 1165. If you like exploring, you should definitely visit the church, nearby, called Nossa Senhora do Castelo, build 1721. Walking along the beach, you can also admire Saint Teodosio Fortress, from the XVIIth century. This building had the role of protecting the city from the pirates’ attacks. For low cost accommodation in Sesimbra, Casa Sesimbra Apartment is a good option.

#6. Alghero, Sardinia, Italy

via Dhruba’s photostream

Alghero, one of the most tourist-friendly places in Sardinia, has a charming medieval aspect, with narrow cobbled streets and Mediterranean vegetation. You can enjoy the sunset from the fortified walls of the city’s bastion or simply walk and enjoy- prepare to be pleasantly surprised at each step! One of the prettiest beaches in Alghero is Maria Pia, where you can rest near a lovely pine forest beach.

For the adventurers, we suggest a small trip nearby, up to Gabbiani, where you can practice surfing, or windsurfing. You can arrive to Gabbiani, a small floating island, by crossing a bridge from Costa Esmeralda shores. The only problem there is that if you want to spend a night or more, you have only one option: camping. So if you are looking for a cheap resort, the tent is perfect! However, if camping is not an option for you, you can check into a hotel, in Costa Esmeralda, which is only a few minutes away. The best place to have a good time, at reasonable prices, is to check into one of the apartments there. You will pay between 270-350 Euros per 7 nights.

#7. Kefalonia, Greece

Photo via elsa11

Kefalonia is a traditional place, which attracts more tourists than any other Greek island. The city has a beautiful landscapes, white villages surrounded by olive groves, along the clear water of the sea. If you choose this destination for a vacation, you should definitely rent a little boat, to explore the surroundings. There are some places where you can arrive only by boat.

photo by planefun

In Kefalonia, the sea, the mountain and the various types of vegetation all combine to create beautiful sceneries. Taking long walks on the paved streets is a true adventure. You can admire pomegranate trees, cactus with orange fruits, nuts, figs and limes. The night life is very active and you can enjoy a drink or some dishes, specific to this part of the world in one of the clean taverns on the beach or in the city. You can find really nice and budget-friendly accommodation units in the area, like Emilia Apartments, priced $30 per night.

#8. Corsica, France

photo by E.Krull

Although Corsica is a very popular place, the island is not at all crowded, noisy or messy. Travelers choose Corsica for its white beaches, rocky bays and, of course the mountains. Plage de Saleccia, near St-Florent is considered one of the best beaches in Corsica, a half-mile strand of dazzling white sand slowly fading in the turquoise waters. Girolata beach and Tuara beach (photo above) are both a great way to enjoy both hills and sea. While in Corsica, you must make a mountain route.  GR20 is known by all the passionate climbers, who claim that it is one of the most beautiful routes in Europe. Hotel Sole e Monte is a fair accommodation option; you can check out the rates here.

#9. Patara, Turkey

Patara has one of the longest sand beaches of the Mediterranean Sea and it has a real advantage compared to other special beaches from Europe: it is quite cheap!

Legends say that Patara is Apollo’s place of birth and that the most important harbor from the West part of the Mediterranean Sea was located here. Besides the usual things you can do in a city that has a beach, in Patara you can visit the excavated Roman walls or archaeological sites. You will see the big turtles and various types of unique plants. This place is for all the people who love discovering unique locations and who have an adventurous spirit. If you do not want money to become an issue during your vacation, you can choose a budget-friendly resort, like the St. Nicholas Pension and Restaurant, where you will pay 25 Euros per night, for a double room.

#10. Las Islas Cies, Galicia, Spain

Spain offers a secret place, far away from the eyes of the undiscerning tourist. It is a small piece of heaven, hidden on the savage and isolated coast in the Provence of Galicia, near the border with Portugal.  There, bathed in the waters of the Atlantic, lies a special jewel of nature. In order to arrive there, you must rent a small boat, from Baiona, a fishing village, with the destination: Las Islas Cies.

After about 40 minutes of joyful boating, you will get to the most exclusive beach in Spain. In the past it was the perfect hide-out for pirates and now it is a wildlife reserve, untouched by the real-estate development. Travelers can only visit during summer months, because a permanent population flux would disturb the living creatures. If you are interested in a holiday there, you should know that there are campsites, where you can rent a tent for 2 or 4 persons, for a minimum 2 day stay. You have a lot of facilities, like showers, pay phone, restaurants or supermarkets. However, it is best to make a reservation before going, to be sure that there are open spots.

#11. Vama Veche, Romania

Photo by Chewbacka

One of the most nonconformist beaches in Romania (and we dare say in Europe) is Vama Veche. If you got bored of the traditional beaches, where you relax all day at the sun and in the evening you go to some fancy clubs, we offer you the opposite of all that. Vama Veche is a village by the Black Sea, where, in the 80’s a bunch of friends took their guitar and decided that it was this was a perfect place to sing, do a camp fire and have a good time. After more than 30 years, this is still a location where you feel free to do anything, without anyone saying that you are not supposed to do it.

Most of the people who come here choose to sleep in tents, on the beach, because nothing compares to the sound of the waves in the morning, when you have your coffee. And you can stay there for free. A part of the beach, more discreet, is for the nudists, but it is never a surprise, in any part of the beach you are, to see a person taking a swim, without his or her bathing suit.

If you are a fan of good music, making new friends and singing by the fire, Vama Veche is the perfect beach for you! However, if you are not used to sleeping in a tent, you could always check into a hotel, hostel or even in a local’s house. You will pay about $130 per 6 nights, if you choose the last option.

This wraps it up. We are certain you guys are eager to come up with further suggestions for a quality European beach getaway on a budget, and we would be happy to add further entries to the list.

The post 11 Best Beach Destinations in Europe for Traveling on a Budget appeared first on Tourism On The Edge.

Verdi’s A Masked Ball, produced in 1999. Photograph by BENNO HAGLEITNER

Even though the Bregenz Festival is held in five different locations throughout the city, Seebühne (the floating stage) on Lake Constance is the most popular of them all. In the staging process, the lake and its shores are the grounds for innovative decors and fantastic light shows.

Stage inspired by The Death of Marat, an iconic painting by Jacques-Louis David. Envisioned for the staging of André Chénier. Photograph by Bregenzer Festspiele / KARL FORSTER

The seat capacity for the plays on Lake Constance is around 6800 (according to Twisted Sifter), making this a perfect setting for lovers of the opera worldwide. We only read positive reviews written by the visitors in Bregenz who attended one or more spectacles. The atmosphere is said to be unique and the artistic quality of the show unparalleled. Some people even talk about the ferries in the background, which add even more dynamics to the grand decor. Tickets for the opera plays taking place in July-August 2013 can be purchased here, with prices ranging from 40 to 120Euros. Enjoy the photos!

Giacomo Puccini’s La Bohème
Photograph by KARL FORSTER

A new era for the Festival was ushered in by the triumphant success of The Magic Flute on the Lake.Photograph by KARL FORSTER

Beethoven’s Fidelio directed by David Pountney; Photograph by KARL FORSTER

Verdi’s monumental desert opera Aida on the waters of the Constance Lake; Photograph by Bregenzer Festspiele / andereart

In 2003, the Bregenz Festival staged Leonard Bernstein’s hit musical West Side Story Photograph by BENNO HAGLEITNER / VISION fotografie

Giacomo Puccini’s opera thriller Tosca, staged in 2007/2008; production by Philipp Himmelmann

George Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess,

Over 300,000 people saw Verdi’s Nabucco on the Lake in the summer of ’93 and ’94.

Carmen | 1991-1992. Photograph by KARL FORSTER

Giuseppe Verdi’s Il Trovatore

Opera on the Lake 1989/91 The Flying Dutchman
Photograph by KARL FORSTER

The post 13 Psychedelic Lake Opera Stages in Bregenz, Austria appeared first on Tourism On The Edge.

How is it that we’ve become to know our way around the absurd, hectic and outrageously diverse urban jungle, yet when it comes to living in the woods for a day, we get a panic attack at the mere thought?

If you think about it, we are all masters of surviving- every moment we do it so well! From managing our expenses to planning the next big party- we constantly obey such strange laws and rules. So why not take a step back and analyze surviving in the wild from a positive point of view? After all, it couldn’t possibly be as complicated as city life!

Let’s start by humbly admitting that getting lost in the forest is not something you crave for, nor would it be the wisest thing you’ve ever done. So let’s see how we can get around it, as elegantly as possible. Here are 10 surviving tips that should help in case you ever get lost in the woods.

#1. Research and Planing

Let’s say you’ve decided to go hiking, trekking or indulge in other wilderness recreation. Unless you know from a reliable source that the pathway you are about to go on is straight and well marked, start gathering as many information as you can about your itinerary- chances are it is not as easy as you initially consider it. Do a google search, read travel forums and hiking diaries. Ask around, maybe some of your friends already know the area. If you are planning on staying more than four days, chances are you will run out of food and water, so get to know the flora, fauna and water resources of the region. And last but not least, print a good map and take it along.

#2. Let people know where you’re going and for how long

This is a must. In case of on emergency, it is good to know someone is likely to push the alarm button and begin a rescue process. If you have your doubts about this “tip”, just read about the inspirational case of Aron Ralston or watch the movie 127 hours.

 #3. Do some research about survival gear and take some important items along

If you are going hiking, be sure to pack a whistle, a compass a good knife, some matches (wrapped in a waterproof material), some cord, a compass and clothes. And plenty of drinkable water. Here is a good article on what to pack, depending on your type of trip. It is also wise to learn how to use all these items before going hiking. Since you cellphone will probably lack signal on your adventurous itinerary, we also ran into the The SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger unit, an interesting device that can send emergency messages “under the harshest environments, temperature, altitude, humidity, corrosion, vibration, waterproof, and buoyant“.

Ok, so you get lost in the forest. What now?

#4. Keep calm and signal your location… if you can

Many argue that the most important tool you have on you while hiking has nothing to do with your backpack gear- it is your mind. Panic will only lead to inner chaos and you don’t want that to mess with your witty plan to get back safely to civilization. Once you realize you are lost, let someone know via phone or GPS Messenger.

#5. Start discovering the area, but keep track of your “point zero”

People usually forget that staying in one place is very important, as it increases your chances of being found. So you should mark it somehow (bunch of rocks put together or a stack of tree branches) and start scouting the area, returning to the initial spot at regular time periods.

#6. Find a source of water and try to purify it.

Always remember then in your camping trips, water is the most important asset you have. People can survive weeks without food, yet just three days maximum without water, so treasure it the best way you can, save it the best way you can. The best and most reliable source is a spring, but chances of finding one are not so great. In desperate times you can gather dew off plants in the morning or drink from a running river, risking to get ill, in order to go on living.

A good alternative is to purify water, by heating it (three minutes of heavy boiling will take care of most bacteria), or by placing it in a plastic bottle and then in a sunny environment for six hours (this will only work if the water is not filled with sediments). Here are some more ideas on how to purify water in the outdoors.

#7. If threatened by night fall, build a shelter

If you believe there are chances that you might spend the night in the forest, start making plans for building a shelter in the woods. This will keep you away from extreme warmth or cold, away from rain or snow. First off, look for an existing structure (an old cottage, a stable or a sheepfold- while keeping in mind your point zero). If you can not spot any, find an area as rock-free and root-free as possible. Even though building a shelter in a ditch is usually a good idea, in this particular case, you could be invaded by rain, so no. Find a tree or a rock tall enough for you to use it as the base of your shelter. You can use this somehow as a “roofed bench” or just as a way to keep you safe from rain.

Wood is the most important feature in a forest, so start gathering as much as you can and use your creativity to create a space as isolated as possible. You can use the largest pieces for building the skeletal structure of your shelter. The small ones are very good too- they can be employed in building the fire. Ensure that your ephemeral home is waterproof and windproof by gathering leaves (various windproof clothes or even plastic bags) on top and then blocking them with wooden planks (or substitutes), so they wouldn’t be carried away by the wind. Remember to define your exit and mark it accordingly. Use your ingenuity to come up with a solid, yet easy to maneuver “door”, but keep in mind that you will also need ventilation, so don’t cover the place completely. When it comes to ventilation, you need too piercings: one in the  “ceiling” and one in the door.

Here are two examples of good forest shelters (the first one still requires some covering though).

#8. Build a fire

From the moment you realize that you might spend an indefinite amount of time in the woods, start gathering all you can in order to build a fire. This will help you heat up food and drinks, it can dry your clothes, it can signal your location and most important- it will give you a more positive approach on your situation. Remember to always light a fire before dark.

Search for twigs, dry paper, cardboard and anything that can catch fire easily; combine these with larger wooden logs. Start by clearing a circular area and by surrounding it with rocks for insulation. Then add the kindling, tinder and the rest of the wood gradually. Here are step by step instruction on how to build a fire.

#9. Find a reliable source of food

When hiking, be sure to bring along plenty of caloric food. If lost, you can try to find food in the forest, but be sure to only eat safe food, as it is better to be healthy and hungry than ill. As a general rule, cook any insects or small animals you might find. Here is a short guide on Trails.com about finding food in the woods.

#10. Think (positive)!

No matter what the situation, keep your mind clear and stay positive! Sing if you must, scream, but don’t panic and if you can, try to enjoy your escape a bit. Getting lost in the woods may sound terrifying, but with a little precaution, it can be a memorable adventure. Just think of all the story-telling you will do after reaching home safely!

If you have any annotations to this survival guide, please drop by with a relevant comment, advice or thoughts from your own experiences!

The post 10-Step Survival Guide For Getting Lost in the Forest appeared first on Tourism On The Edge.

Did you know that Christmas markets originated in Germany and Austria? The first Christmas markets ever were held in Vienna (1294), Bautzen (year 1384 ) and Dresden (1434). In time, the festive spirit took over the entire world, with numerous city squares being converted in the month of December.

Ginger bread, wine, cinnamon and oranges, local artisans displaying their crafts, carol singers and an abundance of little colorful lights- some love the show, others would rather lock their selves indoors until the “turmoil” is put on hold till next year. Christmas enthusiast or not, one can not remain indifferent to the idea of people trying to escape the real world for a month (except, of course, for those who love their world, but that’s another story). With the hope that most of you will succeed in making December perfect, here are 15 of the most spectacular Christmas Markets in Europe:

Cologne, Germany

Cologne has a total of four Christmas markets spread throughout the city and attracts about 2 millions of tourists per season. Köln’s massive Gothic cathedral dominates the central square, creating a fairytale-like scene.  A time-warped feel is given by the wooden stands, filled with various festive objects and warm food.

Bolzano, Italy

The Christmas Market in Bolzano in South Tyrol is considered one of Italy’s most important Christmas markets. Every year usually has a theme (for example, “Meeting of Cultures” for 2012) and various events are held accordingly.  The celebrations are held in Piazza Walther, a picturesque setting, as you can see in the photos above.

Braunschweig, Germany

The Braunschweig Christmas Market has a fantastic backdrop, including the cathedral of Henry the Lion, the Dankwarderode Castle and the Vieweg House. Promising a culinary delight, not just a visual one, this year’s events in the German town are expected to gather hundreds of thousands of visitors.

Bruges, Belgium

This beautiful Flemish city also comes alive in winter, with its medieval center being transformed into a Christmas parade, partially sliding on its large ice rink.. The chocolate lover’s paradise is difficult not to enjoy, especially during the holidays. Here is more information on Christmas and New Year in Bruges.

Erfurt, Germany

A 25 meter tall Christmas tree is just one of the highlights of the Christmas Market in Erfurt, held in the Cathedral Square of the medieval old town and surrounded by impressive buildings. Other “points of interest” are the 12 meters high Christmas pyramid and a magical fairytale forest, with hand carved almost life-sized figurines sheltering the nativity scene.

Lucerne, Switzerland

The Lucerne Christmas market is held in Franziskanerplatz and reunites plenty of stands with Christmas decorations, sweets, food and drink, hobby workshops and handcrafts.

Colmar, France

We covered a post on the beautiful small town of Colmar, one of our favorite Christmas destinations out there. With its lovely architecture, light shows and many events, the Old Town of Colmar comes alive during December and the atmosphere it generates couldn’t be more… magical.

Innsbruck, Austria

There are four Christmas markets in Innsbruck, each of them with its unique vibes: “From the traditional Christmas market in the Old Town to the modern Christmas market in the Maria-Theresia-Strasse, there is something for everyone here. There is also something for the very young visitors at the Innsbruck Christmas Market at the Marktplatz and if you want to enjoy a wonderful view of Innsbruck, the Christmas market on Hungerburg is the one to see“. (info via )

Leuven, Belgium

Leuven’s Christmas Market only lasts for ten days, during which the inhabitants of the city and tourists alike can enjoy good tasting and good shopping. An extensive animation package and a handicraft market complete the festive scene.

Prague, Czech Republic

The Christmas markets in Prague are famous for their unique ornaments, traditional Czech Christmas cookies, tablecloths, Frankincense or the Czech Christmas potpourri called purpura. And Prague is a lovely city all together, so being there for Christmas just can’t go wrong.

Riga, Latvia

Sibiu, Romania

Walking through Sibiu’s city center is a great experience in itself; Christmas just makes it… lighter. About 65 wooden huts display their goodies here and trust us, some are truly irresistible. An official page of the Christmas events in Sibiu here.

Stockholm, Suedia

There are four main Stockholm Christmas markets: namely Skansen, the Old Town, Djurgàrden and the markets at Kungstradgàrden. The Old Town of Stockholm with its glorious architecture is a great setting for the traditional market with handicrafts, Christmas delicacies and wine.

Tallin, Estonia

Contrary to general belief, when snow comes to Tallin’s city center, it makes it feel much… warmer. The Christmas Market in Tallin held in the Town Square comes with its many highlights: “At the heart of it all – apart from Santa and his reindeer, who are eternal favorites with the kids – is Estonia’s most famous Christmas tree, surrounded by little huts selling their wares. Here you will find handicraft specialists and their work, Estonian food and drink of the season, snow sculptures and a mini-zoo for the little ones“.

Vienna, Austria

The post Christmas Traveling: 15 Of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe appeared first on Tourism On The Edge.

These lovely hammocks are dedicated to the best memories of this summer. To long walks on the beach, spectacular mountain lakes and unforgettable romantic moments. Reminiscing about all these calls for a special atmosphere. Well we believe the delightful hammocks in the gallery below will create the proper mood for this summer’s good memories, as well as for creating new ones.

The hammocks we chose are placed in diverse locations, from lush gardens to stunning beaches. But we believe the tranquility that comes from letting yourself go in the swing of a hammock can be reached almost anywhere. There are various models to choose from, it is all up to your tastes and sometimes (for the DIY projects) to your imagination. In a home with children, you may consider hanging two or three hammocks in the garden, next to the tree house, for a peaceful atmosphere. We certainly wish we’ve convinced you of the “advantages” of having a hammock around this autumn and are looking forward to your reactions to the photos below.

Bonus: the scuba dive hammock, guaranteed for a smooth swing.

The post 24 Cosy Hammocks That Will Make You Reminisce About Summer Days appeared first on Tourism On The Edge.

It is probably a strange feeling to wake up in the morning and see an unworldly landscape through your window. At a first glance, this  would seem like an imaginary landscape from Mars or the creation of your inner world. The unusual sunrise, the mysterious clouds and intense colors might look like a drawing made by a furious painter that has unleashed his anger. Believe it or not, the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park perfectly fits this description.

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is located in Indonesia, to the southeast of Surabaya, the capital of East Java. It is the only conservation area in Indonesia that has a sand sea, the Tengger Sand Sea, across which is the caldera of an ancient volcano (Tengger) from which four new volcanic cones have emerged. This unique feature covers a total area of 5,250 hectares at an altitude of about 2,100 m.

The park borrowed its name from Mount Bromo – 2,329 meters (easily recognized by the crater that constantly belches out a huge cloud of steam and smoke), Mount Semeru – 3,676 m (the highest mountain in Java) and Tengger- the name of the people who  inhabited the area starting hundreds of years ago .( Wikitravel)

Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park also has green valleys with a typical tropical forest flora fed by the rivers from the high tops. These can be found in its lowest elevation and away from the sand sea. The park is not renowned for birdwatching, but up on the plateau you often see hawks and eagles soaring. Down in the valleys, mammals such as the leopard cat,  Java rusa deer, marbled cats or wild pigs can be seen, but very rarely.

Travel information

You can get there by plane – to the airport in Surabaya- which is well served by regular domestic flights from Jakarta, Bali and some other countries in Asia.  Or you can choose to fly to a small regional airport at Malang with flights from Jakarta and access from here makes sense if you intend to enter the park via the Tumpang/Ngadas route.

If you want totake the car, there are three established routes into the park:

- the Probolinggo → Ngadisari Route (on the north coast of Java about 45 km from the park and the most straightforward)
- the Pasuruan → Tosari Route is a little harder than the Probolinggo option and Pasuruan has the benefit of being closer to Surabaya.
- the Malang → Tumpang Route approaches from the south east

Regarding accommodation, there are plenty of options around the park, but some research about facilities and prices is recommended. You can get more travel information from here.

Pictures via 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8

The post Bromo-Tengger-Semeru, An Unworldly National Park in Indonesia appeared first on Tourism On The Edge.

9. Canyonlands National Park is located near the city of Moab in the eastern Utah and it covers over 1,366 km². Because of the Colorado River and Green River that are crossing the park, Canyonlands is divided into three major districts: the Island in the Sky, the Maze and the Needles. Although the areas share the same tough weather conditions, every district preserves its own characteristic and amazing scenery. Whether we talk about the unusual rock formations, the rivers that are splitting the earth with violence, the high cliffs or the  wild sight painted by a beautiful sunset, we can all imagine that it could become a lifetime experience.

Many people who lived its wilderness remained touched and a simple but very suggestive opinion about the Canyonlands Park came from an American author who visited the park and described it as “the most weird, wonderful, magical place on earth—there is nothing else like it anywhere.”

As you can see in the pictures, the geography of the park is well suited to a number of different recreational uses. Hikers, mountain bikers, backpackers and four-wheelers all enjoy traversing the rugged, remote trails within the diversity of this natural wonder. If it seems more interesting to explore by water, rafters and kayakers can choose the calm stretches of the Green River and Colorado River above the confluence. And those who are seeking  for adrenaline, below the confluence Cataract Canyon contains powerful whitewater rapids and tricky passages.

More about Canyonlands Park’s climate, accommodation and other useful information you will get from here.

10. Capitol Reef National Park is situated in south-central Utah and the nearest city is Torrey. The park preserves 979 km² and is open all year long, although May through September are the most popular months because of the favorable conditions. With its unusual natural architecture, Capitol Reef is characterized by sandstone formations, ridges, buttes, colorful canyons and a 120 km long rugged spine called Waterpocket Fold, which is extending from Thousand Lake Mountain to Lake Powell. The park’s name comes from a spectacular segment of the Waterpocket Fold near to Fremont River, a line of white domes and cliffs of Navajo Sandstone which looks like the United States Capitol Building.

A scenic area and one of the most intriguing monoliths in the Capitol Reef National Park can be found in the Cathedral Valley. Unique shapes are dominating the desert’s loneliness, amazing sandstone monoliths that resemble Gothic cathedrals from Europe, we would say. Many of these structures have interesting, highly descriptive names such as Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Moon or The Walls of Jericho.

In the Capitol Reef Park there’s no chance of geting bored because you can try almost everything, from easy walks and admiring the surroundings to strenuous overnight hikes. There are also biking trails all over the park and the access is not very difficult, although it is dangerous to go off-road. As a bonus, if you really want to try professional mountain biking, maybe you will have the chance to participate to one of the local biking competitions.

For accommodation, you can either choose to stay in the nearest town or you can spend the night to a campground in the area. Here you will find additional information about the park.

Pictures via 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16

The post The 58 National Parks in the USA: Canyonlands and Capitol Reef appeared first on Tourism On The Edge.