Destination Discovery: Australia

Destination Discovery: Australia

Thinking about planning a vacation and don’t know where to travel? This is the first in my series of blogs on discovering new destinations and what there is to offer if you travel to these places. I first explore Australia and discuss attractions to visit and what to do while down under.

Sydney Harbor

The Sydney Harbour has a multitude of activities for everyone at anytime of the day. It is described as the most scenic waterway in the world. One of it’s most famous attractions is the Sydney Opera House. You can take tours and even eat there as well as see shows. Also there is the Sydney Harbor Bridge which you can walk on foot and is a site to be seen at night. There are also many activities in the harbor itself including shopping, dining, etc.

Blue Mountains

While Sydney is known for its beaches a quick 2 hour drive away you can also be hiking and enjoying nature’s finest views. There are many hiking trails, waterfalls, and views that will take your breath away. It also isn’t far off the beaten path and won’t take up a couple days to get to if you are on a time crunch.

The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is located in Cairns and is the world’s largest coral reef system. It’s made of 3,000 individual reefs and can be seen from outer space. There are day cruises as well as snorkeling adventures to go on. You can even ride a helicopter to see an overhead view of the reef. While you’re in Cairns you will be surrounded by great restaurants and coffee bars as well as be able to go see the rainforest.

Bondi Beach

Australia’s most famous beach, Bondi Beach offers a place to relax while enjoying Australia’s beautiful clear water. They have perfect surfing waves as well as many beachfront cafes. In addition you can explore many coves and sand walkways of this huge beach. Don’t be alarmed if you see people in the nude either, the beach is very tolerant.

Australia offers a ton of things to do and check out that it can be hard to choose. When planning a vacation make sure to choose your top sightseeing destinations like the ones listed above as well as schedule time to relax and unwind.

How To Overcome Language Barriers While Traveling

How To Overcome Language Barriers While Traveling

When you are traveling to a foreign country it can be both exciting and nerve racking. Experiencing a new culture is a great learning experience but also comes with a couple of difficulties. If you don’t know the language it can be hard to find places, read signs and menus, buy things, and interact with locals. Here are a few tips on how you can break down the language barrier while traveling.

Learn Important Phrases

If you don’t speak the language the best thing you can do to prepare is to learn key phrases that will help you out when you are in another country. Learn how to say things such as asking for directions, how much something costs, do you speak english, hello, goodbye, yes, no etc. to be able to interact with people. Often times, locals will be more than happy to help you out if you are at least trying to speak and understand their language and important phrases aren’t hard to learn if you are on a time crunch before your trip.

Language Apps or Books

There are a variety of language apps that you can download and have handy if you don’t know how to ask something or someone is finding it hard to understand you and vice versa. You can type in phrases, translate what someone is saying, as well as have the apps speak what you are trying to say for you. Of course, not everything is perfect so it might not come out perfectly but they will be able to get a general sense of what you are trying to say and help you with your question. In addition, a language dictionary is also a great resource to show people what you are trying to say or help explain what you are talking about. They have pocket ones that are easy to carry and really come in handy.

Strike Up Conversation

The only way you will start grasping a language is if you are speaking it and practicing it in your daily life. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with native speakers even if you know you will stumble over pronunciations and finding words sometimes. More often than not, native speakers will be happy to speak to you and see that you are trying to speak their language as well as help you out if you misspeak or teach you new useful phrases.

How To Be Comfortable During A Long Flight

When you are stuck on a flight for a long period of time it can be hard to get comfortable or fall asleep. Flights can be draining, especially if you are traveling far and can take a couple days to recover from, ruining part of your vacation or travel plans. Here are some tips to stay refreshed while on a plane and ready to adventure as soon as your flight touches down.

Wear Comfy Clothes

The best thing you can do for yourself on a flight is to wear comfy clothes. While pajamas are not recommended, sweats, hoodies, and comfortable shoes like sneakers and moccasins are perfectly acceptable on a long flight. Make sure to wear layers because the plane definitely can get cold and warm depending.

Hydrate

It is important to hydrate both your body and your skin when you are on a flight. Drinking coffee and alcohol will not only dehydrate you, they will drain you while on a long flight and leave you feeling tired and sluggish. Instead, opt for water or other hydrating drinks to keep you healthy and feeling good while on the plane. In addition, the cabin can air quality can leave your skin cracked. Make sure to bring along chapstick and apply moisturizing lotion to your skin so that you can hydrate your skin as well.

Block out Distractions

Unfortunately, you can’t always guarantee that you will get a good seat mate or won’t be surrounded by crying babies. Make sure that you pack headphones or noise canceling headphones if you plan to sleep on the plane. In addition, a sleeping mask will block out the light and help you sleep on the plane as well. This can definitely come in handy if you are changing time zones while you are on a business or vacation trip and want to start adjusting. In addition, downloading podcasts, movies, or audiobooks ahead of time can be great to pass the time while on a long flight.

Long flights don’t have to be tedious and draining. If you come prepared you can be comfortable and feel refreshed and relaxed after your flight.