Author: Don't Forget to Move

At Don't Forget To Move we help promote and inspire adventurous, authentic and responsible travel around the world. With a lot of crazy stories in between! We show travelers how to see the world authentically through unique stories, engaging photography and videos, honest reviews and practical travel tips.

Best Responsible Tourism Destinations of 2023

With more and more destinations, tour operators and activities focussing their concentration on responsible tourism, it’s important to acknowledge the places that are doing it right. All over the world countries, cities and companies are putting huge amounts of effort into protecting the environment, the local communities and the animal population.

How you choose to spend your money while traveling has a huge impact on the future of travel and the people, places and animals that live there. So if you’re traveling in 2023 and want to have a positive impact on the world…. you’ve come to the right place.

We reached out to some of the top responsible tourism bloggers to ask them for their recommendations on the best sustainable travel destinations for 2023. From preserving the ancient cultures and traditions of countries in Bhutan, Peru and Chile, to protecting the environment in Indonesia, Palau and Germany. From animal conservation in Kenya, to environmental and cultural preservation in Costa Rica, this post covers it all.

 

 

Bhutan

Ian from Where Sidewalks End

Without a doubt, Bhutan’s tourism initiatives have put it amongst the top responsible and sustainable tourism destinations in the world. Predominantly isolated from the world, Bhutan has remained relatively unchanged as the rest of the world became more globalized. Something that makes Bhutan incredibly unique, is their strategy to help preserve their culture through tourism. 

Every guest to Bhutan pays a daily tariff while visiting the country. Depending on the season, this will be either $200 or $250 USD per day (about the same as a night in a hotel in New York). This tariff covers all hotels/home-stays, transportation, meals and guides during a visit. Only upgrades to hotels, or additional activities will come at an extra cost. From there, 30% of the tariff also goes back into environmental preservation, community development, such as free health care for all residents and visitors, as well as community based tourism projects setup for families to host guests during your stay.

 

 

This type of tariffed payment system ensures fair, livable wages to all those involved and keeps a high standard (3 star hotel and up) for all guests to the country. It also helps protect their natural environment, with little social impact and an emphasis on culture. This is what the best responsible tourism operators try to achieve in terms of sustainability, and yet it’s being regulated by the government! It’s also a nice bonus that the country is so rich in history, culture and natural beauty!! Definitely an innovator and role model for other countries to potentially follow suit in, Bhutan should be high on your list as a responsible tourism destination!

 

Alay Region, Kyrgyzstan

Audrey from Uncornered Market

A destination we recommend for responsible tourism experiences is the Alay Region in southern Kyrgyzstan, at the crossroads of Tajikistan, China and Uzbekistan. Located in the stunningly beautiful Pamir-Alay mountain range, including Lenin Peak at 7,134 meters/23,406 feet, the Alay region is great for travelers who are interested in trekking, horseback riding or other outdoor activities combined with traditional Kyrgyz nomadic culture along the way.

The region not only provides some unique travel experiences, but it also does so in a way so that local people in the regional communities benefit as well from tourism money. For examples, local families run the guest houses and yurt stays, food is locally sources and home cooked, and guides are local from the region.

 

 

Although beautiful, the Alay Region is not an easy place to live, however, as agriculture is difficult and there isn’t a lot of industry or other businesses that create jobs. Community Based Tourism (CBT) has been strong and active in that region, trying to involve villages and rural communities so that tourism development is inclusive and benefits local people in the region.

Last year, Visit Alay, the local CBT branch in Osh, worked on a project to mark and map new trails in the region. The goal: open up more trekking routes to travelers to spread them around the region more while inviting and training local families if they want to host travelers in home/yurt stays or offer home-cooked meals. In addition, the additional trekkers to the region provide more income generation opportunities for local trekking guides and other service providers (horse handlers, etc.).  Read more on why trekking in the Alay Region is such a fulfilling responsible tourism activity.

 

Sumatra, Indonesia

Luke from Wild Sumatra

Sumatra is easily the most exciting and diverse of Indonesia’s islands. From mighty volcanoes and virgin rainforests to hidden beaches and verdant rice paddies, to ancient temples and vibrant cultures, Sumatra really has it all.

Despite this abundance of riches, the island is rarely on people’s radar. Sadly, when it does make the news, it’s usually not for good reasons. Thanks to the world’s insatiable appetite for cheap commodities like palm oil and wood products, the rainforests of Sumatra have been under pressure for a long time, with the island losing 36% of its forest cover from 1990-2010. Combined with the misguided hunger for wildlife parts used for alternative medicine, the situation is dire.

 

 

But there is good news. Across the massive island, roughly the same size as the whole of Thailand, there are numerous passionate people working to stem the tides of destruction. And many are using ecotourism to do it; here are a few highlights:

Green Hill in Bukit Lawang, North Sumatra, was founded by Mbra and Andrea over 25 years ago. One of the few operators in the region who are truly committed to conservation. They have strict rules that need to be followed by both guides and guests, which includes absolutely no feeding of orangutans and other wildlife. They also run a Nature Club for kids in the community, as well as a more off the path community-based project in the village of Kuta Langis, which is a great alternative to the busyness of Bukit Lawang. 

 

 

On the other side of the island, in the province of West Sumatra, sits Rimba Ecolodge. Run by Reno and Nad, this is a perfect location to unplug and relax on an isolated beach – with amazing snorkeling just off shore, and a vibrant rainforest steps from the sand. The very basic bungalows are made from sustainable materials like bamboo, palm, and rattan, and the project supports education and waste management initiatives in the nearby villages. Their activities have also led to the creation of the Muaro Duo nature reserve in the bay where Rimba sits, preserving and protecting it from fishing and other harmful practices.

These initiatives and more (like ours at Wild Sumatra!), are working to provide viable economic alternatives to the siren call of deforestation. We believe that communities are healthier and more sustainable when nearby forests and seas remain intact and filled with life. Visiting Sumatra and choosing responsible tourism operators is one of the most effective ways you can say no to the continued destruction of the natural world, while having an adventure of a lifetime.

 

Chile

Steph from Worldly Adventurer

When you think of Chile, the sharp peaks of the Patagonian landscapes might well spring to mind. Thanks to the work and investment of billionaire philanthropist, the late Doug Tompkins, and the Chilean government, much of this wilderness is now safeguarded. 2018 saw the creation of the Route of the Parks: a squiggle of 2,800 kilometres of protected land made up of 17 national parks, stretching from Puerto Montt down to the very tip of the South American continent.

The finest and most accessible are those along the Carretera Austral – the only road through northern Chilean Patagonia. Here parks such as Pumalín and Patagonia are leading the responsible fray with outstanding day and multi-day hiking routes and infrastructure, plus initiatives to “rewild” the landscapes – including returning the puma and ñandu (a type of emu) to their natural habitats.

 

 

But responsibly tourism goes beyond the country’s approach to its treasured wildernesses; cultural tourism is also on the rise. The Mapuche, the ancient indigenous group that has long inhabited the south of Chile, are beginning to open their doors to tourism.

One of the communities doing just that is Llaguepulli. You can spend the night in a traditional ruka (a wooden dwelling covered with layers of waterproof Peruvian feathergrass), join the machi (shaman) around the hearth to learn about Mapuche spiritual beliefs and take cookery classes or study the properties of medicinal plants in the community’s organic garden. All of the money from your stay goes directly into the community, providing a much-needed, and sustainable source of income for the local families.

If you need an English-speaking guide, the excellent Chilean-based Travolution, who specialize in responsible tourism trips across the country, organize tours here and to other Mapuche communities in the region.

 

Palau

Abbie from Speck on the Globe

Palau may be a small island in the western part of the Pacific Ocean, but in terms of responsible tourism they are making major strides. The main achievement for Palau has been its attention towards marine conservation. The government of Palau created a sanctuary that contains nearly 80% of the country’s waters, protecting the eco system from commercial fishing expeditions. When first arriving into Palau, visitors to the islands need to pay a sustainability fee as part of their visa entrance. Tourists also need to sign the Palau Pledge, a commitment to being mindful about the environment.

 

 

Palau puts their environment first, and the needs of tourists second. One of the most popular activities is visiting Jellyfish Lake, a lake in the Rock Islands that had thousands of stingless jellyfish. In the past the jellyfish began to vanish and for several years the government closed the lake in order to research for the jellyfish population was in decline. After some time the jellyfish population began to stabilize and they have since reopened the lake for visitors to enjoy.

You can really tell the difference in the level of environmentally friendly initiatives in Micronesia compared to other islands in the Pacific. When you go snorkeling or diving, you immediately see clean waters void of debris and the beaches are free from trash. The goal of the Palau government is ultimately to have a “high yield, low impact” approach, which would entice a smaller group of high-spending, environmentally focused tourists.

 

Masai Mara Conservancies, Kenya

Bret and Mary from Green Global Travel 

Kenya is home to one of the planet’s greatest natural spectacles, Africa’s Great Migration. Every year millions of wildebeest, zebras, and various antelope species make their way from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. Seeing this incredible migration is on the bucket list of many wildlife loving travelers. But the truth is, the government-protected reserve isn’t the only place to see it, nor is it necessarily the best. 

A study funded by World Wildlife Fund (conducted from 1989 to 2003) found that the Maasai Mara had seen a sharp decline of ungulates– the hoofed animals that lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas rely on for food– due to decades of human encroachment and poaching. The reserve also saw a 67% to 80% decline in populations of impala, giraffes, and warthogs. 

 

 

Even worse, the indigenous Maasai lost the rights to graze on their ancestral lands, with around 40,000 people in Tanzania forced to relocate after their land was sold to foreign investors in 2009. Fortunately, private tour operators began working with community leaders to help the Maasai develop a more sustainable model for community-based conservation in the Maasai Mara. 

According to Gamewatchers Safaris & Porini Camps Managing Director Mohanjeet Brar, “60 to 70% of Kenya’s wildlife is found outside protected national parks and reserves.” Led by founder Jake Grieves-Cook, the former chairman of the Ecotourism Society of Kenya, the company has been a pioneer of the community conservancy concept in Kenya for more than two decades. 

Their low-impact Porini Mara and Porini Lion camps offer guests near-exclusive access to the 18,700-acre Ol Kinyei Conservancy, 33,000-acre Olare Motorogi Conservancy, and 50,000-acre Naboisho Conservancy. Each camp has a maximum of 12 tents, and each tent funds the protection of 700 acres of habitat. Approximately 95% of their staff is from local Maasai communities. The Maasai are received over $1.5 million from the conservancies in 2018, with more than 1,000 families receiving monthly payments.

What this means for guests is more wildlife (we saw tons of predators and huge herds of elephants, impala, hippos, zebra, wildebeest, etc.), fewer crowds, and an exclusive, eco-friendly option for seeing what is arguably the greatest show of natural beauty on Earth.

If you’re looking to travel to Kenya don’t forget your visa! While Kenya offers tourist, business and transit visas to most countries, you will need to apply and secure your visa before entering the country. In fact, most airlines won’t let you travel to Kenya unless you have your appropriate visa, so be sure to organize it in advance. Luckily the online application and requirements for a Kenya eVisa is pretty straight forward and once approved you have three months to enter the country. On both the tourist and business visa you’ll have three months within the country, while the transit visa only gives you 72 hours.

 

Berlin, Germany

Claudi from GreenMe Berlin

Berlin is a paradise for every greenie, dreamer and free spirit – liberal, unconventional and always up to challenge the status quo. And with one third of the city covered in green, nature is everywhere – but you don’t need to hug trees to dive into its thriving eco culture.

Roaming Berlin’s creative neighborhoods, you can explore permaculture gardens hidden in local backyards, relax in lush community gardens that let you pick your own tea, host beekeeping and participate in upcycling workshops. For the shoppers, you can visit package-free stores to stock up on zero waste travel gear, eat delicious dumplings made from rescued food or join a cooking classes with refugees communities. For the more active explorer you can rent a recycled bike and ride around Berlin’s abandoned Tempelhof Airport, which has been transformed into the city’s largest public green space. In short: you can have heaps of fun, while supporting good causes.

 

 

Berlin is special because it is the people who make change happen; genuine, passionate folks with a “just-do-it” mentality. There are lots of bottom-up initiatives and social startups and the community spirit is high. Being surrounded by this vibe makes you feel like you can actually make a difference, even if you’re only in town for a couple of days.

If you don’t want to explore alone, join one of the various green urban tours: from Green Fashion Tours, to Changemaker Tours focussing on social entrepreneurship, to Querstadtein where homeless people and refugees guide through “their” city, to our GreenMe Kiez Tours.

Change is happening on all levels; the tourist board supports Berlin’s sustainable scene by actively placing the topic in international travel media. They also built a “Going Local” app to counter overtourism and divert tourist streams, organize park clean-ups and the initiative Circular. Berlin also works on a series of workshops to educate tourism stakeholders on zero waste practices.

 

Lost City, Colombia

Becki Enright from Borders of Adventure

Trekking to the Lost City (La Ciudad Perdida) means being able to visit an ancient archaeological site nestled up in the Sierra Nevada mountain region of northern Colombia. It was built by the Tayrona people, and dating to approximately 800 AD (older than Machu Picchu), it is only accessible on foot.

Because of the long trek to get to the site, it’s not a destination that suffers from any form of over-tourism. However, the trek route passes through indigenous land, so it’s important to choose a Lost City tour operator that respects the wishes of the Wiwa and Kogi people, who live within this region. For instance, when choosing a guide, it’s possible to have a member of the Wiwa community as your guide.

 

 

Adding to the responsible tourism footprint in this region, I choose to trek with G Adventures who have a partnership with the Wiwa community for the Lost City Trek. Thrugh this arrangement, travelers embark on an exclusive extra fifth day of trekking through an area of the Sierra Nevada jungle that no other group gets to go on. This more remote exploration leads to a Wiwa community, where you have your final lunch as a group.

Your time here supports the community’s kitchen, where locals are trained in hospitality (since many of the men have become trekking guides) and where travelers get to understand the remote communities and the struggles they face when trying to balance tourism with the preservation of traditions.

 

Luang Prabang, Laos

Ketki from Explore With Ecokats

In the last few years Laos has seen a large increase in the amount of effort put towards responsible tourism. In the past, tubing was synonymous with Laos and the party scene, especially in Vang Vieng. Vang Vieng was a major party location for backpackers, who would rent tubes from locals and spend the day floating down the river, drinking at various shanty bars they passed along the way. Due to more than two dozen tourist deaths, regularization was finally passed to shut down these unauthorized shanty bars, that were providing alcohol, and at times drugs, to tourists.

 

 

Laos, since then, has completely changed its tourism scene and is focusing on more ethical and sustainable tourism. The focus is genuinely targeted not only for the tourists, but also for the eco development of the region and local communities. One of those ares to receive an increased focus is Luang Prabang, which is quickly becoming a top responsible tourism destination in Southeast Asia. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Luang Prabang has been able to implement policies and procedures to cater to the extra tourist numbers that visit the city.

Luang Prabang has taken serious initiatives towards reducing plastic waste. Every public toilet has cloth towels for wiping hands, instead of tissue papers. Most hotels use glass bottles for drinking water instead of plastic bottles and have replaced small plastic shampoo bottles with refillable ceramic ones. Many hotels and local shop owners are also promoting organic farming and even growing local food in their premises. The authorities have even installed water dispensers to encourage tourists to fill bottles instead of buying new ones, with all the plastic packaging material being recycled once used.

 

 

In order to make sure these initiatives are known to locals, educational seminars are conducted in the town and training workshops are conducted for hospitality staff. Clean up campaign involving tourists are also conducted in the town. For tourists visiting Luang Prabang, who want to immerse themselves in the art and culture of the city, they can learn about its history and spend a day with the local Laotian women who weave beautiful patterns in the fabric.

 

Luxembourg

Margherita from The Crowded Planet

Luxembourg is a very underrated destination, usually seen as a place where only businesspeople and politicians travel, when in fact, the country has a lot to offer to history, nature and adventure lovers! Luxembourg is also pioneering the way for European countries in its efforts to promote eco-travel and responsible tourism.

One of those eco-travel initiatives is an excellent public transport system that is free, making Luxembourg the first country in the world to offer free public transport. There’s also a good system of bike lanes throughout the entire country, meaning you can cut down on your carbon footprint when exploring Luxembourg.

 

 

Those who enjoy hiking might be surprised to find out that there’s a great long-distance hike in Luxembourg, the Mullerthal Trail. It traverses the region also known as Little Switzerland, with beautiful cliffs and rocks formations. The trail can be hiked in 7-10 days, depending on how many ‘add ons’ one chooses to do. It is also easy to break the hike in stages and get to the trailhead by public transport. Hiking is a great, low impact outdoor activity that doesn’t put any strain on the environment.

 

Costa Rica

While the number of sustainable tourism destinations is increasing around the world, one of the first places to embrace traveling responsibly was undoubtedly Costa Rica. Over 70 years ago, Costa Rica’s president abolished the country’s military, allowing military spending to be redistributed into conservation. Since then, Costa Rica has become a leader in environmental protection. The country is covered in a richly biodiverse rainforest, and the government restricts development on over 25% of its land through protected parks and wildlife reserves. Additionally, over 95% of the country’s electricity comes from green energy.

Costa Rica’s commitment to its environment has paid off, making it one of the top ecotourism destinations in the world. Their protected rainforests are perfect for outdoor adventure travel, including ziplining, white water rafting and incredible hiking in Costa Rica. Wildlife protection draws in tourists interested in bird watching and spotting endangered species like the quetzal, tapir and ocelot.

 

 

While the country has made incredible strives in environmental protection, not all its people have prospered. The indigenous communities within Costa Rica only won the right to vote in 1994, leaving them out of many important decisions regarding their land. To improve the situation of the local indigenous, several responsible tourism projects have popped up.

The Bribri women in the village of Yorkin, near Puerto Viejo, have established their own community tourism group. With this group they’ve created an opportunity to increase their income, allowing them to send their children to school and improve their family’s livelihood. Tourists can come into the community and see their craft making, observe local life and visit their rainforest. For more information on the Bribri indigenous artisan tours, visit the Stibrawpa Association.

Restaurants and Wineries in Lake County: Where to Wine and Dine

No trip to Lake County is complete without visiting the stunning wineries that makes this part of Northern California so popular. With its mineral rich volcanic soil, ideal topography and climate, Lake County is a world class destination for wines. And at only two hours north of San Francisco it makes the perfect getaway loccation.

What pairs better with the best Lake County wines than some of the best Lake County restaurants to go with it?! From hearty menus and ranch to table meals, to fresh organic produce from local farms, Lake County is a foodie’s delight.

Be sure to check out our places to stay and best things to do in Lake County article for more getaway recommendations!

 

Best Wineries in Lake County

Here are our recommendations for the best wineries in Lake County for your next Northern California getaway:

 

 

Boatique Winery, Kelseyville

Boatique Winery is a beautiful family owned and operated winery named after a number of antique boats that make up the showroom. Boats, antique, boatique… get it?! Yeah we thought it was pretty clever as well. But it’s not just the collection of boats that make this location elite, it’s the wines, the vineyards, the property and the people that makes Boatique a must visit spot when exploring Lake County and Kelseyville wineries.

With a stunning patio view of the distant mountains, Boatique is the perfect place to sip a glass of wine (or two) as the sun goes down. You can also take a wander through the showroom to admire the exquisite collection of antique boats or stroll through the olive trees and vineyards with a glass in hand.

 

 

We had such a great experience here chatting to not only the wine maker and manager, but also one of the grandchildren of the founders who is still involved in business. It was awesome hearing about the history, as well as the plans for the future.

Boatique Winery is located a short distance from Kelseyville’s main center, so if you want to responsibly knock back a few extra glasses, you can also stay at a number of different accommodation options at the winery. There’s a super cute cottage, as well as a house on the hill, that is available for rent. The cottage is a quaint little one bedroom place, perfect for a romantic getaway for two. If you’re looking to book a group the hill house has three bedrooms and sleeps six.

 

 

Six Sigma Ranch

Six Sigma Ranch really is the multi-tool of locations to visit in Lake County, offering up something for everyone on their 4300-acre ranch. The family run ranch not only has world class mountain biking trails and overnight RV/trailer for members, but they’ve also got delicious ranch to table dinners, vineyards tours and exceptional wine tasting.

 

 

Not only are the selection of reds and whites at Six Sigma incredible, but any visitors to the ranch have the opportunity to learn more about the process and explore the vineyards. And when we say explore the vineyards we don’t just mean another walk through the grapevines, we’re talking about a tour in an old Pinzgauer (an all-terrain military utility vehicle). Tours cost $25, hold up to 10 people, and help you learn more about the soil and climate that makes Six Sigma Ranch unique. You’ll also venture to the highest elevation of the property at Diamond Mine Vineyard.

Along with all the activities that you can do at Six Sigma there are also some fantastic dining opportunities at the ranch. Each year Six Sigma hosts a number of different events that showcase their high quality wines and beef. There are four course Ranch-to-Table shared dinner experiences that serve up local produce and meat, along with a wine pairing. If you can’t make one of the events you can also arrange a private group ranch to table experience for you and your friends, where you’ll have the opportunity to choose your menu and wine pairing.

 

Wild Diamond Winery

Lake County wine tasting wouldn’t be complete without a stop by Wild Diamond Winery to admire the incredible views and wines. Perched on top of a hill, the Wild Diamond tasting room is constructed out of a recycled shipping container. The structure is super simple, yet amazingly effective in using the space and reducing the carbon footprint of the area.

 

 

The shipping container has been retrofitted to include the bar, sales room, merch shop and even a nice refuge from the heat in the A/C. Outside, underneath a shade sail, there are seats overlooking the vineyards below. On top of the container there are also more seats that give you an even more elevated view of the horizon.

We arrived in the middle of the afternoon when the sun was quite warm, so we welcomed a nice cold bottle of Moon Tears, their signature Albarino. As we sipped the chilled white we walked around the vineyards and sampled a few of the grapes straight off the vine along the way.

 

 

The Shannon Mercantile

Last, but certainly not least, on the list of Lake County wine tasting locations is The Mercantile, home of the Shannon Family of Wines. This tasting room, located between Lakeport and Kelseyville, is a gorgeous place to stop by for a glass of wine, delicious charcuterie board and to snip yourself a beautiful bouquet of zinnias.

 

 

The tasting room itself is a beautiful building with large roller doors that open up and let the air flow through. Along with a white granite bar that extends around the room, there’s also a delicatessen of local snacks and items to purchase along with your wine.

Apart from the fact that the wines are worth a stop, one of the fun drawing cards to The Shannon Mercantile is the ‘Pick and Sip’ garden that runs adjacent to the tasting room. There you’ll find rows upon rows of brightly colored zinnias amongst leafy green leaves. Visitors are encouraged to grab a pair of snippers from the tasting room and cut themselves a bouquet of flowers to take on their travels.

 

Best Restaurants in Lake County

Fine wine isn’t all that Lake County has to offer, there’s also an excellent selection of restaurants to choose from while visiting. Here is a list of our top restaurants in Lake County for your next trip:

 

Red’s at the Skyroom

This somewhat unassuming diner had some of the best food we’ve eaten on a work trip. There’s something to be said for knowing your menu and just doing it really well. When ordering the ‘basic a$$ burger’, fish and chips and an iceberg wedge salad, admittedly, we were expecting some simple food. But what we got served up was extremely tasty.

 

 

Dining at Red’s at the Skyroom isn’t just recommended for the food, there’s also the added feature of the diner being located right next to the small Lakeport regional airstrip. And when we say right next to, we mean you can literally sit on the outside patio sipping a cold local beer, nibbling away at your food and give a pilot a thumbs up as they’re about to take off. This, along with the superb food, makes Red’s a must visit location if you want elevated comfort food in a unique setting.

 

Saw Shop Public House

Located in the center of Kelseyville, this farm-to-table restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes in their unique Asian fusion menu. Part Mexican, part American, part Italian and a lot of Asian flare make up the majority of Saw Shop Public House’s delicious plates.

The Crispy Asian Cauliflower starter was the hero dish of the evening and could have been mistaken for some form of fried meat if you didn’t know any better. We also really enjoyed the seared ahi tuna and crispy shrimp tacos. Oh and we loved the pear flatbread. Yep, we ordered a lot of different plates at this restaurant, all in the name of research of course!

 

 

And naturally the only way to wash all this food down was with a couple of cocktails from nearly 20 different options. We were also fortunate enough to arrive in Kelseyville on the weekend of their annual pear festival, so a lot of the food and drinks were pear themed to suit the occasion. Be sure to check out dates for the next pear festival, although we’d advise booking far in advance as the town is at max capacity over this weekend.

 

Blue Wing Saloon

Not only is the Blue Wing Saloon conveniently located onsite at the Tallman Hotel, but this is a place you’d go out of your way to to visit if you were in Lake County. Kick back underneath the sycamore trees in the courtyard, or nestle into the patio under an outdoor heater to soak in the atmosphere with a delicious meal. Most evenings and Sunday brunch there’s also live music to enjoy while you eat or sip a glass of local wine.

 

 

The menu boasts a wide range of choices, where the only difficulty you’ll have is working out which item to choose, or whether you’re going to have to come back the next day to sample more dishes. From pan-roasted chicken and seared salmon, to grilled ribeye and lobster tail ravioli, as well as vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone.

They also have a cocktail list with a couple of local twists on some classic favorites. And of course there’s an extensive selection of excellent local wines to choose from, including wines from Six Sigma, Wild Diamond and Boatique.

Casino Vacation Ideas for 2023

There’s no denying the last few years have been rough for the world. It’s also been especially hard on travel.  Given the travel restrictions, lockdowns, quarantine and everything else, it’s no wonder everyone is dying to take a vacation! And if you enjoy mixing a vacation with a splash of casinos then it’s been extra hard to combine the thrill of a new destination with the chance of winning it big!

If you’re like us and enjoy the odd dabble in the casinos, playing slots or enjoying the tables, then recent travel restrictions have made that tough. And while casino destinations are starting to open up again for travel, there are still a lot of people that are hesitant about hitting a packed hotel to try their luck. Thankfully we live in an increasingly more accessible digital world and you can now check out online casinos from the comfort and safety of your own home. Slap together a casino themed night, put on your most stylish outfit and check out JackpotCity online casino to relive the excitement and fun of winning big from your home.

Og course nothing quite beats playing in a live casino, so when the world does finally get back to normal and everyone starts traveling to casinos again, here are some of the world’s best casino vacation destinations:

 

Las Vegas

Arguably the most famous casino location in the world, this Nevada city has everything you could ever want for a casino vacation. The range of casinos is vast, so no matter what level of player you are, there is something for you. Most casinos are built into hotel resorts, so you can literally eat, sleep and game without having to go outside and brave the hot Nevada heat.

 

 

Las Vegas is not far from the Arizona border, so you can easily hire a car and take a few days out to visit the delight of the state, which includes the Grand Canyon. If you are a relatively new player, or traveling with people who do not appreciate casinos, Vegas is the perfect option as the entertainment options are endless.

While in town, apart from hitting the floor, take advantage of some Vegas shows. There’s the ever popular Blue Man group, multiple Cirque du Soleil productions, magic shows and all of your favorite washed up pop stars who now call Vegas home.

 

Monte Carlo

Featured in Bond films, the Casino de Monte-Carlo is for you if you want to combine elegant luxury with a spin on the roulette wheel or a high rolling game of poker. The complex features opera, ballet, theater, and fine dining restaurants situated in Monaco, a billionaire’s playground. While you’re there, be sure to don a black tuxedo and order a Vodka Martini, shaken not stirred, to feel even more like James Bond himself.

 

 

Venturing out into wider Monaco is an experience in itself. The concentration of performance cars and yachts is truly remarkable, and the French city of Nice and the Italian cities of Genoas and Turin are within reach if you want to extend your vacation.

Incidentally, Cannes, the famous film festival location is a few miles south-west. Time it right, and you could have a wonderful vacation taking in gaming and film.

 

Johannesburg

Montecasino in Johannesburg offers a great alternative to western casino environments. Although not radically different in setup, the casino offers a reward card where the more you play, the bigger the jackpots. There are three tier levels of play, Gold, Platinum, and Black. If you’re a regular player then this is the spot for you to check out during your South Africa travels.

 

 

As well as gaming, there are a lot of high quality entertainment options to experience. The hotels offer excellent fine dining, insightful cultural experiences and amazing shows at an affordable rate.

If you want more than just a casino vacation while in Johannesburg don’t forget to explore some other parts of the city as well. The city has an interesting history and you can learn a lot about the apartheid and the struggles that engulfed the city during this time period. Visit the Apartheid Museum or Mandela’s House to learn about the impact it had on South Africa.

 

Singapore

For something spectacular, head over to Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands casinos. Towering high into the sky is the futuristic Sands SkyPark. Its observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, and if you’re staying in the hotel, you should take a dip in the rooftop infinity pool before catching a bite to eat in one of the restaurants.

 

 

Gaming wise, you’ll find a full range of casinos, regardless of what level of player you are. Given that you’ll be in the heart of the entertainment district, you’ll also find plenty to do while contemplating a strategy for your next casino session, or taking a break from that untimely loosing streak.

While traveling in Singapore be sure to visit the Gardens by the Bay for the phenomenal night show of lights. This futuristic light forest is one of the most amazing things to do in Singapore!

Top 3 Warm Places to Visit During Winter

As the summer sun slowly drops below the horizon the entry into winter can be a brutal one. The days get shorter, colder and generally less exciting as people start to bunker down for the winter months. Sure there’s the excitement around the holidays. Carving a pumpkin, maybe decorating a tree, but let’s be honest, after a few winter weeks the novelty starts to wear off.

And while summer might feel like a lifetime away, there is an escape… find a warm place to visit during the winter. That’s right! Dig out those bikinis and board shorts and head off to one of the many places around the world that experience beautiful weather while the rest of North America and Europe suffer the dark days.

 

 

Here are our top four warm destinations to visit during winter if you need a break from the cold:

 

Australia

The Land Down Under isn’t just a popular song about Australia from the early 1980s, it’s the whole reason to visit Australia during a North American / European winter. Located in the Southern Hemisphere, Australia has the exact opposite in seasons compared to the US and anyone else located in the Northern Hemisphere.

While the rest of the world approaches its darkest days in December, Australia is getting ready to embrace the summer sun. And not only is the weather getting better in Australia come late December, but it’s also a great time to visit. In the week leading up to Christmas the country comes alive, as everyone takes summer holiday time off.

 

 

Unlike a lot of places around the world, Australians have quite a lot of holiday vacation time in their work. And they’re not afraid to use it to enjoy this time of year that includes Christmas, New Years Eve and any other excuse for Aussies to have a party. Expect bars to buzz with excitement, beaches full of good times, parks busy grilling up sausages (and maybe a few shrimps on the barbie) and lots of energy around social events.

If you’re looking to avoid the busy vacation crowds of Australia your best bet is to visit towards the end of January or early February. In Melbourne and Sydney, arguably the best cities to visit on the eastern coast, the hottest weather tends to come towards the end of January. Although Melbourne is infamously called the city with ‘four seasons in a day’ so take the weather predictions with a grain of salt.

 

Peru

A personal favorite of ours to visit. Not just because we spent a year volunteering in Peru, but because Peru is such a historically rich and diverse country with so many different cultures and terrains to visit.

 

 

Lima in particular is an awesome spot to visit during winter because between January and March the weather sits at a perfect 80F with no days of rain. Start your winter escape in Peru’s capital with some world class, fine dining. Lima restaurants are famous for a reason! The unique blends of Peruvian cuisine, along with influences from Asia and Europe, make it a culinary heaven for foodies. If you’re looking to visit Lima this winter be sure to check out Iberostar’s early bird Black Friday vacation deals to find a great value stay at their Miraflores location in Lima.

 

 

Lima is also the perfect jumping off point for many other Peruvian adventures. Venture east into the Amazon jungle to experience the wildly isolated city of Iquitos, the largest city in the world inaccessible by land. The only way to explore it is via flight, or the tranquil trip down the Amazon river in an overnight ferry.

Head north for the beautiful beaches of the Peruvian coastline at places like Mancora and its surrounding beaches. For a different change of pace, and altitude, head south to Cusco to explore the ancient Incan cities and the wondrous Machu Picchu.

 

Mexico

Just a quick fight south from North America, and relatively close from western Europe, is a perfect winter escape in Mexico. January is right in the middle of the dry season, so along with perfect warm weather you won’t have to worry about the downpours.

Mexico is a massive country, with the two main beach vacation locations situated on the north west or south east coasts. On the west you have destinations like Cabo and Puerto Vallarta, on the east you have a plethora of options dotted throughout the Yucatan peninsula.

 

 

If you’re on the west coast of North America it’s a very easy flight down to our personal favorite spot Sayulita. Fly into Puerto Vallarta and then take a 30min taxi ride north to this rustic little beach town. Days are spent lounging around on the beach, bouncing between different taco stands as you eat your way through the town.

On the other side of the country is the Yucatan Peninsula, which is well known for its high rise resorts and turquoise waters. Merida, Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen are all top destinations to visit if you’re looking for warm places to stay in winter.

Whichever place you decide you’re bound to have a good time in Mexico during the winter. Swap out warm soups, cuddled up in blankets for ice cold beers and $1 street tacos on the beach. Now that sounds like the perfect way to spend a winter escape to me!

San Francisco to Davis with Capitol Corridor

With gas prices continually on the rise, and carbon emissions from cars at an all-time high, it’s no surprise that train travel is becoming increasingly popular. Trains not only save you money on travel, but they’re also saving the environment one trip at a time. I recently took a local, day trip adventure from San Francisco to Davis taking the Capitol Corridor train. It was the perfect way to get out of the city fog and into the California sun. Here’s everything you need to know about traveling by train with Capitol Corridor and things to do in Davis.

 

 

San Francisco to Davis

Intent on traveling as sustainably as possible, my journey started at home in San Francisco with my bike. After packing my day bag and pumping up my tires I took off from the Marina district to ride 20 minutes to downtown San Francisco to meet my bus connection.

I arrived at 555 Mission with time to spare, and placed my bike under the bus for the quick trip across the Bay Bridge to Emeryville Station. Once at Emeryville it was a seamless connection at the station from the bus and onto the Capitol Corridor train that was headed towards Sacramento.

 

 

Train Amenities

After locking my bike securely in the bicycle racks, I headed towards the upstairs compartment to jump on my laptop and finalize my itinerary for the day. With free Wi-Fi access, charging ports and table seating it made mapping out the final destinations of my trip incredibly easy.

The seats are really comfortable, which made the time fly by while I spent my time aboard taking in the scenery and tapping away at my laptop. Before I knew it, “next stop, Davis,” was announced over the PA system. I didn’t even get a chance to hit up the onboard Café Car, which serves hot food and cold drinks (including alcoholic beverages), but I made sure to check it out on the way back.

 

 

Capitol Corridor and Sustainability

Not only is taking the Capitol Corridor a more sustainable option than driving, but there are many other green features in place that ensure a brighter future for the environment. Big picture initiatives include a commitment to researching and implementing renewable diesel, as well as everyday little things like installing recycling bins on the train and making it easier for people to cycle to their connection.

As a cyclist, both recreationally and for commuting, it’s great to see Capitol Corridor streamlining the process for cyclists to link up with another form of sustainable transportation. Being able to ride to the bus or train station and take my bike on board is a massive plus. Not only does it cut down on having to take an Uber to the station, but it means I’ve got transportation at my final destination as well.

If you want to ride to the station, but don’t want to take your bike with you, there’s also the option of leaving it in the BikeLink eLockers which cost 5 cents per hour. It’s a safe and secure way to leave your bike behind while you head off on your adventure.

 

 

Why Train Travel

As sustainable travelers we’ve always been partial to train travel. Not only does it have the obvious environmental benefits of reducing carbon emissions, but there’s something special about the gentle roll of a train.

Train travel encapsulates a lot of what we’re all about when it comes to traveling. For one, slow travel is always one of the best ways to truly experience a destination. It allows you to really take in the sights and be present much more than hopping from one place to another via plane.

On a train you get to take in your surroundings without the worry of driving yourself or being 30,000 feet in the sky. You might not cover as much ground via train; however, it’s the perfect sweet spot of when you need to get to a location within a few hours radius.

This is what makes the Capitol Corridor a great option for traveling around Northern California. Serving 18 stations, across 8 different counties, the Capitol Corridor covers 170 miles of destinations from San Jose to Placer and everything in between.

 

 

Things to Do in Davis

Davis is best known for being the university town of UC Davis, but there’s a surprising amount of things to do in this little town. Here are our top choices:

 

California Raptor Center

Located on the southern campus of UC Davis, the California Raptor Center offers self-guided educational tours and access to the raptor enclosures. Now you wouldn’t be wrong to think of dinosaurs right now (I know I did), but this isn’t something out of Jurassic Park.

Raptor is another name for a bird of prey, so anything like an eagle, hawk, falcon, owl, etc., is considered a raptor. The name comes from the Latin word to seize, which is appropriate given their swooping action on prey.

This is a really awesome spot to check out while in Davis. Along with a little educational museum you can walk amongst more than a dozen enclosures that have rescued and rehabilitated birds.

 

Davis Farmers Markets

Another location only open on Wednesdays from 3pm-6pm and Saturdays from 8am-1pm, the Davis Farmers Market is more than just a market. This yearlong market also works to engage the public about nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and the benefits of buying locally grown and sourced foods.

 

 

UC Davis Arboretum and Gardens

Davis is full of stunning garden areas, but this particular spot features beautiful bike paths and places to explore. The path that leads out to the gardens runs through the campus and along a waterway, where you will find local bird life and lots of seating along the way to kick back and take in the scenery.

There are also a number of small bridges that pass over the water from one side of the path to the other. Visitors will notice the Paris inspired ‘Locks of Love’ on the bridges, as countless locks have been left connected to the bridge with lovers’ initials or names written on them. If you’re visiting Davis with a loved one, don’t forget your lock!

 

US Bicycling Hall of Fame

Speaking of cycling earlier, while in Davis why not stop by the US Bicycling Hall of Fame. The center is dedicated to preserving the history, as well as promoting the future of US cycling. Visit the museum and learn about the rich cycling history and heritage in the US. It’s only open on Wednesdays from 4-6pm and Saturdays 10am-2pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

 

Bend Sustainable Travel Guide: Beers, Mountain Biking and the Last Blockbuster

This post was made in collaboration with Visit Bend. As always, all opinions are our own and we would never promote a destination that we didn’t truly believe in. Bend, Oregon is the real deal when it comes to genuine sustainable travel and a care for our planet.

A trip to Bend, Oregon is so much more than just a weekend away or a family vacation. It’s an all encompassing experience full of exhilarating outdoor adventures, culinary delights and world class craft beers. Traveling to Bend also gives you an opportunity to support a destination that prioritizes and supports sustainable travel. Our Bend sustainable travel guide will show you all the best places to eat, drink, stay and experience around Bend.

 

 

Where to Stay in Bend

Bend offers a range of different accommodation options to suit your budget and needs. Family vacation, bougie weekends, group trips or solo adventurers will all find what they’re looking for in Bend’s large and varied selection of accommodation.

 

 

For us the LOGE Bend provided everything we needed. Just a five minute drive from downtown, LOGE Bend is located on the edge of the Deschutes National Forest, which makes it the perfect jumping off location to explore the wilderness. We loved LOGE Bend because of their emphasis on outdoor adventuring, as well as supporting the environment. They not only prioritize sustainability at their lodging, but they put their money where their mouth is by giving back to nonprofits and groups that help support the protect and preserve the environment.

 

Where to Eat and Drink in Bend

Don’t be fooled by the breweries and your old ideas about bar food, Bend has some serious gastronomical delights sprinkled around town. Pub grub has come a long way from the standard hot fries, overcooked burgers and whatever other unflavored foods who’s only goal is to fill your stomach so you can drink more. In the era of the microbreweries and craft beers we’re also seeing the craft menus expand to pair perfectly with the beers.

 

 

Breweries such as Bend Brewing Company and Boneyard, along with being some of our favorite beers in Bend, also have delicious food menus on offer. If the breweries don’t offer a full menu selection of foods they almost always offer at least bar snacks and have food vendors onsite serving up the perfect beer pairings to fill up that tummy (and soak up the beer).

Crux Fermentation Project is another of our favorite beers and locations to visit in Bend. They have some of the best beers in the biz, an awesome establishment and make the perfect spot to post up for an afternoon session in the sun. Crux has most of the traditional pub snacks on their menu, but they’ve also got food vendors outside. The El Sancho food at Crux makes these even more of a drawcard, because those tacos are bomb dot com. We’d also recommend checking out El Sancho’s main restaurants in town where there’s a wider selection of food.

 

 

Other awesome eating locations include:

  • Kanona Cafe has healthy smoothie bowl breakfasts, coffee and is the perfect was to start the day
  • Wild Rose specializes in Northern Thai cooking and is some of the best we’ve had since being back in Thailand. The curry dishes were on point and the deep fried crispy spare ribs were out of this world
  • Boxwood Kitchen and Supper Club has a varied menu of and everything we tried was delicious, especially the brussels sprouts appetizer

 

Bend Ale Trail

Ok, while we’re on the subject of Bend beer, let’s really dive into it. The Bend Ale Trail is exactly what it sounds like; a trail full of ales in Bend. But much more than just a couple of nice breweries to check out, the Bend Ale Trail is a carefully constructed itinerary of 30 world class breweries that are dotted around the city center and outskirts of Bend. Along with the 30 breweries, there’s also 17 non-beer related stops that include spirits, cider, wine and kombucha. There’s literally something for everyone!

 

 

All the locations are neatly compiled into a small booklet called the Bend Ale Trail Passport, divided into 7 territories around town. Each territory has a list of breweries to collect a stamp from once you’re purchased a beverage. The passport is also a convenient mobile app that can be accessed on your phone, but trust us, you’ll want the physical passport as a souvenir.

Collect all the stamps in one particular territory and then head to the Bend Visitor Center to redeem a fun prize. Collect all seven territories and aside from being really drunk, you are officially the Bend beer master and receive an even more special prize. We won’t spoil the surprise!

But what if I don’t drink? Fear not, the Bend Ale Trail is all encompassing and has a unique Designated Driver reward for anyone who is driving their group around for the day. At the back of the passport there is a spot to collect DD stamps. Once you’ve collected 5 stamps you can redeem your special Designated Driver reward from the Bend Visitor Center. Good on you for keeping everyone safe! 

 

Outdoor Activities

Bend might be famous for its beers, but it’s also an incredible destination for spending time outside (and no, we don’t just mean hanging out in a beer garden!). Take advantage of the river, national forest areas, caves, climbing, mountains and any other outdoor adventure activity you can think of. Bend has it all!

In town there’s beautiful Drake Park that runs along the Deschutes National River. Take a walk through the park and pass over the wooden bridges to explore all it has to offer. On the river itself you can kayak, standup paddle board or canoe your way leisurely through the town, or take on the whitewater rapids for that extra level of thrill.

 

 

Just a short drive outside of town there are lava caves to explore, the snowy slopes of Mount Bachelor in the winter and amazing rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park. There are also plenty of beautiful trails to run, hike or walk the dog as you explore the forest and surrounding areas. 

 

Downhill Mountain Biking

During our visit to Bend we ventured into the Deschutes National Forest with Cog Wild mountain biking tours. While we both enjoy biking around the city, this was the first time that we’d both been on proper downhill mountain bikes and hit the rocky trails.

Cog Wild is conveniently located at the back of LOGE Bend where we were staying, so we had no excuse but to be on time for the tour (punctuality can be a struggle for us!). After rolling out of our room with a minute to spare we assembled at Cog Wild to get fitted for our bike, helmet and gloves, before jumping in a minivan that would take us up the mountain and into the forest.

 

 

Once on the trail our guide took us through a tutorial on how to handle the bikes and the trails. We’d be traveling down single track trails and the adventure started almost instantly as we encountered some narrow paths and rocky downhill sections right off the bat.

Over the next couple of hours we cruised through the forest, stopping to get expert guidance for any of the trickier sections. We rode across wooden planks, jumped off small boulders, weaved around rocks and enjoyed the smoother, more chill, segments of the route. Our guide was experienced, encouraging and really knew his stuff! It was definitely an adrenaline pumping activity, but we had so much fun pushing ourselves to try some of the more adventurous paths and challenges!

 

Shop Sustainably, Shop Local

An easy way to be a sustainable traveler in Bend is to shop locally and support local businesses. Not only do you get the authentic Bend experience by shopping from local artisans, eating local foods and doing tours with locals who know the area best, but you also help keep your tourist dollars inside the local Bend economy.

By doing so you ensure local businesses can continue to provide the best and most authentic experiences for future travelers. You also support businesses that have Bend’s best interests at heart, because they’re run by locals who live, work and socialize in Bend.

 

 

If you’re thinking to yourself, “well all I’ve done so far is visit breweries and drink beer” then lucky for you you’re already shopping locally! One of the best things about Bend is the local owned breweries (and other beverages) that brew and operate right in town.

Aside from the beverages there’s also a wide selection of local shops in the downtown area. Bend has a relatively small city center, so walking around doesn’t take long. Grab yourself an ice-cream at Bontà, one of Oregon’s top gelato spots, and window shop the streets of Bend.

Still thinking of beers while you shop? Not to worry, many of the boutique and hipster shops can help you quench that thirst by offering up complimentary sample size beers while you shop. Flip through racks of plaid shirts with a hazy IPA in hand and really soak in the Bend atmosphere.

 

The Last Blockbuster in Bend

If you were born anytime after 2010 then you’re going to have to bear with us here. It might be hard to see the nostalgic draw to an old video rental store, but for anyone who grew up visiting video stores to browse the latest new releases and pay their late return fees, this is the spot to go!

Blockbuster, once the world’s largest video rental store chain with over 9,000 stores across the globe, is now down to just one, single store! It’s hard to believe that this powerhouse company, that extended to both our childhoods from across the globe, is now but a relic amongst the saturation of streaming services that all vie for our attention.

 

 

This is definitely a spot worth making while exploring Bend. Just a short drive from the city center, this nondescript Blockbuster is nestled among your stereotypical strip-mall amenities: a takeout pizza spot, some form of massage or nails shop, a bank and a gas station on the corner.

Rewind (pun intended) 30 years and this would have been a thriving hotspot for families, date nights in and anyone looking to rent the old classics or check out what’s new. Now, while the Bend Blockbuster still operates as it used to, it also doubles as a tourist location and living museum for those wanting to reminisce about their younger years amongst the rows of dated DVDs.

 

Bend’s Sustainable Pledge

We love nothing more than a destination that truly walks the walk of sustainability. Bend does a whole lot more than just touts its outdoor attractions and calls it a day. Instead, the city put their money where their mouth is and created the Bend Sustainability Fund, a grant program funding projects that create, support and expand sustainable recreational and outdoor experiences in Bend’s backyard. Last year they funded an urban bike park and a summit loop trail on Mt. Bachelor, among other projects.

 

 

Want to contribute to sustainable fun? Here’s a couple ways to get involved! First, take the Bend Pledge. This is basically a way to pledge that you will bring your best self during your visit to Central Oregon. From respecting the land to committing to driving less, these basic pledges are something we should all keep in mind while traveling!

Wrapping up your time in Bend and want to give back? Make a Pledge for the Wild! All donations benefit the Bend Sustainability Fund to support even more great outdoor projects!

Top 3 Family Friendly Places to Stay in Mykonos 

The Greek island of Mykonos might be synonymous with lavish nightclubs and partying through the night (think Ibiza in Spain), but there’s a lot more to this Mediterranean marvel than rich celebrities cruising around on yachts and college students drinking themselves into a stupor.

And while Mykonos certainly does present itself as a party mecca and a cosmopolitan hot spot in the Mediterranean, it also has a rich history and distinctive Greek island charms and allure for tourists and families to explore.

Sugary white beaches, crystal clear waters, an idyllic shoreline, scenic whitewashed houses and chalky chapels with blue domes overlook the Aegean Sea. Along with relaxing by these pristine beaches there’s also a lot of exciting water sports and other actives to enjoy while you soak in the sun, sand and surf of world famous Mykonos.

Planning a trip with the family, but don’t know location in Mykonos is the most suited place for you? Come with us, as we avoid the large crowds and partying masses, and dive into the top three family friendly places to stay in Mykonos.

 

 

Ornos

Ornos is a picturesque region less than a mile from the island’s capital. The area combines the great nightlife of Mykonos Town with delicious restaurants, shops, sandy beaches, relatively shallow waters, as well as lots of opportunities for scuba diving and swimming.

The area of Ornos has absolutely spellbinding views of the island, along with more peaceful experiences. It’s also a great spot to find exclusive accommodation with top-tier amenities like outdoor kitchens, basketball courts, breakfast bars and infinity pools. This is one of the main drawing cards for families, as there are plenty of amenities to keep the kids occupied while you also enjoy your Greece getaway.

Ornos is also close to the island’s main transportation network, which makes it easy to get around the rest of the island, especially with a family. Whether you’re planning a sightseeing tour, or just want to go and explore, it’s easily accessible by car. And if you want to swap out the car for a water taxi, Ornos is also an excellent spot to start a beach-hopping adventure. Jump on a taxi boat and visit the most popular (and more secluded options) along the coastline.

 

 

Platis Gialos

If Ornos is a little too close to the craziness of  Mykonos Town, and you want to pamper your family with more tranquillity and secluded beaches, then Platis Gialos is a perfect alternative. The scenery is absolutely stunning and there are a number of little coves to explore that surround the area.

As for the beach itself, it’s magnificent! With fine sand, transparent waters and the most idyllic views of the archipelago, you can’t go wrong here. One of the main family friendly appeals for Platis Gialos it that is has a lot more space for the little ones to enjoy. Kids, and some adults too, will love the space to run around and make sandcastles on uncrowded beaches, especially if you come early in the morning.

As the kids run the amok around the beach, you can nestle under an umbrella, kick up your feet on a lounger and enjoy a refreshingly cold cocktail from one of the nearby beach bars or restaurants.

Aside from its beauty one of the best things about Platis Gialos is that you can rent a magnificent villa just a few yards from the beach, making an early morning walk on the beach, or multiple trips throughout the day, a lot easier with families.

 

 

Agios Stefanos

Agios Stefanos is another fantastic option if you want to experience the more laid-back and chilled side of Mykonos. It’s one of the less visited locations in Mykonos, but it’s just as striking. The slight isolation from the main town areas makes it another great option for family friendly places to stay in Mykonos.

Situated on the northern side of the island, Agios Stefanos will leave you with a sense of total bliss and rejuvenation, with its wind protected, sandy shores and some unbelievably mind blowing sunsets.The location is well connected by both sea and land, which means that you can easily visit anything inside Mykonos, or even the neighboring island of Delos.

There’s also stunning accommodation on offer in Agios Stefanos, with impressive villas and combo units that can sleep up to 20 people. The villas come with facilities like private pools, several lounge areas, a built-in BBQ, outdoor kitchen and bar, a fully equipped inside kitchen and gorgeous seascapes.

 

 

Which Family Friendly Spot in Mykonos is Right For You?

This is barely an exhaustive list of the best family friendly places to stay in Mykonos, so if you’re looking for more options you can also try Agios Lazaros and Aleomandra regions on the south-west, Kalafatis and Kalo Livadi on the south-east, and Agia Sophia on the west.

And if you want to be in the action, and don’t mind the partying crowds and the music from the bars going well into the night, you could even consider a villa with full amenities in Mykonos Town. Regardless of where you end up, the island of Mykonos is an excellent place to stay with the family from end to end!

8 Best Places to Visit In Doha

Welcome to Doha, the fast paced, growing metropolitan capital city of Qatar. Located on the northeastern side of the Arabian Peninsula, based on the coast of the Persian Gulf, Doha is the epicenter of Qatar finance, politics and city life.

Over the last decade it has also emerged as a growing tourist destination with over 2 million annual visitors arriving in Qatar. And while the oil and gas industry is still the main export for Qatar, tourism has expanded to become a significant income source and opportunity for growth within the smaller communities.

Doha is easy to travel to, with plenty of affordable flights with Etihad Airways to Hamad International Airport of Doha. And as the tourism industry grows, so do the number of fun and exciting tourist attractions for visitors. We’ll take a look at the top 8 places to visit in Doha for those new to the city.

 

 

Popular Places to Visit in Doha

Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif is a huge marketplace in Doha where you can find all different kinds of traditional attire, local handicrafts, spices and souvenirs at an affordable price. If you’re looking to bring a bit of Qatar home with you, or buy gifts for friends and family, this is the place. Inside the market there are also several restaurants and hookah lounges if you want to stop for food and some atmosphere while you shop.

This souq was founded more than a hundred years ago to help assist trade between the local Doha residents and the nomadic Bedouins. The current souq building was renovated back in 2006 by the Qatar government and now boasts some more modern amenities.  If you happen to be visiting in April keep an eye out for the annual Spring festival, featuring music, theatre, acrobatics and a wrestling championship.

 

 

Katara Cultural Village

This area was constructed to host the Doha Tribeca Film Festival back in October 2010, with the event now an annual opportunity for promoting Arabic films. The space has an amphitheater, a large conference hall, a multipurpose cinema hall, an opera house and a souq (market) beside the beach.

It’s named after Katar, which is the old name of Qatar, in order to pay homage to the ancient culture of the land.

 

Katara Beach

The white sands of Katara Beach, just a short drive north of Doha downtown, is the perfect city getaway for some sun and sea. The beach is located inside Katara Cultural Village, another area of Doha known for its scenic beauty and serene environment.

Katara is a private beach, so tourists will need to buy passes to visit, but there are a host of different activities to enjoy once you’re there. Along with some beach volley ball and swimming there’s also water skiing, parasailing, boating, kneeboarding, scuba diving, kitesurfing, riding a gondola and windsurfing. There are also several cafes and restaurants close to the beach where tourists can enjoy snacks, lunch or a cold drink after a day at the beach.

 

 

National Museum of Qatar

The National Museum of Qatar was opened in 1975, and its current building was inaugurated in 2019. Visitors to the museum can marvel at the different costumes, jewelry and household items of Bedouin and other local tribes. Soak in the history and culture of the land through archaeological artifacts, books, decorative items, and historical documents that are displayed.

The galleries of the museum are arranged into three different themes, each set out in chronological order so it’s easy to follow the historical timeline of Qatar. You can also find Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani’s Palace located on the museum grounds.

 

 

Museum of Islamic Art

While you’re getting local history fix, don’t forget to check out the Museum of Islamic Art. This museum is located on an artificial peninsula at one end of the Doha Corniche. It’s close to Dhow Harbor, which overlooks the southern part of Doha Bay. The museum building was specifically designed and constructed according to Islamic architecture, combined with some modern geometric patterns.

It has a huge collection of artifacts related to Islamic art, such as textiles, jewelry, metal works, woodworks, ceramic and glass items. The artifact collection spans the globe, with items coming from Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, India, Spain and throughout Central Asia.

 

Pearl Qatar

Pearl Qatar is an artificial island in Doha that is the only place in Qatar where foreigners can own homes. This four square kilometer residential area was designed by the Callison architecture firm and expanded by the United Development Company. For this reason alone it’s an interesting area to visit.

Its name comes from the pearl diving site on which this island is developed. The entire area is divided into 12 districts, each representing a specific architectural style, including European, Arabic and Mediterranean. One district named Abraj Quartier has two towers housing only commercial establishments.

 

 

Doha Corniche

This 5 mile long waterfront walkway runs the length of Doha Bay and is a prominent tourist attraction of the city. This popular walking and jogging spot is lined with palm tress and has beautiful views of the bay and an interesting look at the modern architecture of the city. Development continues to stretch the length of the walkway, now pushing even further north with several new skyscrapers.

The Doha Corniche is divided into three main parts; namely Corniche Park and Promenade, Corniche Street, and the Government zone. The Museum of Islamic Art and Sheraton Hotel are two prominent landmarks of the Corniche.

 

Mathaf

One more museum to check out while in Doha is the Mathaf, an Arab museum of modern art. It was inaugurated in 2010 and its name means ‘museum’ in Arabic. This building covers an area of 5500 square meters in the Education City of Doha, displaying more than 9000 sculptures and paintings of the Arab world. Most of these items were donated by Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammad Al Thani and are now managed by  the Qatar Museum Authority.

Sustainable Helsinki Travel Guide for 2023

This article was written in collaboration with Helsinki Partners. As always, all opinions are our own and we would never endorse a destination or partner that we didn’t fully support. Helsinki is absolutely rad and a must see experience! Before visiting Helsinki be sure to check out local COVID regulations regarding opening hours and restrictions that may be in place. All information is correct at the time of writing, but may change over time. We’ll do our best to update when needed.

Helsinki was always one of those travel destinations that was on our radar, but that we truly didn’t know much about. Aside from 24 hour sunlight in the summer and icy cold plunges in the winter, we weren’t very familiar with Finland or its capital, Helsinki. The closest we’d ever been up north was our trip to Estonia. We expected a bustling metropolis with fabulous architecture (probably thanks to the indie pop band Architecture in Helsinki).

And while both those things are true (especially the architecture), we were happily surprised to discover that Helsinki is truly one of the top sustainable and outdoor travel destinations in the world! We learned that the Helsinki archipelago consists of more than 300 islands and that Finland itself is about 75% forest, much just outside of the city center of Helsinki. A true adventure traveler’s dream.

 

 

The city of Helsinki is doing its part for sustainability, with a goal to become carbon neutral by 2030. From the public transportation to the local food choices, we were excited to explore the city’s eco-friendly options during our stay.

 

Exploring Sustainable Helsinki

Helsinki, although a booming metropolitan hub of Scandinavia, is a relatively small city and easy to explore. This is made especially easy by an elite public transport system that is not only cheap and efficient to use, but also helps promote sustainable travel and reduces carbon emissions.

During our week in Helsinki we used everything from trams and trains to buses and ferries to explore the city. It was as simple as downloading the HSL app, filling in your payment details and purchasing the ticket you need. Made even easier by the fact that Helsinki has fast and free internet hotspots throughout the city.

 

 

Suomenlinna Island

A short 15 minute ferry ride from downtown Helsinki is the stunning Suomenlinna Island (still within the Helsinki district). This UNESCO World Heritage Site served as a sea fortress back when Sweden originally ruled over the region, and the fortification of the region was a major contributing factor to Helsinki being able to grow into the capital city it is today.

After its construction in 1748 by Sweden it traded hands with the Russians back in 1808, before finally being claimed by Finland after independence in 1917. For this reason the island has a unique blend of architecture and cultural styles that fall into the different periods of ownership.

 

 

Nowadays the island is home to about 800 local residents and roughly 500 worker. It’s also a popular visitor attraction, accounting for about one million visitors yearly, including both international tourists and locals. Go for a walk along the fortified walls and take in the stunning views of the Helsinki backdrop and other islands scattered out towards the sea. In the winter the snowy landscape was truly breathtaking, and we can imagine it’s equally gorgeous in the warmer months There’s a walking route that takes you through all the historical areas of the town. There are also a number of cafes on the island to stop off for a hot beverage on those cold mornings.

 

Helsinki Central Library Oodi

Ok stop right there, I know what you’re thinking… ‘why would I want to visit a library?’ Well the answer is simple, the Oodi Library is by far the coolest library we’ve EVER visited around the world. To start, the outside is a grandiose masterpiece of Finnish design. Inside there are three levels of literally every public service you could imagine.

Record a new song in the audio studio, cook up a group meal in the industrial kitchen, play video games with your friends, 3D print, make clothes on the sewing machines, enjoy multiple different work spaces and conference rooms, utilize an auditorium and so much more in this incredible space. And if you weren’t impressed yet, there are also automated robot librarians that drive around the multiple floors and return books to their section. Rad!

 

 

Christmas Markets

This one’s for all you Christmas fanatics out there (i.e Christine) who love the European style Christmas markets come December time. We arrived in Helsinki in early December, which was perfectly timed to experience the city embrace the winter wonderland theme of Christmas.

And it truly is a wonderland, with its brightly decorated trees, a magical Merry Go Round and artisans selling their crafts. After you do a bit of shopping, go to one of the stalls pouring hot cups of glögi (mulled wine) and grab a cup (you can choose between alcoholic or non-alcoholic!). Then pick up some hot food like the traditional Karjalanpiirakka (rice pies) and plop yourself down inside one of the heated seating areas, complete with reindeer fur to sit on (it keeps your bum warm!). These magical little cabins are the perfect escape from the cold while chatting with friends over a hot delicious beverage.

One of the best things about local markets, which is especially applicable to Helsinki’s Christmas markets, is the opportunity to support sustainable shopping by buying from local artisans. By buying local you help support local economies, small business and reduce shipping emissions from buying foreign made products. We also loved being able to chat directly with the people who made the crafts and hear their stories and the story behind their products.

 

Alvar Aalto Studios

If the name sounds familiar it’s probably because you’ve come across iconic architecture, furniture, glassware or any other number of creative concepts from the world renown Finish designer Alvar Aalto. Located a short public transport distance from downtown Helsinki you’ll find Alvar Aalto’s studio, which doubles as a historical museum to his amazing work and fully functional contemporary architecture studio.

 

 

Alvar Aalto pioneered a lot of the famous chic, minimalist concepts that you associate with Scandinavian design, with many of his 1930s and 1940s designs still being extremely popular and prevalent in homes and businesses around the world.

The cool thing about the Aalto studio tour is that the building itself is a living representation of his work. Each intricate design choice has a function, both inside and outside of the studio. Inside you’ll find a collection of his own personal furniture and have access to the rooms where all the magic happened. Being in the studio where the master himself held his brainstorming meetings we felt a rush of creativity and inspiration in the presence of Alvar Aalto’s work.

 

Helsinki Sauna Experiences

When we were first contacted by the Helsinki tourism department, admittedly, we didn’t know a lot about the city, nor the country. We knew about the Northern Lights, that it’s cold in the winter and that the sauna reigned supreme!

After learning a lot about Helsinki in the couple of weeks we were there, we can confirm one thing for sure, Finish people LOVE saunas. Not only is it a huge part of their culture, but it makes up a large part of their everyday life as well. Fins claim to be the inventor of sauna, with historical evidence of saunas in the region dating back to over 2000 years ago.

All over Finland you can find saunas in different shapes and sizes. From fancy 5 star hotels, to shacks by the lake. A sauna is more than just a hot building; it’s a lifestyle, a community gathering place and a way to connect with the elements.

 

Löyly Helsinki

If you’re looking for your first ever sauna experience you can’t go past Löyly in Helsinki. More than just a beautifully designed sauna, this place also has a restaurant and bar onsite and is the perfect spot to gather with a few friends.

There are two saunas on site, one that seems a bit more contemporary and doesn’t get as hot, and one for the die-hards who are looking to turn up the heat in this dimly lit sweat box. Once you’re ready to get out of the heat we highly recommend taking advantage of the harborside plunge into the ocean to cool yourself down. This is made especially unique in the winter time when the water freezes over and you dip yourself down into the world’s biggest ice bath to experience the intense change of bodily temperature made famous by Scandinavian sauna culture.

 

 

After dipping into the ocean head back to the warmths of the common area and grab a fireside beer to sit around and chat before heading to the sauna for round two, three or four.

We HIGHLY recommend doing the ocean plunge. It’s a thrilling experience that you can only have in a location like this! You literally feel like you’re being dipped into a Slushie. It was a bit treacherous during the winter at night, so we recommend going with a buddy. There is a ladder to lower yourself down. Hold on to the ladder because the current does push and pull you a bit. 

And in case you are unsure about the sauna logistics (like we were), here’s how it all works. There is a women’s and men’s locker room. You’ll receive a key for a locker to put your belongings in and a small towel to sit on in the sauna. You’ll change into your swimsuit in the locker room, then after a quick shower, you’re ready to roll! Besides the locker rooms, the rest of the sauna areas are co-ed. Everyone was wearing some form of swimsuit.

 

Sompasauna

For those looking for a more rustic, authentic sauna experience we recommend checking out Sompasauna, just outside of downtown Helsinki and easily accessible by bus. Unlike Löyly you won’t find a flashy new restaurant, a bar serving up cold beers or warm showers. In fact, you won’t find any running water at all.

This 24/7, community run and 100% free sauna is about as local as it gets. On site you’ll find three different sized saunas on the edge of the river. There’s an outdoor changing area, some stairs that go down to the water so you can dip after the sauna and some communal areas for sitting around and socializing. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own resources to help contribute to the sauna space, such as wood and water.

 

 

Everything at Sompasauna is about community and helping out. In fact, when I visited the sauna for the first time I was actually the one to light the fire and get the sauna going for a couple of other people that were gathered around chopping wood, cleaning the sauna and helping out.

Saunas are mixed gender, and while bathing suits are completely acceptable, you will find quite a lot of people sharing the sauna in the nude. But don’t be shocked, this is 100% a part of Finnish sauna culture and one to embrace if you’re feeling up to it.

 

 

Sustainable Eating in Helsinki

When it comes to chowing down, Helsinki has it all. A Scandinavian cultural hub of eating awaits those looking for seasonal, sustainable and super delicious meals while visiting Helsinki. While each restaurant has their own flare and preparation styles, we did come across quite a few common dishes like cold whitefish starters with roe, salmon, fresh leafy salads, Jerusalem artichoke, sea buckthorn berry desserts and different variants of reindeer cooked, stewed and braised.

Another great thing about restaurants in Helsinki, aside from their delicious food, is how a lot of them prioritize supporting sustainable eating by only working with seasonal menus. This includes utilizing sustainably sourced meats that are readily available, sourcing locally grown produce and growing some of their herbs and leafy greens.

 

EMO

Another one of Helsinki’s premium lunch and dinner spots, EMO promises to provide world class dining with local Finnish delicacies. The space itself is gorgeous and upscale. They have an a la carte menu on offer, but if you’ve got the time and want to experience the flow of the dishes we’d recommend ordering the three and five course set meals.

 

 

The menu changes to accommodate what’s in season and available, but expect to see rich flavors like truffle, duck, pheasant and venison mixed with delicious renditions of potato, garlic, celery, mushrooms and other local vegetables.

 

Nokka

Located in Katajanokka, just a short walk from downtown and the ferry harbor, is the incredible restaurant Nokka. This rustic restaurant, based in an old harborside warehouse, leans into the sea theme with an anchor, old polished wood and has a large glass panel showcasing the buzz and excitement in the kitchen.

 

 

The four course menu rotates depending on the season, taking into account local produce and the availability of meats. And when we say four courses what we really mean is closer to 6 or 7, because in between the courses, fun little pallet cleaners and pre-dishes come out to keep you busy. At around $100USD for a four course meal it’s a little on the pricier side, but the quality of food and care that goes into the preparation was phenomenal. If you’re planning a nice dinner out in Helsinki, we recommend this as our number one choice.

One of the first things you’ll notice when walking into the restaurant are the greens growing in the cabinet, which work to really emphasize Nokka’s commitment to supporting sustainable eating. Not only that, but it makes the food taste so fresh.

 

Relove

With three shops scattered around the city, the funky secondhand store Relove is revolutionizing the thrifting scene in Finland. The downtown location is nestled in an old department store that overlooks the bustling city center. But it’s not just the upmarket thrifting that draws a crowd to this shop, it’s the colorful, cute as pie, Instagrammable cafe that serves up big healthy breakfasts, smoothies and sweet treats.

 

 

Come for the cafe and stay for the clothes, or the other way round, but whatever you do, give yourself time to kick back in the cafe and enjoy the space and delicious food. Chic Scandinavian designs and retro looks await in this TikTokers heaven.

 

Kuukuu

Located just a 5 minute walk from downtown is an amazing restaurant called Kuukuu. Open from 12pm-9pm everyday we recommend checking this place out for lunch. Its bright, stylish interior is the perfect spot to nestle in with a glass of wine over lunch and take your time enjoying the set menu.

 

 

This self described ‘informal and relaxed’ restaurant is buzzing with warm hospitality, free flowing conversations and a warmth that radiates from the kitchen. This is also where we first tried reindeer, diving head first into a braised reindeer heart dish that was succulent and soft.

 

Restaurant Lasipalatsi 

This 1930s style restaurant is both cozy and classy in its interior, dishes and atmosphere. Located about the Amox Rex Art Museum (also worth a visit if you’re into contemporary art) it overlooks the busy street below and is a great spot for lunch.

Lasipalatsi has both a la carte and set menu options to choose from, alongside a wide selection of pairing wines to accompany the meal. The peppered reindeer fillets with onion consomme was one of the best meals we ate while in Helsinki.

 

Sustainable Accommodation in Helsinki

Just like the restaurant scene in Helsinki, accommodation is in abundance and has something to suit every traveler’s budget. Whether you’re looking for the world class hotel experience, a cozy little Airbnb or a studio all to yourself, Helsinki has you covered.

 

Noli Studios 

Our first stop in Helsinki was the beautiful Noli Studios in Katajanokka, located across from the ferry harbor and a short 10 minute walk to central Helsinki. With all the polished services of a hotel, what really sets Noli Studios apart from a hotel are the creature comforts of staying in your very own home.

Studios come fully equipped with a kitchen (we’re talking fridge, stove top, all the utensils, toaster, kettle, the works) and the bathroom even has its own washing machine. It’s amazing that they’ve been able to fit into this self-sufficient space to provide you with everything you need.

 

 

And whatever you can’t find inside the room is most certainly offered in the common spaces. Downstairs in the common area you’ll find an even bigger kitchen area, work spaces and private meeting rooms, access to a gym, a steam room and a hot tub. There’s also games, a billiards table and lots of fun areas to socialize with other guests.

A couple of other things we loved about our stay at Noli Studios are the events they put on to bring the community together. From tree trimming to a paint and sip night, there was plenty to do while we were there. They’re also working towards being carbon neutral and have sustainability initiatives in place to reduce their carbon footprint.

 

Marski by Scandic

After spending a few nights at Noli Studios we were ready to check out the hotel scene in Helsinki, and what better place than the iconic Marksi by Scandic smack bang in the middle of all the downtown action.

The Marski Hotel first opened its doors in 1962 and has been a primary destination for visitors to Helsinki. This elegant hotel draws a lot from Finnish culture in their decorating, art and photography that hangs from the walls. In the last couple of years the hotel also underwent a huge renovation and has reopened with a fresh new look.

There’s a gym, sauna, work spaces, the award winning Kuusi Palaa restaurant, the Marski Bar, a cafe and an art gallery to explore while staying at the Marski by Scandic, but the thing we love most about the hotel is their commitment to sustainability. The hotel is Nordic Swan Ecolabel certified, which requires constant monitoring of efficient energy and water consumption, chemical use and waste sorting. They also prioritize organic, seasonal food and have a great vegetarian selection.

Ok, actually there is one other thing we loved about the Marksi, and that’s the incredible breakfast buffet! With a plethora of food options it’s the perfect place to start the morning before heading off on a day of exploring.

 

Majamaja

A little more off the grid in both location and style, Majamaja is a sustainable traveler’s delight! This self sustaining seaside cabin incorporates the science behind green design, but also integrates seamlessly into the natural environment.

This is truly a one of a kind place to stay. The architecture of the cabin is based on ​​resource optimization. It reminded us of vanlife, in that each and every bit of space has a function. Even the floor boards can be lifted up for additional space underneath! 

But more than just incredibly functional, this accommodation is cozy and stylish. One of our favorite features was the big picture window facing the ocean. Why watch TV when you have such a beautiful vision right in front of you? There is a two night minimum and we recommend booking far in advance because it does book up!

 

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