Published on: 19 May 2016
Last Updated on: 04 September 2024
There are so many magical countries just waiting to be explored in Africa, each home to an array of wildlife, beautiful beaches, and diverse cultures that are interesting, fascinating and educational, exposing travelers to a whole new part of the world that they might not have known much about.
In this article we are going to look at three of Africa’s incredible countries and what they have to offer travellers in terms of adventure, experiences and accommodation, hopefully helping you to choose where you want to go on your next yearly vacation. Take a look:
Morocco:
Ideal for the perfect summer adventure, Morocco is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and luxury beach resorts, making it the ideal place to go on a beach holiday at a luxury hotel and escape the hustle and bustle of your hometown (and stress from your job). Most of the beach resorts and beaches in Morocco offer a wide variety of water sports that will get travellers’ adrenaline pumping, as well as golden sand perfect for laying your towel down on and catching some warm rays. But that’s not all this incredible country has to offer travellers. This vibrant country has a number of cities that offer travellers different ways to gain insight into its culture, traditional cuisine, religion and history, including visiting historical monuments like the ruins of Volubilis, going to visit the Berber villages, experiencing the numerous souks (great for tasting traditional dishes) and taking a tour of the imperial cities.
If you’re looking for the best place to go on a safari holiday, Botswana is the place to visit. A beautiful landlocked country that is boarded by Zimbabwe, South Africa and Namibia, Botswana is home to the Big Five (which includes the African lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard and White/Black rhinoceros), the Okavango Delta (which is located within the Kalahari basin) and an array of flora, fauna and extensive birdlife. What’s more, travelers have the opportunity to learn about the country’s inhabitants and culture by visiting Tsodilo to see the cave paintings. Accommodation options in this breath-taking country are vast and vary depending on which city or area travelers are staying in. Some of the options include luxury safari lodges – including Chobe Game Lodge at Chobe National Park, one of the best locations to visit for a safari holiday – to a range of bed and breakfast options and hotels in the cities – including the Grand Palm Hotel in Gaborone.
Rwanda:
With the nickname “Land of a Thousand Hills”, it’s no surprise that Rwanda is an outdoor adventurer and animal lover’s paradise with its green, mountainous landscape and the Volcanoes National Park (that is home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys as well as three extinct volcanoes and six active volcanoes). The Congo and Uganda border this breath-taking landlocked country, but there is plenty of fun to be had on the shores of Lake Kivu – one of Africa’s great lakes – including a range of water sports. What’s more, Rwanda is a sanctuary for both coffee and tea lovers, as it is the country’s biggest export, meaning that there are a number of tea plantations waiting to be explored. When it comes to accommodation, there are a number of incredible places travelers can rest their head – my favorite being the Mountain Gorilla View Lodge that you will find nestled at the bottom of Mount Sabinyo.
If you’re looking for your next great adventure, why not go to one of the above-mentioned African countries on your next yearly vacation? There is no doubt that you will return home with a new perspective of the continent and with some incredible stories to tell you, friends and family, about. You won’t regret it!
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Frisco, Texas, often referred to as the "5 Billion Dollar Mile City", is a thriving community located just north of Dallas. It's a city of rapid growth, with a dynamic economy and a welcoming atmosphere. In this article, we will delve into the myriad of attractions and activities that make Frisco a must-visit destination.
Discovering Frisco's History
Frisco's journey began as a small railroad town, and its history is fascinating. To get a sense of the city's heritage, start your exploration at the Heritage Museum. Here, you can wander through captivating exhibits that recount the city's evolution from a humble railway settlement to the bustling modern metropolis it is today. You'll gain a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of Frisco's past.
Sports Galore
Frisco is synonymous with sports, and it's a haven for sports enthusiasts. At the heart of the city is the Ford Center, a state-of-the-art stadium that's home to the legendary Dallas Cowboys. Attending a game here is an electrifying experience, with the roar of the crowd and the excitement of American football. While you're at it, explore The Star, an adjacent entertainment district that's every football fan's dream come true.
Sports lovers can also visit Toyota Stadium, home to FC Dallas, and watch a thrilling soccer match. If you're a fan of ice hockey, the Comerica Center is where you can catch the Texas Legends in action. Whatever your sport, Frisco has it covered.
Family Fun
Frisco isn't just for sports enthusiasts; it's a fantastic destination for families. The Sci-Tech Discovery Center is a perfect place to ignite the curiosity of young minds. This interactive science museum offers hands-on exhibits that make learning fun and engaging for kids of all ages.
Another family favorite is the National Videogame Museum, where you can take a nostalgic journey through the history of gaming. With a vast collection of vintage video games and interactive exhibits, it's a trip down memory lane that the whole family can enjoy.
Culinary Delights
Foodies will delight in Frisco's diverse culinary scene and can’t go through the city without tasting the famous Zalat’s Pizza Frisco. The city offers a wide range of dining options, from mouthwatering barbecue joints to upscale restaurants. One local favorite is Tex-Mex cuisine, which offers a unique blend of flavors and spices. When in Frisco, don't miss the opportunity to savor some delicious Tex-Mex dishes, such as mouthwatering enchiladas and flavorful tacos.
Shopping Extravaganza
If you're a shopaholic, you'll be in retail heaven in Frisco. Stonebriar Centre, one of Texas's largest shopping malls, is a shopaholic's paradise. With over 200 stores, it has everything from high-end boutiques to popular retail chains. The mall also features a range of dining options, so you can refuel between shopping sprees.
For those who prefer a more artisanal shopping experience, the Frisco Fresh Market is a bustling hub for fresh produce, artisan goods, and unique finds. Whether you're looking for handcrafted jewelry, farm-fresh produce, or just a charming place to stroll, the Frisco Fresh Market has it all.
Cultural Gems
For art and culture enthusiasts, the Frisco Discovery Center is a hidden gem. Here, you'll find the Black Box Theater, a hub for live performances, and the Texas Sculpture Garden, an outdoor gallery showcasing beautiful sculptures. The center is a testament to Frisco's commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression, making it a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for the arts.
Nature Escapes
Amid the city's hustle and bustle, you'll find peaceful oases like the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. This expansive natural area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With miles of hiking and biking trails, serene ponds, and lush greenery, it's the perfect spot to connect with nature. Whether you're going for a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike, or a family picnic, Arbor Hills has sometiing for everyone.
Entertainment Hub
Frisco is not only about sports and culture; it's also an entertainment hub. The Dr. Pepper Ballpark is a lively venue where you can catch minor league baseball games and other exciting events. Kids will love the KidZania indoor theme park, where they can immerse themselves in a world of role-playing adventures, from becoming a firefighter to a chef.
Artistic Inspirations
Frisco takes art to the streets with its captivating "Sculpture Trail". These public art installations are spread throughout the city and provide a unique aesthetic experience. As you stroll along the trail, you'll encounter an array of captivating sculptures, each with its own story to tell. It's a creative and artistic aspect of Frisco that's worth exploring.
Festivals And Events
Throughout the year, Frisco hosts a variety of festivals and events that add vibrancy to the city's calendar. The Frisco Arts Walk is a celebration of the local arts scene, featuring live performances and displays of creativity. If you're a fan of pinball, the Texas Pinball Festival is a must-visit, attracting enthusiasts from all over the country. No matter when you visit, you're likely to stumble upon an event or festival that piques your interest.
Exploring The Outdoors
For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Frisco Commons Park is a fantastic destination. This spacious park offers a plethora of green spaces, playgrounds for the kids, and hiking trails for the more adventurous. It's an ideal place for a family picnic, a leisurely day in the sun, or a peaceful nature walk.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Frisco, Texas, is a city that beautifully blends its rich history with a modern, dynamic spirit. With top-notch sports facilities, family-friendly attractions, diverse dining options, and a vibrant cultural scene, Frisco has something to offer every type of traveler. It's no wonder that it has become a must-visit destination for both tourists and residents.
So, get ready to embark on a journey through this Texan gem. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a foodie, a history buff, or just someone looking for a great time, Frisco has it all. Make unforgettable memories in this thriving city and experience the best that Texas has to offer.
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Israel captures a person’s imagination at first sight. This is the place to come across the myriad colors and wonders of nature. If the various sacred sites strewn across the region strike the spiritual chord in you, then the wonderful shiny beaches enliven your stay. This place also displays its cosmopolitan side at its various bars, cafes and beaches at Tel Aviv, and at the boutique wineries of the Galilee region.
Naturally, experiencing the best of what Israel has to offer is a pretty daunting task. However, with the list of things to do in Israel described in this blog, you can be rest assured that every moment in Israel will seem like a celebration.
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Red Sea Star
Image source: Pinimg.com
Ever heard of underwater dining? Red Sea Star, the underwater restaurant, brings that wild imagination to life. Created 10 years ago, it constitutes a combination of two areas. The one above called the Metro Bar, offers splendid views of the Gulf of Aqaba, while the underwater area, called the Red Sea Star (so-called because it resembles the shape of a star), consists of an underground bar, including a floor covered in sand.
Beit Guvrin Caves
Beit Guvrin Caves were excavated from an area that was once called the Israeli cities of Maresha and Beit Guvrin. Archaeologists have come across many caves that spanned across several eras, from the Sidonian and Israelite to the Roman. Some of the caves may have served as hideouts and defenses. The highlight of these caves are the painted burial rooms created by the Sidonians. A Roman amphitheater, standing above the ground ruins of the city of Maresha, is an attraction in its own right.
Rosh HaNikra Grottoes
Image source: ravelingisrael.com
Rosh HaNikra Grottoes, located on the coast in proximity to Lebanon’s border, was once a diver’s delight. The pure blue waters found in the caves here are as much of an attraction as a mystery.
The caves were formed through millennia of strong waves crashing against the soft chalk cliffs on the Mediterranean Sea. The gondola cars that operate here transport the riders from the top of the white cliffs to the bottom in just around two minutes. Naturally, this site is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Israel.
Shrine of the Book
Israel’s Shrine of the Book, part of Israel Museum, was constructed in 1965. It houses ancient biblical parchments known as the Dead Sea Scrolls. This modern womb-like shrine has been created in the modernist line of architecture.
The exterior assumes a rounded peak with sculpted striations lapping up its walls, while the spacious interiors display the Dead Sea Scrolls the year-round. The glass cases on the outer ring of the shrine contain pages, but, it’s the central display which resembles a giant Torah scroll, that hogs the limelight.
Tel Hazor
A tour to Israel must involve visiting Tel Hazor, a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site located over the ruins of an ancient city. Occupying over 200 acres just north of the Sea of Galilee, this region has yielded some incredible archaeological finds.
Some of the major attractions for the tourists here are the Solomonic city gates, a restored Late Bronze Age Temple and the city acropolis. The Canaanite Orthostat and Stele Temples are other sites that are worth visiting.
Makhtesh Ramon
Image source: igoogledisrael.com
Israel is full of bizarre geological formations called makhteshim (craters), and one of them is Makhtesh Ramon. Extending to 40km in length and possessing a width of almost 10km, it is undoubtedly Israel’s largest national park – Ramon Nature Reserve.
Visits and expeditions to this region can be conducted from the valley’s only town, Mitzpe Ramon (Ramon Observation Point), albeit visitors should avoid the mid-day heat. The best way of experiencing the magic of this place is staying overnight in one of the hand-woven tents and enjoying the company of the Bedouin herders.
Dialogue in the Dark
How about going blind for a day? Well, not literally! Dialogue in the Dark, an exhibition funded by former journalist Andreas Heinecke, consists of a series of pitch-black galleries which require visitors to experience their surroundings through visionless stimuli.
The visitors here are guided by blind or partially sighted persons who orient them to the surroundings, thereby providing a heightened sense of security in the darkened environment. The completion of the tour is followed by a conversation between the guide and vision-restored visitors.
Atlit Yam
Your holidays to Israel are incomplete without a visit to Atlit Yam, which contains the submerged ruins of a Neolithic coastal settlement. Dating back to 6900-6300 BC, these underwater excavations have unearthed wells, graves, and houses.
This historic site was discovered by marine archaeologist Ehud Galili and holds several unique fascinations. One of these is the seven megaliths arranged in a semi-circle encircling a freshwater spring, located in the center of the settlement.
Saba's Little Museum
Saba’s Little Museum is a wonderful museum located in the Jerusalem Hills. Its uniqueness arises from the various items that trace the history of the Jewish people and their way of life from Biblical times until today.
Stuffed in a small cluster of warehouses, this museum contains a collection of items ranging from memorabilia and junk to modern appliances. Children’s toy cars, vintage radio sets, along with some barrels and rusted steel cooking barrels are some of the items that a visitor comes across.
Meah Shearim
To get a glimpse of the ultra-conservative lifestyle of Jews, head to Meah Shearim. This neighborhood in Israel is home to the ultra-orthodox Haredim. A visitor can easily recognize this neighborhood by the community that resides in it – black suits with matching hats, full beards, and long and curling sidelocks known as eyes. You may end up buying Jewish texts with a high discount and gorging on some traditional baked goods.
Golden Calf Altar
The Golden Calf Altar was an idol made by Aaron for the Israelites during the absence of Moses. However, most of Israel’s idols were destroyed by the Assyrians when they raided them for their gold in 722 BC. Although visitors can no longer view the Golden Calf as it once existed, they can explore the ruins of the main sanctuary where the calf could have been located. Besides, visitors can also examine the numerous standing stone shrines that line the gate to the city.
Yad Layeled Children’s Memorial Museum
Among the many tourist places in Israel, this one will move your soul and heart completely. Yad Layeled Children’s Memorial Museum is a moving memorial to the 1.5 million Jewish children who were victims of the Holocaust. Visitors are shown various exhibits which include films, period artifacts and the testimonies of children who had to live during those frightening times.
Ein Bokek beach
Image source:.deadsea.com
The Ein Bokek Beach is a wonderful stretch of fine, golden sand that attracts a steady stream of visitors the year-round. The beach is equipped with various facilities like beach showers, changing rooms, lifeguards, etc. It’s a wonderful place to while your time and enjoy the pleasures of the beach.
Shahrazad
Want to taste some authentic Middle Eastern cuisine? Go to Shahrazad. This Middle Eastern restaurant in Haifa serves authentic cuisine of the region with an indigenous twist. An example of this is the dish “mansaf” (rice with ground lamb, tangy goat yogurt, pine nuts, saffron, and nutmeg), which is served with ordinary falafel balls. The tamarind juice here is another great stuff to try out.
Mount of the Beatitudes
This spectacular Roman Catholic Church, built-in 1937, stands on a site where it’s popularly believed that Lord Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount. The sermon’s opening lines begin with the phrase “Blessed are.”
The octagonal church inside which is looked after by Franciscan nuns are commemorated in the stained glass just below the dome, with the seven virtues being represented around the altar. Besides, the wonderful balcony and gardens provide spectacular views of the Sea of Galilee.
Hecht Museum
Hecht Museum is one of the many amazing places to visit in Israel. However, the one collection that stands out is the Ma'agan Mikhael Shipwreck – the well-preserved remains of a 13.5m long merchant ship from 400 BC. Apart from these, the archaeology section also contains an entire section on the Phoenicians. Besides, Israelite, Moabite and Phoenician seals from the First Temple period and an incredible collection of ancient coins can also be found here.
Al-Jazzar Mosque
Al-Jazzar Mosque, built-in 1781 in typical Ottoman Turkish style, is the third most important mosque in Israel and the Palestinian territories. The mosque is distinguished by its enormous green dome and is accented with a graceful pencil minaret. Somewhere around the base of the minaret, one can find the small twin-domed building which contains the sarcophagi of Al-Jazzar and his adopted son and successor, Suleyman.
Tabor Winery
To know the ins and outs of wine processing, and sampling some of the best wine to be found anywhere, visit the Tabor Winery. It has gained a legendary reputation both for its red and white wine and produces almost two million bottles a year. Apart from been given a free tasting of the wine, visitors are provided with guided tours for groups of 10 or more. The winery also runs one-and-a-half-hour grape harvests from late July to August.
Beit She’an National Park
To get a glimpse of what life was like during the Roman Empire, visit the Beit She’ a National Park. The opulence and grandeur that surrounded the everyday life of the Romans is reflected through the colonnaded streets, a 7,000-seat theatre which looks the same as it did 1800 years ago, two stone columns and two bathhouses. The incredible part about all of them is that they lie exactly where they fell during the Galilee earthquake of 749 AD.
Centre International Marie de Nazareth
Any tour to Israel inevitably involves a visit to the Centre International Marie de Nazareth. Located across the street from the Basilica of the Annunciation, this place serves as a venue for ecumenical work among Christians, besides the promotion of inter-faith dialogue. Built by Chemin Neuf, a Roman Catholic community-based in France, this fabulous cultural center consists of peaceful rooftop gardens which contain plants mentioned in the Bible. They offer amazing 360-degree panoramas.
Agamon HaHula
Your holidays in Israel are incomplete without a visit to Agamon HaHula – one of Israel’s favorite parks, located in Hula Valley. To see an unbelievable amount of storks, pelicans, and cranes, you need to head to this place right away. This crane-watching opportunity really comes as a privilege. Comfortably seated in your vehicle, you can view these magnificent creatures from the closest range possible. The other birds that can be seen here occasionally include pelicans and storks.
Bahai Gardens
Visited by over half a million visitors a year, the Bahai Gardens are one of the major tourist attractions in Israel. Their unique design, which combines geometrical shapes with the conservation of natural and historic landscape features, enchants the visitors to no end. In July 2008, these gardens were included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List for being holy places possessing outstanding universal value. The gardens comprise a staircase of 129 terraces which extend all the way up the northern slope of Mount Carmel.
Yad Vashem
A visit to the Yad Vashem memorial in Jerusalem will move your inner spirit and overwhelm your emotions like never before. This memorial is dedicated to the six million Jews who died at the hands of Nazis. One can find the names and personal details of millions of victims recorded in the Hall of Names. The centerpiece of the museum is the Holocaust History Museum, which lies on the lower level. Exploring the entire museum takes about three hours in total.
Ancient Galilee Boat
To come across a fascinating piece of history during your holidays in Israel, visit the Yigal Alon Museum, where you will stumble upon the ancient Galilee boat. The discovery of this boat was made by a local fisherman in 1986 when the waters of the Sea of Galilee were at their lowest ebb. The fishing vessel measures 8.2m in length and is made from 12 kinds of recycled wood. Wall panels and three short films tell the amazing story of its discovery and preservation. It’s said that this boat was used by the members of Jesus’s ministry.
Said Abu Elafia & Sons
You cannot be in Israel and not visit Said Abu Elafia & Sons – one of the best bakeries of Tel Aviv. Established in 1880, this bakery spans across four generations. Visitors love to gorge on its bourekas (stuffed bread with sheep’s cheese), sambusas (filled pastries) and a unique Arab oven-baked pizza-like concoction filled with eggs, tomato, cheese and olives.
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Anytime that you are on the water, fun is just one splash away. You can take part in swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing, and so much more. However, one of the best things you can do, according to many, climbs on board a kayak where you can take a trip down the river slowly to relax after a hard week at work or get a workout while having fun.
If you have not yet given kayaking a try or perhaps felt that it was too much work when you did; here 7 tricks to make it more enjoyable.
Bring Your Binoculars :
When you are drifting down a river, you have the opportunity to see nature in a whole new way. Therefore, if you want to enjoy it to the fullest; you should pack something to help you see all the beautiful wildlife and other sights that you will be able to find. If you do not have binoculars or a spotting scope, you may also choose to use a digital camera which can capture the beautiful birds that you may see. For both, you will want to pack them in a dry place that is attached to the kayak, so it doesn’t get damaged or lost while you are enjoying nature.
Consider Fishing :
More and more people are opting to see what fishing from a kayak is all about. The bonus to fishing from a kayak is that you are able to feel the motion of the fish a lot more than if you were standing on a bank or in another type of boat. If the fish on your line moves suddenly, your boat will react rather than just feeling a tug on your line. For some, it adds a layer of excitement that is missing from fishing on a normal basis.
Take a Break :
One of the hardest parts of kayaking is paddling where you want to go. You can make this easier for yourself by choosing a dependable trolling motor. Trolling motors allow you to get where you want to go without paddling and there are a lot of good options when it comes to motors for your kayak. Simply check out kayakudos.com to see what other things may be available to help you take a break on the water.
Dress for Comfort :
When kayaking, it is very important that you dress for the water instead of the weather. It can be 80-degrees outside, but with the number of splashes, you will get when kayaking, a water temperature of 60 will still mean you are freezing cold. If the water temperature is warm, you may be able to kayak in a bathing suit. If the water temperature is cold, a wetsuit may be more comfortable.
Travel with a Friend :
Kayaking with a friend guarantees a good time for everyone. Whether you are new to kayaking or someone who has been kayaking for years, having a friend along is a good idea. If something goes wrong and your kayak tips, you have a helping hand available. If you want a laugh, someone is there to share it with you. There are some people who travel in groups when kayaking, especially if there is a chance white waters will be in their future.
Pack Dry Clothes :
You are encouraged to have dry bags and storage areas that do not allow water into them. All your valuables should be kept in these areas, because when kayaking; you are guaranteed to get a little wet. For your comfort, you may also want to pack dry clothes so that when you get to shore, you can change before getting into your vehicle.
Always Protect Yourself and Others :
Everyone who goes kayaking, whether new to it or not, should wear a personal flotation device safety. You protect yourself by wearing one and it ensures that you can help others if the need arises. Kayaking is a fun sport to take part in, but it can also become dangerous. Always remember, lives matter more than anything else. Help others out if they are in trouble, practice hand signals so that you can move to others if you know there is trouble ahead of them, and anything else that will ensure everyone reaches shore safely.
Have Fun!
Kayaking is a great way to spend a lazy afternoon. It may seem like a challenge at first and you are encouraged to practice your paddle motions and in different types of kayaks to see what you need to do when you are on the water. However, at the end of the day, the only true thing that matters is that you were safe and that you had a lot of fun kayaking.
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