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Saturday Snaps #2 – Vajdahunyad Castle, Budapest

Chris Boothman
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22
Saturday Snaps #2 – Vajdahunyad Castle, Budapest

Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest

Location:  Gates of Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest, Hungary

Author: Paul @ Have You Packed The Camera

This photo was taken in Budapest, Hungary at the gates of Vajdahunyad Castle – The castle was constructed in the late 1800’s and incorporates design features from other notable Hungarian buildings such as Hunyad Castle.

You can reach more of Paul’s great work at his website and the following social media networks:

Website: Have You Packed The Camera

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/packedTheCamera 

Twitter: http://twitter.com/packedTheCamera 

Mount Magazine – Arkansas’ Best Kept Secret

Chris Boothman
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18
Mount Magazine – Arkansas’ Best Kept Secret

Home is where the heart is….or so the phrase goes right! Well, home for us right now is Jonesboro, Arkansas so we decided to take a trip across the state to North West Arkansas for the weekend and in doing so opted to go and explore Mount Magazine State Park. This is undoubtedly one of Arkansas’ best kept secrets though for many locals it is a haven for a weekend getaway, especially for the adventurous type who love the outdoors and hiking across some challenging trails.

Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park Location

Where is Mount Magazine State Park located? That’s probably the most challenging part of this getaway because it not the most convenient location to get too, as it is situated a fair distance from the interstate (I-40) that runs across the state of Arkansas.

Arkansas Countryside

If you are heading from the Memphis and Little Rock direction, you should take the Russelville exit which takes you on a meandering, scenic drive through stereotypical Arkansas farmland via Lake Dardanelle (if you are a golf fan like myself you will know that Dardanelle, AR is famous for being the home of John Daly – there is your fun fact of the day!).

Alternatively, if you are heading from the East and Fort Smith, AR  you would be well-advised to take the Ozark/Paris exit off I-40 and Mount Magazine is less than 20 miles from here.

Stunning Scenery

Driving through the local small towns of Arkansas really takes you back in time to what most places in the Mid-West were like in the last 30 to 40 years. As you head to the summit of Mount Magazine State Park, there are numerous spots along the way where you can stop and admire the Arkansas countryside. We probably stopped a dozen times just on the drive up in order to take some pictures and really cherish the views.

Meandering roads to Mount Magazine

At the entrance to the State Park, there is a visitor center which offers detailed maps and other leaflets on the variety of trails that are available. From the challenging peak of Signal Hill which at 2,753ft is the highest point in Arkansas, to a myriad of moderate and easy trails there is something for everyone! Our advice is just take those hiking boots and your backpack and just get out there and enjoy!

Natural wildlife Mount Magazine

The Cameron Bluff Overlook Drive is another great option if you are not planning on spending a full day at Mount Magazine State Park. We took this short drive and I have to admit that I was surprised at just how breathtaking the views are from the various overlooks along this one way route.

When you think of natural beauty, you probably don’t associate the state of Arkansas with this, I know that I didn’t. Perhaps this is just ignorance because the reality is whenever you have visited a location like Mount Magazine, you really do appreciate just how gorgeous this part of the country is.

Mount Magazine Overlook

Due to it’s location in a state that receives little to no media coverage in terms of advertisement, it’s tough to see how somewhere like Mount Magazine will ever receive the exposure it deserves. However, maybe this is beneficial to help preserve this part of Arkansas!

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What to do at Mount Magazine?

  • Trails – As I mentioned, hiking around Mount Magazine State Park is the number one attraction here.
  • Adventure Activities – If hiking is not challenging enough for you and you want something a little more daring, Mount Magazine offers hang gliding, mountain biking, horseback riding among many other activities.
  • Geocaching – A more modern day activity, geocaching is becoming incredibly popular around the world as it enables you to get out into the open and start exploring as you try to locate some hidden treasures along the way.
  • Explore Nature – What better way to see Arkansas’ finest wildlife than by heading ‘out into the wild’ and spotting some unique birds among other species.

Where to stay?

Dependent on what type of traveler you are, there are a variety of options available for accommodation in Mount Magazine State Park. Ranging from the beautiful ‘Lodge at Mount Magazine’ to camping in one of the various campgrounds, there is something for everyone.

  • The Lodge at Mount Magazine – With stunning views over the Petit Jean River Valley and Blue Mountain Lake, there are 60 rooms available for travelers to find luxury accommodation. This is a perfect option for a romantic getaway, especially in the winter where you can sit in the lobby with a beautiful wood-burning fire setting the mood.
  • Mountain Cabins – If you would prefer a little more privacy, there are 13 cabins available for rent, all of which are spacious enough to accommodate a couple or family dependent on your needs.
  • Campground – The low-budget option yet still offering an amazing outdoor experience is to pitch your tent in one of the campgrounds scattered around Mount Magazine. Of course, beware of the Arkansas bears but that’s just part of the experience!

If you would like to see more images from our trip to Mount Magazine, check out our photo gallery here: Mount Magazine Arkansas

Weekend Wanderlust

Flamingo Gardens – A Walk Through Florida’s Finest Wildlife

Heather Boothman
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22
Flamingo Gardens – A Walk Through Florida’s Finest Wildlife

During our trip to Fort Lauderdale and Miami, we decided to take a trip to the small town of Davie, FL – home of Flamingo Gardens. We really didn’t know what to expect but were pleasantly surprised to find a great little wildlife park, home to a variety of species. If you are not familiar with the southern half of Florida, Davie is located about 20 minutes west of Fort Lauderdale.

flamingo gardens

From alligators to peacocks, Flamingo Gardens is a great spot to take the family for an afternoon getaway. Tickets are a little expensive at $18 for adults and $10 for children, but if you visit on a Monday admission is half price. Tuesday’s offer a ‘Buy one ticket, get one free’ and if neither of these options work there is always a coupon available that gives $2 off general admission that you can either print or show on your phone at the ticket counter.

flamingo gardens

We really enjoyed wandering around all of the exhibits, in particular seeing the variety of peacocks just meandering through the park. The Wray Home Museum has been restored to give visitors an opportunity to see how South Florida life was in the 1930s. However, during our visit it appeared the peacocks were finding this museum was their new found habitat, probably because it was the coolest spot in the park!

flamingo gardens

If you would like to see more fun-filled pictures of our time at Flamingo Gardens, check out our photo gallery here: Fort Lauderdale 2014

STM Drifter Backpack – Product Review

Heather Boothman
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20
STM Drifter Backpack – Product Review

As travelers we all need a great backpack right? Where do you even begin searching for the perfect choice when there are so many different options out there? With such a variety of brands, colors, sizes and designs to choose from, as consumers we are all faced with a saturated market that makes it difficult to differentiate the various options!

Well folks, we think that we have found a perfect backpack that will meet your needs if you are an adventure traveler, weekend traveler or just someone who needs something to carry around your personal items – the Drifter Backpack by STM Bags.

STM Drifter Backpack

STM Bags

Founded in Sydney Australia in 1998, STM Bags offers a diverse range of lifestyle oriented laptop bags, iPad cases, iPhone cases and of course their primary focus – the ultimate backpack for the traveler!

STM bags

As the leading Australian bag and case designer, STM Bags are truly a well recognized manufacturer not only in the Southern Hemisphere but also on a global scale. In March 2014, STM Bags released the Annex collection with their primary focus on the urban, fashion-oriented customer. This is where the Drifter Backpack fits in alongside the Trust, Sequel and Link range. Available in three different colors (Graphite, Red or Olive), this is a great choice for the avid traveler.

STM Drifter Backpack

Like your favorite pair of cargo pants, the Drifter is easy to wear, contains pockets in all the right place, and is comfortable to boot.

This quote really sums up for me the quality of this backpack! When you consider purchasing a backpack, you want something that is rugged, durable, lightweight, spacious and of course aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The Drifter has it all plus much, much more.

One of the major selling points of this backpack is the tuck away rain cover located at the bottom, which covers the whole backpack for those unexpected downpours keeping everything inside water resistant!

Inside the Drifter Backpack by STM Bags

Pros

  • Built In Rain Cover – Huge benefit of the Drifter is the integrated cover that keeps everything waterproof!
  • Integrated Luggage Strap – Great to be able to slide over my other carry on bag when traveling through an airport. Conveniently located for ease of use.
  • Lightweight Design – Inclusion of three front pockets with only one primary pocket really helps keep the weight of this to a minimum (2.3 lbs/1.0kg).
  • Durability – Sturdy design of the zippers, straps and use of modern material makes this a backpack that will last for quite some time.
  • Inclusion of a ‘Reward Tag’ – Each bag has a unique ID that allows you to go to a website and offer a ‘reward’ should you lose this.
  • Fleece Lined Compartments – Great benefit for storing valuable items while traveling.
  • Padded Straps – Extra Comfort.

Padded Straps on Drifter Backpack

Cons

  • Size – The backpack is a little on the small size especially if you want this to carry multiple items such as a laptop, camera, jacket etc. However, this could also be considered an advantage if you are seeking out a small, lightweight option!
  • Material – The main negative of the material is that I found it easily shows marks and stains.
  • Unconventional Design – The Drifter design takes getting used to because it looks and feels different to conventional, everyday backpacks. Overcome this and you are on to a winner for sure!

Conclusion

Whenever you are considering a backpack purchase, you have to first consider exactly what your needs and desires are in the product. For me, I want a backpack that I can use everyday while at the same time use this whenever I travel, whether it is for one of our weekend getaways or an outdoor adventure trip. Yes, I have pretty high standards and requirements but I am delighted to say that the Drifter Backpack meets all of these.

With every product, there are always going to be negative aspects but the reality is this is a great backpack that I would highly recommend! Check out this backpack along with the rest of the product line at STM Bags.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: A Brit & A Southerner was not financially compensated for this post. We received a free sample from STM Bags for consideration of review purposes only. This is solely our personal opinion/experience*

Saturday Snaps #1 – Portland Maine Coastline

Heather Boothman
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5
Saturday Snaps #1 – Portland Maine Coastline

Portland Maine Coastline

Location:  The Portland Maine coastline and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean by the Portland Head Lighthouse

Author: Chris & Heather Boothman (A Brit & A Southerner)

You are probably wondering what the story is behind the ‘Annie Maguire Shipwrecked’ note on the rock in the foreground of this picture? The Anne (yes, the graffiti has incorrect spelling) Maguire ship was a Canadian vessel and it wrecked on these rocks on Christmas Eve, 1886.

However, the mystery behind how this actually happened so close to the Portland Head Light continues because despite rumors of high storms, statistics and weather data from that date indicate that it was a clear night. So what actually happened the night before Christmas? We will let your imaginations run wild as I am sure we all have explanations that would be great to hear!

Wandering the Hidden Dunes of Red Rock Canyon

Chris Boothman
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20
Wandering the Hidden Dunes of Red Rock Canyon

What is the first thing that springs to mind when you hear the words Las Vegas? Of course most people think about the dazzling lights and sounds that come from the glitzy casinos along the Vegas Strip, but the reality is there is so much natural beauty to see just on the outskirts of this amazing city. During our visit to Las Vegas, we decided to take a couple of trips away from The Strip and ventured east to the Hoover Dam and west to Red Rock Canyon. The ‘hidden dunes of Red Rock Canyon’ as I have titled this post are exactly that – hidden gems that truly deserve more coverage than they get!

Red Rock Canyon Sign

Location

Red Rock Canyon State Park is located just 17 miles west of Vegas and truly is a remarkable piece of natural landscape.  We spent a full afternoon exploring this state park, though it is worth noting you could likely spend a full day here and still not see everything. Whether you are intrigued by landscape photography or prefer to be a little more adventurous and clamber around the towering sandy dunes and rocks, Red Rock Canyon is a perfect spot to explore. We visited this state park in the spring so the temperatures were comfortable though I am sure in the heart of peak season during the summer it would get a little steamy and less enjoyable. Our advice, pick your times to visit here because you will have a great time if it is not too hot!

Red Rock Canyon

Visitor Center

As you approach the entrance to Red Rock Canyon State Park you will immediately be faced with the admission fee. A daily pass costs $7 and this is per vehicle so it doesn’t matter if there is one person or a whole family, it’s the same price. After paying this fee which in reality is used for maintenance and upkeep of the state park, you can take a trip to the main visitor center which offers more detailed maps and information on the history of Red Rock Canyon.

A gift shop offering memorabilia and snacks to keep you refreshed for the day ahead (you may be better bringing your own food and drinks though) is also available within the confines of the visitor center. We were fortunate to visit here when they were handing out free 2014 calendars of Red Rock Canyon which was a great way to capture some spectacular pictures of the canyon and all times of the year.

13 Mile Drive

Red Rock Canyon State Park

The scenic loop around Red Rock Canyon is a 13 mile drive that gives you an opportunity to scope out some of the impressive dunes and also decide where you want to explore. However, the best part of this scenic drive is that you can stop as many times as you want along the route and just get out and start really exploring the hidden wilderness. Even though we only spent an afternoon here, we were able to get out on several occasions and hike across some of the rocks and get some great pictures along the way.

Red Rock Canyon

If you are more of the adventurous type and have time on your side, why not hike one of the various trails available inside the state park. With trails available for beginners to more advanced hikers, there is something here for everyone. A hike such as the Turtlehead Peak is 5 miles and is classified as ‘Strenuous’ taking anywhere from 3-5 hours to complete but with stunning views from the summit of this peak.

Red Rock Canyon

Summary

Our experience at Red Rock Canyon was nothing but positive so we would highly recommend anyone visiting the Vegas area to at least take a few hours to explore these hidden dunes. Red Rock Canyon is in reality the start of the Mojave Desert but without heading too far away from the glitz and glamor of Vegas, you can really experience some rural beauty inside this state park.

Red Rock Canyon Vegetation

Have you visited Red Rock Canyon before? What other state parks are off the radar but you would recommend to others?

Interview – Paula and Gordon (Contented Traveller)

Chris Boothman
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19
Interview – Paula and Gordon (Contented Traveller)

Today we would like to thank Paula and Gordon from Contented Traveller who have kindly given their time to interview with us, providing some great insight into their travel background and their passion for travelling the world.

Please feel free to comment, ask questions and connect with the Contented Traveller folks using their various social media fronts listed below.

We would like to give a special THANK YOU to Paula and Gordon for taking time to interview with us!

Contented Traveller

Name: Paula and Gordon

Introduction: We live in Wollongong, NSW about an hour south of Sydney, Australia. We live on the beach in a very beautiful city that has an escarpment running along one side and the ocean on the other.

Website: Contented Traveller

Social Media: 

What is your favorite aspect of traveling and if you are a travel blogger, why did you decide to create your website? 

Gordon and I had always travelled prior to meeting one another. When we did meet we went overseas within the first few months – to see if we were compatible. This was a big thing because if we weren’t well-matched travellers it would have been a deal breaker. It worked out exceptionally well and we are totally in sync when we travel and what we want to do and to see. We love to meet local people, do different things and we love to eat local food. We are great people watchers.

Contented Traveller Collection

When I finished teaching I considered what skills I had. It came down to travelling and orgnaising it and I enjoy writing. So much as I knew nothing at all I decided to start a travel blog. I have learnt a huge amount in the 11 months that Contented Traveller has been operational. We still have a lot to learn but we love it. We are starting to get ready for our 1st birthday celebration of Contented Traveller.

How many continents have you visited? 

Three

How many countries have you visited? 

30+

What is your favorite destination in the world and why? 

Too difficult to specify just one. Our gauge tends to be, do we want to return. We have returned time and time again to Japan for the skiing, the people and their traditions, the onsens and the food. We have been to Bali numerous times.

We have been to Thailand a lot and we will go there again and again. Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland are also repeaters. I am sure Turkey and Vietnam will get another run also.

If money/time was no object and you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you travel to and why? 

That is a big one and our answers are different. I would love to live in Europe for a year or so … It is just a lot easier to get to a lot of places than the very long journey from Australia that we have to take a few times a year.

Contented Traveller - Paula and Gordon

Gordon says sailing leisurely around the Caribbean at our own pace, stopping where and when we like. I think we will go with both.

Which of the following gadgets do you take on your travels? 

Camera, Phone, Tablet and Laptop. Gordon used to be the gadget geek now we both are.

What is your preferred method of transport? 

Walk! Our second preferred method is definitely rail. Nothing beats walking around a place and then catching a train to another.

Complete the following, “Everywhere I go, I visit….” 

We walk around and watch what is going on. We get lost and we find something exciting or different generally. That’s why we are big on serendipity. Some of the things that we have happened upon have really been amazing.

A fire fighters parade in Takayama, a ploicemans march in Istanbul, a crazy little back water café come in Cambodia, and a cock fighting village near Ubud in Bali have all made our travels special.

Here is your chance to sell yourself and your website! Tell us some more information about yourself, what your travel philosophies & future plans are and anything else that people may find interesting to read about… 

We love to travel our way and at Contented Traveller we share how people can do it themselves and not compromise on what they want. I think that my writing style verges on the quirky and at times irreverent but that makes people want to read more…. hopefully. It is not rocket science that we may be a bit more mature (!) but that certainly does not stop us doing whatever we feel like. Skiing, diving, trekking in jungles, eating unusual food and chatting to whoever.

I hope that other people realise that they don’t need to compromise on what they want and that mainstream travel is not the only option. For our delightful younger readers, I am pretty sure that they believe that there might be light at the end of the tunnel 🙂

A Walk Around the Portland Head Light

Chris Boothman
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71
A Walk Around the Portland Head Light

Despite the advance in modern technology, I still find it amazing how historic lighthouses are still used to this day to assist in maritime navigation. Of course technology has developed these iconic structures but one thing that has remained consistent is the preservation of their notorious architectural design. I am sure whenever you see a lighthouse, you pretty much know what it is!

On our recent trip to the New England states, I knew that this would be the best chance to see some of USA’s most famous lighthouses. One in particular, the Portland Head Light, given it’s legendary status among America’s finest was the one that I most looked forward to exploring. I am sure that Portland, Maine has a lot more to offer than just the lighthouse, but given that our time there was limited this was the only attraction we were able to experience.

Portland Head Light

Located in Cape Elizabeth, just outside the main center of Portland, the Portland Head Light sits proudly on a head of land overlooking the Gulf of Maine and beyond into the Atlantic Ocean. Approaching the Fort Williams State Park where the lighthouse is situated, we immediately noticed the overcast conditions as the fog swept across the ocean.

The eerie yet beautiful appearance of the lighthouse was certainly an impressive sight among the rugged landscape of the surrounding cliffs. We had not been there for very long whenever the fog began to lift and the sun started to break through.

Rugged Cliffs near Portland Head Light

It was really cool to peer over the ocean and notice other islands appear in the distance as the fog disappeared. You can just imagine those sea fairers fighting through the fog-swept seas with their only assistance being the Portland Head Light. We were fortunate enough to hear the foghorn several times, helping those vessels navigate their way along the New England coastline.

Portland Head Lighthouse

The original fog bell is located outside the lighthouse and although it is no longer in use, it still stands proudly as an iconic resemblance of the historic signals that took place over the years.

Portland Head Light Fog Bell

We really enjoyed our time at the Portland Head Light and would highly recommend anyone visiting this if you are in the region. The history of this lighthouse makes it one of the best to visit and definitely worth exploring on a weekend getaway to Portland!

Lighthouses are such mysterious and interesting pieces of architecture. Of course they are still a necessity in maritime navigation but even without that, their unique appearance makes them a worthwhile place to visit.

Do you enjoy visiting lighthouses or other maritime locations? Where have you experienced something similar?

England – A Hidden Collection of Locations Worth Exploring

Chris Boothman
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23
England – A Hidden Collection of Locations Worth Exploring

Every country has mainstream tourist attractions and destinations that most folks want to experience when heading there for a vacation or just passing through. Of course England is no different and I am sure we all know that the key landmarks in London and some of the other cities such as Liverpool and Manchester are frequent spots for visitors to explore. However, what about those hidden gems that are ‘off the so-called beaten path’ and rarely get the recognition they deserve, especially on a global scale?

Well, this post is all about sharing a hidden collection of English locations worth exploring. Rather than giving a specific town, village or hamlet in the majestic realms of England’s beautiful landscape, this post focuses on 5 counties that you should take time to experience on your next trip to England.

With the efficient use of public transportation in England or by renting your own vehicle, each one of these should be easily accessible if you fly into London or Manchester. Alternatively, if you are a native of England, why not take a weekend getaway to one of these spots!

Cornwall

Lands End

Located in the South-West corner of England, Cornwall is a beautiful county that offers so much in terms of beautiful landscapes, some of England’s best beaches and quaint fishing villages that are inspiring to walk around.

The idyllic village of Mevagissey in particular is worth exploring if you would like to sample some of the infamous Cornish fudge or if you prefer to try a stereotypical Cornish Clotted Cream Scone, why not head over to either St. Ives or St. Austell and sit outside at one of the local cafes.

Newquay is renowned as offering great beaches and in the middle of summer when the weather is on their side, surfers from around the world hit the waves as this part of England offers the best conditions for this.

Newquay Cornwall

Devon

Torquay

If you are taking a trip to Cornwall, why not visit the neighbouring county of Devon which is equally delightful with some gorgeous seaside towns attracting English tourists all year round. Torquay, frequently refererred to as the heart of the English Riviera, is a beautiful town overlooking the English Channel and offers everything from fishing to a great shopping area.

Newton Abbot

Brixham and Peignton are within 30 minutes of Torquay on the Torbay coast and are great little spots to just wander around and relax. Newton Abbot is further inland and is most famous for the race course that frequently hosts horse racing meets but even if this is not your thing, Decoy Country Park is a beautiful area of parkland where you can have  a quiet lunch before exploring much of the surrounding region.

Devon

Much like Cornwall, Devon hosts a number of beautiful caravan/camp sites and I would highly recommend staying in one of these if you visit during the summer months. If you are from USA, I can guarantee that the campsites in England are nothing like what you would experience in the States. One of our favorite campsites in Devon is Ross Park in the wonderfully named village of Ipplepen, just outside of Newton Abbot and is a great spot to either pitch your tent or stay in a caravan.

Cheshire

Chester

Let’s head north to the county of Cheshire which is home to the historic town of Chester. With so much history and beautiful architecture that has been preserved and maintained over the years, Chester is a popular place in northern England especially with all the attractions available here. Whether you interested in the history that dates back to AD79 or just want to discover some of the ruins from the Chester Walls Walk, there is something for everyone.

The Chester Rows is the main shopping centre but offers a unique experience as all the shop fronts have still maintained the old-fashioned design despite offering modern-day brands.

Chester Town Crier

Of course, Cheshire has much more to offer than just the town of Chester. The county of Cheshire spreads as far north as Warrington and south as far as Nantwich and Crewe. Tatton Park and Gulliver’s World Theme Park are two of the more popular attractions in Cheshire but there is still a plethora of hidden places that are worth investigating as you wander around the rural communities in this part of the country.

Chester

Yorkshire

Yorkshire Dales

Across the Pennines from Cheshire is the beautiful county of Yorkshire. Referred to as ‘God’s Own Country’, Yorkshire is one of the most picturesque regions throughout England with miles and miles of gorgeous countryside along with various iconic towns and cities scattered throughout the county.

One city in particular that is worth visiting is the historic city of York which like Chester still maintains much of the historic heritage that surrounds this location. York Minster is one of the most popular landmarks in this part of the country primarily because of the beautiful architecture that has been preserved at this cathedral.

Haworth

Take a drive around the Yorkshire Dales or go hiking along one of the multitude of public footpaths that weave through the beautiful landscape if you want to get a true impression of Yorkshire. If you are have an interest in British literature, Haworth will likely be a village you want to explore as it is the home of the Bronte sisters.

Haworth

Cumbria

Lake Windermere

Another beautiful part of England which is frequently underrated is Cumbria which plays host to the Lake District that stretches from the Scottish border to the southern part of this county. Stereotypically known for the gorgeous lakes and fells that make up this part of England, it is a haven for hikers and folks who like to go camping in the unknown wilderness.

Bowness

In the heart of summer, it is a great place to explore whilst at the same time taking time to visit some of the picturesque villages such as Bowness (located on Lake Windermere which is the most popular of all the lakes), Ulverston, Ambleside or Grasmere. Climbing Coniston or Helvellyn offers stunning views over the surrounding area and on a beautiful day (sometimes you are fortunate to have the weather on your side in England) you can see for miles over the Irish Sea. 

If you prefer to visit the likes of Keswick, Penrith or Carlisle these offer more urban settings yet still offer easy access to the rural beauty within the Lake District.

Dream Destinations – Collaboration Part 3

Chris Boothman
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24
Dream Destinations – Collaboration Part 3

It’s been a couple of weeks since we featured our Dream Destinations Collaboration but for anyone that read either Part 1 or Part 2 you will be delighted to see we are featuring the next part of this series. This is a great way to showcase our fellow travel bloggers favorite destinations around the world that are either top of their bucket lists or they just cannot wait to return their again!

What part of the world do you consider to be your ultimate Dream Destination?

Take a look over this great collection of destinations and let us know which you can’t wait to explore!

DREAM DESTINATIONS 3

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the travelers that have shared their dreams with us and we hope that you all get to fulfil these some day soon!

China – Eat Sleep Breathe Travel

DSC_0110

When I hear the words ‘Dream Destination’ my mind goes wild with all the possibilities. That being said there’s one place in the world that has a certain attraction that I know will steal my heart: Chengdu, China. China has a bunch of incredible attractions that I would love to explore with my camera, but there’s no doubt that my priority would be to visit Chengdu’s giant panda breeding and research centre.

I’ve been obsessed with giant pandas since I was a baby, and have taken every possible chance to see them. The first time was at Schonbrunn zoo in Vienna (where even getting my camera smashed didn’t stop me), then a year later in Edinburgh zoo. I’m also planning a trip to see them this coming fall in Toronto. Basically, if there’s a panda nearby: I’m there!

So spending a day with those cuddly black and white bears would be my personal cloud 9. And to be able to actually hold one? Well I just may die of happiness; assuming I don’t die from the price tag first!

Follow Hannah on Facebook – Twitter – Google+

Iceland – Discount Travel Blogger

Myanmar

It has always been my dream to travel the world and I think you all can elate that we could not be in so many places at the same time. It is hard to choose, yet it makes me excited when I’m about to explore a new place, their food, culture, and people.

Bucket list is not really my thing, I know I want to see almost any beautiful places there is in the world that I cannot see in one lifetime. I sometimes make a temporary bucket list just because people asks me, but its not like ticking boxes on that list because I find it so limiting. I want to go wherever I feel like going at a time and not because I have to complete a list.

Although, I’m always mesmerized with real wonders and magical beauty of the world, my dream destination for that matter is in Iceland. Why? I want to gaze up at the bright stars and the dancing Northern Lights at night cuddling with my fiancé. May it be by staying in a nice hotel with a great view of Aurora Borealis or camping out in an open space. I would also like to try out dipping in to the Blue Lagoon, and experiencing a spa in a volcanic field like it. Just like how I want to try floating at the Dead Sea.

Follow Lyndsay on Facebook – Twitter – Google+

India – Don’t Forget to Move

J&C

Although our blog mainly focuses on Latin America, we have a huge bucket list of places around the world that we’re dying to see. Right at the top of that list is India. Everyone we talk to that has visited India says it’s insanely different from anywhere else in the world, and that’s what we’re looking for. From the crowded cities to the peaceful Himalayas, we’d love to explore what we’ve heard is a country rich in culture, natural beauty and spirituality.

Specifically, we’d love to go early in the year to catch Holi, the festival of color. On the first day of the festival locals and travelers convene to douse each other in brightly colored powder. The photos we’ve seen from Holi are absolutely stunning. We’d also love to rent a motorbike and trek across the Leh-Manali highway through the Himalayas, the second highest highway in the world. We’re not sure yet when we’ll be making it out to India, but it’s definitely one of our dream destinations!

Follow Jules and Christine on Facebook – Twitter – Google+

New Zealand – We12Travel

nelsonlakes

My dream destination? Not a hard choice: it will always be New Zealand! Ever since I first stepped foot in the Land of the Long White Cloud I felt it was love at first sight. After my first trip there in 2002 I felt lovesick for nearly 9 years until I finally returned in 2011. And now … I’m still lovesick.

I miss the ever changing landscapes, from tropical beaches to treacherous volcanoes and from the pristine alpine lakes to the kiwi’s on Stewart Island. I miss the amazingly friendly people, always up for a chat or willing to give you a helping hand. I miss the numerous hiking trails, the outdoor life and the nationwide passion for the wilderness. I even miss Fergburger, that served me the best burger ever. Yes, my dream destination is not a hard choice. If you ever get the chance, go to New Zealand, you will not be dissapointed!

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New Zealand – Trips or Treats

Me on the Challenge Course
My dream destination is New Zealand. Born and raised in the landlocked state of Kansas, the landscape is flat with wheat fields and cattle as far as the eye can see. I can appreciate these views now that I live in the city, but we are nowhere close to any ocean or mountains, which makes New Zealand so appealing to me. I love being close to the water, it calls to me and knows how to calm me.

I am a huge foodie and lover of wine. I want to explore the wineries and taste New Zealand in a bottle (or 3). I want to learn about the Maori culture that makes the identity of what New Zealand is today. I want to see the native penguin species, play with dolphins and get stuck in a traffic jam…with sheep.

I would love to cruise through Milford Sound on an overnight boat cruise, all while taking amazing pictures of the EPIC landscape that makes New Zealand so special. Volcanoes, mountains and beaches, what more could you ask for? Oh, and do not even get me started on the accent! Even my dog’s name is Kiwi…

Most of all, what impresses me about New Zealand is the expectation that their citizens are expected to contribute to their society. They seem to truly care about preserving what they have and I can appreciate that. For me, this is truly a dream destination that I hope to make a reality someday.

Follow Valerie on Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Portugal – Heart of a Vagabond

collage

Although very small in size and not very well known, Portugal is one of the most beautiful southern western European countries. With an amazing climate and some of the most beautiful and impressive beaches in Europe, this is a country that stole my heart.

No matter if you love the beach, the mountains, small villages or the hustle and bustle of the city, there’s never a dull moment in Portugal. This is a country both for the budget backpackers and the luxurious travelers thanks to it’svariety in accomodations, restaurants and things to do.

I personally love the laid back vibe of Portugal.I love the fact it’s still not too commercial or over touristy. There’s something very genuine about Lisbon- the capital, Porto the birthplace of the famous Port wine, the golden beaches of Algarve and the peaceful villages of Alentejo.

Portugal is one of the cheapest destinations in Western Europe and it’s still possible to avoid the crowds in here. No wonder this is one of my dream destinations.

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Thanks again to all these great bloggers for participating in this great collaboration of Dream Destinations. Who is ready to start traveling? I know we are after seeing all these great spots around the world!

Would you like to feature in a future Dream Destinations post? If so, send us an e-mail to admin@abritandasoutherner and we would be delighted to feature you among a variety of other great travelers!

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