Dozen Travel

Category: Travel advisory

  • Top Things to Do in Iceland

    Top Things to Do in Iceland

    Generally speaking, those outside of Iceland have known little about it other than it is a small barren country with extreme weather. This is due in large part to the fact Iceland is located at the top of the world, bordering Greenland. To say Iceland is off any well-paved tourist routes is an understatement.

    So for a long time it was assumed that only those intrepid travelers eager to get as many passport stamps as possible would be ambitious enough to visit a country that most outsiders only knew as having too much snow. But as word gets out about this small Nordic island country, more and more people want to visit. And those that do return with tales of a country rich with natural beauty, jaw-dropping landscapes and a deep cultural heritage. Iceland isn’t just for backpackers anymore – the whole family is welcome.

    So with that in mind here are some of the top attractions for those visiting Iceland for the first time.

    THE BLUE LAGOON

    This iconic geothermal lagoon is one of the few sights known by many people outside of Iceland. Located near the capital city of Reykjavik, this natural spa is said to have special healing powers. At the very least it delivers in supreme relaxation, as there’s nothing quite like wallowing in perfectly warm water amid freezing outside environs.

    GLACIERS

    Something else Iceland is known for – and something it has in abundance – are glaciers. In fact, 11% of Iceland’s total area is covered by these natural phenomena. The small fishing village of Hofn is popular with visitors looking to experience glaciers, as there are many in the surrounding mountains. However, Vatnajokull remains the most popular glacier, as it is the largest in Europe.

    WHALE WATCHING

    Undoubtedly Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction, whale watching is an Icelandic activity that showcases nature in all its awesome glory. There are many locals suited for whale watching in this country but Husavik is generally regarded as the best place to embark on this particular activity.

    VATNAJOKULL NATIONAL PARK

    Home to the aforementioned largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull also happens to be the largestnational park in Europe. Not only that, but visitors to Vatnajokull are privy to the natural splendor that is Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The park also offers world-class hiking across its breathtaking landscapes.

    NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS

    Iceland is best visited during the summer, when the climate is more moderate and the sun hardly sets. And there’s no more festive day during Iceland’s summer than the 17th of June. This date marks the birth of the Republic of Iceland, and parties throughout the nation rage. The bet place to experience the festivities is in the capital city of Reykjavik, as the folklore and concerts are ubiquitous.

    KAYAKING AND RIVER RAFTING

    The best way to experience the glaciers of Iceland up close is on a day-trip or excursion to swirling glacial pools. Not only that, but many tour operators offer adventure expeditions throughout the many fjords and bays around the island nation. Many tour operators also offer popular day trips river rafting down the picturesque Hvita River, which is part of the “Golden Circle” of nature excursions.

    THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

    This is the most popular tourist route in Iceland. It encompasses 300 km, from Reykjavik to the center of the island and back. Tourists on this excursion experience lush valleys, active geysers, majestic waterfalls and massive volcanic craters. It’s the best way to fully immerse oneself in Iceland’s rich natural beauty.

    In many respects, there is a dichotomy to Iceland that is as much about evolution as it is timeless nature. Much of this country’s heralded landscape is untouched and unchanged since the days of the Viking settlers. Other areas continue to be carved out by glaciers and are still taking shape. This all combines to make the country and its wilderness and wildlife a must-see for those looking to experience earth’s unspoiled natural wonders.

    Magnus Hirst is a tour guide and Social Media Coordinator at Icelandic Travel Market, a leading Iceland tours company specializing in bus tours, Iceland day tours, jeep tours, Iceland group travel, glacier walks, whale watching tours and more.

  • Turn Your Vacation into an Adventure

    Turn Your Vacation into an Adventure

    By Crystal Seas

    For most of us, we only get vacation for two weeks out of the year. That usually means we only get one big vacation every other year or so. While this might be a bit different for everyone, the point stands that you should want to make your vacation as memorable and amazing as possible. Another trip to the cabin probably just won’t cut it.

    Instead, you should really consider San Juan Island kayaking. This will be a trip unlike anything you’ve ever done before. For one thing, these islands are absolutely gorgeous. They may be some of the most amazing portions of the Pacific Northwest.

    That alone would be pretty great and put most people’s vacations to shame. But then you can add to that the fun of going sea kayaking. San Juan Islands probably has the best kayaking in the entire country.

    Did you know that orcas frequent these areas? Many kayakers actually get to see them up close and personal. Imagine that kind of an experience. Don’t worry either because they never hurt people. They’re just curious about their new friends.

    So the next time you take a vacation, head to San Juan and see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

     

    San Juan Island sea kayaking is like nothing you’ve ever experienced. The next time you want to take an adventure for your vacation instead of something boring, just leave it to the team at Crystal Seas.

  • Choosing Abu Dhabi for Your Next Vacation Destination

    Choosing Abu Dhabi for Your Next Vacation Destination

    Abu Dhabi has a lot to offer to the casual tourist.

    There have always been discussions about which is the better vacation spot between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The thing is, Abu Dhabi continues to be sort of an enigma to various people due to the glamour and luxuries that Dubai has to offer. However, Abu Dhabi has plenty to offer the common tourist as well as a specific cultural background that one cannot find anywhere but there.

    Before you being your memorable expedition, be sure that you find a quality car lease in Abu Dhabi. Convenience is one of the primary benefits that you’re looking for when you’re traveling. By being able to commute around in a car, you’ll be able to visit more locations that you would on foot. Also, you’ll save time. Time is money when it comes to a vacation and it’s particularly important that you hit everything that you wanted to do on your agenda.

    Abu Dhabi has some of the best beaches that stand out for miles away. The beautiful coastline overlooks the gorgeous region surrounding it. Additionally, the beaches are close by to the city and are easily accessible.

    Be sure to enjoy the delicious and exotic culinary cuisine that Abu Dhabi has to offer. Their global street food experiences are one that you cannot miss, especially if you want to try out a unique sample of their culture.

    Be sure to explore the surrounding areas outside the city as well. A car hire in Abu Dhabi has all the SUV’s and trucks that are perfect for dune bashing or exploring amongst the sand.

    Monte Carlo Rent a Car, LLC has premiere car rentals in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, UAE that are reliable, competitively priced, and perfect for your family’s next trip.

  • A Brief Guide to Living on the Cayman Islands

    A Brief Guide to Living on the Cayman Islands

    Article written by Travel Rapidly, travel resources, reviews, tips & advice

    Transitioning from a metropolitan or rural area to the Cayman Islands can be a significant lifestyle change. 80-degree weather and a generous helping of sand and salt are what you can expect as a resident of these diverse islands. Once you overcome these ritualistic conditions, be prepared to soak in all the beauty and splendor that only the Cayman Islands can offer.

    About Grand Cayman

    The Cayman Islands are separated into three islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. The largest of the islands, Grand Cayman has a bustling population of over 58,000, which is roughly more than half of the entire population of the Cayman Islands. George Town, the territory’s capital, houses a majority of the residents and offers a signature Caribbean experience to residents and visitors alike. Shop at their duty-free retailers or swim with the gentle stingrays at the Stingray City Sandbar. With endless amounts of activities for you to partake in and a lively and charming community, you’ll soon come to realize the unique comforts and charms of island living.

    Residency

    One of the biggest obstacles that you’ll face when moving to the Cayman Islands doesn’t have to do with real estate, but the lifestyle transition that you’re going to make. The locals that live on Grand Cayman are typically diverse with European, African, and mixed ancestries making up the whole of the island.

    If you’re fond of seafood, Grand Cayman offers some of the finest dishes that you can only find in this section of the world – fancy some jerk chicken in your spare time, you won’t regret it.

    Obtaining a home on Grand Cayman typically goes for $300,000 for a three-bedroom, two-bathroom on the northwest part of the island – which is a quaint but absolutely beautiful area. That’s fairly priced, considering you’re choosing to live in paradise. Cayman luxury real estate firms also display beautiful upscale homes, if you’re looking to live a lavish lifestyle. It’s important that you track and set up your average monthly expenses prior to moving to Grand Cayman. The Cayman Islands Dollar (CI) to your currency should be factored in to your earnings so that you get an accurate estimate on how much it will cost you to live here.

    Opening a Business

    Cayman Islands commercial property opportunities are available around each island. Cayman offers a regulated tax neutral business environment. If you were to conduct affairs outside of the Cayman Islands, understand that there are certain compliance orders that need to be respected prior to starting up.

    Bio: Contact RE/MAX Cayman Islands to connect with a local real estate expert that will help you find the property of your dreams. Whether it’s Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac or Little Cayman real estate, RE/MAX Cayman Islands will guide you through the entire home-buying process.