Fulfill Your Caribbean Dreams in Puerto Rico

Haven’t got plans for a long weekend? Why not travel to Puerto Rico satisfies both the beach bums just looking for place to relax and chill and the adventure seekers looking to tackle big waves. We’re for sure its long stretches of sand will entice you to stay and leave you Caribbean blue once you leave. Download the Puerto Rico Travel Guide and Offline Map to jump start your next travels.

1.     Playa Flamenco

Sheltered inside a horseshoe-shaped bay, Playa Flamenco’s mile-long stretch of white beach is hailed as one of the finest beached in the Caribbean. The name comes from the flamingos that flock inside the bay during Winter. The iconic rusting tank is at the beach's western end, a legacy of when US troops practiced invasions here.

2.     Isla Culebrita

When you’re itching for some island hopping, we highly recommend hiring that water taxi and head for Isla Culebrita. This small island to the east of Playa Zoni is a part of the national wildlife refuge. With its six beaches, tide pools, reefs, and nesting areas for sea birds—there’s for sure plenty to do here. The north beaches, especially the long crescent of Playa Tortuga, are popular nesting grounds for green sea turtles.

3.     Bahia Mosquito

About two miles east of Esperanza is a designated wildlife preserve that has the highest concentration of phosphorescent dinoflagellates in the world. The magnificent bay of Bahia Mosquito is nothing short of psychedelic with hundreds of fish whipping up fluorescent-blue sparkles below the surface as your kayak passes by.

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Heaven on Earth: Visiting Mauritius

Mark Twain once wrote, 'Mauritius was made first and then heaven, heaven being copied after Mauritius'. It’s hard to imagine a more compelling visage of heaven than Mauritius: sapphire-blue waters, powder-white sand, and a front row seat to one of the most beautiful views of the Indian Ocean. Download the Mauritius Travel Guide and Offline Map and experience heaven on Earth for yourself.

1.     Rodrigues

Barely touched by commercialization one would think they’ve traveled back in time on this tiny volcanic outcrop 600 kilometers away from the mainland. As the locals wold often tell you,”It is Mauritius of 25 years ago”. Here you’ll experience what true island time means and its time-warped vibe. It is beautiful forgotten world in some of the most remote corners of the globe.

2.     Eureka

There’s no better place to learn about Mauritius’ rich colonial history than in Eureka. The perfectly preserved Creole mansion was built in the 1830’s and stands today as a museum. Visiting Eureka is like stepping into a time machine and gives you incredible insight into the island’s vibrant plantation past.

3.     Vallée de Ferney

This 400-year-old forest is an important habitat for the Mauritius kestrel—one of the world’s most endangered raptors and visiting here is probably one of your best chance in ever seeing one. The guides take you along a 3-kilometer trail and at noon the staff feed the wild kestrels at the trailhead. As an important habitat for endemic species, Vallée de Ferney promises to be an important conservation and ecotourism area in the coming years.

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The Only Guide You'll Ever Need On Rotterdam, Europe's Rising Star

When we say Rotterdam is Europe's rising star, we are not kidding. The city is filled with the most spectacular initiatives by the locals themselves. Amidst the futuristic architecture lie these exhilarating initiatives such as inner-city canal surfing, a proliferation of art, and a busy drinking and dining scene. It is also the most diverse and multiethnic and so it comes to no surprise at how forward thinking the city is. Download the Rotterdam Travel Guide and Offline Map and explore Rotterdam now!

1.     Museum Boijmans van Beuningen

The Museum Boijmans van Beuningen is considered among Europe's finest museums. It has a permanent collection spanning all eras of Dutch and European art imaginable. Among the many highlights are The Marriage Feast at Cana by Hieronymus Bosch, the Three Maries at the Open Sepulchre by Van Eyck, the minutely detailed Tower of Babel by Pieter Brueghel the Elder, and Portrait of Titus and Man in a Red Cap by Rembrandt.

2.      Toko 51

As they say while traveling, do what the locals do. And one of the most happening places for the locals of Rotterdam is Toko 51. Not only is this concept store a melting pot for local creatives that showcases modern art, hosts live music events and sell vintage clothes, but it also is also a supermarket of sorts with Mexcian tacos from Sabor Sabor. And even makes rooms for aspiring barbers that offer haircuts.

3.     Kralingse Bos and Plas

The wooded park of Kralingse Bos and Plas lies just outside the city center and is the perfect combination of shaded forests, sparkling waters, and manicured grass. It's the perfect spot where locals go for their laidback excursions. Here, you'll find a variety of activities to enjoy such as cycling, sailing, rowing, and even barbecue with friends and family or work on your suntan on the sandy beach.

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Come to Strasbourg, the Charismatic French City with a German Accent

There are numerous compelling reasons why you should visit Strasbourg other than the fact that it is the official seat of the European Parliament. Here are some of them. And don’t forget to get the Strasbourg Offline Map & Guide City Travel & Metro to aid you on your visit.

1.     The Beauty of Strasbourg

Beauty has almost become synonymous with France. It's like everything French is beautiful whether it is in terms of language, fashion, food, art, or architecture. Such captivating beauty can be found in Strasbourg no matter which direction you look. The city is full of half-timbered houses built as far back as the Medieval Ages. Strasbourg most iconic structure is the Gothic Cathédrale de Notre Dame, which is the tallest medieval building in the continent. The cathedral features a colossal astronomical clock built in 1842 that depicts man's life and death cycle. Climbing to the top of the cathedral rewards you with a spectacular view of the city and the Alsatian countryside. Also, check out the Les Pont Couverts Bridge.

2.      The Marriage of French and German Cultures

The Rhine River is the only thing separating Strasbourg from Kehl, Germany which made it easy for the two cities to influence each other. Strasbourg was also conquered by Germans twice; first by the German Empire and second by Hitler’s Nazi Regime. Today, Strasbourg is in such good relations with Kehl that a Strasbourg citizen doesn’t even need to show a passport to cross the border to Kehl and vice versa.  You can clearly see German influence in Strasbourg’s cuisine, culture, music, fashion, and accent.

3.      The Alsatian Cuisine

The Alsatian cuisine combines traditional French food with German flavor and it is Strasbourg’s specialty. The city loses only to Paris when it comes to the number of Michelin-starred restaurants and eateries. Have a sip of both authentic French wine and German-style beer in one of the many breweries. Check out the bakeries for some world-renowned French bread sprinkled with some German love. You need to absolutely make sure that you don’t fail to sample the Tarte Flambée, the Alsatian version of thinly-sliced crispy crust pizza cut in rectangular slices.

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Mallorca, the Largest Island in the Balearic Islands Archipelago

More than five years ago, Mallorca was barely known outside of Spain. Then for some reason, people from all over the world started wanting to visit it. Today, Mallorca is one of the most sought after tourist destination in Europe and below are some of the reasons why. If you are also planning to check out this marvelous island, make sure to have your Mallorca Travel Guide and Offline City Map.

The Romance

Many tourists consider Mallorca as the most romantic island in Europe. It makes for the perfect location for a honeymoon or even just a simple romantic getaway. Exquisite white wine, elegant cocktail dresses, majestic view of the ocean, it has everything a couple may need for an unforgettable vacation. Most of Mallorca has become busy after the tourism boom but you can still find some peace and quiet by visiting one of the many small, romantic Spanish villages within the island.

The Cuisine

Mallorca has some of the freshest food in Spain due to the fact that nearly all ingredients come from within the island itself. Tapas are still the most popular and Mallorca has all kinds of them. Seafood also is an important ingredient in most Spanish dishes and all restaurants and eateries in Mallorca only use freshly caught ones.

The Coastline

The Mallorca coastline is one of the most beautiful in the whole of Europe. Many tourists like to rent a car and just drive around the coastline for an entire day. That is how captivating the island’s coastline is. You’ll find yourself driving with a splendid view of the mountains on one side and a spellbinding view of the ocean and the horizon on the other side.

The Nightlife

Mallorca has a unique and amazing nightlife. Countless small bars and huge outdoor clubs are scattered around the island. Many of the more established ones even have swimming pools and famous artists as regular performers. Indulge yourself in Spanish music for a night of singing and dancing.

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Visit Málaga, the Gateway to the Costa del Sol

Málaga is the second-most populous city of Andalusia and the sixth-largest municipality in Spain. It is extremely popular with tourists and listed below are some of the reasons why. Don’t forget to get your copy of Malaga Travel Guide and Offline City Street Map the before you arrive at this majestic city.

The Location

Málaga is the Southernmost Large City in Europe and its location cannot be more ideal. It is the perfect jumping board for excursions to nearby destinations such as Sevilla, Cordoba, and Granada. The high degree of accessibility makes it a culture-packed Metropolis where modern amenities mix perfectly well with the traditional vibe of a beach town. Whether you sick modern sophistication or rustic peace and quiet, Málaga can give it to you.

The Weather

Málaga has around 320 days of bright sunshine each year which will allow you to make the most out of its spectacular beaches. This wonderful weather is unique to Málaga. The mountains prevent the cold from reaching it while the Mediterranean regulates the heat and prevents temperatures from going too high. With an average temperature of 22°C, you can visit Málaga any day of the year and still have a blast. 

The Food

Prepare your taste buds for authentic Málaga wine and freshly caught seafood of all kinds. Easy access to fresh ingredients is one of the perks of being a port town. Speaking, of freshness, make sure you try the city’s specialty, the gazpacho. Gazpacho is a soup made with raw vegetables and served cold. And as with any other Spanish city, there is also a wide variety of tapas to choose from in Málaga. With numerous beach cafes, restaurants, and tapa bars to choose from, you never have to eat at the same place twice. Also, check out the pubs and wine bars. Most of them serve Málaga wine directly from the barrel.

The Museums

Málaga has earned the nickname ‘The City of Museums” because it has more than 20 museums, with 15 of them located in the same vicinity. The most notable of these museums are the Pablo Picasso Birthplace Museum and the Picasso Museum of Málaga which both house a massive collection of Pablo Picasso’s works.

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Guangzhou, China’s Third Biggest City

Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, It is a large metropolis that is the home of the renowned Canton Fair that attracts thousands of tourists each year. There are plenty of other reasons to come to this wonderful city. Don’t forget your Guangzhou Travel Guide & Route Planner Metro Map when you make your visit. This app will make navigating through the colossal city a piece of cake.

Accessibility

The Port of Guangzhou is the second most important port on the Pearl River. It provides easy and convenient transport to and from Hong Kong and Macau. And Guangzhou’s Baiyun International Airport is one of the largest in the country, providing an excellent means of entering and leaving China.

Attractions

Guangzhou has the perfect mix of traditional and modern. It has numerous natural spots and historic spots most notable of which are the White Cloud Mountain and Chen Ancestral Shrine. It also has modern marvels like the Canton Tower and Chimelong Holiday Resort as well as several theme parks. Guangzhou has somehow managed to advance into an international-level developed city without losing its heritage.

Authentic Yue Cuisine

Yue Cuisine, traditionally known as Cantonese food, is one of China’s Eight Regional Cuisines. Tenderness and mild sweetness are the defining qualities of Yue Cuisine. Your visit to the city can’t be complete without tasting authentic dim sum. Make sure you explore the local restaurants and check the dishes out.

Easy Shopping

The city has several shopping streets and plenty of shopping centers to provide you with anything you might want. If you want a more informal setting, the street markets are the place for you. Some vendors will even allow you to haggle for better prices. If you prefer a more quiet and orderly environment, then the malls should be where you do your shopping.

Traditional Chinese Operas

Going to a traditional Chinese opera is a great way to relax after a busy day of exploring the city. There are several theaters in the city where Classic Cantonese Opera is regularly performed. The most popular among these theaters is Haizhu District’s Jiangnan Theatre.

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4 Reasons to Visit Krakow, Poland’s Prague

4 Reasons to Visit Krakow, Poland’s Prague

Prague is the most popular tourist destination in the Czech Republic. Poland has its own version of Prague – Krakow. Check it out and you might even find Krakow more pleasant than Prague. Download the Krakow Travel Guide with Offline City Street Map for your convenience.

Krakow’s Old Town

Just like Prague, its Old Town is also Krakow’s main attraction. In fact, the Old Towns of these two cities are quite similar when it comes to their picturesque buildings and streets except for one glaring difference. Krakow’s Old Town has a lot less tourists. Wandering around Old Town is like you’re inside a European fairytale. Walk down perfect cobblestone lanes and marvel at several majestic churches and gaze upon the magnificence of the castle perched on the hill beside the city. There is even a huge bell tower that chimes Krakow’s town song St. Mary’s Trumpet Call.

Not Many Tourists

Prague is constantly swarming with hordes of tourists, Krakow, not so much. Krakow remains to be a hidden gem of a destination. Not many tourists know about it. You’ll be able to take your time in enjoying each attraction, take pictures, shop, etc. You also won’t encounter hassles like having to fall in line, dealing with noise pollution, and racing for souvenirs. There will be nothing that will prevent you from going at your own pace.

Vibrant Local Culture

Another benefit of Krakow being unpopular is that you will be able to explore the city surrounded by locals instead of other visitors. You will be able to observe their way of life easier and much more clearly. The locals are quite friendly. You can approach them as you shop at the Christmas market and they’ll usually be eager to tell you stories if you show them you want to listen.

Poland is Cheaper

Poland is one of the cheapest countries in Europe. Food and lodging in Krakow is around 30% cheaper compared to that in Prague. You can translate this significant saving into a longer vacation or more souvenirs.

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Dublin, Ireland’s Fair City

Dublin is one of the most exhilarating tourist destinations in the world. But it offers a lot more than just the extreme. Below are some of the most interesting reasons to check out Dublin. And don’t forget to get the Dublin Travel Guide and Offline City Map & Metro when you do.

The Forty Foot

The Forty Foot is one of Dublin’s traditional bathing pools is also the city’s most iconic attraction. It is a rocky plateau projecting into the Irish Sea. The clean deep waters of this swimming hole have been providing thrill and enjoyment to locals and tourists for more than 250 years. Just remember that it is not for everybody. The waters are frigid and there are no lifeguards. Jumping from the rocks is discouraged by not prohibited.

Mass-participation Events

Dublin holds several mass-participation events each year. The most popular of these events are the Great Dublin Bike Ride held in September and the Dublin Marathon held in October. Several thousands of people participate in each of these two events each year. They provide an opportunity for adventurers and fitness enthusiasts to meet and mingle with other likeminded people.

The ADIFF

The 10-day Audi Dublin International Film Festival 10-day is the event film buffs and movie nerds from all over the country are looking forward to the most. Numerous premiers, previews, and Q&A sessions happen in each of the 10 days. Prominent local and international celebrities grace the event. The highlight happens in the last few days when the audience is given the chance to see upcoming films several months before their scheduled released dates.

St Patrick’s Festival

Dublin is the true home of St Patrick’s Day. It is a national celebration of identity, arts, and culture during which the best of the best of local and international talents are honored with a slew of festivities. There is always something to look forward to when it comes to Dublin’s celebration of St Patrick’s Day. The city ups the ante each year so even regular visitors don’t know what to expect.

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Brussels, the Center of European Culture and Institutions

Brussels is one of the finest hidden gems in the European Union. It may not be as popular a destination as the more renowned cities in the continent but it is still worth checking out. Here are the reasons why. Download and install the Brussels Travel Guide and Offline City Map before your visit.

The Markets

Your experience of visiting this busy city won’t be complete if you don’t check out the markets. Anderlecht district’s Clemenceau market is the noisiest and most hectic food market in Brussels where you can get fresh fruits and vegetables, different kinds of cheeses, olives, and other food items. The Place du Jeu de Balle flea market is a tourist favorite. In it you’ll find all sorts of antique items and various kinds of art pieces, books, jewelry, interior design items, and more.

The Parks

Brussels has a plethora of interesting and varied parks. The Jean-Felix Hap’s garden is perfect for those who just want to have some peace and quiet. It is the ideal spot for those who just want to be alone. Parc du Cinquantenaire is a bigger and more crowded park. It has several playgrounds for kids and sporting squares where teens and adults can play sports such as badminton. You can even find a triumphal arch, a car museum, an art, museum, and a history museum in the center of the park. If you just want to enjoy nature then you should check out the Bois de la Cambre. It is a massive park with a lovely lake that has an island at the center.

The Cafés

Brussels is home to numerous great cafés. Ixelles district’s Café Belga is famous for its live music. When the weather is good, the café doors and windows open to give customers an unobstructed view of the outside. Its bestsellers are Belgian beer and peppermint tea. Borgval Street’s Café Central is the most sought-after establishment during weekends when DJs and other live acts perform for the customers. Its bestsellers are its fries and waffles.

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Lyon, the Gastronomic Capital of France

Lyon is one of the emerging destinations in France. It offers numerous attractions several times more affordable than those in Paris. Here are some of the reasons why you should go to Lyon instead of the more popular French cities. Download the Lyon Travel Guide and Offline City Map to help you prepare for your visit.

No Hassle

Lyon is not a busy city and not many tourists visit it either. Visiting it will make you feel as if everything the city has to offer is exclusively for you. There are no waiting lines on attractions, getting a cab is fast, there is no traffic, etc. You can also just walk from one part of the city to another if you want to soak in the view and feel of locale. If you want a hassle-free vacation in France, this city is exactly what you are looking for.

Affordable

The cost of living in Lyon is nearly 40% cheaper compared to the cost of living in Paris. Everything in Lyon is cheaper than in most French cities, especially the rent. If you want a long vacation in France without burning all your savings then this is the place to go.

Delicious

Lyon is the gastronomical capital of France for a reason. It offers the finest and most varied cuisine in the country. If you want to taste as many authentic French dishes and food items as possible, this is the place to be. The city is located in an area where the finest ingredients in the region pass through. The city also lies between two of the largest wine producing regions in France. To top it all off, there are 17 restaurants in Lyon that hold Michelin stars.

Historic

Lyon’s Old City is one of the largest intact Renaissance districts in Europe while Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) is the second largest intact Renaissance neighborhood in Europe. Old Lyon is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other notable Gothic and Renaissance buildings and structures can be found all around the city.

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Santiago, de Chile, One of the Cleanest and Safest in South America

Santiago, de Chile is located between the Andes and the Pacific which makes it a paradise for those who love outdoor activities such as trekking, climbing, skiing, and sunbathing. Even those who don’t like exerting themselves can still have a blast by participating in wine tasting or just strolling around appreciating art or even just idling in one of the cafes. Here are a few particular reasons to come to Santiago, de Chile. Know more through the Santiago de Chile Travel Guide and Offline Map.

Cultural Centers

Wandering the streets of Santiago is often enough to satisfy your hunger for good art. But even if you prefer not to stay exposed to the heat of the sun while appreciating art, you can still get your fill of good art through the numerous cultural centers scattered around the city. The most popular cultural center in the city is the one located underneath the Palacio de La Moneda where you can view a compact exhibit on the art and music of Violeta Parra, one of the country’s most beloved folk singers and artists. Other notable cultural centers include the ones at the Estacion Mapocho and Matucana 100.

Parque Quinta Normal

The Quinta Normal Park is an urban park located at the Quinta district of Santiago. It offers luscious maze of greenery and over half a dozen museums, most notable of which are the Museo de la Memoria and the kid-friendly Museo de Historia National. It is the best place in the city to take an early morning jog or an afternoon stroll. You can also go on a relaxing paddle boat ride.

Brasil and Yungay

Near the city of Santiago are the neighboring barrios of Brasil and Yungay. Most of Santiago has already been modernized so if you want to have a look of what a traditional Chilean village looks like, the best way to do so is to take a short ride to the barrios of Brasil or Yungay. These two barrios are home to a plethora of imaginative graffiti murals and artistic benches.

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Quito, the Best-preserved Historic Center in Latin America

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded in the 16th century on the ruins of an Inca City. It is the least altered historic center in Latin America. Here are some of the best reasons why you need to visit Quito. For more in-depth knowledge of what the city has to offer, download the Quito Travel Guide and Offline City Street Map.

Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús

The Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús is the most astonishing structure in Quito’s Old Town. Its ornate appearance stands out despite the baroque appearance of everything that surrounds it. This marvelous church exhibits perfect symmetry, from the tip of its cross down the famous trompe l’oeil staircase at its rear. Its walls are colored bright red to serve as reminders of the blood Christ has spilled for our salvation. The church offers free guided tours throughout the day. You are even given the option of picking an English or a Spanish guide.

Museo Nacional

The circular, glass-plated, landmark building of Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana houses Ecuador’s National Museum where one of the country’s largest collections of Ecuadorian art is on display. Museo Nacional hosts several exhibits showcasing pre-Hispanic and colonial religious artwork. Over 1000 ceramic pieces dating from 12,000 BC to AD 1534 are displayed at the museum’s Sala de Arqueología (Archeology Room). The centerpiece of its Sala de Oro is an astonishing radiating, golden sun mask. And its Sala de Arte Colonial (Colonial Art Room) presents the best works from the Quito School.

The TelefériQo

The TelefériQo, Quito’s skyrail, is one of the most popular attractions in the entire city. This sky tram offers an unforgettable view of Quito’s marvelous mountainous landscape. The 10-minute ride spans 2.5 kilometers, from up the Volcán Pichincha flanks up to the top of the Cruz Loma. After reaching the summit of Cruz Loma, you can then go on a 4,100 meter hike to the top of the Rucu Pichincha. The hike usually takes three hours but the scenery at the summit is well worth the effort.

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Bogotá, the Next Buenos Aires

Bogotá is the ‘Next Big Thing’ when it comes to tourist destinations in Colombia. In fact, a lot of people are already calling it the next Buenos Aires. Here are three powerful reasons why you should consider Bogotá as your next destination. And to make sure you make the most out of your vacation, download the Bogotá Travel Guide with Offline City Street Map.

Lots of Rich People

Having plenty of rich people in the locality has certain advantages for tourists. For one, more high-end activities become available, at a cost significantly lower compared to home. There are also more modern establishments such as huge shopping malls. You also get to enjoy the availability of current gen gadgets on stores as well as the services of modern innovations such as Wi-Fi.

Unpopular to Tourists

The Colombian national brand has a bad reputation internationally mainly due to the country’s image of having a huge drug cartel problem. And as Columbia’s capital, Bogotá is often viewed by tourists as the most dangerous. The truth is, Bogotá has turned things around in the past several years. It is now a lot safer compared to the other major cities in the country. Its lack of popularity is a huge advantage for the few tourists who visit it. They get to enjoy low prices and don’t have to line up to get the best amenities. And since they don’t get many tourists, the establishments you visit will treat you like kings.

Complex and Exciting

Bogotá is a complicated and unpredictable city. It is a place where the old and the new mix together. Its colonial core, Candelaria, is its most famous area. Candelaria houses the city’s largest museums and oldest and largest churches as well as its largest restaurants and tourist shops. Candelaria has enough attractions to keep you entertained for days. You might also be surprised at how modern the city’s infrastructure is. The past two mayors of the city has placed statewide development and renewal as the top priority.

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Bruges, a City of Historic Medieval Feel

Bruges offers one of the most unique experiences in Europe and listed below are some of the reasons why. Before visiting the city, make sure you have your trusty Bruges Travel Guide with Offline City Street Map.

Like Living in a Fairytale

Bruges looks and feels out of this world, like a place out of a Disney storybook mainly because most of the city has remained unchanged through the centuries. It still has its cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and swirling canals. Many of the buildings have also remained the same, still sporting architecture from hundreds of years ago. The city being fairly small also means you can do all your exploration on foot.

Captivating Canals

Bruges’ fascinating winding canals earned it the nickname of “Venice of the North”. The waterways also make exploring the city through canal boat rides. Many boat operators are also quite knowledgeable Bruges’ history so they can teach you a lot during the boat ride. Just keep in mind that canal boat riding is a favorite activity of tourists visiting the city so it is better to go on one in the morning to avoid long queues.

Tasty Chocolate

Bruges has numerous chocolate shops and all of them sell high quality, authentic chocolate. Many of them also use their own original recipes so their chocolates cannot be found anywhere else. Some even offer sample boxes for tourists who want to have a free taste. The most famous chocolate box is probably the one sold by Chocolatier Dumon.

Different Beers

Beer is a mainstay of life in Bruges. Aside from beerhouses, almost all restaurants and eateries also serve and extensive assortment of beers. One of the city’s most infamous booze is the Pauwel Kwak which is served in a tall, funnel-like cup and is known for its unique crisp taste. If you want to visit just one beerhouse, the 2be makes a great choice since it has one of the largest collections of beers in the city.

Calm Atmosphere

Unlike most European cities that are noisy and fast paced, Bruges is serene and calm. Most of the activity is on the town square. The rest of the city is as laid back as most rural towns. Bikes and walking are the main modes of transportation and most establishments close early.

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Kon'nichiwa! Visit Osaka, Japan’s Kitchen

Osaka is Japan’s third most populated city. Though it takes a backseat to Tokyo and Kyoto when it comes to popularity with tourists, Osaka has its fair share of wonderful things it can offer. Here are a few reasons Osaka deserves a spot in your bucket list of places to visit. And for your convenience, don’t forget to download the Osaka Travel Guide and Offline City Map once you get there.

Best Food in Japan

Osaka was nicknamed The Nation’s Kitchen thanks to its status as Japan’s rice trade hub during the Edo Period. Today, it is known all over the country as the gourmand’s paradise with okonomiyaki as its most popular dish. Okonomiyaki which literally means ‘grilled as you like it’ is a flavorful version of Japanese pancake, made with flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, and meat, and topped with a variety of condiments. The customer can customize it with a selection of meat, seafood, or noodles. Other staples include:

·         Kitsune udon - thick noodle soup blanketed by fried tofu

·         Hakozushi - sushi pressed flat in a bamboo box

·         Takoyaki - ball-shaped octopus fritters

·         Tessa -- sashimi made from poisonous fugu or globefish

Flashy and Warm at the Same Time

Osaka maintains a certain level of country charm in spite of having over 3 million residents. If you prefer a city atmosphere, check out the Namba department stores and compete with countless housewives in a bargaining battle. Come nightfall, you can go to the Umeda neighborhood and enjoy a dazzling nightlife. If you prefer a small-town vibe, there are numerous ethnic restaurants and traditional sushi shops scattered across the various districts and alleys.

¥500 Blast from the Past

For a measly ¥500 ($4.50), you can enter the Open Air Museum of Old Japanese Farmhouses in Osaka's Hattori Ryokuchi Park which houses 11 authentic farmhouses from the Edo period. These were originally located in various parts of the country, disassembled, brought to the park, and then reassembled.

Spa World

Spa World is referred to by locals as the amusement pool. It has various sections, each resembling a traditional spa from a certain location.the European Spa section houses baths inspired by Ancient Rome, Greece, Finland, and even Atlantis. The Asian Spa section contains baths inspired by Persia, Bali, and of course, Japan. Spa World also has its own salon, restaurant, and hotel. You gain full access to all amenities at just ¥2,700 ($24.30) per day.

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Miami, the Tropical City in the West

If you’ve had enough of the dreary weather but don’t have the time to visit a distant tropical country, then just come to Miami, Florida. There are tons of things you can do in Miami so make sure you have your Miami Travel Guide and Offline City Map & Metro.Tropical Weather

The weather in Miami is simply perfect. It is tropical most of the year. You can go around the city wearing simple shorts, a tank top, and some flip-flops and you’ll be just fine. Since it’s like it’s always summer here, the variety of summer clothes sold in malls and boutiques is massive.

Beaches

Miami Beach is the foremost destination of most people that go to Miami for a vacation. It is like an endless paradise of sun, sand, and clear blue water. Paired with the great weather, every day is a perfect time to hang out on the beach. It is also one of the rare locations were some people even take a stroll at the beach during winter.

Another typical day at Miami Beach. Nice!

Water Activities

Sunbathing or swimming is not the only thing you can do in Miami Beach. You can also go boating, jet skiing, water skiing, wind surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and more. If you prefer to stay dry, you can just go and eat some good food at one of the several restaurants built right over the water.

Shopping

There are a lot of gigantic malls in the city so you can pretty much find anything and everything you want and need. One of the most popular malls in Miami is the Aventura Mall. There are also plenty of small shops and boutiques scattered all around the city.

Diverse Culture

Miami is a part of the Land of the Free. People in the city come from all walks of life bringing their own traditions and culture with them. One of the best products of this diversity is the food. You can find a restaurant for almost every country and culture in Miami.

Miami amazing cultural diversity

Want to know everything about Miami or some other city you plan to visit, just go to eTips to get all the info you need.

Bangkok Temples and more – You will be in awe!

As the Asia’s backpacking capital, also known as the Banana Pancake Trail, because of the many stalls selling banana cakes within the cities along the trail. Bangkok is a commercial and economic center of Thailand. It can be a difficult city to navigate for single travelers, but if you get yourself familiarize with the transportation system, and a comfortable hotel around then you'll easily tour the city's sights on your own. It's a fascinating yet chaotic place, brimming with sights, thrills, people, cultures, noise and bedlam.It’s fun visiting the place and here are some things for you to know before going there:

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak market is a famous weekend market in the Northern Bangkok. It's quite easy to find thru public transportation. It's a huge market that you really can find anything you’re looking for, along with many things you never knew you wanted!

Rooftop Bar

There are about 20 stunning rooftop bars in the city. And don’t ever miss the fun of visiting some, some of these bars are chilled out areas, some are simple tourist areas matched with sceneries around the city, yet a few more are hidden with a local crowd.

Chao Phraya River

With its low alluvial plain forming the center of the country, this river played a key role in attracting tourists from all over. There are numerous ways to experience the river, with many boats that tour in Bangkok’s prominent temples.

Discover Chao Phraya River

Floating Market

There’s not just one, but 5 floating markets that every traveler has to visit. Most in these market places offer fruits, vegetables, snacks and sweets. The most popular tourist floating market in Thailand is Damnoen Saduak, great for picture taking, food variances, and such an attractive place to witness the traditional way of selling and buying things. A must try is the sticky mango rice! Yum!

Visit Bangkok Floating Market

Temples

Splendid temples are just around the city that serves as religious dwellings, your tour will NOT be complete without seeing the magnificent infrastructures built in the historic center, located on the East bank of the Chao Phraya river. Most temples were built by Kings of the Chakri dynasty and some contain the ashes of former Chakri Kings. To name some of these temples are: Wat Phrao Kaeo Bangkok, Wat Benchamabophit White Marble Wat, and Wat Phrao Kaeo Bangkok.

Visit eTips or Bangkok Travel Guide and Offline City Map & Metro to experience the Best of it!

Haight-Ashbury: On San Francisco's Hippie Trail

Fueled by either flower-power or psychedelic drugs, an estimated 100,000 tie-dye-wearing, alternative-lifestyle-advocating, Vietnam-War-protesting, rock-and-rolling youths marched to the corner of Haight and Ashbury in San Francisco.It was 1967 – the Summer of Love.

Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair

If the Summer of Love had a soundtrack, Scott McKenzie’s San Francisco would be the first track. The song - along with its now famous lyrics, “be sure to wear flowers in your hair” - was used to promote the Monterey International Pop Festival.

Headlined by legends such The Jimi Hendrix Experience, Janis Joplin, Grateful Dead, The Who, Jefferson Airplane, The Mamas and the Papas, Otis Redding, The Animals, and Ravi Shankar, the now iconic three-day long music festival officially kicked-off the Summer of Love.

And as the festival wound down, the thousands in attendance continued their counter-culture pilgrimage to what will soon become as the epicenter of hippie culture – Haight-Ashbury district, San Francisco.

Going on a Good Trip

Although the Haight-Ashbury district is a very different scene now, fragments of the 60s hippie culture still peeks through the high-end boutiques, private schools, and even through a Ben & Jerry’s franchise.

So, if you’re up for a very good – excuse the pun – trip, to re-live the era of free love, first, download this free app. The San Francisco Travel Guide and Offline City Maps SF has an augmented reality feature, offline metro maps, and suggested itineraries.

To get you started on following the hippie trail, here are a few suggestions of historical and groovy places to visit in the Haight-Ashbury district from eTips.

San Francisco Travel Guide and metro maps

The Red Victorian

As one of the Haight-Ashbury originals and witness to the Summer of Love, there are plenty of reasons to stay at The Red Victorian.

But mostly, who wouldn’t want to stay in hotel that’s rumoured to have been a brothel, hosts World Peace Conversations on Sundays, and have rooms named Summer of Love, Flower Children, Earth Charter, and Peacock?

The Painted Ladies

If only Haight’s Painted Ladies can talk. These intricately-designed Victorian and Edwardian houses that line up the district’s streets, were once home to such greats as Jimi Hendrix (1524A Haight St.), The Hell’s Angels (719 Ashbury St.), Grateful Dead (710 Ashbury), Janis Joplin (122 Lyon St.), and Sid Vicious (32 Delmar St.).

Hippie Hill

Living up to its name (and history), Hippie Hill on the east end of Golden Gate Park hosts the annual 420 in the Park festival. Where thousands of visitors smoke up, listen to some drum circles, face paint, and most probably, satisfy their mid-day munchies.

The festival isn’t exactly legal, so enjoy at your own discretion. But if you want a more law abiding happening, the Haight-Ashbury Street Fair is celebrated every year on the second Sunday of June.

Bound Together Bookstore

Nothing screams more of counter-culture symbol than a bookstore with "An Anarchist Collective" as its tag-line. The all volunteer-run, consensus-based shop sell zines and books that cover topics like feminism, queer culture, poetry, politics, drugs, spirituality, and, of course, Anarchism.

Tourism in San Francisco

Amoeba Music

While it wasn’t yet around during the Summer of Love, Amoeba Music is the portal to era’s record collection. True to its name as the world’s largest independent record store, it carries everything from vintage vinyl LPs to hard-to-find CDs, even cassettes.

If you’re a music lover, better dedicate a whole day just for visiting the shop. Because with their quality stock of music and movies, you might not even make it to the new release aisle.

Jammin’ on Haight

What better souvenir from the home of the hippies than premier psychedelic fashion items? In true peace and love fashion, the boutique gives a portion of its profits to Taking It To The Streets San Francisco (TITTS), an organization that works with homeless youth.

Travel Paris Through Famous Movie Locations

Film-induced tourism is a rapidly growing segment of cultural tourism, where locations that appeared on film or television become tourist attractions.

This niche is relatively new, but, it’s already considered as an emerging driver for tourism development in many countries. Experts say it will only grow stronger as the entertainment industry becomes more global and the price of air travel more affordable.

And, as a popular location for many Hollywood films, Paris is one of the cities that’s hoping to boost their tourist numbers from the magic of the movies.

So, if you want to recreate your favorite movie and TV moment check out this list of must-see movie scene locations in Paris.

Café des Deux Moulins (Amélie)

Located at 15 rue Lepic in the Montmartre area, this cozy café shot to fame after it was featured in the global blockbuster hit Amélie. There’s no shortage of Amélie memorabilia in the café, from the gnome to a selection of dishes from Les Plat du Jour d’Amélie.

Shakespeare and Company (Before Sunset)

This independent bookstore located at the La Rive Gauche, was the location of Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy’s characters’ reunion scene in Richard Linklater’s Before Sunset. And, with an immaculate view of the Seine, how can anyone not fall in love?

Hôtel Raphael  (Hotel Chevalier)

This 5-star hotel in Avenue Kléber is the site of Wes Anderson’s 13-minute short film featuring Natalie Portman and Jason Schwartzman. The quirky love story served as a prequel to his adventure comedy feature The Darjeeling Limited.

Père-Lachaise Cemetery (Paris, je t’aime)

Père-Lachaise located in Paris’ 20th district is the location of Wes Craven’s short in the anthology film Paris, je t’aime. It’s about a couple whose failing relationship is saved by the ghost of Oscar Wilde. Aside from Wilde’s, you can also find the graves of Balzac, Chopin, Edith Piaf, and Jim Morrison in this cemetery.

Paris Best Places to Travel. Peré Lachaise Cementery

Musée des Arts Forains (Midnight in Paris)

Although this Woody Allen movie is teeming with well-known Parisian destinations – Église Saint-Étienne du Mont, Pont Alexandre III, Musée Rodin - Musée des Arts Forains captures the movie’s love for the Belle Epoque era the most. Book a tour if you can want to take a try out antique carnival rides.

Pont de Bir-Hakeim (Inception)

This bridge connecting Paris’ 15th and 16th districts is where Leonardo DiCaprio taught Ellen Page how to build dreams in Christopher Nolan’s 2010 sci-film. It was also featured on the small screen, as the highlight of Ben (Adam Scott) and Leslie’s (Amy Poehler) Paris trip in Parks and Recreation.

Paris Travel Guide for iPhone and iPad

If you want a vacation that’s just like in the movies, make sure to download the Paris Travel Guide and Offline City Maps app. For more information check out eTips for more suggestions on famous movie locations around Paris.