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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Epic Adventures in New Zealand’s Outback

Scattered all over New Zealand are sublime forests, mountains, lakes, beaches and fiords that have made NZ one of the best hiking destinations on the planet. With just 4.8 million New Zealanders scattered across 268,021 sq km, prepare for mammoth national parks, a dynamic local culture, and world-class surfing and skiing. Whether you're looking for a chill and relaxing vacation or an action-packed one, New Zealand has got you covered. Download the New Zealand Travel Guide and Offline Map now!

1. Abel Tasman National Park

If there's one National Park you shouldn't miss out on that's Abel Tasman National Park. It's definitely every adventurers dream come true blanketing the northern end of a range of marble and limestone hills that extend from Kahurangi National Park. Various tracks in the park include an inland route, although the Coast Track is what everyone is here for--it's New Zealand's most popular Great Walk.

2. Rotorua

Welcome to "Sulphur City"--New Zealand's most dynamic geothermal area where steam casually wafts out of the drains and mud boils in public parks. The sulphur-rich air and all its springs might be one of its draws, but the city is also hailed for its dynamic Māori culture. The Māori revered this place, naming one of the most spectacular springs Wai-O-Tapu (Sacred Waters). Today 34% of the population is Māori, with cultural performances and traditional hāngi (steam-cooked banquets) as big an attraction as the landscape itself.

3. Milford Sound

Rising above the fiord's indigo water is Mitre Peak and has become the subject of millions of photographs for good reason. Scoured into the bare rock are pathways from tree avalanches, where entangled roots dragged whole forests down into darkly glittering water. Today, tapering to a cloud-piercing summit, the 1692m-high mountain appears. When rain comes (and that’s often), dozens of temporary waterfalls curtain the cliffs. Stirling and Lady Bowen Falls gush on in fine weather, with rainbows bouncing from their mists when sunlight strikes just right.

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Reasons Why the French Riviera is the Ultimate Summer Destination

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a dreamy French region that extends east along the coast from Menton and Monaco to Théoule sur Mer and up into the Southern Alps. The Riviera contains several cities (Nice and Cannes among them), 14 natural parks, Roman ruins, medieval villages and whale watching just off shore. So we're sure you'll have a grand time exploring the Riviera. Download the French Riviera Travel Guide and Offline Map now!

1. Vieux Nice

Getting lost among the dark, narrow, winding alleyways of Nice’s old town is a highlight. The layout has barely changed since the 1700s, and it’s now packed with delis, restaurants, boutiques and bars, but the centerpiece remains cours Saleya: a massive market square that’s permanently thronging in summer. The food market is perfect for fresh produce and foodie souvenirs, while the flower market is worth visiting just for the colors and fragrances.

2. Casino de Monte Carlo

Peeping inside Monte Carlo’s legendary marble-and-gold casino is a Monaco essential. The building, open to visitors every morning, is Europe's most lavish example of belle-epoque architecture. Prince Charles III came up with the idea of the casino and in 1866, three years after its inauguration, the name 'Monte Carlo' – Ligurian for 'Mount Charles' in honor of the prince – was coined.

3. Marseille

Marseille is a dynamic, edgy, bustling city that’s rich with more than 1500 years of history. And since its stint as the European Capital of Culture in 2013 and the addition of a brace of swanky new museums, the city has sparkled with a new sense of optimism and self-belief. The heart of the city is the vibrant Vieux Port (old port), mast-to-mast with yachts and pleasure boats. 

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Pack Your Bags, Georgia is Calling

Georgia is the stuff that mountain scenery dreams are made of. From green valleys to sprawling vineyards to its old churches and watchtowers, it is a favorite among hikers, horse riders, cyclists, photographers, and travelers of every kind. But the view isn't the only thing that makes Georgia so special, its proud, high-spirited, cultured people is one of its best assets: guests are considered a blessing and hospitality is their way of life. Download the Georgia Travel Guide and Offline Map now and experience it for yourself.

1. Tbilisi

Tbilisi in all its picturesque glory sits on a deep valley of the Mtkvari River. Filled with colorful architecture that is partnered with a lively arts and culture scene, this city is a must-visit when visiting Georgia. Prepare yourself for a plethora of inviting cafes, funky bars and clubs, spruced-up museums and so much more. Modernized transportations make it so much easier and fun to go around the city.

2. Vardzia

This remarkable cave city was built by King Giorgi III as a fortification in the 12th century. His daughter, Queen Tamar, established a cave monastery that grew into a holy city housing for some 2,000 monks. It is a cultural symbol for all Georgians and a spiritual bastion of Christendom’s eastern frontier. This rock-hewn dwelling ranges over 13 floors and spans over 400 rooms, 13 churches, and 25 wine cellars, and to this day more are still being discovered.

3. Stepantsminda

Imagine a valley town with the famous hilltop Tsminda Sameba Church and surrounded by the snowy cone of Mount Kazbek. What used to be known as Kazbegi is now officially named Stepantsminda is a great must-visit for hikers and mountain-bikers alike for its rich scenery and fresh air.

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Exploring Spain One Village at a Time

The best places to visit are the ones that you don't read in guidebooks or see on social media. Lucky for us, Spain is abundant in these beautiful, unexpected little gems. Sprawled all throughout the country are medieval villages that are the stuff of fairy tales. Read on and go ahead and download the Spain Travel Guide and Offline Map to start your journey in the country of surprises.

1.     Pals, Girona

One of our favorite villages are ones that look like they haven't been touched by time. Its narrow stone streets, arched steps, and delicate flowers is certainly a blast from the past. The quaint little town of Pals seems was built in the 14th-15th centuries. Not only is it a beauty to behold, but it is also rich in history. This medieval Catalonian town experienced a peasant revolt that resulted in a civil war against Joan II.

2.      Peñafiel, Valladolid

Europe is mostly famous for its medieval stone towns, but Peñafiel is unique for its wooden buildings. Nestled in the Ribera del Duero is known for its sumptuous cuisine where wine and suckling pigs are the highlights. Make sure to also visit the Peñafiel Castle that overlooks the village and the Plaza del Coso Square its Clock Tower.

3.     Buitrago del Lozoya, Madrid

When in Madrid don't miss Buitrago. It is considered as the best-preserved Arab defense systems in Spain. Stop by the Chruch of Santa María del Castillo a church that’s small in size but otherwise impressive in its interior.  Santa Maria Church definitely adds character to the already charming town. The Buitrago del Lozoya Hospital, which was founded by the Marquis of Santillana in the 15th century is also a must-see.

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Enjoying Oslo, the City of Vikings and Ice

Imagine a coastal city that sits atop a fjord in one of the most picturesque countries in the world. Well, imagine no more and start planning your trip to Oslo, the capital of Norway. Famously known for its picture-perfect green spaces, museums, and rich Viking history. Visit the Viking Ship Museum which is home to Viking ships from the 9th century or go ski-jumping and enjoy a panoramic view of Oslofjord. Whatever you do don't forget let the Oslo Travel Guide and Offline map be your travel buddy!

1.     Viking Ship Museum

What's a visit to Oslo without taking a trip to the Viking Ship Museum and learning about Nordic culture? Some 1100 years ago Vikings used longships as centerpieces for grand ceremonial burials and along with these ships many items such as jewelry, furniture, weapons, and even dogs and servants. In the late 19th century three ceremonial ships were discovered and now wonderfully restored to give us a glimpse into the world of Vikings.

2.      Holmenkollen Ski Jump

Even when you're not a dare-devil ski jumper Holmenkollen is still a great place to add to your Oslo bucket list. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the entire city, it offers a panoramic view of the city and has tons of other attractions you can enjoy. If ski-jumping just isn't for you, but you're still up for that adrenaline rush, try out their zipline which is 361 meters of pure adrenaline. And if you're up for something more relaxed visit the ski museum that has documented over 4,000 years of skiing history.

3.     Magic Ice Bar and Gallery

If you're itching for a drink to keep warm in Oslo's cool temperatures why not head over to Magic Ice and enjoy your drink in a truly unique setting. From the seats and glasses to the illuminated sculptures almost everything is made out of ice at this bar and gallery. Have a walk around and revel in the amazing ice installations with colorful LED lighting.

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Corsica, the French Island of City Breakers

Dubbed as one of the pearls of the Mediterranean, Corsica Island has quite an animated history. Known to be "often conquered, never subdued" the island has been successively Pisan and Genovese and now French since 1768. The diversity of the island's scenery is outstanding and contributes to the multitudes of activities you can do. You can go sunbathing by the beach, scuba diving, and even sailing at sea or if you're the mountain adventurer type you can also go hiking on the infamous G20. Download the Corsica Island Travel Guide and Offline Map to help you map out your Corsica trip.

1.     G20

Infamously known as the toughest long distance trail in Europe, the G20 is not for the faint hearted. It traverses Corsica diagonally from north to south and is also one of the most beautiful mountain trails. It's 180 kilometers long with variations in heights of about 10,000 meters and can be walked in a whopping 15 days. The GR20 doesn't necessarily require any climbing techniques or perfect fitness level, but it does require a whole lot of confidence to walk over a variety of rugged terrain.

2.      The Ruins of Aleria

The capital of ancient Corsica was established in the 6th century B.C. by the Phocians after they were chased from the homeland by the Persians. They were subsequently conquered by the Romans in 259 B.C.; an easy feat considering the site is directly across the sea from Rome itself. In 1730 the city was captured by the troops of Pascal Paoli, who landed here in 1936 and crowned himself King of Corsica. The city was then lost and would only be rediscovered again between 1920 and 1951; archaeological digs continue to this day and have led to the discovery of a great many everyday objects: weapons, crockery, Etruscan vases, and money.

3.     Pinia

Known for its calm seas all year-long, Pinia is a famous spot for families to relax and enjoy the sun without much worry for their younger children frolicking by the beach. Surrounded by pine trees of the forest that is also named Pinia, the fine sandy beach stretches out over several kilometers. When you find the beach all too crowded for your liking during high season it's easy to escape by disappearing into the neighboring forest and taking a walk over to the lake.

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Top 3 Jaw Dropping Sights in Verona, the City of the Star Crossed Lovers

More famously known for being the setting of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet;"  the northern Italian city of Verona boasts more than just Juliet's House. Its medieval old town is built between the Adige River and is home to the smaller version of Rome's Coliseum yet equally meandering Arena di Verona. Explore one of UNESCO's World Heritage Center with the Verona Travel Guide and Offline Map as your adventure partner.

1.      Arena di Verona

Built in the 1st-century Arena di Verona is a huge Roman amphitheater that used to stage shows and games. It was so famous that spectators from all over the land--often far from away places would go to witness the. In ancient times, the arena is located in the Piazza Bra in Verona would host more than 30,000 guests. Today, it currently showcases concerts and large-scale opera performances fitting crowds of up to 15,000 people.

2.      Lake Garda

The largest lake in Italy is a popular holiday destination for both locals and tourists alike. Located between Brescia and Verona, Lake Garda is nestled on the edge of the Dolomites. Glaciers at the end of the last Ice Age formed the picturesque alpine region. Its size is attested by how the lake itself and its shoreline are divided between three provinces--Verona to the South-east, Brescia to the South-west, and Trentino to the North.

3.      Juliet's House

Moved by the power of storytelling hundreds of thousands of people go to Verona just to set foot in the most prominent setting in Shakespeare's "Rome and Juliet." The house that is said to have been Juliet's was owned by the family dell Capello. It dates back from the 13th century and the family coat of arms still stands tall on the wall. The most notable part of the house is the famous balcony that overlooks the courtyard.

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3 Reasons to Love Tbilisi, the Georgian City that Loves You!

According to the Georgian ancient proverb, Tbilisi is the city that loves you! Since ancient times, it has been noted that “Every guest is Godsend,” for hospitality. Located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, is a former Soviet republic that’s home to Caucasus Mountain villages and Black Sea beaches is a confluence of multiple cultures. Explore this underrated yet spectacular city of culture, art, and hospitality with the Tbilisi Travel Guide and Offline Map for a stress-free visit.

1.      The Architecture

The patchwork architecture in Old Tbilisi is reason enough to visit this pretty capital city. Intricate balconies sigh from tired buildings. Cobbled streets ramble through historic neighborhoods. Centuries of Persian, German, and Russian architectural influence is visible. But it’s not just the historic aspects that fascinates. Tbilisi’s more recent stability has it screaming into a disorienting modernity. Controversial space-age architecture takes up residence alongside the historic buildings. A gamut of architectural possibilities sit in the shadow of the 4th century Narikala Fortress. Tbilisi has a complicated history that has continued into the present. The aesthetic of the city bears testament.

2.      The Wine Culture

Georgia’s clay vessel winemaking process, Qvevri, made UNESCO’s list for the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. They are one of the oldest wine regions in the world, where they cultivated grapevines and neolithic wine production for over 8000 years. Sprinkled throughout the boutiques and sidewalk cafés are dozens of wine shops and tasting rooms. Wine is the icebreaker with new Georgian friends. Each time you meet a local, you can bet they'll share with you their favorite variety. Even more often, they might just boast of their tasty homemade wines.

3.      The Hospitality

Hospitality runs deep in every Georgian's blood, as evidenced by Kartlis Deda watching over over Tbilisi from Sololaki Hill. Better known as Mother Georgia, her looming figure exemplifies the spirit of welcome in the country. For Georgians, this statue represents the dual priorities of hospitality and freedom. Erected in the 50s, Mother Georgia carries a bowl of wine in one hand and a sword in the other. The wine is for friends, the sword for enemies.

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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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The Quick and Dirty Guide to Madrid’s Nightlife

Famed American novelist and hardcore barfly Ernest Hemingway once said: Nobody goes to bed in Madrid until they have killed the night.And who could argue with the wisdom of a man who has lived his life on the bar stools of Madrid?

Since Hemingway’s time, Madrid has kept its spot as one of Europe’s best places to party. The city’s nightlife -as anyone who has survived it will tell you - is the stuff of legends.

No one in Madrid makes only one plan for the night. Madrileños enjoy socializing and would often make at least three plans on how they’ll spend their evening before hitting the city.

An app like Madrid Travel Guide and Offline City Map which has alerts for the latest events as well as an offline map, can help you decide your route to cover more of the scene.

Before the debauchery – eat.

To survive Madrid’s nightlife, there are only two things you have to remember – it starts late and it goes on all night.

You need your stamina, so make sure to fill up your tank with local favorites such as oreja a la plancha, seared pig’s ear for starters, followed by a healthy serving of huevos rotos which is typically served with bread, fried potatoes, chorizo, and topped off with an over-easy egg, and rounded off with a classic, callos with slices of morcilla.

Try Callos a la madrileña a delightful Madrid tapa

In a city where there is one bar for every 192 people, there will be no craving left unsatisfied in Madrid’s gastro scene.

Choose Your Own Adventure

Once you’ve had dinner, choose from which of Madrid’s three distinct nightlife scenes you’d like to start your night in.

Chueca is considered as Madrid’s gay district. Majority of the bars here cater to the gay community. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the nightlife here if you’re not waving the rainbow flag. There’s also a good selection of restaurants, cafes, and art galleries around Plaza de Chueca and Mercado de San Antón to choose from.

Calle Huertas is for those that want a taste of the city’s more traditional nightlife. Music lovers will enjoy the district’s wide assortment of jazz clubs, theater cafes, and bars that offer flamenco music located around Plaza del Ángel, Café Central, and Calle Echegaray.

Malasaña is the center of Madrid’s hipster culture. The neighborhood is filled with shops and boutiques that cater to the city’s younger generation. Because of its selection of quirky-themed bars and restaurants that draw in the eclectic crowd, it has been likened to similar communities like the East Village.

Madrid nightlife with eTips Travel Guides

Now that you have an idea of Madrid’s unique nightlife, forget about sleep and check out eTips for suggestions on bars, restaurants, and events Spain’s most cosmopolitan city has to offer.