The Best Hotels to Stay at in Paris
The post The Best Hotels to Stay at in Paris appeared first on The Blonde Abroad.
05
Aug
Posts by admin
05
Aug
Why You Need To Take A Sailing Vacation At Least Once
Vacations are needed by all of us. In a world that is constantly shouting GO! GO! GO!, sometimes the best thing we can do is stop and slow down for a few moments. With a vacation, if done correctly, you can have that break and return feeling fresher and more rejuvenated. It’s important in order to avoid stress and frustrations building up to the point where it affects our lives. Nobody wants that!
One vacation option is sailing. It’s a cool idea for such a break for several reasons.
You Can Explore The World
Did you know that the ocean covers up to 70% of the earth’s surface? That’s a remarkable amount. But, for most of our lives, we’re stuck on land and apart from perhaps a trip to the beach every now and then, the ocean doesn’t play much of a role. In fact, for many of us, travel doesn’t play much of a role either, despite its importance.
So, with a sailing vacation, you can actually get out into the world a bit, in a different way. You can take advantage of the vast oceans and seas, explore destinations that you wouldn’t otherwise reach and travel at your own pace as well, all without the crowds and hassle of land travel.
For example, you could enjoy a sailing trip around the stunning islands of Greece or island-hop in the Caribbean. And those are just two of endless options that exist for a rewarding travel experience!
You Can Have An Adventure
As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “The purpose of life is to live it.” Embracing adventure is an integral part of living a full life.
While sailing, each day spent on the open sea is typically a day filled with adventure. Whether it’s spotting marine life, taking a swim in beautiful waters, visiting destinations you can only reach by boat or enjoying the true peace and quiet of being surrounded by the sea in all directions, it’s difficult not to feel the rewards of such a trip.
And if you want to learn the ins and outs of sailing during vacation, you could learn about rope knots, nighttime navigation methods, hoisting the sails and so much more to keep you busy.
Fill each day with new experiences and challenges and your vacation will be even better than you hoped for!
It’s Good For Your Health
When we think about health and wellness, we often think about spending time at the gym or following all kinds of self-help advice that’s currently trending. However, it’s important to simply remember a core idea – to treat our bodies and minds well. There’s a lot more to being healthy than spending thirty minutes on a treadmill.
With a sailing vacation, you have a chance to move your body and exercise your mind at the same time. And since you don’t have to force yourself to go to a gym, it will be far more enjoyable. You’ll actually have fun being out in the warm air, learning how to sail, swimming and again, using the mesmerizing, peaceful surroundings and variety of destinations you visit to clear your mind and focus on what’s important.
That’s the definition of health and when it comes to a vacation, the idea is to experience what is best for your body and mind and come back feeling better than before you left.
It’s Money Well-Spent
It goes without saying that travel and taking a vacation can prove to be quite costly these days. Airfare prices are up, hotels can be scarce, cars need to be rented and so on.
A sailing vacation actually takes care of some of those issues. The value can be remarkably high since your accommodation and transportation expenses, often along with food, are all wrapped up into one. You can simply enjoy the sea, and also the destinations you visit by picking out a few appealing activities before returning to your boat. As a result, expenses are quite reasonable for what you get with this kind of a trip.
Of course, you can also shop around when looking for an affordable yacht rental or sailing vacation so that you can find the best value option for you and your group. There is no shortage of options.
It’s Versatile
When you take a sailing vacation, it also comes with the kind of flexibility that other trips don’t often enjoy. You can have exactly the type of vacation you want to have – whether it’s slow and relaxed, action-packed or anything in between. You decide and with a yacht, you have the freedom to make anything happen.
Even better, being on a sailing vacation allows you the freedom to alter plans. There are no hotel bookings or flights to change if you want to suddenly do something different. It’s you and your yacht and you can travel as you wish.
When you wake up each day, you can decide if you want a day full of swimming and snorkeling or a wander through a town on a Greek island or a night out in a popular port city. Drop anchor, and make it happen.
You Can Bond With Your Loved Ones
Life certainly gets busy when we’re at home. As a result, our priorities often get all mixed up and we even find it difficult to spend time with the very people we want to spend time with. It’s just how life goes.
But another benefit of a sailing vacation is to get these priorities straight for awhile. Being together on a yacht allows you to reconnect with your friends and/or family in such a beneficial way. You’ll all be there on that boat, away from the noise and bustle of life of land, and as a result, you can focus on each other and the quality time you are spending together. Also, with the fascinating experiences you’ll be sharing in this unique environment, you’ll create memories that will only help to solidify and grow the bonds with each other.
A sailing trip definitely stands out in this way!
The post Why You Need To Take A Sailing Vacation At Least Once appeared first on Wandering Earl.
05
Jul
05
Jul
eSIM for Europe – the Best Way to Stay Connected
Travel is back and hopefully you have a trip planned for the near future! If you do have travels coming up, you’ll most likely want to figure out a way to stay connected while overseas. Things are changing quite quickly when it comes to this topic but luckily, it’s now remarkably easy, and inexpensive, to travel with a constant data connection. It’s all about eSIM cards as they are definitely the most traveler friendly option that exists.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is different than your usual SIM card that you would insert into your phone. Usually, your cellular company provides you with a physical SIM card and once inserted into your device, you are connected to their network.
With an eSIM, there is no physical card. Instead, it’s 100% digital, enabling you to connect to a cellular network without having to put anything in your phone’s SIM card slot. In short, it’s software that you download and that installs directly onto your phone.
A good example is Holafly’s eSIM for Europe as it allows you to download an international eSIM so that you can remain connected to the internet while traveling.
Why you should use Holafly eSIM?
First, it’s easy to set up and use. As you’ll see below, it only takes a couple of minutes from the moment you purchase your eSIM until it is ready to be used.
Second, the value is hard to beat. What you’ll pay for a month of data with a Europe eSIM card is about the same as you would pay for only 3 or 4 days of international roaming offered by your cellular company at home!
Third, it offers extensive coverage for travelers. You can purchase an eSIM for an individual country or even an entire region, such as Europe or Asia. This ensures that you are seamlessly connected wherever you go on your adventures, without having to worry about finding ways to get online every time you cross a new border.
Advantages of using an eSIM to travel to Europe
Let’s suppose you’re taking a trip to Europe. With HolaFly’s eSIM for Europe, you can buy your eSIM online in about 2 minutes and choose a plan that suits your travels. You can choose a plan for an individual country or for all of Europe if you’ll be bouncing around. You’ll also find plans for 7 days, 15 days and 30 days, depending on the length of your trip.
Keep in mind, you’ll still keep your phone number from home. If you have a regular physical SIM card in your phone, nothing will change with your phone number. But with the eSIM, you’ll be getting your data connection through HolaFly’s network of cellular companies, which is much cheaper than if you use the data connection offered by your cellular network at home.
Then, as soon as you land in your destination, you’ll be connected. And you won’t have to worry about exorbitant international roaming fees or paying for the very expensive international plan that you your cellular company at home offers.
How do I purchase an eSIM for Europe?
As mentioned, it’s simple. Here are the steps to follow:
- Go to HolaFly’s eSIM for Europe page: https://esim.holafly.com/esim-europe/
- Check the box that says “Phones compatible with eSIM” to make sure your phone is on the list
- Choose the plan that suits your travels and add it to the cart
- Go to “Checkout” and pay for the eSIM
- You’ll then receive an email with a QR code.
- Whenever you arrive in your destination (or right before you travel there), you just scan the QR code with your phone and the eSIM will be immediately delivered straight onto your device.
- Once this happens, your eSIM is activated and you’ll be connected!
Which devices work with the Holafly eSIM card?
There’s a long list of phones that are compatible with a Holafly eSIM card. Here’s the quick list but you can always check out the complete list of individual phones to make sure your device is indeed able to use an eSIM: Holafly compatible devices
- All models from the iPhone XS, XR onward, including the iPhone SE 2 (2020)
- From the Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra onwards
- From the Samsung Galaxy Fold, Fold 2 and onwards
- From the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and onwards
- From the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and onwards
- Huawei P40, P0 Pro and later models
- Huawei Mate 40 Pro and later models
- Google Pixel 3, 3a (some versions do not allow eSIM)
- Google Pixel 4, 4 XL, 4a, 5 and later models
- Oppo Find X3 Pro
- Oppo Reno 5A
- Motorola Razr (2019)
- Motorola Razr 5G (dual SIM)
How much do I need to pay for an eSIM to travel to Europe?
The prices for an Holafly eSIM for Europe varies depending on the length of time. For the eSIM package that will connect you to fast internet in 40 European countries, here are the options:
5 days unlimited = $19.00 USD
10 days unlimited = $34.00 USD
15 days unlimited = $47.00 USD
20 days unlimited = $54.00 USD
30 days unlimited = $64.00 USD
60 days unlimited = $84.00 USD
90 days unlimited = $99.00 USD
Alternatives to Holafly eSIM to have a data connection in Europe
Of course, an eSIM such as Holafly is not the only way you can have a data connection while traveling in Europe. Here are some other options:
Roaming
This involves simply keeping your phone on as normal when you go overseas. It’s certainly easy enough but you’ll end up paying a fortune as the rates your cellular company at home will charge you for international roaming will leave your jaw on the floor! To lower those costs, many cellular companies offer an ‘international plan’ which you can certainly use. However, these plans still cost much more than an eSIM. You can expect to pay around $10 per day (plus taxes) for such an international plan, so after 3 or 4 days, you’re already spending more than if you had an eSIM to travel to Europe, or anywhere else. Also, you often need to actually call your cellular company, wait to speak with customer service and then go through an activation process in order to set up the international plan.
Local SIM
Another option is to purchase a local SIM card in each of the countries you visit. When you arrive, you can find a shop selling SIM cards and by inserting one into your phone, you’ll be able to connect to that network. It’s also quite common these days to find kiosks and shops at airports where you can buy such a local SIM card upon arrival. The main downside is that you won’t be connected as soon as you arrive in a new country as you need to find a shop first in order to buy the SIM card. Also, if you are traveling to multiple countries, you’ll generally need to buy a new SIM card in each country you visit instead of simply being connected automatically through one eSIM.
International SIM
You can also purchase an international SIM card. This would be more like a traditional physical SIM card that you would insert into your phone. Several companies offer these international SIM cards and they can be a good option, especially if your phone is not compatible with an eSIM. In general, you would get the same benefits of an eSIM although the cost of data would be more expensive with a physical SIM card.
Final thoughts about Holafly eSIM card
The days are gone when having a data connection while traveling was difficult, to say the least. The transition from internet cafes to expensive local SIM cards to expensive international plans has finally landed in a sweet spot. With an Holafly eSIM card, you can have fast internet wherever you go, for a very affordable price.
As long as your phone supports an eSIM, it’s the best option to stay connected while on the road by far. And the fact that it takes only a couple of minutes to get connected is a huge bonus. You could be on your way to Europe right now, download an eSIM while waiting to board your flight and as soon as you land in your destination, turn on your phone and you’re connected!
*This sponsored post comes at an ideal time. I just used an eSIM while on my recent trip to Iraq and I wanted to share why this is the best way to stay connected while traveling.
The post eSIM for Europe – the Best Way to Stay Connected appeared first on Wandering Earl.
05
Jun
05
Jun
10 Places to Visit in the South of France
The post 10 Places to Visit in the South of France appeared first on The Blonde Abroad.
05
Jun
Affordable Canadian Cities For Digital Nomads
Many major Canadian cities are fast becoming the most expensive places in the world to live. Ideally, you should travel to Canada before settling there for a significant amount of time, to get a feel for the place. But, for reference, you’re looking at at least $2,000 for a 80-square-meter apartment in Toronto, and you can double that if it’s a spacious place in the city center. Likewise, Vancouver is similarly priced, and whilst these cities have incredible amenities, the point of being a digital nomad is to be free from living in areas that we cannot afford.
So, when looking at flights to Canada, make sure you decide on the city that is right for you.
Halifax, Nova Scotia – Up And Coming
Halifax is on the rise, and whilst it used to be overshadowed by Vancouver, it’s soon becoming a wise alternative in the property market. Halifax has a decently-sized city feel to it when it comes to amenities and things to do, whilst its dense downtown is less easy to feel lost in than, say, Vancouver. It’s a small big city, in a way.
Halifax is cheaper than most of the big cities, but it is fast accelerating in prices, so you may not want to wait around. It’s currently around $1,500 for a one-bed apartment in the city. Because people are flocking here since the rise of remote work, it’s beginning to build a buzzing economy that has plenty of start-ups, making it ideal for networking and finding clients.
Ottawa – Affordable Big City
Ottawa is a great choice if you like a big city with plenty to do. With an average one-bedroom apartment costing around $1,600 per month, Ottawa is affordable for Canadian standards, given its 1-million population and strong economy. Often, the more affordable options in Canada have fewer things to do and less nightlife – but not Ottawa, it has it all. It’s a pedestrian-friendly and diverse city that has some great history to it.
Because of its cosmopolitan and progressive nature, Ottawa is popular and friendly towards immigrants. Much more so than say, Quebec, and it remains to have a very high median income and stable economy. Plus, you’ll meet tons of other digital nomads.
Edmonton – Cheap Big City Near Nature
Edmonton is the capital of Alberta, which lies in the midwest of Canada. Despite having almost a one million population, Edmonton is both very cheap and in the midst of amazing nature. With an average rent of $950 for a one-bed apartment, Edmonton is arguably the cheapest city on this list.
Although the city grid is fairly large, conservation areas and nature parks surround it. Elk Island National Park, Muttart Conservatory, William Hawrelak Park… The list goes on. And, despite the large city feel, Edmonton has one of the best bus networks in all of Canada, with 7456 bus stops. Usually in the US and even Canada, you can only have one of the two: Affordability and public transport. However, Edmonton offers both, making it ideal for the low-key outdoorsy types.
The post Affordable Canadian Cities For Digital Nomads appeared first on Wandering Earl.
05
May
05
May
Walking Holidays Across Spain
At the heart of walking holidays in Spain lies the Camino de Santiago – Pilgrimage of Compostela – known as the Way of St James in English. This is a network of pilgrim paths dating back to the 9th century, when the remains of the apostle Saint James the Great were discovered, in which different towns and villages across Europe all lead back to Santiago, Spain.
Although Camino de Santiago Frances begins in France, these routes all end in Spain. For this reason, Spain has become a very popular walking holiday destination, in which holidaymakers and hikers from around the world dive into a segmented route within one of the pilgrim paths.
This type of holiday has it all: physical activity, culture and history, and is a chance to explore different places. Whilst you may have driven from one town to the next in Spain, it’s not quite the same experience as walking, in which you have lots of time to take in your surroundings and see every inch of soil between two connected villages or towns.
Popular Routes
Within Camino de Santiago, there are many routes with varying levels of difficulty. Sarria to Santiago is a popular one as it’s graded 2 out of 5, yet covers 111km, crossing various significant Spanish towns such as Sarria, Puertomarin, Palas de Rey, and Arzu.
This particular route takes 7 days to complete, in which there are many great hotels along the way. Of course, because most of the day is spent walking, which is free, and the hotels include half board or breakfast (up to you), these walking trips have very few unexpected costs.
Another popular route to Santiago is from St Jean Pied de Port. if you’re thinking that doesn’t sound very Spanish then you’re right, because this route begins in southern France and ends in, you guessed it, Santiago. The ‘French Way’ is one of the most culturally rich walks in the world. St Jean Pied de Port in the French Basque region is a 12th-century town. Soon, you head to Pamplona, which is world-famous for its bull-running, before you eventually pass through northern Spain. This walk is extremely diverse, allowing you to see both the differences and similarities in Spanish-French architecture, culture, and terrain.
Socialising and Culture
Of course, meeting other pilgrims along the way is also a key part of these routes – this is the benefit of sticking to the historical trails. Other like-minded folks will undoubtedly be crossing the same paths that are experiencing the same challenges.
Because these are historical routes, the towns they cross are culturally significant too. Almost any route you choose will have a plethora of cathedrals, architecture, and authentic cuisine. Rustic villages and forests are plentiful in northern Spain too.
What Time of Year is Best?
Southern France and northern Spain are both fairly mild climates all year round, with average summer temperatures of 25 degrees celsius (80F) and average winter temperatures of 12 degrees celsius (54 F). For this reason, no time of year is too challenging to make these walks, although between June and September is recommended if you want as little rain as possible.
The post Walking Holidays Across Spain appeared first on Wandering Earl.
05
May
Why You Should Consider a Vacation to Jamaica
It’s not a surprise that I often think back to my recent trip to Jamaica.
Whether it’s the flashes of white sand and perfect water, the local food, the wanders through downtown Montego Bay, the day trips into the jungle-covered interior and, of course, the infectious vibe of the people, the trip was beyond memorable.
I had been to Jamaica many times when I worked on board cruise ships as a Tour Manager, way back in the early 2000s. But this time was different. Instead of visiting for a mere few hours at a time, on this occasion, it was a full 10 days on the island. Naturally, this gifted me the opportunity to do more, meet more people, eat more food and simply visit far more places.
A vacation to Jamaica should be high up, very high up, on any traveler’s list, especially if that traveler is fond of tropical destinations, a combination of relaxation and culturally-focused excursions, endless natural wonders and, to be honest, feeling happy from the moment you arrive. From that first smile and all the positive energy you’ll soak up from your first few conversations, by the time you reach your accommodation you will already know that you’ve made the right choice for your trip.
And the good news is that traveling to Jamaica right now is quite easy, with a simple set of Covid guidelines to follow:
As for my personal recommendations of places to visit:
- Beaches (Negril Seven Mile Beach is gorgeous!)
- Dunn’s River Falls
- Bob Marley Museum
- Wandering around downtown Montego Bay
- Appleton Rum Tour
- Food tasting (find out where the locals eat and try jerk chicken, codfish and meat patties)
- Hire a driver for a day trip through the interior (stop in villages along the way and meet great people!)
Jamaica is also a short flight from much of the US, making it an even more ideal destination for that well-deserved island vacation.
I’ll be back again myself, for sure. And it will absolutely be for another 10 day stay (at least!) as I still have plenty more of this welcoming, laid-back island to explore!
The post Why You Should Consider a Vacation to Jamaica appeared first on Wandering Earl.