General Alpine Mountaineering Gear List

An exhaustive list compiled for you to send you fully prepared for any hiking or backpacking trip!

Have	Packed	Climbing Equipment	Notes
O	O	Backpack	4500+ cubic inches with ice axe loops
O	O	Mountaineering boots	Plastic doubles with inner liner
O	O	Hiking boots
O	O	Crampons	12 point step-in or strap-on
O	O	Anti-balling plates	For crampons
O	O	Ice Axe	60-75cm in size
O	O	Alpine climbing harness	Fit over all cloths and have adjustable leg loops
O	O	Helmet	Sized to fit over a hat
O	O	Carabineers	At least 2 locking and 2 regular
O	O	Trekking Poles	Optional
O	O	Gaiters	Need to fit over plastic boots
		Outerwear
O	O	Hardshell pants and jacket	Windproof & waterproof
O	O	Softshell pants & jacket	In place of hardshell as applicable
O	O	Insulated Parka	Large enough to fit over all other layers. Down.
O	O	Wind shirt/jacket	Middle layer or around town
O	O	Fleece/wool hat	Should cover the ears
O	O	Balaclava/Neck warmer
O	O	Ball Cap
O	O	Modular glove system	Shell and insulated layers
O	O	Mittens
O	O	Liner/fleece gloves
O	O	Glacier glasses	100% UV with sideshield/noseshield
O	O	Goggles	100% UV
O	O	Bandanas	Bring 2
O	O
		Innerwear
O	O	Light/midweight underwear	Two pair tops & bottoms. No cotton.
O	O	Expedition weight underwear	One top & bottom
O	O	Fleece Jacket
O	O	Fleece Pants
O	O	Liner socks	2-3 pair
O	O	Heavyweight socks	3 pairs, worn over liners
O	O	Underwear	As needed for ___ days.
		Camping Gear
O	O	Waterbottles	3 one quart bottles
O	O	Closed cell foam pad	Full length
O	O	Therma-rest type pad	3/4 or full length
O	O	Sleeping bag	-5 to 20 degree as needed, down or synthetic
O	O	Compression/Stuff Sacks	For sleeping bag and other uses
O	O	Headlamp	Extra bulbs & 2 sets of fresh batteries
O	O	Mug, bowl, utensils	Mug & bowl with lids are best.
O	O	Snack/lunch foods
O	O	Baby wipes	For personal hygiene
O	O	Ear plugs	Foam type for sleeping
O	O	Knife/Multi tool
O	O	Matches/lighter
O	O	Large duffel bag	To pack everything in. Check airline restrictions.
O	O	Sunblock/Lip balm
O	O	Camera/Film
O	O	Toiletry Kit	Toothbrush, comb, etc
O	O	First aid kit/medications
O	O	Journal/Book
O	O	Small towel/washcloth
O	O	Ipod/MP3/Cards	Optional
O	O	Plane ticket & Passport	Remember to check visa requirements.
		Travel/City Clothing
O	O	Walking shoes
O	O	Pants/shorts	Two pairs are plenty. Khakis are versatile.
O	O	Shirts	2-3 for plane & city wear.

Challenging the Volcanoes of Ecuador

“Growing up with a father who likes hunting, rising early soon became for me the promise of an exciting mission and a new challenge that would always bring me face to face with nature. Traveling to the states to complete my studies, I found my passion for outdoors ascending with every mountain I climbed, realizing the endless possibilities nature can offer us. Back to Lebanon, I knew that my passion for mountaineering will never be limited by the size of the place I’m living in. It will always be bigger than me and will never stop pushing me to explore new boundaries within myself and out in the wild.”

Traveler: Mansour Dib.
Destination: Ecuador.
Date: August 2013.
Duration: 3 weeks.

QUITO

Landing in Ecuador’s capital, Quito, you’re already breathless, not only at the city’s wild “volcanic” charm, but also because you’re already at 2,800 meters above sea level.

Welcome to one of the highest capitals of the world, the explosive land of adventures, and the city that has it all! With many beautiful things to do and see, take all the time you need to explore this city, but make sure not to miss the below:

• A stroll in Quito’s charming and well-preserved old town
• A visit to El Panecillo, the 200 meter high hill with its monument of the winged Virgin Mary and a 360° breathtaking view of Quito.
• The very special churches of Quito, with their unique architecture reflecting a fascinating mix of paganism and Christianity, and their impressive gold decorations.
• The Ecuadorian chocolate and coffee. One of the best!
• Stand en el Mitad del Mundo, where the Ecuador is located and the southern and northern hemispheres meet!
• Buy a Panama hat. Those are actually handmade in Ecuador and can range from $25 to $600!

Old town of Quito

View of El Panecillo and the famous winged Virgin Mary statue

ACCLIMATIZATION – THE PRE-HIKING PHASE

• Rucu Pichincha

“The purpose of our trip being mountaineering, we chose to climb the two highest peaks in Ecuador: Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world at 5,897 meters high, and Chimborazo, the closest mountain to the sun at 6,300m.”

Preparing to climb these volcanoes starts with an acclimatization phase that helps the body adapt to high altitudes and be in a better shape to face the challenge ahead. Taking the teleferiqo (cable car) from Quito, you reach the base of the closest volcano, Rucu Pichincha, at 4,100 meters. Your acclimatization starts here, with a climb to the summit of the volcano at 4,696m high.

View from Rucu Pichincho

• A stay with the Quichua

Part of our “acclimatization” phase was a visit to the Indian community of Ecuador as well, known as the “Quichua”. An approximately 5-hour drive from Quito lead us to the foothills of the Imbabura volcano where we spent 2 days living in guesthouses and getting to know the traditions of this tribe.

Home to the Imbabura volcano, the province offers guide services to those who wish to climb it. Referred to as “Papa Imbabura”, the volcano is considered as the region’s sacred protector and climbing it with a guide rewarded us with a priceless view of the town from 4,630 meters high.

Driving back from Imbabura, make sure to visit the picturesque town of Otovalo known for its beautiful traditional market.

Playing with the lama during stay with the Indian community (yes, they have lamas!)

A view of Papa Imbabura

• The Haciendas

A must-try experience during your visit to Ecuador, whether before or after your climb! Haciendas are originally house farms founded by Spanish settlers in the 16^th century and renovated to become luxurious hotels and lodges. We chose to pamper ourselves in one of those before our big hike, and enjoy their colonial architecture, never-ending green lands, beautiful courtyards, and unique historical feel!

Haciendas of Ecuador

CLIMBING COTOPAXI

Driving to the base of Cotopaxi from Quito, you can already feel the surge of excitement flood your senses. The hike to the “refuge” at 4,800m takes about one hour where you sleep the night and prepare yourself for the earliest rise in your life! Given that the volcanic mountains of Ecuador have their own weather system, it is always recommendable to start the hike very early (1am) to reach the summit at sunrise and enjoy a stunning view of the volcanoes drown in the beautiful colors of dawn.

The hike to the summit of Cotopaxi is approximately a 7-hour exercise exposing you to icy areas of permanent glaciers, valleys with steep banks, and humid winds from the Amazonian plain, making it a quite challenging climb that needs expertise and advanced equipment. The way down is another 6 hours, so you’ll have to be mentally and physically prepared for a 14-hour mountaineering day!

Climbing Cotopaxi volcano – somewhere above the clouds

Stunning view from Cotopaxi summit – at last…

BAŇOS

The feeling of post-climbing achievement is soon enough followed by exhaustion. The best way for us to reward ourselves and relax our bodies was to spend two days in Baños, the town known for its hydrothermal springs where naturally-made open-air pools await to heal your body and soothe your muscles with their healthy minerals and therapeutic waters. The place is also famous for being a playground for outdoor lovers.

THE ONE AND ONLY CHIMBORAZO

The highest peak in Ecuador, Chimborazo is known to be a tough mountain and summiting it is not guaranteed on any day. With highly unpredictable weather, great height (6,310m), and a history of explosive eruptions, Chimborazo is considered a dangerous and very challenging route to the summit that usually takes 10 hours up. Due to very strong winds and frequent rock falls, we were forced to stop our climb at 5,800 meters and return to base, not being able to reach the farthest point of the earth’s surface from the center of the earth but filled with a great sense of accomplishment.

Stayed in: Casa del Condor.

Sunrise reflection on the icy mountains of Chimborazo

The majestic Chimborazo

To make your life easier:
– Travel agency worked with: ITK voyage (for all your logistic arrangements during the trip).
– For your exhaustive mountaineering gear needs, check the list we have prepared for you here!

Singapore – The City of the Future.

Singapore’s 50^th Anniversary seems like the perfect incentive to go back in time and relive the moments, flavors, and places that made this trip a special one for me. Singapore offers several iconic attractions that justify it as “a sustainable city of the future” and one of the world’s most important business hubs and vibrant cities, but here’s a list of the main attractions that you should definitely not miss if on a visit:

Marina Bay

Adjacent to the existing city centre, Marina Bay is the new growth area of Singapore but also its major business and financial hub. Surrounded by water and gardens and characterized by impressive cutting-edge architecture, it is not doubt the proud reflection of a thriving country that has positioned itself as a city of the future and a hub of great opportunities.

With 24/7 whirling energy and ongoing events and activities, Marina Bay is the main attraction of tourists, not to mention that it’s home to Marina Bay Sands. The most luxurious resort in Singapore, the Marina Bay Sands host the iconic 5-star hotel known for its stunning infinity pool, along with the world’s most expensive standalone casino property, the huge Marina Bay Sands mall, and other attractions.

The Marina Bay Sands towers, the iconic structure of Singapore

Marina Bay, the business hub.

The famous infinity pool of Marina Bay Sands hotel

Clarke Quay

Known for its vibrant cosmopolitan nightlife, Clarke Quay is made of five blocks of renovated warehouses that are home today to stunning waterside restaurants, a wide choice of cafes and clubs, and the best Singaporean nightclubs. The Quay attracts millions of tourists every year with its many activities such as the river cruise, its quarterly signature events and the beautiful views it offers day and night.

Clarke Quay, Singapore

Boat Quay

Originally the hub of trade and marine commerce of Singapore, Boat Quay is a short walk from Clarke Quay and constitutes today a lively stretch of restaurants, bars and cafes where locals unwind after a working day and tourists enjoy a laid-back evening by the river.

The waterside restaurants of Boat Quay

Gardens by the Bay

The most impressive garden you could see – as impressive as anything made in Singapore! Gardens by the Bay is a multi-award winning horticultural destination stretching over 101 hectares, and a true masterpiece. Showcasing extraordinary plant life from around the world displayed in awe-inspiring conservatories, the Gardens offer an escape into breathtaking nature where you will walk alongside suspended vertical gardens and super-sized trees, discover a 35-meter mist-veiled mountain enclosing the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls, venture into surreal nature-invaded structures, and enjoy amazing panoramic views of the city skyline as well as shows of light and sound.

The stunning gardens

Gardens by the bay – huge art installation

Chinatown

A sweet escape from futuristic urban architecture to the modest side of Asia, where a bustling mix of old and new awaits to feed your need for a little bit of chaos amidst all this perfection. Discover the heritage of the largest ethnic group in Singapore by wandering its narrow streets filled with traditional shops, stopping at its small restaurants or kiosks to try delicious stir-fried noodles or “satay”, buying souvenirs, or even exploring its Heritage Centre and many temples.

Chinatown mood

Jurong Bird Park

A landscaped park built on Jurong Hill, the Jurong Park is a beautiful journey into a world of colors and natural beauty. One of the largest collections of birds in the world, this famous attraction is truly paradise for bird and nature lovers. Spend a whole day discovering new bird species, watch interactive bird shows, walk in hectares of greenery, and enjoy a beautifully-conserved haven of nature.

Welcome to Jorung Bird Park…

Hello beautiful flamingos

Night Safari

An experience unique to Singapore, the world’s first safari park for nocturnal animals is a multi-sensorial wildlife adventure not to miss! Take a 40-min guided tram tour and travel into the fascinating world of nocturnal animals through 7 geographical zones. Wander amidst changing scenery, vegetation, and various endangered species, while listening to the sounds of nature. For your bookings, click here.

Sentosa Island

Your one-stop resort destination for endless fun! Take the Sentosa express monorail or cable car to reach one of the most visited attractions in Singapore, home to a long stretch of sandy beach, golf courses, hotels, and the Resorts World Sentosa including the Universal Studios theme park.

Far far away land, Universal studios, Singapore

Jurassic Park, Universal Studios

The Merlion, Singapore’s national marketing icon, found at Sentosa island

Orchard Road

Even if shopping is not your thing, it’s a shame to visit Singapore and not pass by this great street once at least. Stretching over 2.2km, Orchard Road is an impressive shopping destination home to the most prestigious brands and iconic shopping malls, restaurants and hotels. Do not forget the fine colonial architecture and the vibrant energy that sweeps you off your feet!

Orchard street at a glance

Nice rooftops to try:

• 1- Altitude
• KU DE TA

Good to know:

• On the occasion of Singapore’s 50th Anniversary, Tripadvisor is offering 30% off its room rates. Another good reason to plan your trip this year! Click here to know more.
• The country is celebrating its golden jubilee all year long through ongoing activities that you can find here.

New Zealand – The Other World

Remember this far far away land you used to dream of, where all you could hear was the sound of birds and waterfalls, and all you could see was trees, mountains, and seas? This magical place you found only in fairy tales and wished a million times you could escape to and leave everything behind?

Somewhere on the Pacific stretching across town main islands lies this land, waiting to mesmerize you with spectacular views around every corner. Welcome to New Zealand, the wonderland, the adventure land, the land of the long white cloud, where every day is a day in paradise.

With endless attractions and magnificent spots, this list tries to compile the must-see places for whoever’s decided to take a break from the ordinary and breathe in some extraordinary.

Mount Maunganui

A coastal city in the Bay of Plenty, Mount Maunganui has been ranked one of the best beaches in New Zealand. With crystal white sand, a harbor beach and an ocean beach, the town is a haven for surfers and people looking for a relaxed time next to the sea. Mount Maunganui also referred to as “The Mount”, is called after the extinct volcano rising 232 meters above the Pacific and one of the town’s main attractions. Several tracks leading to the summit offer tourists a mesmerizing view of the harbor and the beach.

Mount Maunganui view

The Mount!

Bay of Plenty

Kiwi 360

Also located in the Bay of Plenty is New Zealand’s largest kiwi orchard and the center of the kiwifruit expansion. A visit to Te Puke near Mount Maunganui takes you through vast kiwi orchards and into the heart of the kiwi industry and what constitutes the major horticultural export of New Zealand. Whether you decide to take a Kart tour or a helicopter ride, you’ll be sure to enjoy fascinating landscapes and discover more than fifty different varieties of delicious fruit and nuts!

the kiwi plantations from up

kiwi plantations

The giant kiwi at kiwi 360

Rotorua

A destination you should definitely not miss in the North Island. Known to be a volcanic wonderland with incredible geothermal attractions, Rotorua offers magical forests, natural hot springs, amazing mountain biking trails, explosive geysers including the legendary Pohutu Geyser, steaming volcanic crater lakes, bubbling mud pools and free thermal reserves, not to mention exceptionally luxurious spa resorts.

Rotorua is also the heartland of the Maori culture. Visit Te Puia and immerse yourself in the life and culture of the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand through cultural shows and a journey into the traditions and heritage of a tribe that has become a vibrant part of the country’s culture.

Te  Puia is also home to a Kiwi bird Conversation Centre where one can see New Zealand’s famous native flightless and nocturnal bird and national icon, to which the country owns its “Kiwiland” appellation.

Nice restaurant to try: Flying Burrito Brothers, 07 Grey Street, Tauranga.

explosive geyser

Maori cultural center

The Hobbiton

Who hasn’t seen the incredible Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies and doesn’t dream about visiting the real hobbit village where all the magic took place? The actual movie set located in the small town of Matamata in the Waikato region includes The Hobbit Holes, The Mill, The Party tree, The Green Dragon Inn, the shires, the lake, the double arched bridge, and other structures, trees and gardens created for the films.

The shire

The Waitomo Caves

Located also in the southern Waikato region of the North Island, the Waitomo Caves have been a prime tourist attraction given their outstanding beauty. Known for their limestone formations, their amazing stalagmites and stalactites, and their luminescent glowworms, the caves are a true enchanting experience – not to miss!

Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Auckland

New Zealand’s largest city and financial capital, Auckland is not just any city. Known for its beautiful nearby beaches, its many wineries, and its harbor, it offers activities and attractions for everyone.

Available activities:

• Boat cruises
• The 328-meter Sky tower (the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand where you will experience a stunning 360 view of the city and top restaurants, cafes, and bars)
• Waiheke Island – Wine tasting (try the Cable Bay vineyard for great food and a fantastic view)
• Must-do: A boat trip to Waiheke Island known for its high-quality vineyards, its white sand beaches, beautiful craft boutiques, as well as many water-based activities. (Contact Ecozip adventures for your activities’ booking)

Cable Bay

Relaxing in Waiheke island…

Queenstown

Located in the Southern Island, Queenstown is famous for its natural beauty, its majestic mountains and its lakes, especially Wakatipu, the third largest lake in New Zealand. With tall mountains falling majestically into the sea, cruising the lake offers stunning alpine scenery and a truly serene and beautiful encounter with nature. But behind this relaxed and romantic feel, the town reserves a haven for adrenaline lovers with its wide choice of water activities including water rafting, kayaking, jetboating in the river (a must try!), not to mention the paragliding, parasailing, hiking, bungy jumping and skydiving activities that are also available.

Must-do: take a gondola ride up the mountain for a unique stargazing experience where you will be assisted by experienced guides and top-notch telescopes to enjoy stunning sights of our galaxies, from high over Queenstown! Make sure to wear warm clothes (even though you’re provided with a jacket once there) and comfortable shoes – you will have to walk a short distance to reach the stargazing platform on top of Bob’s peak.

Stayed in: Rydges Lakeland Resort (5 min walk from city center).

Restaurants to try: Ferg Burger / Vudu café / The Cow restaurant.

Queenstown beauty

Queenstown breathtaking landscapes

Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu seen from up

Milford Sound

Acclaimed as New Zealand’s top tourist destination, Milford Sound is an impressive fjord lying deep within Fiordland National Park and a stunning natural attraction that every traveler should put on his itinerary.

The wonders of Milford Sound are countless. The second largest natural reserve of New Zealand, the fjord extends over 12,000 hectares of forest, beautifully invaded by lakes and waterfalls. Huge mountains dive deeply into the sea offering stunning landscapes that make every moment spent there a real therapy for the soul.

Besides several nice cruises available from Milford Sound to the Tasman sea where lake and sea water meet to create an exceptionally beautiful color effect, one particular activity showcases the fjord’s beauty like nothing else. Although a bit costly (500 NZD), the Cessna plane ride over Milford Sound takes you on an exhilarating journey over valleys of forests, spectacular rivers and mountains, and blue-green ice falls.

Milford Sound Fjord

Up in the air over Milford Sound!

Cessna ride over the snowy mountains of Milford Sound

You should know:

• There is no consulate for New Zealand in Lebanon. The visa should be done in Dubai and takes one month. Details about the required documents and the necessary steps to take can be found on the internet.
• A transit visa to Australia is needed even if you’re just there for a stopover – that is of course if you have only a Lebanese passport. It takes 2 weeks and can be applied for in Beirut.

*Story and pictures were provided by Nadine Baroud and Cynthia Hanna, written and published by Notes of a Traveler with travelers’ permission.

Want to be happy? Slow down

A TED article that we really love and a great lesson for life! Want to be happy? Learn the power of going nowhere and to stand still…

10 Things Only Free Spirits Would Understand.

1. You love to walk barefoot or simply “bare”. It always felt more natural for you, and in your head, connected you better with the earth underneath your feet.
2. You don’t wear a watch. Because you don’t feel the need to. Your days are measured by sunrises and sunsets, by the nice moments you live, the new adventures that knock on your door, and the interesting encounters you make.
3. You hate going to malls, especially when on vacation. It’s a total waste of your time while you could be sipping your coffee on a beautiful terrace, exploring the streets of a new city, or lying down in some park.
4. You find your happiness in free pleasures. Walking barefoot on the sand with a coffee in your hand or reading your book in your favorite outdoor spot are worth far more than any fancy dinner or piece of jewelry. You often wonder why people are so taken by “worldly” matters while the most precious things in life are totally free.
5. Your solitude is sacred. Spending time away from your family, your friends, and life’s obligations is more than crucial for you. You need that time to reflect, detox and recharge and you usually love to spend it in nature or maybe alone in your room.
6. Safe is boring. For you, every day is a new opportunity to take risks and explore the world’s beauty. You cannot content yourself with the comfort zone you’re living in; the best way to really live is to go out there and reach for every new experience that’ll make you stronger and wiser.
7. You’re in love with places you’ve never been to and people you haven’t met. You have a constant craving to wander somewhere new. You dream about places you haven’t visited yet and all you can think about is the next escape where you can get lost amidst unknown streets and unfamiliar faces.
8. Traveling is priority. Every time you’re about to spend money on an expensive piece of cloth, you think about this plane ticket you’re wasting away and this new escape you’re missing out on.
9. You’re all about peace and love. Tension is really not your thing; you spend your time wondering how people can argue over things that seem so trivial for you. You’re cool and easy going with everyone, and you love to see people around you happy.
10. You don’t give a sh*t about what people think. You know you are different but you’ve never made an effort to stand out. You love the way you are and the way you live because you know you are true to yourself and to your beliefs, and you’re not waiting to please anyone around you. You’re wild and free and you only follow your heart, and the things that make you feel alive.

The Social Travel – Meet your facebook friends in real life!

Interacting with your friends on facebook has gone to a whole new level. Meet The Social Travel, a new interface allowing you to locate your friends around the world and travel to them in the easiest and cheapest way.

Being able to follow up on your friends’ adventures, to like and comment on their check-ins and travel photos is pretty cool. But what if you could meet those facebook friends in real wherever they are and live those adventures with them?

By simply signing up to “The Social Travel” by email or via facebook, you can now find out your friends’ locations through a world map generated by the platform and what are the best means of transportation, date and price to meet them wherever they might be!

Turning the passion into a career

It was on an inspiring trip to incredible India in 2014 that Maurizio Parrino, Andrea Scalogna and Riccardo Parrino knew they had a mission to accomplish that would facilitate the life of every traveler.

Despite the many existing travel applications, none really goes the extra mile to offer social media users extensive search information that would present them with the best traveling solutions. This is where TST team steps in and fills the gap, enabling an easy, fast and low-cost “social” traveling experience that allows people to meet their facebook friends or ever new travelers worldwide!

The founders – Maurizio, Andrea and Riccardo.

Future prospects

With the increasing power of social media as well as the team’s partnership with Skycanner and Bla Bla Car, in addition to a new plan of partnership with train companies, The Social Travel aims at covering the entire world to offer its subscribers a full-fledged service when it comes to travel solutions. With endless ideas and plans in mind and an invincible passion at heart, TST team aspires to revolutionize traveling in the world of today and tomorrow.

Wishing you all the luck, Andrea, Maurizio, and Riccardo!

To know more about The Social Travel and sign up, click here. You can also check their facebook page.

The Two-Week Diary of a Backpacker in Cambodia

“Living in a big country like Canada for four years where road trips are the best way to discover the country’s beauty is where it started for me. Returning to Lebanon in 2006, I knew this passion for road trips and traveling would stay with me forever.”

 After years of traveling and road tripping in North America & Europe, Rabih Maftoum felt the need for a different cultural experience, a discovery that’s new in every way. Choosing Southeast Asia for such experience comes with no surprise. With a rich history, stunning natural beauty, untouched paradises, friendly people, and an affordable living, the region has become the favorite of thousands of travelers around the world.

Country: Kingdom of Cambodia
Destinations: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Koh Rong Island.
Date: April, 2014.
(Lebanese passport holders have visa free access)

Stop 1: Phnom Penh

Previously a French colony, the capital and the largest city of Cambodia hasn’t lost its French feel to date. Walking its streets will reveal French colonial buildings along its grand boulevards, amidst a preserved monumental Asian architecture. A charming mix unique to the Cambodian capital, which offers interesting touristy sites like the Silver Pagoda, the Royal Palace, the National Museum, and the many bustling markets, including the Central Market, the largest constructed market in 1937 in the shape of a dome. Welcome to Phnom Penh, your gateway to a land of intoxicating history and sublime beauty, the land of adventures and backpackers…

Stayed 1 night in Eighty8 Backpackers.

The streets of Phnom Penh

Stop 2: Siem Reap

Home to Angkor Wat, the largest complex of temples and religious monument in the world, Siem Reap should be on everyone’s to-do list. A journey into Angkor Wat, meaning “City of Temples” in Khmer, takes you back to the thousand year old Khmeir civilization, which remnants constitute today a greatly preserved and mesmerizing UNESCO world heritage site. The prime attraction of tourists, Angkor Wat has become symbol of Cambodia and appears on its national flag. (More on the history of Angkor Wat here)

Angkor Wat, the architectural masterpiece.

Inside Angkor Wat, a walk into history…

A giant tree in the beautiful temple of Ta Prohm

Angkor Wat is not everything Siem Reap has to offer. The city’s downtown is bustling with life, from hotels to resorts, restaurants and pubs where you’ll get the chance to meet tourists from all over the world.

Tip: allocate 5 days at least to explore the beauty of Angkor Wat and take the time to absorb its essence. There is so much beauty to capture that all you’ll want to do is get lost in this other-worldly place – with a camera in your hands. (Don’t forget to dress decently when visiting the temples)
Stayed in: The Mad Monkey (great place for backpackers with a pool and a rooftop bar).
Things to try: the Tuk Tuk ride (we’ve got you covered with a super cool Tuk Tuk service provider in Siem Reap. Check his facebook page here for more info! Mr. Chan Makara: 0885582987)

The Mad Monkey hostel – rooftop pool and bar

The tuk-tuk ride!

Another great thing to do while in Siem Reap is to check the floating villages around it (30 minutes to the boat dock by TukTuk). The boat ride inside the villages offers a close look at the “floating life” of a community that tries to make a living from the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, Tonle Sap – mainly from fishing and agriculture. Apart from the beautiful landscape you get to see, you have to be prepared for a striking face-to-face with the cruel reality and poverty these people suffer – a good reminder of how grateful we should be for the life we live.

The floating village on Tonle Sap lake

Stop 3: Sihanoukville

Located in the south-west of Cambodia, the province of Sihanoukville is a one-hour flight from Siem Reap, or a 14-hour bus ride. (Although choosing the first option seemed like a wiser and safer choice, it actually turned out to be the most adventurous flight of our life – “survivor mode”!)

Named after former King Norodom Sihanouk, Sihanoukville is mainly known for its laid-back white-sand beaches lined with restaurants and beach houses, and for being home to the first and only deep-water port. For us, it was a quick stop on our way to one of its most beautiful undeveloped islands – and what was the best part of our trip: Koh Rhong island.

The Cambodian flag featuring Angkor Wat complex during the speedboat ride from Sihanoukville to Koh Rhong island

 Last and best destination: Koh Rhong, or the paradise island.

Take a 50-min speedboat ride from Sinouhakville to land somewhere you’d never want to leave. The second largest island of Cambodia stretching on an area of 78km², Koh Rhong is a true disconnection from the present-day life and an escape into the untouched beauty of a gorgeous place. Wake up in a beach bungalow to the sight of a pristine-sand beach and turquoise water, read your book lying in a hammock, spend your day walking the island to discover its amazing jungle and endless stretches of sand, meet friendly locals and immerse yourself in their daily life, get to know backpackers from all over the world over a drink at some nearby beach bar, sleep under a starry sky… if that isn’t heaven, then what is?

Things you should know:

• There are no roads in the island, which means no vehicles and no traffic! The only way to discover it is to walk its beaten paths or take a boat ride.
• There is no electricity on the island; the generator supplies it with current twice a day, from 8 to 10 in the morning, and 8 to 10 at night.
• Ferry goes to Koh Rhong from Sinouhakville twice a day only for $20, at 7am and 4pm.

Places to try: The hippie beach / The nude beach / Long beach / Vagabonds beach bar.

Available activities: Snorkeling / Diving / Cycling / Trekking / Fishing / Massage.

The view on Koh Rhong beach from our happy bungalow

Koh Rhong, the paradise island.

White sand and turquoise water as far as the eye can see…

Sunset on Koh Rhong.

Vagabonds bar in Koh Rhong.

Koh Rhong is one of the few undeveloped islands that haven’t been jammed with tourists yet, with a near-deserted feel that you can still enjoy for now. However, some rumors say it will soon become the investment project of a private company and undergo major changes. Better catch its unspoiled beauty while you still can!!

Best months to visit: between October and February.

*Story and pictures were provided by traveler, written and published by Notes of a Traveler with travelers’ permission.

10 Reasons to Fall in Love with Sydney

They say the best plans are those, well, that are not planned. How I ended up in Sydney is one of those unexpected stories that just happen to you and make it hard to believe they were not meant to be.

Falling in love with the city is effortless, and I can think of a bunch of reasons for that. In a nutshell, here’s why you should really try to pay this awesome city a visit once in your lifetime at least:

1- Sydney’s beauty is like nothing else. Sydney’s charm is striking everywhere you lay your eyes. The city has something unique to it that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s a little bit of luxurious mixed with the right amount of city and the healthy touch of green for you to find it the most perfect place on earth.

Yep, something like that…

2- It has the largest natural harbour in the world. Sydney harbour is the natural harbour of Sydney, New South Wales, and the largest natural harbour in the world. In addition to being the location of Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, it’s enjoyable any time of the day with the many restaurants and cafes you can find. The Harbour hosts as well many recreational events that happen throughout the year, the most famous and impressive one being the New Year’s Eve celebrations.

New year’s eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour

3- It’s home to Sydney Opera House. A world-famous architectural masterpiece and Australia’s most important icon, the Opera House is an innovative shell-shaped sculpture by Danish architect Jorn Utzon overlooking Sydney Harbour. The landmark is exceptional inside out and the organized tours are a must to understand better its history and have a close look at the architectural details. Simply breathtaking! More details about the Opera here.

The stunning opera house of Sydney!

4- It has the most beautiful zoo in the world where you can actually play with Kangaroos and Koalas. Taronga Zoo is the biggest and most impressive zoo I’ve ever seen. Home to over 4,000 animals including rare endangered species and Australian native wildlife, the award-winning zoo is a magical escape into the beauty of the wild with a breathtaking view over Sydney Harbour.
How to get there: Take a ferry from the city, it’s a beautiful ride and only 12 minutes away. Tips: Make sure not to miss the free-flight Bird Show, known to be the world’s most spectacular bird show (I’ve seen it, yey!). Check the zoo’s brochure upon arrival to know the timings.

Mr. Koala sleeping on his tree branch – Taronga Zoo

The beautiful giraffes of Taronga Zoo

View of Sydney from Taronga

5- With the nicest stretches of beaches, it’s your summer dream destination. With long white sand beaches kissed by turquoise water and buzzing with beach life day and night, Sydney is definitely the place for summer lovers. Besides being a haven for surfers, its beaches offers superb costal walks and excellent cafes and restaurants to enjoy any time of the day. Most popular beaches: Bondi and Manly.

Bondi beach

6- It offers amazing little corners of paradise where you want to get lost forever. With amazing natural reserves, protected areas, national parks, and endless green spaces, Australia’s nature is known to be beyond compare. Having a picnic in the nearby park, going out fishing, canoeing or paddling in a stunning marina, enjoying a bike trip in the botanical gardens, or taking a safari tour to view the unique wildlife of Australia are easily accessible activities that’ll remind you of the real pleasures of life!

The stunning Bobbin Head Marina in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

A boat ride in Bobbin Head

A roadtrip to Hunter Valley, north of Sydney, home of the finest wines and gourmet food.

7- Sydney has the Blue Mountains. A superb mountainous area, part of the Greater Blue Mountains Area World Heritage Site, the Blue Mountains is one of the most spectacular landmarks visited by millions of tourists each year, mainly “The Three Sisters and Jamison Valley” part. Spending a weekend there is the perfect plan for a revitalizing or a romantic nature retreat, where many recreational activities such a climbing, canyoning, biking, and other adventure sports are available.

The Three Sisters and Jamison Valley – Blue Mountains

8- You eat like a king. Australian meat is not the only mouthwatering indulgence the country is famed for. When ingredients are as fresh and natural as the native Australian produce, it is understandable why nothing can beat Sydney’s varied cuisine and world-class restaurants. The choices are endless, but allow me to make one special recommendation for a unique Japanese cuisine experience: the Sake restaurant. You’ll thank me for it one day.

Sashimi tacos and sake – Sake restaurant (delicious!)

9- You party like an animal. Nothing I’ve seen compares with the wild nightlife of Sydney. These people definitely know how to party, every day, everywhere. From dance clubs, to bars, and live music venues, Sydney’s got all the fun you’re looking for. Click here for a guide on Sydney’s nightlife.

Some places I tried and recommend:
Ivy pool club (320 George Street)
The Establishment bar (252 George Street)
King’s Cross (the red-light district of Sydney with over forty bars, trendy restaurants, and nightclubs. A super fun area if you disregard the “trashy” and sleazy feel the place can have.)
Oxford Street (Sydney’s gay-friendly street and where the Mardi Gras parade takes place every year, this area is home to many nice restaurants, bars and nightclubs.)

Ivy Pool Bar  (my favorite place)

10- You meet the coolest people from the four corners of the world. Sydney’s unique mix of cultures makes it a melting pot by excellence. Wherever you go, you are sure to meet a friendly and interesting someone that will add to your stay an exciting flavor.

So yes, it’s totally worth the 14-hour flight…

Why You Should Absolutely Visit Cuba in 2015

“Traveling to Cuba is like a trip back in time, and that’s exactly the charm of it. It’s hard to tell however how long the country will preserve its unspoiled beauty with the recent updates in its relationship with the US. All we can recommend is to visit this exceptional destination the soonest possible – make it this year!”

After a visit to Cuba in April 2015, Eliane and Lara share their “roadtrip” experience on “Notes of a Traveler”. Staying in Cuban “casas” – private family establishments that provide paid lodging – allowed them to experience the local culture and traditions of Cuban families and live the “homey” and modest feel of this friendly place.

Destinations: Varadero, Guama, Havana, Trinidad.
Visa status: easy and fast, takes 1 week top.

Casas de Cuba

First destination: Varadero
Located in the province of Matanza and one of the largest resort areas in the Caribbean, Varadero is Cuba’s most famous beach and a destination you don’t want to miss. With more than 20km of white sandy beaches, beautiful clear water, and rich landscape, you’ve got everything you need to forget the world for a few days.

Available activities: scuba diving, sailing, snorkeling, swimming with the dolphins, safari. The best places to go to at night: The Beatles’ pub (live bands), La Casa de La Musica (to dance), Bodeguita del Medio (famous restaurant and must-try).  

Hugging the coconut tree on Varadero beach

The coconut station – our favorite daily stop.

Bodeguita del Medio, Varadero.

Second destination: Guama
The two-hour roadtrip to Guama offers beautiful scenery before reaching the province of Santiago de Cuba, on the Caribbean side, known also for its beautiful beaches and water activities.

Must-do:

• The crocodile farm, one of the biggest attractions of Guama located in the middle of the Laguna del Tesoro, part of the Natural Park of the Zapata Peninsula
• Snorkeling (Guama is known for its clear waters rich with reef life, offering a great underwater adventure)
• Laguna del Tesoro: accessible only by boat, the “Treasure Lake” leads to a beautiful tourist resort named Villa Guama built on 10 small islands.

Guama beach stop

Crocodile farm, Guama

Laguno del tesoro, Guama

Sweet water swimming spot, Guama.

Third destination: Havana
Welcome to the land of rum, cigars, vintage cars, salsa and mambo…the land of happiness and Che Guevara love. A first sight at the city makes you understand you’ve landed in a special place that’s like nothing else. Losing yourself in Havana’s streets is the best way to pick up its scent. Whether you take a stroll in its plazas, visit its colonial monuments and museums, or just walk the narrow streets of its old town, there’s one thing that constantly strikes you: its unspoiled authenticity.

You can be sure you’re not going to bump into a McDonald’s on your way (at least for now), or a huge mall, or a five-star resort, or even a supermarket. Instead, you’ll be reminded of how kids used to play in the streets, how people used to communicate before technology existed, how a population can survive with whatever its land can produce, how simplicity can sometimes means happiness…

Things to do:

• Plaza Vieja
• Revolution Plaza
• Museum of the Revolution
• National Museum of Fine Arts
• Cigar Museum
• Rum Museum

Nice casa to stay in: Casa Mary y Miguel (try its famous café “Arcangel”)

Nice bar to try: Casa de la Musica, Miramar.

The charm of Havana streets…

Cuban bands playing on the streets, everywhere!

Havana’s awesome cars

Havana Central Park – Jose Marti monument

For the love of Che! – Che Guevera huge mural, Havana.

Plaza San Francesco

Port area, Havana.

El ron de Cuba! (the rum museum)

Cuba’s advanced calculator 🙂

Last destination: Trinidad
Four hours away from Havana by taxi, this 500-year old village is one of UNESCO’s world heritage sites since 1988. One of the best preserved cities in the Caribbean, the village takes you back in time with the sound of its horses crossing the cobbled streets, its 200-year old enchanting houses, its many art galleries, its Italian ice cream shops, and its guitar players wandering its streets.

This charming area offers more to the eyes with its stunning beaches and mountains. We highly recommend not to miss the pleasure of horseback riding in the mountainous area of Trinidad, which leads you to a beautiful waterfall and natural pool.

Trinidad

Trinidad view from the casa’s terrace…

Trinidad mountains

Horseback riding in Trinidad!

Trinidad waterfall spot

Casa de la Musica terrace, Trinidad.

What to pack: essentials can be difficult to find in Cuba, especially that import is banned. This is why it’s better to be equipped with the basic of toiletry and medication.

What to eat: seafood, rice and beans is what the main Cuban cuisine consists of. Make sure to try the typical churro dessert (fried-dough pastry) that you can find anywhere on the streets for 1 CUC (the local currency), the Sugar Cane Juice, the local Crystal cerveza, and definitely the Mojito and Pina Colada.

General tips: always bargain while shopping, you can get anything at half price!

Did you know? The country has 2 currencies, the Cuban Peso (CUP) for locals and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) for tourists in substitution to foreign currencies, which is almost equal in value to the US dollar.

*Story and pictures were provided by travelers, written and published by Notes of a Traveler with travelers’ permission.