While visiting Sydney, Australia, taking a Blue Mountains day trip was at the top of our must-do list. The Blue Mountains National Park lies just west of the city and is easily accessible by train, car or tour. The spectacular nature retreat features scenic landscapes, picturesque waterfalls, sheer cliffs and a network of hiking trails.… Read the rest
When we booked three weeks at the Beachcomber Coolangatta on the Australian Gold Coast, we were ecstatic for three reasons: sunshine, sand and sea. At first, we envisioned doing little more than soaking up the sun’s rays on the powder-sand beach.… Read the rest
Well-known for iconic landmarks and a laid-back culture, something new is brewing in Sydney, Australia…quite literally. Multiple craft breweries have taken up residence in warehouses of the Inner West suburbs – which are just a short train or bus ride from the city center.… Read the rest
Sydney, Australia has a fascinating history and world-famous sights. Home to iconic Australian landmarks – like the Sydney Opera House – a Sydney walking tour should be on every visitor’s to-do list. The top Sydney landmarks are found in the compact Central Business District, making it easy to see the sights on foot.… Read the rest
When we decided to go to Bali, Indonesia for my birthday – my 40th birthday – we were intent on planning the perfect trip. Relaxation was a priority for our Bali itinerary, but we were seeking a bit of adventure, too.… Read the rest
We made a last-minute decision to make a four-night stopover in Reykjavik, Iceland at the end of January while flying from the Netherlands to Costa Rica. Although we feared it might not be the best time to go to Iceland, visiting Iceland in winter is what fit into our travel plans.… Read the rest
Nusa Penida, Bali is a natural wonderland. A far-away tropical island…that really isn’t so far away. Relatively undeveloped and rugged, Penida Island is one of the three islands that make up the Nusa Islands. Situated in the Bali Sea between Bali and Lombok, Nusa Penida abounds with surreal seascapes and captivating charm.… Read the rest
Twice before we have visited Madrid on quick, less-than-24-hour layovers. Both times, we dashed through the city to see the sights of Madrid as quickly as we could. On our most recent trip with friends we had more time – but still only 2 days in Madrid – and we were anxious to show our visiting friends to the best sights in Madrid.… Read the rest
The Nusa Islands, located in the Bali Sea, sit in a small cluster off the southeastern coast of mainland Bali. Comprised of three islands – Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida – the Nusa Islands, Bali are a popular tourist destination.… Read the rest
The coastline of the Bukit Peninsula in southern Bali, Indonesia is distinctly different than other parts of the tropical island. Rather than long swaths of flat sandy beaches, sheer rock cliffs rise from the waters. Settled atop the steep rock at the western end of the peninsula is Uluwatu – a less-developed tourist region of Bali.… Read the rest