ARGENTINA, Let's say goodbye to 2020 with a tango dance in beautiful ARGENTINA!

Argentina; a country in South America that beckons with its beautiful topography, delicious food, fine wines and Atlantic waters is a land of diversity. The eight largest country in the world is shaped like an inverted triangle and stretches 2,360 miles from the subtropical north to the subantarctic south. Argentina is one of the few countries in the world that has proximity to Antartica. If you know some Spanish than this country should be on your bucket list for 2021. Will the world open its doors to traveling again? Hard to say on the last day of 2020, the year that hardly anybody traveled. Time will only tell but hopefully travel lovers will be able to travel again to their dream destinations. In the meantime we can dance the tango in honor of Argentina and dream about some of Argentina's most iconic landmarks; the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires, the breathtaking Iguazu Falls, the world's largest group of waterfalls, and the captivating Andes mountains.

The name alone, ARGENTINA, is music to the ears. For fun, sophistication, culture, and warm hospitality, this South American country makes the list of top places to visit in the world. Argentina will win your heart, and keep you dancing to the tango!

Argentine Tango: The world famous tango is danced in an embrace that can vary from very open, to very closed. The tango is based on variations of walking, turning, pausing, and abdornmments. Argentine Tango is the dance of romance. The Argentine Tango originated in Buenos Aires, Argentina and Monteivedo, Uruguay, in the late 19th century. The roots of the tango presumably lie in African candombe, Cuban habanera, polkas and waltzes. Every August thousands of dancers gather in Bueno Aires for a two week extravaganza of classes, free concerts, and competing in the important dance championship.

Christmas in Croatia

CROATIA'S popularity is rising fast and soon it will join the ranks of France, Greece, and Italy. Located in the Balkans, this central European country has beautiful landscapes, charming cities, and lots of nature. Beaches, forests, lakes, mountains; nature abounds in CROATIA. Celebrating Christmas in Croatia can be quite magical indeed. Here are some ideas of a "Christmas in Croatia."

CHRISTMAS IN CROATIA 🎄🎄

DUBROVNICK is what Paris is to France, and Vienna is to Austria. Now discovered by tourists across the globe, Dubrovnick continues to beckon. A walled city overlooking the turquoise Adriatic Sea, the charm of Dubrovnik is captivating. Spend a week here and explore the famous Old Town and so much more. Summer months are the best for visiting Dubrovnick, but the serenity of the winter months has its attributes

KORCULA ISLAND, known for sunny weather, pristine beaches, and Wine! Croatians favor Korcula Island for it's excellent wineries. Staying at a guest house on this island is affordable and makes you feel more at home. Local food delights; Experience Peka; Try Brodet, a regional fish dish, and homemade pasta called Makarumi. Some of the best olive oil in Croatia is made on Korcula Island.

ROVINJ, is a quaint fishing village with old world charm and surrounded by the Adriatic Sea. Located on Croatia's Istrian peninsula, Rovinj is an archipelago of 20 islands. The Adriatic sun will warm your heart as you partake in daily activities ranging from swimming to shopping on the narrow cobblestone streets. Excellent dining options, and plenty of attractions make this area of Croatia a perfect Christmas present.

ZAGREB, will put you in the Christmas spirit as you watch children singing carols in the snow, explore the Christmas markets, and sip on mulled wine. The Christmas Market in Zagreb is considered one of the best in Europe. Zagreb has the country's best museums and art galleries too. The charm of this city feels like the pages of a storybook. Up for skiing? Just twenty minutes away is Mountain Medvednica; Ski Resort Sljeme.

CHRISTMAS IN CROATIA IS MAGICAL!  MERRY CHRISMTAS!🎄

CROATIAN KUHANO WINE:

750 ml red wine

100 ml fresh squeezed orange juice

150 grams of sugar

1 star anise, 1 teaspoon nutmeg, 5 cloves, 1 stick of cinnamon 1 peel of lemon, 1 peel of orange

Put sugar, star anise, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, orange juice, and peel of lemon and orange into a pot.

Pour half the wine over the ingredients and cook on medium temperature for 5 to 6 minutes, until mixture thickens. Add the rest of the wine and simmer for about 5 minutes. Pour the mixture into cups and serve!

MAINE, A VACATIONLAND TO BEHOLD!

Traveling the globe is at a standstill and most people are staying put in their countries due to the coronavirus pandemic. Who knows when countries will open up again for travel? It could be another year, or two. So...if you're longing to leave your dwelling place for a bit whether it's in a big city, mid sized city, small town, in the desert, mountains, or near the sea, or perhaps in the countryside, there are places to travel to. Seven continents, over 195 countries, but most countries aren't inviting tourists as of now. So what do you do? You can embrace the attractions in your country for the time being. I'm in North America and I can't even enter one of my favorite countries (Canada) so thanks to a dear friend's invitation I'm in MAINE, USA. 

MAINE IS A STATE TO BEHOLD, ITS A VACATION PARADISE!

MAINE, is one of American's most beautiful states, its scenery is breath-taking. This New England state boasts miles of Atlantic Ocean shoreline, hundreds of islands, a partial desert, inland lakes, mountains, a national park, and so much more. It's no wonder that MAINE is referred to as Vacationland. My friend Frank who lives in New York City invited me on a MAINE adventure and I couldn't refuse. We began our journey through Maine in lovely Ogunquit and made it as far as Belfast. Our days were blessed with glorious sunny weather, amazing food, fabulous accommodations, and plenty of sightseeing. MAINE is New England's largest state and to really experience it to the fullest one needs a whole month, but even a few days in MAINE will reward you with an unforgettable vacation that will linger in your heart for months to come.

A WEEK IN MAINE: (This blog post features Days 1, 2, and 3, in MAINE)

Once you enter the state of MAINE, from the state of New Hampshire or a Canadian province you'll feel an instant rejuvenation. The fragrant scent of pine trees, the fresh sea air, verdant valleys with cows and sheep, white steeped churches, and sparkling lakes. Roadside lobster shacks beckon those who love seafood, and Maine's wild blueberries are some of the best in the world. How about a slice of blueberry pie? From mountain peaks to coastal waters, Maine offers all kinds of sporting activities from sailing to hiking to swimming, kayaking, and cycling. Acadia National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States and nearby Bar Harbor is one of the quaintest towns in the state.

Year round residents are lucky to live in such a stunning state, part time residents come back every summer and months in between to bask in the glory of Maine, and tourists arrive in droves to enjoy the Vacationland state. There's something about MAINE that makes it stand out and everyone should add MAINE to their list of states to visit in the U.S.A. Whether you prefer to visit cities like Bangor or Portland, peaceful islands, mountain towns or seaside resorts, MAINE is life the way it should be.

Day 1 and Day 2  YORK MAINE & OGUNQUIT MAINE

Arrive in York, Maine, a seaside town that feels very much like England. This bustling town that attracts Boston folks, is an idyllic place to spend a day or a week. York is a well known summer resort town and boasts three 18 hole golf courses, four sandy beaches, and Mount Agamenticus, a lovely park reservation. 

                           The iconic Goldenrod is famous for its salt-water taffy!

While in YORK, don't miss out on "The Goldenrod," known for its famous Goldenrod Kisses salt-water taffy. In business since 1896, this establishment is also known for its marble soda fountain and delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals.The Cliff Walk is a short one mile walk that leads from the York Harbor Beach and features colorful wildflowers. Volleyball lovers will appreciate playing the game on a sandy beach.York's Wild Kingdom is a small family oriented amusement park and zoo. One of their featured rides is a ferris wheel. York, has countless accommodation options and "Union Bluff Hotel" deserves an honorable mention. Situated on Short Sands Beach and in operation since 1868, this classic hotel stands out like a golden jewel. 

Nearby Oguinquit, known as "Beautiful Place by the Sea" has one of the best beaches on the southern coast of Maine. It's a quaint village, perfect for walking. Not to be missed is the stunning Marginal Way,a scenic and popular seaside walk. Have your camera phone ready to take award winning photo's.For a cultural experience, the Ogunquit Playhouse rewards audiences with top notch plays. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Ogunquit Playhouse has featured many stars on its stage;Lucy Arnaz, Ethel Barrymore, Bette Davis, Lorenzo Lamas, Rex Smith, and Sally Struthers are just a few of the many stars to grace the stage. Chocoholics flock to "Perkins Cove Candies," for local handmade chocolates such as sea salt caramels, clusters, truffles, and turtles.

Just on the border of Ogunquit, in Wells, Maine is "Majestic Regency Hotel." For under $75.00 a night you'll get a comfortable room with complimentary breakfast, and five acres of open land dedicated to rest and relaxation. There's a basketball court, full size tennis court, croquet and bocce ball,shuffleboard, and an outdoor swimming pool. There's a picnic area, on line gas grills, and a bonfire pit.Wells and Ogunquit trolleys make frequent stops in front of the Majestic Regency Hotel. The staff here is very friendly too. Just a short walk from the hotel is "Brown's Clam Shanty," known for classic Maine seafood. Enjoy the famous fried clams, sea scallops, haddock, lobster rolls, and more. Pancake lovers adore "Egg and I" for bountiful breakfast choices and the ever popular blueberry pancakes.

                         You'll enjoy the swimming pool at Majestic Regency Hotel

DAY 3,  PORTLAND, AND SEBAGO LAKE

One night in Portland is worth doing. Portland is an excellent walking city with plenty of attractions.

Excellent restaurants are scattered throughout Portland and you'll find some of the best eating establishments in this region of Maine. In the heart of Portland is the HYATT HOUSE. This comfy hotel with plenty of amenities is a great place to stay. About a 20 mile drive from Portland is the second largest lake in the state, known as Sebago. If you're looking for excellent boating and swimming options, head to Sebago Lake State Park. The city of Portland is nestled in nature. It's great to be in a city where you can eat sushi one minute and gaze at the lovely waterfront the next. Portland is a gateway city to many parts of Maine.

                                   One of New Englands, grandest cities is Portland

Enchanting Puerto Rico

Despite a devastating earthquake and hurricane, Puerto Rico is still welcoming tourists from around the world. Whether you choose to arrive by airplane or cruise ship, once you step foot on  the "Island of Enchantment" you'll see that Puerto Rico is still a "hot" vacation spot.


             PUERTO RICO

PUERTO  RICO is a Caribbean island with a landscape of mountains, waterfalls, sandy beaches, tropical rainforest and a cosmopolitan city named San Juan. PUERTO RICO is beckoning. Whether you choose to take a cruise here or fly directly to the island, you'll find plenty of places to stay and lots of things to do on the "ISLAND of ENCHANTMENT." Puerto Rican is a tourist destination that welcomes visitors 365 days a year. Hospitality awaits, pick Puerto Rico for your top travel list!



Puerto Rico was first discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493

Puerto Rico has several uninhabited islands

El Yunque National Forest has many hiking trails with a rainforest at the very top

The Bacardi Rum Factory in Puerto Rico is the world's largest distillery

The world's most popular drink, the PINA COLADA was created in Puerto Rico

There are 270 mlles of beaches to explore both on the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea

3.6 million people make Puerto Rico their home

The primary languages are English and Spanish

Puerto Rico's yearly temperature range from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit

Puerto Rico happens to have the largest telescope in the world


On my first viist to Puerto Rico I instantly fell in love with "Coqui." Their sweet sounds were music to my ears and I sometimes just swayed in a hammock in the evening hours just so I could hear them.

WHAT'S A COQUI?

A Coqui is a common frog in Puerto Rico with more than 16 different species found around the island. Coqui's play an important role by increasing nutrient pools in plant biomass and in litter.
The actual sound "co-kee" comes from a male call that's used to attract female frogs and establish a territory. Their breeding season is from April to October during the wet season in Puerto Rico.

My time in Puerto Rico was magical because I was with my mother on a complimentary stay at a
HYATT resort on Dorado Beach (a perk one gets when working for HYATT). This property is now a Ritz Carlton. It was absolute paradise staying on Dorado Beach, from the fresh brewed coffee in the morning to the early afternoon swim in the pool and ocean, to the delicious authentic dinners in the evening, everything blended together perfectly like a Pina colada. A television show was being filmed on the Dorado Beach property so guests enjoyed a taste of Hollywood during their stay. Dorado means "golden" and the richness of this corner of Puerto Rico doesn't disappoint. Just fifteen miles from the bustling city of San Juan, Dorado has glorious beaches, historic homes, good restaurants, golf courses, and museums.

Modern San Juan excites locals and tourists with bars, casinos, nightclubs, restaurants, and shops while cobblestoned Old San Juan with it's 16th century landmarks and colonial buildings is historical and more relaxed. San Juan is a good place to embark on a excursion to El Yunque National Forest and other popular attractions.

PUERTO RICO is known as the "Island of Enchantment" so why not book a trip soon and get enchanted with this friendly and warm Caribbean island.

Puerto Rican "Tostones"
are excelente! They're twice
fried plantains and are perfect as
a snack or side dish. A plantain is
a very firm banana.

Make SOUTH AFRICA, your destination!

                                             Photo by: DISCOVER AFRICA


The southern tip of Africa (SOUTH AFRICA) has a bit of everything from beautiful beaches to lush vineyards. South Africa boasts eleven official languages and has several points of interests. South Africa is referred to as the "Rainbow Nation" because it's made up of so many diverse cultures and religions.

Table Mountain, is one of the oldest mountains in the world and a top attraction, the 850 km road through Cape Winelands is the world's longest wine route and where you can explore top wineries. South Africa is the land of safari's and you'll find many unique animals to photograph when the opportunity comes along. SOUTH AFRICA is a vast ecosystem with golden savannah, captivating deserts, and sun soaked coastlines intertwined with bustling cities and stimulating culture. Whether you want to travel solo, with a significant other, or with a group, you'll find plenty to see and do in the second most visited country in AFRICA.

PLACES TO VISIT:

Kruger National Park

Cape Town, Western Cape

The Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal

Durban's Golden Mile, KwaZuluNatal

The Garden Route

Robben Island, Western Cape

Johannesburg, City of Gold
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If you fall in love with South Africa and want to become an EXPAT there's always TEFL

TEFL, teaching English as a second language is the gateway to a career as an English teacher.A TEFL Certification gets you ready to teach English around the world. Why not teach abroad in South Africa? If you're looking to get certified you can take a course at TEACHING HOUSE, CELTA, in Cape Town or ASIAN COLLEGE OF TEACHERS in Cape Town. Once you complete your studies you can start seeking places to teach English in the vast South Africa.
_____________________________________________________________

WINE, WINE, WINE          

SOUTH AFRICA has a warm climate and it's grapes get very ripe and produce full high alcohol wines. There are over 60 different wine regions in South Africa and most are family owned farms. Furthermore prices for wine tend to be lower in South Africa than in other countries around the world. South Africa is quickly gaining recognition as a "wine destination."

A SAFARI TOUR!

Discover exotic famous animals; buffalo, cheetah, elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, and more on a safari tour. It's one thing to see a safari on the pages of a magazine or in a video but to actually be on a live safari tour is something quite wonderful.  There are loads of safari tours out there fit for all kinds of budgets. Explore the internet for tours that spark your interest. A few links are listed below.

adventure-life.com

safari.com

ECO LODGES:

The ultimate way to experience the nature of SOUTH AFRICA is to stay in an eco lodge.
An eco-lodge is a nature-dependent tourist lodge that meets the philosophy principles of eco tourism. An eco lodge has comfortable guest rooms and main areas and is made of local and viable building materials. Eco lodges are set in a natural setting with preserved vegetation and sustainable energy. Food supplies often come from local farmers and there are activities pertaining to natural and cultural sites. Bakiga Lodge in Cape Town is an example of an eco-lodge.

                                             
                                        
                                             THE SHIRA ECO-LODGE; Trip Advisor

www, shire.co.za

WHAT TO WEAR:

With a relatively mild climate, the dress code is casual in South Africa if you're on vacation. Breezy Clothing, Brim Sun Hat, Insulating Layer, Light Jacket, Hiking Boots, and Beach Wear is what you want to have on hand while in South Africa. Be certain to have sunglasses!

If you're in South Africa on a business trip, a business suit is advisable for both men and women.Women can wear a dress as another option.

Come visit the second most visited country on the African continent. The weather is temperament enough to visit any of the twelve months of the year. South Africa beckons to those wanting a truly unique travel experience. Book a flight to SOUTH AFRICA today!


africa travel; call 020 7843 3500

Where Do You Want to Travel in 2020? Spotlight: BHUTAN

Choices, Choices, Choices....in this day and age it's easier than ever before to visit volunteer, or vacation in several countries around the world. Whether you travel by air, train, or ship chances are you'll land somewhere. Which continent do you wish to travel to? What country is beckoning to you?

BUTHAN, a Buddhist kingdom with friendly people and stunning scenery is the birthplace of Gross National Happiness. Why not put this country on your list of places to see in the world.


SPOTILGHT ON BHUTAN:

www.gadventures.com
G Adventures is a reputable travel company with
tours all around the globe including BHUTAN.
Check out their website!
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It's tucked between China and India, it's small and predominantly a Buddhist nation. This country has no traffic lights and smoking is illegal. Monasteries abound in Bhutan and monks spend their days meditating and chanting.  BHUTAN is what you can call (Shangri-La) because of it's breath-taking beauty and peacefulness. The people of Bhutan are happy because they manage spiritual and material happiness equally, they don't care about the internet, television, and radio, The Bhutanese are environmentally conscious. They have less pollution than other nations, they're well rested, they're mostly Buddhist, and they're surrounded by stunning scenery.

BHUTAN is situated in the Himalayan Mountains and well over 60% of the country is untouched wilderness. Fifty percent of Bhutan is protected as a national park. All this natural beauty, and caring for the planet brings happiness to this nation. There's also a high price to pay to visit BHUTAN so the country is not overcrowded with tourists.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Bhutan?

In US dollars, it's $250.00 per day with a $40.00 surcharge per person for those in a group of one/two. From December to February, and June to August the rate is $200.00 per day in US dollars and a $40.00 surcharge for those in a group of one/two.

This daily fee includes your accommodation, meals, transport in Bhutan, a guide, entry fees, and a $65.00 royalty that goes to the government.

Things to Do:

The only international airport in Bhutan is PARO where all flights arrive and depart. A four to five day visit allows for plenty to see and do.

1) HIMALAYAN MOUNTAIN TREKKING

You're surrounded by the world's most famous mountains and hikes range from simple to extremely grueling. Before you trek the Himalayas be prepared with knowing your fitness level, equip yourself with proper boots, clothing, and trekking sticks, bring along plenty of food and water. There are experienced guides offering trekking tours in Bhutan.


2) TIGER'S NEST MONASTERY (TAKTSANG MONASTERY)

Located close to Paro Airport, this monastery that sits on top of a mountain is a spectacular trek.The monastery clings to the side of a cliff. It's a working monastery and monks still live on the mountains. Be certain to have lunch and tea in the cafeteria.

3) CHANGLIMITHANG STADIUM AND ARCHERY GROUND

Bhutan's national sport is archery. Competitions take place at the National Stadium. If you miss an actual competition at the stadium you can observe free of charge, a practice.

4) SUSPENSION BRIDGE

This 160 meter long bridge spans the Po Chiu River and is the longest bridge in Bhutan.
Take a walk across the bridge that connects the town of Phunaka with Phunaka Dzong.

5) BUDDHA DORDENMA

A slow drive up a hill brings you to the huge statue of BUDDHA that stands at 51 meters tall and overlooks the city of Thimpu.


6) THIMPHU

The capital of Bhutan and the largest city with lots to see and do.


7) PHUNAKA DZONG

Dzongs were once fortresses with massive complexes and exterior walls. The Phunaka Dzong was built in 1637 and is the second oldest in Bhutan. When visiting you can explore the temple and courtyard and watch monks walking the grounds.

8) KHAMSUM YULLEY NAMGYAL CHORTEN

Take a 45 minute hike through rice fields to the Chorten (shrine). You'll be rewarded with spectacular views and a feeling of serenity. The Chorten was built as a dedication to the well being of the kingdom.

FOOD:

Meals are included during your daily fee in Bhutan. The national dish of the country is
"Ema Datshi" a spicy stew made of chili peppers, onions and locally produced yak cheese.
You'll also enjoy red rice, spicy curry stew, pork with red chilies, and SUJA-Bhutanese Butter Tea!

SUJA: (Churned Tea)

2 pinches of black tea leaves
2 cubes of unsalted butter
a quarter cup milk
2 1/2 cups of water
pinch of salt

Step One: Boil the water in a pan and them lower the heat. Put two pinches of tea in the water and continue to boil for a couple of minutes, then separate the tea leaves.

Step Two: Combine the tea, salt, butter, and milk in the blender and blend for 2-3 minutes.

Step Three:  Pour tea into the cup and enjoy.

MAKE BHUTAN YOUR DESTINATION IN 2020!