TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Some of my favourite travel destinations in the last 7 years (Destinations for solo travellers.. esp.)
The featured photo here is at Halong Bay – Vietnam!
As previously mentioned, I have been travelling for more than 15 years, and have visited almost 80 countries and counting. In Destinations, I will be featuring a few photos from some of the countries I visited in the last 6 years and a short synopsis of what stood out for me most in each country. So enjoy my Destination page, highlighting destinations for solo travellers and families alike. This page will give views of the Good , the Bad and the In Between ...according to MY experiences… keep that in mind!!!
AFRICA
SOUTH AFRICA - CAPE TOWN
Cape Town is a city found in Western Cape, South Africa. It is known as the Mother City. Cape Town has the No. 2 friendliest and most welcoming immigration officers in all countries visited. I felt welcomed when I arrived in South Africa, partly due to this lady with a beautiful disposition, who I think works with some of the airlines to welcome visitors, I will always remember her, helpful and pleasant lady.
The Cape Town airport is also beautifully designed to reflect South Africa and its history. Nice touch SA! Before visiting Cape Town, I did my research, but its only when I arrived in the country, I realized the magnitude of its beauty and how cold temperature was. Before landing you can see snow on some of the mountains, June – August are winter months, so take note if you are planning to visit.
ASIA
HONG KONG - CHINA
Hong Kong is located on South coast of China. Its capital is City of Victoria. It is an aesthetically clean and beautiful country. It is also a very expensive country. Food, hotel etc. The metro station is the smoothest, fastest and most efficient I have ever seen, lots to see and experience in Hong Kong.
There are many beautiful amusement parks, lots of cable cars of different shapes and sizes, some even with glass bottom, A glass bottom cable car ride to the Big Buddha on Lantau island is a definite must do. The Hong Kong skyline is most beautiful especially when the buildings are all lit up at night with the night show.
MALAYSIA - KUALA LUMPUR
Malaysia is in Southeast Asia, Its capital is Kuala Lumpur. It is one of the wealthy Asian countries that has strict laws regarding illegal items and illicit activities. Kuala Lumpur is a very developed city. Totally safe too. The people in Kuala Lumpur were very friendly and warm, what I couldn’t understand was how the workers at the hotel I stayed were so unfriendly.
PHILIPPINES - MANILA
Philippines is in Southeast Asia, its capital is Manila. When it comes to the most polite, humble and happy people, Filipinos take the No.1 spot. Filipinos teach us all a lesson, money doesn’t make you happy. They have a genuine, happy and contented spirit. Manila is a bit clustered with traffic especially with the proliferation of motorcycles and Jeepneys. Philippines is one the cheapest country I have been to, shopping food, hotel. Manila has the 3rd biggest mall in the world, Mall of Asia, quite a big and lovely mall with great prices.
SINGAPORE - SINGAPORE
Singapore is in Southeast Asia. Its capital also called Singapore. It is one of the wealthiest countries in Asia/world. Seems this country has a different shade of blue skies. The skies there have the bluest of blue skies I have ever seen. Singapore is absolutely beautiful, clean and very developed country. Totally safe too, I have even seen on the immigration form, in red, “Death penalty for drug traffickers”. Singapore has some of the most unusual and intricately designed buildings too, unlike the sky scrapers in some other countries.
VIETNAM - HANOI
Vietnam is in Southeast Asia, and its capital is Hanoi. Obtaining the visa for Vietnam was hassle-free, you apply in advance and if successful, when you arrive in the country, your passport is processed, and the visa is then placed in your passport. When it comes to the most caring, attentive humble and happy people, I think they may have tied with Philippines for the most genuine and nicest People I have met in all my travels. The aged can be seen very active in every sphere of life. Hanoi the capital, is also bit clustered with literally almost a million motorcycles.
Hanoi is also the most humid country I have ever visited. At midnight outside felt like midday. One of the first thing I noticed on the streets of Hanoi was, If you can cross the streets in Vietnam, you can cross the streets in any other country in the world, no one ever stop for you to cross, they drive around, you must manoeuvre your way around the vehicles when crossing the street. There are lots to do in Hanoi or take a trip outside the city to Hoa Tam Coc (exotic) or Halong Bay (my favorite destination spot in the world). Visit the Restored Word (Hoan Kiem Lake) in downtown Hanoi and the Old Quarters (here your get the real Vietnam experience).
VIETNAM - HO CHI MINH
Saigon also known as Ho Chi Minh, is one of the major cities in the South-eastern edge of Indochina peninsula and South of Hanoi. It is about 2 hours flight from Hanoi. Vietnam is a very big country, with close to 97 million people.
The name Saigon is synonymous with the war which was fought in 1968. Saigon is so beautiful, you will never believe a war was ever fought there, I found the temperature to be much cooler than Hanoi and looked a bit more developed too, but for me Hanoi had the homely edge. The people here were just as humble and friendly people, as in Hanoi. Motorcycles were also everywhere in Saigon (even on the sidewalks).
CARIBBEAN /NORTH /SOUTH/LATIN/ AMERICA
ANGUILLA - THE VALLEY
Anguilla is in the Northern-most of the Leeward Islands and is still a British territory. Anguilla for me is one of the two Caribbean islands I would love to live permanently. It is a very low-keyed Caribbean island and is in very close proximity to Sint Maarten. There isn’t an international airport but there are small planes and speed boats working between The Valley (the capital) and Sint Maarten. At the time I visited, there wasn’t a public transport system, you either rent a car, call a taxi or walk. Also, there weren’t any fast food chains on this island at the time either.
ARUBA - ORANJESTAD
Aruba is a Dutch Caribbean island (under the kingdom of the Netherlands) and is in very close proximity to Bonaire and Curacao. The capital Oranjestad is very clean and lively. Aruba for me is like a livelier Bonaire. It is also a hidden gem but a bit more touristy. There is a vibrant night life on the island as well. Aruba is also a bit expensive, but cheaper than Bonaire. However, unlike Bonaire there are lots of public transport. Aruba has lots to see and do, Eagle Beach and Baby beach are two of my favorite beaches, they are almost perfect, soft white sand and in beautiful locations.
BONAIRE - KRALENDIJK
Bonaire is a very low-keyed Dutch Caribbean island (under the kingdom of the Netherlands) and is in very close proximity to Aruba and Curacao. Bonaire is the 2nd Caribbean island I would love to live permanently. The capital Kralendijk is very clean and small. However, Bonaire does not have public transport, you either walk, rent a car or call a taxi, the shortest taxi ride to any destination was $10 USD. It is also a bit on the expensive side, that includes food and hotel etc.
MEXICO - CANCUN
Cancun is a city in Southeast Mexico and close to the Caribbean Sea. It has its own airport and is a very beautiful city. Cancun is very clean and reasonably priced. The people were quite friendly and welcoming. Food in Mexico was always reasonably priced, delicious and served in very large portions. There I was in the Tequila capital, I never knew there were so many types of tequilas, flavoured, sweetened, well of course the one with the worm.
There are lots to do in Cancun besides visiting the lovely beaches like my favorites, Playa Delfines and Xcacel Beach. A visit to Tres Rios Eco park is quite beautiful experience, or do the bus tour with one of the tour companies and go for a full day to the main attraction for me, the visit to Chichen Itza (one of the wonders of the world).
PANAMA - PANAMA CITY
Panama is in Central America bordering the Caribbean Sea. Panama City the capital, is like the shopping hub of the Caribbean. Most people visit to shop because it is not an expensive country. The people were quite friendly too. Don’t talk about the men..mmm they are quickest to confess their love for you the same minute they talk to you..lol!! For me the main must-see sites were the Panama Canal, Monkey Island (a ferry ride on the Gatun lake and you are there) and Casco Viejo (wonderful history of the Old Town). Panama is developed and has an old and new Panama City, both has a beauty of their own. Panama I also found to be a very humid country.
PUERTO RICO - SAN JUAN
Puerto Rico is in Central America bordering the Caribbean Sea. Old San Juan the capital is quite beautiful. There are many shops, restaurants and beaches close by also, Isla Verde beach is not to be missed, its a really lovely beach. For me, the main must see sites were the San Juan National Historical Park, hiking (paid tour guides available) in the El Yunque forest to el Bano de Oro natural area, there you will get to experience el Mina Water Fall and end the tour at the top of the Yokahu Observation Tower, overlooking the natural beauty of San Juan.
SINT MAARTEN - PHILIPSBURG
Sint Maarten is one of the Dutch Caribbean islands (part of the Kingdom of Netherlands). The land mass is shared with St. Martin (French side). Sint Maarten is known for beautiful and pristine beaches. Philipsburg the capital, is also very clean, quiet and beautiful, lots of small shops along the cobblestone streets and spots for tourists to hang out and enjoy the beauty of this lovely laidback island. Seemed to be also a big cruise ship hub. My favorite beaches were Maho beach, Great Bay and Mullet Beach, all extremely gorgeous with milk white sand.
TURKS & CAICOS - PROVIDENCIALES
The Turks & Caicos island is one of the British Overseas Territory located in the Atlantic Ocean, however, it is still a Caribbean island. The capital is Providenciales. This is one of the many safest Caribbean islands, and most visited my lots of movie stars and prominent people in the music industry. It is also the most expensive Caribbean island and 3rd most expensive in all the countries I have visited worldwide. It’s gorgeous and pristine beaches are perfect for any photo shoot. The Grace bay area really has the wow factor… talk about beach with turquoise waters and velvet soft sand, this is it. At the time of my visit there weren’t any fast food chains in Providenciales.
CANADA - TORONTO
Canada occupies most of the in North American continent and bordered by the United States of America. Its capital is Ottawa. Canada is one of the visited countries I would love to live permanently. However, it is known for its intensely cold winters. I really love the people, they are truly genuinely pleasant and down to earth. I visited Toronto a few times and really enjoyed my visits. Toronto is very clean and safe. There is something special about the Canadian accent that I love so much..co cute!!
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
The United States of America is in the North American continent, its capital is Washington D.C. and it’s the 3rd largest country in the world. The United States of America has many states to choose from for any vacation. I have not visited many of the states. However, I previously vacationed in Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, New Jersey, New York and Texas. To be honest because I love the more laid-back quieter side of life. My favorites were Texas and New Jersey.
All all the states a has their own charm, for example you can’t get bored in New York the big Apple, however, I find it to be a bit expensive and too fast paced. Love Miami for shopping and its lovely beaches but prefer Ft. Lauderdale as it bit quieter with lovely beach scenery and still has a night life. New Jersey especially the Neptune area and Texas especially the Sugar Lands area have my heart, really laid back and quiet. Quite clean also but the down side is you need to have your own transport to move around freely.
EUROPE / EU
AUSTRIA - VIENNA
Austria is a small mountainous country located in South Central Europe. Its capital Vienna, is an absolute gem. A small and beautiful city with lots of lovely churches and museums. Vienna, I found somewhat expensive for e.g. A two days hop on hop off city bus tour ticket in Budapest was avg 25 euro for 2 days tour with a free river cruise. In Vienna it was 30 euro for a 1 day tour.
BELGIUM - BRUSSELS
Belgium is a country located in North Western Europe. Its capital Brussels is known for its architecture and chocolates. Brussels is a popular tourist location. What stood out for me most was how friendly and helpful the people were, from the first day I arrived in Brussels until I left, I was totally impressed by the friendliness and helpfulness of the residents. Brussels is also tied in 2nd place for having the best tasting Ice cream. Delicious chocolates of all varieties could be found in almost every shop. Belgium is one of those countries you feel right at home. The city was safe, clean and expensive.
CZECH REPUBLIC - PRAGUE
Czech Republic is a country in Central Europe. Its capital is Prague. Talk about top 3 nicest cities, Prague certainly qualifies, Besides Lisbon, Prague has some of the nicest sidewalk I have ever seen, they are beautifully designed cobble-stoned sidewalks that adds richness and beauty to the city. Prague has many beautiful buildings and much to see and do. Prague is not an expensive city, and has fairly good food, safe city, friendly people and quite clean too.
What I found rather strange, most of the people I spoke to, didn’t believe there is a God, this was even echoed by the one of the city tour guides, yet there are so many churches in Prague.
GERMANY - MUNICH
The Federal Republic of Germany is a country in the Western and Central Europe. Its capital is Berlin. Munich is the 3rd largest city in Germany and is Bavaria’s capital city. The people in Munich were neither here nor there on the friendliness scale. At the hotel I stayed, the man at the front desk was so obnoxious and insulting to a Chinese national, that I avoided him for my entire stay, same at the train and bus station, no smile and very cut and dry. Then there were others who were pleasant and friendly but in the minority. Nonetheless, I love Munich, it’s a safe city and quite clean too.
HUNGARY - BUDAPEST
The Republic of Hungary located in Central Europe and its capital is Budapest. Talk about a beautiful city, then Hungary is in my top 5 nicest thus far. Budapest is such a clean and beautiful city; The Danube river runs in the middle of the city and cuts it in two. Buda on one side and Pest on the other side. Hungary is the Paprika country, with many varieties of paprika, so you know the food here is not bland but rather delicious and spicy, but not overly spicy.
What stood out for me food wise was the ice cream, I am a big ice cream lover, and have sampled ice cream in every country I visited, Greece, Israel, France Belgium were the best, but now, Budapest is No.1 for rich and delectable Ice cream. Budapest is a fairly inexpensive city for food, hotel etc.
ICELAND -REYKJAVIK
Iceland is an isolated European island located in the North Atlantic and is known as the Land of Ice and Fire. Its capital is Reykjavik. Iceland is a volcanic country and also the most peaceful country on earth. It is also the most expensive and coldest country and I have visited. Its hottest month is usually around 11 deg. Celsius. I love Iceland nonetheless, it is a very unpretentious country. You will not see all the big castle like buildings here like in the rest of European countries. However, there is beauty, in all its simplicity. Its beautiful people and natural beauties, like the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) and the natural springs, the Blue lagoon and Volcanic Geysers spouting steam meters high in the sky, surrounded by snow, shows the uniqueness of this country from the rest of Europe. The Halgrimskirkja church is worth a visit, it is a very unusual design and very majestic.
IRELAND - DUBLIN
The Republic of Ireland is an Island in the North Atlantic and is separated from Great Britain. It is the third largest country in Europe. Its capital is Dublin. What stood out most about Ireland for me were the people. Reminded of the people back in my country. The Irish are jovial people. They have a joke for most things or as they call it the Irish Craic. Maybe it’s part of the fact that they love to chill out and have a few drinks…mellows them out a bit, i guess.
POLAND - WARSAW
The Republic of Poland located in Central Europe. Its capital Warsaw is truly a beautiful city. Old Town (my favorite) and New Town with a charm of their own. New town is the quieter part of the town and Old Town is the lively part of town and more touristy with lots of restaurants and beautiful buildings. Warsaw was reasonably priced for hotel, food etc. Warsaw stood out for the friendliness of the people and their food. Poland is the dumpling and polish sausage capital. Dumplings prepared in so many ways with delicious fillings. The polish sausage soup was a real treat. The goulash was the best I had in all of Europe.
PORTUGAL - LISBON
The Republic of Portugal is a country in Southern Europe. Its capital is Lisbon. Lisbon is the Cod fish capital of the world…seriously, everywhere you go there in Lisbon, Cod fish or (Bacalhau as it’s called) dishes prepared in so many ways Even in duty free there is cod fish for sale (this was quite odd). I love any type of fish prepared any way (except sushi) so I was very happy in Lisbon. My favorite treat was the bacalhau cake made with flour, cod fish and potatoes with cheese in the middle. Really delicious!! Lisbon is one of my top 5 nicest cities visited to date.
What makes a city beautiful in my view? The friendliness of the people, aesthetics, delicious food, cleanliness, safety and prices for goods and services. Lisbon fits that profile, also, I may be a bit bias too because I because I have a Portuguese surname handed down from my grandfather and his two brothers, who left Portugal for the Caribbean many years ago (guess Caribbean ladies are the best!! lol), so I feel some small attachment.
RUSSIA - MOSCOW
The Federal Republic of Russia located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. It is the largest country in the world by land mass. Its capital is Moscow. So much to say about Moscow and my experiences there. Firstly, my very first entry in to Russia, I arrived at the Domodedevo (DME) Int’l airport, immigration was normal, no problems, the 2nd visit I arrived at Sheremetyevo (SVO) Int’l airport.
The immigration officer here spoke no English, he asked no question, I gave him my passport and the only word he knew to say was ‘Transit, Transit” and kept pointing, in fact he seemed to get angry when I was speaking in English telling him I was there on vacation and not transiting, seemed he understood nothing I was saying, he never asked anything else but sat with another officer and speaking in Russian, then came a third officer and he then passed back my passport then the three starting laughing, what that was about I don’t know and didn’t care at the time, just found it very impolite and distasteful.
Then came the rip off yellow taxis down stairs, avoid them!! they charge you 3 times the normal fare to get to downtown Moscow. The hotel was no better, worst customer service I have ever experienced in any country (read my review on trip advisor) my first day back in Russia made me wanted to leave the same day. However, I toughened up stuck to my plans.
SCOTLAND - GLASGOW
Scotland is part of the United Kingdom (UK) and occupies the Northern part of Great Britain in Europe. Its capital is Edinburgh, and its largest city is Glasgow. It is beautiful city with lots of lovely churches and museums. Scotland is very clean, and littering is a serious offence there, I once saw a police officer writing a ticket for a man who smoked and dropped the cigarette butt on the pavement, so vigilance is high to make sure it’s kept clean.
The people in Glasgow were polite but not overly friendly. Found Glasgow to be expensive. The food seemed to be lots of baked beans and sausage and also haggis from sheep intestines, seemed to be a Scottish delicacy, however, I enjoyed the salted oats, it was my first and last place I had such a treat.
MEDITERRANEAN/ BALKANS
BULGARIA - SOFIA
The Republic of Bulgaria is a country located in the Balkans in Southeast Europe. Its capital and largest city is Sofia. Bulgaria is the cheapest European country I have visited and is considered a poor European country. Sofia is one of those cities that is not too over filled with tourist, and that is one of the reasons I enjoyed my visit. Sofia has lots to offer. Almost every block is a beautiful church, I really felt at home in Sofia, it is simple, laid back city with its own quiet charm.
The city was safe, clean and incident free.
Bulgarians were not overly friendly, even those at the hotel but I somehow think it’s because of their economy. Bulgaria has a variety of delicious cheeses. For me they have the best cheese I have ever tasted, the smoked cheese and the white cheese…exceptional!!. Don’t forget to try their Rakia.. very delicious and pick up a bottle of their rose oil..perfect for your skin and hair (most expensive oil worldwide).
CROATIA - ZAGREB
The Republic of Croatia located in Central and Southeast Europe on the North western edge of the Balkans. Its capital, Zagreb, is quite huge with lots of beautiful parks and lovely museums. I can tell that Croatia takes their football quite serious as they had the games from the World Cup on screen on the Ban Jelacic square running nonstop. I was quite impressed by this, as the main inspiration for my visit was due to World cup football tournament, where they played so fantastically well.
Croatian food was always delicious, unlike some countries in Europe where the food was bland. It is neither expensive nor cheap in Zagreb, its somewhere in the middle. One thing that stood out in my view, was how cute the Croatian men are… I referred to them as pretty boys!! Lol. At the time of visit, it was a bit rainy for a few days, nonetheless, I was still able to enjoy the beauty of Zagreb.
CYPRUS - LARNACA
The Republic of Cyprus is an island country in the heart of Eastern Mediterranean Sea and is geographically located in the continent of Asia. However, it is considered a European country. Its capital Nicosia is the largest city. Larnaca is the 3rd largest city and its also where the main international airport is located.
Larnaca is a small city that’s a bit low-keyed, it’s a nice and quiet city. (just the way I like it) For me, it was not too crowded with tourist. There are couple of beaches, Finikoudes, is a popular one and very nice and Mackenzie beach is quite lovely, lots of bars are there at the waterfront. There are also churches, the most popular one is the Church of St. Lazarus, it contains the tomb of the saint who its claimed saw Jesus risen from the dead. The Medieval Castle of Larnaka in downtown, has a lovely view of the beach and city from the roof top, there is also gallows, where females were hung in years gone by. Larnaca was perfect for my hotel stay and I got out of the city to explore a bit more of Cyprus.
FRANCE - PARIS
The Republic of France is a country in the Western Europe. It is the second largest country in the continent. Its capital Paris has some of the world most beautiful architectures. The people in Paris I didn’t find very friendly, not even those at the hotels or restaurants. Nonetheless, Paris is very beautiful with a lot to see and do. It is an expensive city with lots of charm. Definite must visit in Paris will be the Sainte-Chapelle, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the iconic Eiffel tower, the Basillique du Sucre-Coeur de Montmarte, the Louvre Museum, the Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris, a visit to the Champs-Elysees, preferably at evening, is also a nice experience. and a boat ride on the Seine river is a definite must do as well.
GREECE - ATHENS
Greece is a country in Southeastern Europe, with many small islands along the Aegean Sea. Its capital is Athens. Even though Greece can be considered a poor European nation, to me, appeared rich and beautiful, the Greeks are very friendly, loving and beautiful people. I loved everything about Athens, the food, the people, the abundance of many types of Olives (one my favorite treats). It is not an expensive country. It is also tied for the 2nd best tasting ice cream in over 50 countries.
SERBIA - NIS & PIROT
The Republic of Serbia is a country in Southeastern Europe, in the Balkan peninsula. The capital is Belgrade. Nis (third largest city in Serbia) and Pirot the smaller of the two, are both green and mountainous cities. Nis is a modern city reasonably priced and has lots of shopping malls, Museums and a bit more touristy than Pirot.
The town is beautiful with the Nishava River running through it, the people here are very friendly and welcoming. Sites to see in Nis: the Nis Fortress (best preserved Ottoman in the Balkans) and Cele Kula (the skull tower) the skulls of soldiers killed in Cegar was used to build this tower and the Bubanj Memorial Park.
SLOVENIA - LJUBLJANA
The Republic of Slovenia located in South Central Europe and its capital Ljubljana. It is quite a green city, many of the spaces in the town are occupied with lovely green parks. The river Ljubljanica runs in the middle of the city that divides the town in two, on both sides are many cafes along the river. The town is quite small but has a charm of its own, there are many museums and churches.
SPAIN – MADRID
The kingdom of Spain is a country located in South Western Europe. Its capital Madrid, is the biggest city and a true architectural beauty. Madrid is the only city I have visited where I saw a big banner on one of their palaces reading “Refugees are welcome” strange that it was written In English. The people in Madrid were very approachable and friendly, I even got to practice my Spanish and they were quite patient and accommodating. The food was very delicious and spicy, just the way I like it. The city was safe, very clean and inexpensive.
TURKEY - ISTANBUL
The Republic of Turkey is a bit of a toss-up between the middle East and Europe and even west of Asia, making it a very culturally diverse country. Ankara is the capital of Turkey, however my love is for Istanbul, which is truly an amazing city, with many beautiful and exotic mosques at almost every corner. The iconic byzantine Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque among many others in Sultanahmet and Eminonu. The men in Istanbul I found were very lustful, seemed they were always quick to say “I love you” even when passing in front of their business places.
Istanbul for me is great for foodies and shoppers, especially now that the money is devalued again, your foreign currency can go a longer way. I truly love the atmosphere in Istanbul, sweet Turkish delights treats were everywhere and so tasty. Istanbul can be proud of its efficient and cheap transport system.
MIDDLE EAST
JORDAN - AMMAN
Jordan is in the Middle East near Israel, Amman is the capital of Jordan. Firstly, I must say, Jordan is a country I would love to revisit and spend some more quality time. It is in my heart to see Madaba and Petra – definite must see. On arrival at Amman airport, what a beautiful welcome!! I will say Amman immigration officers were the friendliest, coolest and most pleasant immigration officers I have ever met in any visited country. I have noted that in most cases, the reception you receive at immigration, is a clear indication as to how the people in the country are and how they will treat you.
On visiting the city of Amman, I felt special…everyone was so nice to me, what a lovely and friendly people, from the people in the stores, on the streets were all pleasant and warm.
ISRAEL - JERUSALEM
Israel is in the Middle East, some may argue geographically it’s in Asia. When I visited, I arrived at Tel Aviv airport, but my main stay was in Jerusalem. Tel Aviv is also quite lovely and has the night life, there is where the real action spot lies (for any lifestyles). The perception I had in my head when I visited Jerusalem was quickly dispelled at the airport and later during my stay.
On exiting the airport to get a taxi, a female officer outside the exit door stopped me and wanted to search my bags, she then asked where I am coming from I said Dubai and Jordan, immediately she asked what was I doing in Dubai, she never asked what I was doing in Jordan, then proceeded to search my handbag and asking if I have a knife or weapon, thought to myself how silly was that question, would I have a knife if I just came off a plane, through immigration and customs and now exiting the airport to be asked this!?!. It was apparent that there is some sort of issues between both countries.
Another point to note, when you get to Israel immigration, your passport is never stamped, instead you are given a piece of paper on entry and same when leaving (I heard from others, that visitors in the past who had Israeli immigration stamps in their passports, had problems gaining entry into other countries).
PALESTINE
Palestine is located in the Middle East and borders East Jerusalem and Jordan. It may be a bit confusing for me to explain, because before visiting Israel, I actually thought it was part of Israel, however after visiting I am still a bit confused because it’s practically joined to Jerusalem with just a border stop in between the two. If you visit Israel, you will more than likely want to visit the birth place of Jesus in Bethlehem, which is situated in the West Bank south of Jerusalem in Palestinian territory…who knew!! I thought it was in Jerusalem.
Anyhow, if you are visiting you don’t go with a Jew to this area, a Jewish taxi driver will not take you there either. Just take note of this. The first thing you notice when visiting this area is the Palestinian wall with lots of graffiti and messages. When you get Bethlehem, your first stop at the Church of the Nativity is more than likely, be prepared to line for up to 2 hours just to be able to go to the Grotto to the exact spot where Jesus was born.
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - ABU DHABI
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and the largest state/emirate in all United Arab Emirates, it occupies almost 87% of the land mass.in the U.A.E, it is a bit less touristy than Dubai, more laid-back and very beautiful as well with some very pristine beaches. The Corniche is the most popular place to visit with its lovely surrounding beaches, perfect for biking or strolling. Abu Dhabi is known for hosting sports, and even the formula 1 racing.
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - DUBAI
United Arab Emirates (U.A.E) is located in the Middle East. It is a country consisting of seven states well maybe not states but emirates. Abu Dhabi is the capital and largest city in the U.A.E.. Many people are only familiar with Abu Dhabi and Dubai, some even think that Dubai is the name of the country, no its not, and neither is it the biggest of the seven emirates.
Arrival at Dubai int’l airport was smooth, immigration at airport was quick and thorough, it was a nice surprise to see the garbs the immigration officers wore, not the immigration type uniform as other countries, I found this to be very sexy… yes I love the head wear, in fact the whole thing, head to toe, lol!! Now you exit the airport and feel the heat, you know you are in the desert! it is that hot!! However, not humid, big difference!!… so be prepared with your sun block and water. Eventually your body will adjust to the heat in a few days. Dubai can boast of its Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world and Burj Al Arab the only 7 star hotel in the world.
Dubai has lots to offer, forgetting its most exotic Palm Island. Never a dull moment in the U.A.E.
Many of these countries can be within your reach with careful planning and learning how to save to travel. You don’t have to be rich to travel, just be willing to sacrifice and cut back on spending of non-essentials and you can reach your goals.
Along with good booking agents like Booking.com, you can plan an excellent vacation.
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