News
Portugal’s Highest Number of Tourists in July 2022
Portugal set a new record for tourism in July 2022, with more than 1.8 million tourists staying in accommodations across Portugal. The country is attracting tourists from across the world, especially North Americans. The number of tourists is expected to continue rising in the next few months, thanks to cruise tourism, direct flights, and the central location.
Portugal is a popular destination for American travelers. The number of Americans is expected to rise in the coming years. In July alone, Portugal welcomed 183,215 Americans, nearly doubling its June record of 181,869 guests. The US has become the country’s fifth largest source of tourism, behind the United Kingdom, Spain, and Germany.
Why travel to Portugal?
Portugal has a lot to offer visitors to the country. With a majority of the country facing the west, you’re bound to catch a stunning sunset from its beaches. The country’s major cities have tram systems that have been in use for over a century. The ones in Lisbon are a sight to behold. However, some lines are uncomfortable, and pickpockets love to prey on passengers.
Porto
When traveling abroad, it is important to know the rules of the destination country. Portugal is generally an open destination, and visitors from EU and Schengen countries are welcomed. However, it is important to note that certain precautions must be taken when entering Portugal, particularly during certain times of the year. Visiting Portugal during the summer, for instance, involves a high risk of forest fires, and travelers should take appropriate precautions.
Although Portugal is one of the safest countries to visit, you should still be aware of possible health risks. While there are a few serious threats on the ground, you should be aware of scams and pickpockets in touristic areas. For this reason, it is important to buy travel insurance. Portugal is also a popular destination for British tourists, and many members of the hospitality industry speak English.
Portugal is a relatively compact country, so you will be able to drive between different destinations. Besides, driving in Portugal will allow you to stop at your leisure to visit small villages. You will also be able to see ancient castles, aqueducts, and Roman roads, which are among the country’s antique architectural treasures. And if you are looking for a unique experience, be sure to try some of the delicious local food. For example, Portuguese cuisine includes many meat dishes. You can sample Feijoada, Cozido a Portuguesa, and more.
Lisbon
Lisbon is a fantastic place to visit during your visit to Portugal. This city is situated right next to the river and is a perfect place for a day out. It can be windy and cold in winter, but warm in summer. The city is also home to some fantastic beaches. While you’re in Lisbon, be sure to take a day trip to the Alfama district. This is a beautiful area to walk around and you can snap some amazing pictures here.
Visitors can explore the arch at the top of the city. It has a terrace overlooking the city and is home to an allegorical statue of Glory. There are also statues of Bravery and Genius and the entablature has statues of national heroes. To reach the top of the arch, you can take an elevator or a spiral staircase that will take you to the terrace. The top terrace offers spectacular views of Lisbon and the Baixa district.
For those interested in history, the city also offers a number of museums and historical sites. The National Coach Museum is located in the Alfama district. Moreover, the medieval St. George’s Castle is also a must-visit.
Evora
The historic center of Evora is a quaint and charming place to visit. You may get lost walking through the narrow streets and alleyways, but you’ll fall in love with the town’s beauty. There are many interesting buildings on every corner. The square features the 8 spout fountain, which represents the streets leading away from the square.
You can visit the Evora Cathedral, the oldest and largest cathedral in Portugal. The roof terrace is a wonderful place to take in the city and admire the view, while the Gothic cloisters are worth exploring. The Cathedral is open from 9AM to 6PM, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore. You can also check out the Templo Romano Evora, also known as Templo de Diana, a 1st-century Roman temple. The cathedral and the Templo Romano are both part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Another attraction in Evora is the chapel of bones. It’s a popular destination for tourists. It contains the remains of many medieval people, and the bones of more than 5,000 people have been exhumed. The remains were used as artwork, but they were also used as a way to survive famine. The Bone Chapel, built during the 16th century, was an attempt to raise awareness of the transitory nature of life. The stones of the chapel’s walls are decorated with skulls.
Vilamoura
Vilamoura is the place to go if you’re looking for a little extra fun. There are plenty of restaurants and bars, as well as a casino. The Vilamoura Casino is one of only a handful of casinos in the Algarve, and it’s located right in the center of the city. This lively casino is home to a number of top restaurants, a live music venue, and a variety of sports and bingo tables.
Vilamoura has been developed as a luxury holiday destination in the past few decades. It’s located on one of the most beautiful beaches in the central Algarve. It’s also home to an award-winning marina and a number of top-notch tourist facilities. The town also features chic bars and fine dining restaurants. And, unlike most Portuguese towns, you can find a world-class golf course, as well as a number of water parks.
While Vilamoura is popular with summer vacationers, it’s a great place to visit all year-round. Some of the area’s tourist attractions offer discounts for year-round residents, so be sure to check out these deals.
Sao Miguel
Sao Miguel, Portugal, is the largest of the Azores islands and is known for its volcanic scenery and rich marine life. It is also home to the Gothic St. Sebastian Church and 18th-century City Gates. Other notable sights include the twin crater lakes called Sete Cidades, which are blue and green, and the Furnas, which is filled with hot springs and fumarololes.
The main island of the Azores, Sao Miguel is easily accessible by plane from several European cities, including Lisbon. You can also get a direct flight from the United States via Madeira. The island has been inscribed on the Unesco list of world heritage sites, making it a popular destination for surfers and other travelers.
The town of Nordeste is one of the more remote parts of Sao Miguel. The roads here offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The town itself is small, but offers a few tourist attractions, including a church and the Ponte dos 7 Arcos, an historic bridge. You can also visit the Ribeira dos Caldeiroes, which is known for its waterfalls and flora. The area also boasts a museum and souvenir shops.
There are several geothermal pools on the island, and the only tea plantation in Europe is also located in Sao Miguel. The tea is harvested from April to September, and visitors can get a guided tour and enjoy tasty tea breaks while they’re here.
Penena-Geres National Park
There are a number of reasons to travel to Portugal’s Penena-Genes National Park. You can see beautiful scenery, hike through ancient stone villages, and visit hidden waterfalls. There are also many historical sites, including a submerged village.
The national park’s name comes from the village of Geres, which is also the largest town inside it. Geres has several hotels and spas, as well as regional shops. It also has two traditional Portuguese restaurants. Another fascinating feature of this park is the Fojo do Lobo, which is an ancient trap built to hunt wolves. It’s 64 meters long and has two walls, each two meters high.
The Peneda-Geres National Park is located in northern Portugal, on the border with Spain. It is the oldest national park in Portugal and has a varied ecosystem. The area has regenerating oak forests, ancient native forest, and peat bogs. You can also see garrano ponies in the area. The park is also home to several small villages, including Pitoes das Junias and Tourem.
The area is also home to ancient ruins. You can explore the ruins of medieval castles, as well as quaint villages. A few of these are still inhabited. The region also boasts a number of B&Bs and restaurants, and you can sample local mountain fare.
Algarve
The Algarve is a fantastic beach destination. The best time to go is summer when the sun and sand are plentiful. However, shoulder seasons are also wonderful, with beaches less crowded and tours not sold out. You can also save money by traveling outside of the high season.
The Algarve’s climate makes it ideal for walking and cycling. With low population density, you can enjoy the spectacular scenery. The climate is perfect for both activities – it is warm in summer, but the Algarve has low temperatures during the winter. You can take a dip in the ocean, or go for a stroll along the beaches. If you’re an art lover, you’ll love the town of Albufeira. You can also visit the famous Sao Lourenco Church, built in the 17th century. The whitewashed church has beautiful tiles and is one of the most important artistic sites in the Algarve.
You’ll also find countless beaches in the Algarve, each with its own distinct characteristics. Some of the most popular beaches are within easy reach of Portugal’s largest cities. Praia da Rocha is a great example of an idyllic beach, but don’t miss out on Marinha Beach, which is a little farther out.
News
Fiji Wins Oceania Top Adventure Tourism Destination Award 2022
Fiji is the winner of the best Adventure Tourism Destination in Oceania in 2022. This prestigious award was given to Fiji during the World Travel Awards event in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Fiji was the winner of this award back in 2018 and has now regained its top spot as the best adventure destination in Oceania.
About World Travel Awards
The World Travel Awards is one of the most respected awards organizations in the travel industry. They were established in 1993, and its aim is to award the best that the tourism industry has to offer around the world.
Why is Fiji a Great Adventure Destination?
If you’re looking for a fun adventure vacation, Fiji is the place to go. From zip-lining to island hopping, this place has it all. You can take on the thrills of white-water rafting or zip-lining over the coral reefs. You can even do some scuba diving!
Located in the South Pacific, Fiji is the perfect destination for those looking for a truly unique adventure vacation. This archipelago is famed for its white sand beaches, lush mountain rainforests, and untouched river valleys. The two major inhabited islands of Fiji, Viti Levu, and Vanua Levu, are surrounded by over 300 small islands that are the perfect setting for real adventures.
White-water rafting
If you are looking for an adventure vacation, Fiji is a fantastic destination. There are a few things you should know about Fiji rafting before heading out on your first trip. First, make sure you have the right equipment for the trip. There are two main types of rafting equipment. One type is for beginners, and the other is for more experienced rafters. The difference between the two types of rafting equipment is in the type of raft you choose to use.
Fiji is known for its beautiful waterfalls and the abundance of marine life. While diving is a great way to enjoy crystal clear waters, Fiji is also home to some incredible rafting routes. Rivers Fiji offers safe and fun rafting and sea kayaking tours. The rafting is especially thrilling in the summer months when fast-flowing rivers can create an exciting adventure.
Among the different Fijian rafting destinations, the Upper Navua River is one of the best options. This class II-III river is accessible to rafters of all skill levels, and you’ll experience breathtaking scenery and waterfalls. The activities in this remote area benefit local communities and help with conservation efforts.
Island hopping
Island hopping is a great way to explore the beautiful, pristine Fiji Islands. There are 333 islands to visit, including the Mamanuca and Yasawa Island chains. They are all connected by a reef and impossibly blue waters. From the capital of Nadi, you can reach many of these islands.
If you love water sports, you should definitely include island hopping during your Fiji vacation. There are numerous activities to choose from: surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. During the day, you can relax at one of Fiji’s luxury resorts, which offer a wide range of activities to keep you entertained.
There are many types of cruises available to visitors. You can choose to go on a privately chartered cruise, which will allow you to enjoy all the activities you desire. You will not have to worry about other people getting on your boat and spoiling your experience. You will also get to meet a local guide on each island, who will arrange the activities.
You can also choose a tour that will cover more than one island. The most popular package covers four islands in seven days. It is cheaper than the longer tours, so you can get to see more with less time. Or, you can choose a shorter tour, like the Island Adventure, which covers three islands in five days and four nights. It also includes all meals.
Scuba diving
The warm water of Fiji is perfect for scuba diving. There is a visibility of 30 meters. The rich nutrients in the sea bottom support a diverse array of aquatic species. Scuba divers can expect to see tiger sharks, bull sharks, and humpback whales. Occasionally, they can also spot whale sharks and hammerheads.
The main diving season in Fiji lasts from April to October. However, diving is possible throughout the year. Although visibility is generally lower in winter, the water temperature is still warm. Sharks, manta rays, and leopard sharks can be seen during this time.
Scuba diving in Fiji is a fantastic adventure and there are many great locations for novices to learn. For experienced divers, the Great White Wall off Taveuni and Nasonisoni Passage are two of the best diving destinations in Fiji. Other great dives include E6 in the Lomaiviti Islands, which has a spectacular seamount.
Zip lining
Zip lining in Fiji is the perfect way to explore the inland areas of the country. Zip line tours on Viti Levu are popular with travelers because they combine multiple ‘flights’ with stopovers at treetop platforms where you can enjoy views of the ocean and the forest below. Zip line tours are the perfect way to bond with your family and experience the wonders of Fiji’s nature.
Zip Fiji is a popular zip line adventure in Fiji and is the first zip line experience in the country. The zip line experience is set in a private eco-reserve surrounded by lush jungle. You’ll be transported through a jungle at up to 35 miles per hour, and the breathtaking views will leave you breathless.
Zip Fiji’s newest zip line is located just 35 minutes from Nadi and offers a spectacular experience. It features five kilometers of ziplines and a limestone cave. You’ll fly over waterfalls and rivers.
News
What is Eco Friendly Travel?
If you want to travel in an environmentally conscious way, you should invest in carbon offsets or look for eco-friendly accommodations. It is also a good idea to avoid single-use plastics. If you are traveling by air, you should choose non-stop flights, which proves that airlines are more concerned about your environment than about saving money. Otherwise, you should choose alternative methods of travel.
Investing in carbon offsets
Offsets are a way to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide you emit while you travel. However, the offset market is a complex one and can fluctuate drastically. This means that buying carbon offsets is not always an effective strategy, especially if you do not choose the right one. The carbon offset industry has little regulation and is not transparent.
First, you need to find a reputable project. You can find many programs online. Choose one that appeals to you or is located in your state. After finding a reputable project, you must follow some guidelines to ensure that you make a quality purchase. You should also choose a program that reflects your values.
Carbon offsets are an excellent way to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide you emit while traveling. These credits are created by investing in projects that reduce emissions. This is particularly useful if you’re planning a long-haul flight because offsets are calculated in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. To determine how much you need, you can use an online calculator. Once you have an idea of the offset price, you can find a carbon offset project that best fits your needs.
The carbon offsets are made possible by carbon brokers who invest in a variety of environmental projects. These projects range from energy efficiency projects to sustainable farming. By investing in carbon offsets, you can make a significant impact on climate action. But you also need to be careful when selecting a carbon offset. Some of these offsets are worth more than others, and you should know the risks and benefits before you invest your money.
You can choose between carbon offset programs that meet the highest industry standards. Some of these offsets are certified by independent bodies and third-party audits. If you choose to invest in offsets, make sure you choose those that have proven transparency and added value. And make sure to find one that doesn’t have any double counting.
Carbon offsets are an effective way to reduce your travel carbon footprint. They allow you to make a difference on climate change, and you don’t have to break the bank to offset your travel emissions. You can even buy them as a monthly subscription, allowing you to take action and offset your carbon emissions every month.
Choosing an eco-friendly hotel
Travelers are increasingly interested in staying at an eco-friendly hotel. Choosing a hotel that is committed to a green lifestyle will not only help reduce your impact on the environment, but it can also save you money. There are hundreds of sustainable certifications to choose from, so making the right choice is vital. The key is to understand the differences between different types of certifications to avoid greenwashing.
You should also look at the hotel’s community ties. If it is connected to the community, this may mean that it gives local residents jobs and gives local independent contractors business. Eco-friendly hotels will mention this on their website. Depending on where you are staying, you may also want to call the hotel and ask if they are eco-friendly.
Look for hotels that use green cleaning solutions and toiletries. Greenwashing is a popular way to reduce carbon footprint. While some hotels claim that their products are chemical-free, others may contain crude oil. Find a hotel that uses eco-friendly toiletries and cleaning products, and check the certifications with a third-party organization.
Hotels that are environmentally conscious also prioritize water conservation. Many conventional hotels waste more water than they should. By choosing an eco-friendly hotel, you can reduce your hotel’s impact on water resources while reducing your budget. By choosing an eco-friendly hotel, you will be helping to preserve the environment for the future.
An eco-friendly hotel will also help the local community. Small hotel businesses often thrive on environmental awareness, and eco-friendly amenities are important to their success. Whether it’s reducing water usage, providing biodegradable amenities, or using locally-sourced products, sustainable hotels will help the local economy. A green hotel will also benefit local farmers by reducing the amount of food and water that has to be transported. This will reduce transportation costs and lower carbon emissions.
Avoiding single-use plastics
Travelling can be a great way to reduce your plastic consumption. There are many ways to do this, from bringing your own water bottle and reusable shopping bags to avoiding single-use plastic straws. Whenever possible, it’s also a good idea to educate others on the issue. Tell them how important it is to be environmentally conscious, and encourage them to do the same. Using your voice and making an effort to make your travel choices more sustainable can help you make a real impact on the environment.
Many travelers do not realize just how much plastic they use. In a two-week trip, the average traveler will use 30 single-use plastic water bottles. This is a staggering number, but there are ways to reduce your travel-related plastic consumption. Luckily, the travel and tourism industry is working hard to reduce its own use of plastics. For example, many hotels are getting rid of plastic toiletries. Airlines are also focusing on reducing their plastic wrap and packaging.
While traveling, try to avoid single-use plastics as much as possible. If you’re a woman, try to find non-applicator tampons. Otherwise, you can also choose to use cardboard applicators. Taking a staycation or visiting local places is another great way to reduce your plastic consumption. Consider having a beach picnic instead of eating out in plastic.
Avoiding single-use plastics is the most effective way to reduce your plastic waste. It’s also a good idea to carry reusable bags or bottles. By doing this, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint by a significant amount. However, remember that online purchases can still be packaged with plastic.
Plastic produce bags and sandwich baggies are examples of single-use plastics. Even though these items can be recycled, they often end up in the oceans and landfills. Even if these are recycled, single-use plastics won’t break down in landfill for hundreds of years.
If you’re traveling with a carry-on suitcase, it’s a good idea to bring reusable containers for your toiletries. You can also carry your own toothbrush. It’s a good idea to carry a bamboo toothbrush along. This way, you can refill it while you’re on the road. By using your own reusable containers, you’ll avoid plastics that are used in the hotel.
Choosing a low-carbon holiday
If you are planning to take your family on holiday, there are several ways to reduce your carbon footprint and stay in tune with nature. One of the best ways is to use public transport. It is more environmentally friendly than driving and it lets you experience the sights of your destination like a local. In addition to saving money, it allows you to explore new places that you might otherwise miss. The main bus and railway stations are usually located in the city center.
By choosing a low-carbon holiday, you can make an impact on climate change by choosing a destination that supports projects that reduce carbon emissions.
News
Why is Sustainable Travel Important?
If you’re planning a trip, you should consider sustainable travel. This type of travel involves conserving local resources and supporting local cultures. It can also save you money and protect the environment.
There are many reasons to take a more eco-friendly approach to your trip. Here are just a few of them.
Eco-tourism
Eco-tourism is a way to visit a place while contributing to the community in some way. It differs from mass tourism in many ways. While mass tourism aims to attract a large number of tourists, eco-tourism focuses on a more meaningful experience for a smaller number of travelers. Often, eco-tourism involves purchasing local products and supporting local solidarity projects.
For eco-tourism to be sustainable, travelers must be aware of the impact that they make on a destination. They should ask questions about conservation. This means that they should avoid places like so-called sanctuaries and petting zoos. They should also seek out destinations that do not require invasive infrastructure.
Eco-tourism is also a good way to help local communities and empower local people. For instance, by purchasing local goods, travelers support locals and give them more financial benefits than they would with mass tourism. One of the most difficult and trickiest goals of eco-tourism is raising sensitivity and awareness in the host country.
However, the benefits of eco-tourism are not without controversy. Proponents of sustainable travel argue that it can help stimulate the global economy and promote economic development in developing countries. However, a few critics claim that this type of travel is harmful to the environment. Some say that ecotourism can harm wildlife, harm local communities, and damage the environment.
Sustainable ecotourism involves the participation of small and medium-sized groups to protect the natural environment. The main objective is to maximize the positive effects of eco-tourism while minimizing the negative ones. But the benefits of eco-tourism are greater than the risks of its negative impacts. Hence, eco-tourism should be considered as an essential part of sustainable travel.
The most significant barrier to sustainable travel is perceived cost. However, two-thirds of travelers would be willing to spend an extra five percent for sustainable travel, and this figure is highest among Indians, Brazilians, and Chinese travelers. Lack of information on the topic is another major barrier. Another barrier is the lack of credible certification.
Many tourism companies invest in projects that promote sustainable travel by preserving ecosystems, preventing deforestation, and conserving energy and water. By creating sustainable tourism destinations, these companies can benefit from a new type of traveler: a conscious traveler who is interested in making a positive impact on the world. Such travelers are also more willing to pay a higher price for authentic travel experiences.
Respecting local culture
One of the first steps towards sustainable travel is respecting the local culture. Whether you’re visiting a sacred site or just want to support a local business, taking the time to learn the language of your hosts will go a long way toward ensuring a positive impact on the local area. Respecting the local culture is a simple but meaningful way to show gratitude for the opportunity to travel.
Another way to minimize your impact on the local area is to eat local food. Buying food produced locally will ensure freshness and benefit local businesses. It will also help the local economy by increasing employment and income. The infographic below outlines eight practices to follow while traveling. These practices can contribute to a positive impact on the environment.
Respecting the local culture means making sure you don’t disrupt local life or break local customs. Try to observe locals and ask for tips. For example, in Thailand, your feet should never face the Lord Buddha, while in India, never eat with your left hand. It’s important to respect the local culture so that you can feel proud to be a part of it.
In addition to respecting the local culture, sustainable travel also involves learning the language and customs of your destination. By learning the local language and accent, you’ll be more likely to understand the local way of life, which will help you make a positive impact on the community. It also means learning about local recycling and waste management practices.
By following these tips, you can travel more sustainably and reduce your ecological footprint. This will reduce the number of cars on the road and reduce air pollution. By using public transportation, you’ll also reduce the amount of carbon dioxide released into the air. Furthermore, taking public transportation will improve the road network, which will decrease traffic jams. In addition, traveling sustainably can save you money.
When traveling, consider reading local publications and avoiding package deals. By avoiding chain hotels and resorts, you’ll also reduce the number of carbon emissions you leave behind. While an Airbnb may seem like a great way to save money, this type of accommodation can put locals at risk, so you’ll want to be sure to read reviews and testimonials.
Protecting the environment
To protect the environment while traveling, there are a number of things you can do. For one, avoiding the use of plastic bags can reduce your carbon footprint. If you can, buy items that are biodegradable or have lower chemical content. You should also try to buy sunscreen that has fewer chemicals. Also, you should bring your own water bottle instead of buying bottled water.
Sustainable travel also includes choosing travel destinations that are friendly to the environment. Many eco-friendly destinations have a focus on local communities and the impact that you have while traveling can be minimized if you choose these places. To reduce your impact on the environment, you should also offset your air travel carbon emissions and stay in eco-friendly hotels. These steps will not only help protect the environment but also help you enjoy a wonderful trip.
Traveling by train or bus is another way to reduce your carbon footprint. Compared to airplanes, trains generate significantly less CO2. Furthermore, you can see the scenery while you travel. Aside from that, train travel is cheaper than airplanes, making it a great choice for sustainable travel.
While traveling, you should try to eat local food whenever possible. This will help you minimize your carbon footprint, and it will give you a unique taste of the local culture. Similarly, you should try to pack your suitcase in a way that is environmentally friendly. Avoid using bubble wrap and consider other ways to pack your items. You can also try to use old newspapers or used clothing to wrap souvenirs. Also, take reusable water bottles with you on your trip.
Some countries are making conscious efforts to be more eco-friendly while traveling. For example, Sweden is the greenest country in the world, with over 98% of its population using renewable energy. It also has a successful water and energy program. And Slovenia has received numerous awards for sustainability. It was named the best place to travel by the Green Travel Guide, and its capital city, Ljubljana, was selected as a European Capital of Smart Tourism.
Using less fuel is another important factor for sustainable travel. Air travel accounts for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions. Instead of using an airline, try to use alternative methods of transportation like trains or buses. Alternatively, you can also opt for a hybrid or electric vehicles. They use less fuel than traditional gas-guzzling vehicles.
-
South Korea2 years ago
Best Volunteer Programs in South Korea
-
Freiwilligenarbeit im Ausland2 years ago
Freiwilligenarbeit Thailand
-
Volontariat à l'étranger2 years ago
Volontariat Thaïlande
-
Vrijwilligerswerk2 years ago
Vrijwilligerswerk Thailand
-
Adventure Travel2 years ago
What Are the Challenges of Adventure Tourism?
-
Freiwilligenarbeit im Ausland2 years ago
Freiwilligenarbeit Laos
-
Adventure Travel2 years ago
Types of Adventure Tourism
-
Vrijwilligerswerk2 years ago
Vrijwilligerswerk Laos