S. America

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador With G Adventures

Quick Summary

The Galapagos Islands are truly heaven on earth!  This is a must for everyone’s bucket list.

The islands offer unbelievably clean water, sand, and untouched wilderness that is highly protected by the government. Where else can you go to safely swim with wild turtles, sharks, and sea lions?

Most islands are untouched and laws limit the time each group can stay in each area. Just to land in the Galapagos will cost you $100USD upon arrival and there are strict laws governing where you can go and what you can touch.

G Adventures is highly recommended as they take care a lot of the planning for you. It goes without saying, this is not a place you want to ‘wing-it’. They offer various price levels/boats and I had the privilege of riding on their G4 boat, which offers running water, hot showers, and a spacious living area with a full bar. The staff is highly experienced and do what they can to ensure you’re comfortable during your journey.

Note: The waters do get rough at times, especially as they move locations overnight. Be sure to bring lots of Gravel and motion sickness meds even if you normally aren’t the type to get seasick.

Ah, the Galapagos Islands, a stunning archipelago of volcanic islands dotted across the Pacific Ocean. A place where nature reigns supreme, and where wildlife, untouched by human influence, thrives in abundance. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of biodiversity, housing a myriad of unique species that can’t be found anywhere else on the planet.

Visiting the Galapagos Islands is like stepping into another world, a world where animals rule and humans are just visitors. The islands’ breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters offer a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.

But visiting the Galapagos Islands isn’t just about basking in the beauty of nature. It’s about experiencing a unique ecosystem, understanding the delicate balance of life, and learning about the fascinating process of evolution first-hand.

Why choose G Adventures for your Galapagos Islands tour?

When it comes to exploring the enchanting Galapagos Islands, not all tours are created equal. That’s where G Adventures, a global leader in small group adventure travel, comes into play. With a firm commitment to responsible tourism, G Adventures offers a unique, immersive experience that goes beyond the usual sightseeing.

With G Adventures, your Galapagos Islands tour is more than just a holiday. It’s an opportunity to experience the islands in-depth, to connect with nature, and to learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect this unique ecosystem. G Adventures also prioritizes small groups, ensuring that your tour is intimate, personalized, and less impactful on the environment.

What sets G Adventures apart from other tour operators is their commitment to responsible tourism. They work closely with local communities and conservation organizations to ensure that tourism benefits the local economy and environment. With G Adventures, you’re not just a tourist; you’re an active participant in preserving the islands’ fragile ecosystem.

Exploring the Galapagos Islands with G Adventures

G Adventures offers a variety of Galapagos Islands tours, each designed to cater to different interests and fitness levels. Whether you prefer to explore the islands on foot, by bike, or by boat, there’s a G Adventures tour that’s perfect for you.

For hiking enthusiasts, G Adventures offers trekking tours that take you deep into the islands’ volcanic landscapes. You’ll get to explore lava tunnels, hike up volcanic craters, and witness the islands’ unique flora and fauna up close.

If you’re a water lover, the snorkeling and diving tours offered by G Adventures are a must. These tours give you the opportunity to explore the islands’ rich marine life, including sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, and the iconic Galapagos penguins.

Unique experiences with G Adventures Galapagos Islands tours

One of the highlights of a G Adventures Galapagos Islands tour is the unique experiences it offers. From up-close encounters with wildlife to visits to local communities, every G Adventures tour is filled with memorable moments.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the chance to witness the unique behavior of the islands’ wildlife is a dream come true. Whether it’s watching the famous blue-footed boobies perform their mating dance, swimming alongside playful sea lions, or observing the giant tortoises in their natural habitat, each wildlife encounter is a unique experience in itself.

G Adventures also offers cultural experiences that allow you to interact with the local communities. You’ll get to learn about the islands’ history and culture, sample local cuisine, and even participate in community-led conservation projects.

G Adventures Galapagos Islands boat cruises

One of the best ways to explore the Galapagos Islands is by boat, and G Adventures offers a range of boat cruises that take you to the archipelago’s most stunning locations. These cruises offer a unique perspective on the islands, allowing you to explore hidden beaches, secluded bays, and off-the-beaten-track islands that are inaccessible by land.

With G Adventures Galapagos Islands boat cruises, you’ll get to witness the archipelago’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitats. You’ll also have ample opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, making your Galapagos Islands experience all the more immersive.

Other G Adventures Galapagos Islands tour options

In addition to boat cruises and trekking tours, G Adventures offers several other Galapagos Islands tour options. These include multi-sport tours that combine hiking, biking, and water-based activities, as well as leisurely tours that focus more on relaxation and wildlife viewing.

G Adventures also offers specialized tours for photography enthusiasts, bird watchers, and conservation-minded travelers. These tours offer unique insights into the islands’ wildlife and ecosystems, and provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with local conservation efforts.

Booking your G Adventures Galapagos Islands tour

Booking your G Adventures Galapagos Islands tour is a simple process. You can book directly through the G Adventures website, where you’ll find detailed information about each tour, including itineraries, prices, and departure dates.

Once you’ve chosen your preferred tour, you can book your spot with just a few clicks. And if you have any questions or need assistance, the G Adventures team is always ready to help.

Reviews: What past customers say about G Adventures Galapagos Islands tours

If you’re still unsure about whether G Adventures is the right choice for your Galapagos Islands tour, just take a look at the rave reviews from past customers. Many travelers praise G Adventures for their knowledgeable guides, well-planned itineraries, and commitment to responsible tourism.

Many reviews highlight the unique wildlife encounters and immersive cultural experiences offered by G Adventures. Others praise the company’s commitment to small group sizes, which allows for a more personalized and less impactful tour.

Tips for a successful Galapagos Islands adventure with G Adventures

To make the most of your Galapagos Islands adventure with G Adventures, it’s important to come prepared. Here are a few tips to ensure a successful trip:

  1. Pack light but smart: The Galapagos Islands’ weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to pack layers. Also, don’t forget your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a good pair of hiking shoes.
  2. Respect the wildlife: The Galapagos Islands are home to many unique species, and it’s important to respect their space. Remember, you’re a visitor in their home.
  3. Stay hydrated: Exploring the islands can be physically demanding, so it’s important to stay hydrated. G Adventures provides ample opportunities for rest and hydration.

Conclusion: Why G Adventures is your best choice for Galapagos Islands tours

When it comes to exploring the Galapagos Islands, G Adventures offers a unique, immersive experience that goes beyond the usual sightseeing. With a commitment to responsible tourism, small group sizes, and a range of tour options, G Adventures ensures a memorable and meaningful Galapagos Islands adventure.

So what are you waiting for? Experience the Galapagos Islands like never before with G Adventures. Book now, YOLO!

Europe

Sushi Delivery In Mykonos Greece?

Greece is known for its great seafood cuisine, and experiencing in Mykonos is no exception.  But I couldn’t help but wonder, what would sushi delivery compare to back home?  So I set out to find out!  Surprisingly, it didn’t take me long to find a highly recommended sushi delivery service right in the heart of Mykonos.

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Europe

Ios Greece

This past July, I had the privilege of joining dozens of travel insiders at Travel Massive’s Unconference event in Ios, Greece.

The conference was generously hosted by the Luxurious brand of hotels and restaurants. As we went through the week’s events, it became clear that Luxurious and its founders are trying to keep Ios Greece from going the way of the other islands in the region in becoming a party haven, but to position it as a sustainable, luxury island.

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S. America, Travel Advice

Brazil

The most favorite Brazilian destinations are chosen for their great weather, amazing beaches (or hotel pools), awesome exploring, and outstanding dining and drinking experiences. But what to pack for all these activities?

Proper Packing for Brazil
The humid climate makes lightweight, breathable clothing absolutely necessary, regardless your destination and endeavors.

Adaptors and surge protectors will be needed if you plan to travel with electronics. Most places in use 110 Volt AC electricity, just like the US and Canada but sometimes round pin sockets have 220 volts. To avoid destroying your hair dryer, laptop, or phone, it is best to use a power adaptor.

Toiletries in Brazil will be twice as expensive as at home, so be sure to bring your favorites with you. Remember to pack aloe vera in case you burn, and strong sunscreen to try and avoid it.

The law in Brazil demands that foreigners carry identification at all times, so be sure to pack an ID Card or copy of your passport to carry with you, even at the beach.

For Exploring:
Solid, comfortable shoes are necessary for long hours of sightseeing, and the bumpy trails of hiking paths.

A small backpack or daybag can store your necessities, including a camera, map, and water, which you shouldn’t skip as dehydration comes easily.

For Dining and Drinking:
Brazilians dress well, and casual yet elegant clothing will be a better choice than beachwear for anything fancier than a beachside kiosk. When in doubt, overdressing is better than underdressing.

A nice pair of shoes will be needed if you plan to visit any clubs in Brazil’s major cities (Havainas will not cut it).

For Beaching:
The sun in Brazil is especially intense. Even if you usually forego them, be sure to pack sunglasses and a hat to avoid heat exhaustion and sun-sickness.

Feel free to forget many necessary beach-related items, as they are cheaper and of good quality in Brazil:

Beach coverups are sold on the beach and in many beach-side shops, and are great souvenirs.

A canga does double duty as a beach coverup and a beach blanket, and are extremely popular and available everywhere, and also great as souvenirs.

Bikinis in Brazil are cheaper (and skimpier, if you want to try it out!) than at home, and this goes for men’s swimsuits as well!

The popular Brazilian sandals called Havaianas are extremely good quality, one third the price in Brazil as compared to abroad, and with shops everywhere (even the airport).

Every beach will have kiosks renting beach umbrellas and beach chairs for a tiny fee, so don’t waste valuable packing space by including those either.

Remember
Brazil is a vast and varied country, with 26 states of differing climates, cultures, and charms so be sure to check the weather of your destination before finalizing your packing list. Don’t assume that the seasons are the same in Brazil as at home. What is summer in your country may be “winter” in Brazil! Brazilian winter in some regions will require a jacket, at least at night. Winter can be rainy, as well as some other seasons in a few of the regions, so it may be wise to pack a raincoat or portable umbrella if applicable.

Europe

Milan Walking Tour

If you’re on a tight budget or ended up sleeping in and missing a scheduled walking tours, below is a basic summary of some of Milan’s central attractions.

 

(Duomeo Di Milan) Milan Cathedral and its surroundings

Duomeo Di Milan Milan Cathedral

Unfortunately taking photos in the Cathedral is not allowed, so you can only take pictures from the outside and in front of the building. Milan Cathedral was built in the 14th century and is famous for its 3000+ statues.

The area that surrounds the Cathedral has a number of pleasant cafes and restaurants. Time passes quickly here sipping on a cup of Italian coffee.

From here you can easily reach The Scala (Teatro alla Scala).  Milan’s Scala is the place that every opera singer dreams of.

Opposite the opera house you will find Leonardo’s statue.

Leonardo Statue Milan

In order to see Leonardo Da Vinci’s 15th century mural, “The Last Supper” that he finished as his masterpiece in 1498, head to the monastery as it is found on the wall of a monastery’s dining room.

Leonardo Monestary The Last Supper

Each 15 minutes only twenty people can go in into the hall, which is then sealed from both sides.  Be sure to book your tickets in advance! If you miss your time slot you won’t get another on the same day (or even the same week).

The church next to the monastery is also recommended – the Santa Maria delle Grazie basilica. The original little chapel has been incorporated into the current building and inside you can see many divine statues, memorials, and family shrines.

Next is the legendary Leonardo Da Vinci Science and Technology Museum that contains a lot of reconstructions of Leonardo’s works, including designs and idea plans.

Once inspired by Leonardo’s many relics, head over to Sforza Castle which is in the centre of Milan. On your way you can look around at some shops or eat a good Italian pizza. The castle has been there since 14th century and is the main symbol of the city.

In front of the great Gate you can sit for a while and just look around. A lot of students spend their time at the nearby fountain. If the weather is nice you might see some talented skateboarder groups practising their shows alongside some street musicians.

Nowadays some fine galleries and museums like The Museum of Ancient Art are situated in the Sforza Castle. When you leave the castle be sure to take a look at the castle’s tail gate. The sight from this perspective is very enjoyable.

The tour ends at the mermaid bridge and a very large park.  Be sure to take this in if you still have time.

Milan Mermaid Bridge

S. America, Travel Advice

Brazil

Brazil is an enormous country with widely varying cultures and customs. Regardless of which region you are going, however, there are a few commonalities between all of Brazil.

 

The language is Portuguese.

Not Spanish. While this is a common misconception, as Brazil is the only country in South America that doesn’t speak Spanish, mistaking the national language can be offensive to some Brazilians. Portuguese and Spanish are quite similar languages in some ways, and many Brazilians can understand Spanish. English is not widely spoken, so try learning a few words and phrases in Portuguese – it is fun, and appreciated by Brazilians!

 

A buyer always carries change and small bills.

Vendors rarely have a lot of change, especially in the morning. If you want to avoid paying extra, or having to forego a really wanted purchase, do yourself a favor and carry a lot of small bills and change.

This also applies to supermarkets and stores. Cashiers are not allowed to have large amounts of cash, and are not properly stocked with change as would be the norm in most other countries. In order to change your large bill, they will need to either receive help from a supervisor, or take the bill to the help desk like at Zona Sul and Princesa markets. Avoid the hassle, the long waiting times, and the inconvenience by preparing yourself for this, or by paying with credit card.

 

Everyone is always late.

If you invite new Brazilian friends to meet you for a drink at 7pm, it is likely they won’t show up for at least a half hour late, most likely an hour or more.

In the same way, if you are invited to a party that begins at 9pm, it is best not to arrive on time. Otherwise, you will likely be the only one there, and the host may not even be ready for you and will certainly not expect you. If arriving to a dinner, it is best to be 30 minutes late. If arriving to a party or less formal gathering, plan on one hour tardy.

 

Greetings are touchy.

Men usually shake hands when greeting, while maintaining eye contact. Women usually kiss each other, starting with the left cheek and then alternating, even when first meeting. In some regions, and Rio de Janeiro especially, kissing cheeks is more common than handshakes, including when first meeting.

 

A question is the most popular way to say “Hello!”

When you greet someone, you ask “Tudo bem?” (sounds like toodoo bayne) or “Tudo bom?”
It literally means “All well?” or “All good?”
The proper response is Tudo (tuuu-do) or Tudo bem (tuuu-do bem, said affirmatively) or Tudo bom

 

You should eat, drink, and dance to fully experience Brazil.

Some cultural aspects are special and original to Brazil, and to experience the culture you should be sure to try them.

Brazil’s national dish is feijoada, a type of bean stew made with pork, beef, and vegetables. Churrascarias (grilled meat restaurants) are extremely popular and feature a style of serving known as rodizio, where waiters circle the dining room offering cuts of meat.

The national drink is the caipirinha, a boozy Brazilian cocktail made with the national cane liquor cachaça, sugar, and lime.

The most popular Brazilian dance and music is samba, which is seen throughout the country. Other popular styles unique to Brazil include capoeira (a mix of martial arts) and bossa nova.

Europe

Ponta Delgada Portugal on a Stopover?

For those of you travelling from North America to Portugal, you might end up in Ponta Delgada on a stopover.  Most people see this as an inconvenience, but for others it’s a great opportunity to take in this great remote Portuguese island.

Being that it’s so small, there are half-day (4 hours) and full day (7-8 hours) tours available right from PDL airport.  Prices range from €50 – €120 per vehicle with various options.


Some options to consider while you’re there include:
Miradouro da Caloura
Vila Franca do Campo (N. Sra. da Paz view point)
Poça da Dona Beija (thermal hot bathing pools)
Caldeiras (where they make the traditional “Cozido das Furnas“)
Caldeiras (to see the hot water springs)
Pico do Ferro (535m)
Gorreana and visit to the Tea Plantation and factory
Miradouro of Stª Iria

And for surfers: Santa Barbara!

Europe

Porto Portugal on a Budget

Porto, Portugal (and Portugal in general) is a very safe and friendly place.  Most citizens in the main city centers speak English and are always looking to help.  Take the usual precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas and trains.

Where to Stay: Yes! Hostels

One of the top rated hostels in Porto.  Very clean, great friendly staff and right in the center of downtown within walking distance of the main attractions.

Included:
– Breakfast 8am – 10am.
– Free (tip based) walking tours right from the hostel in the morning (10:30am) and in the afternoon (3:30pm)

Additional perks and ways to save:
– €10 dinners every night at 9pm with unlimited drinks until 11pm.
– Except for Sundays and Mondays there’s a pub crawl nightly for €12 (€10 if you get dinner at the hostel) that goes as long as you want to stay out.
– €15 wine tour leaving straight from the hostel.
– Of course, the hostel will help you with other tour bookings as needed, including surfing trips.
Tip: Be sure to ask your walking tour guide for tips on cheap (and good!) local places to eat that won’t gauge you for your tourist dollars.  You can get a decent lunch from €3 – €5 quite easily.

Other:
Train from Lisbon to Porto: €24 (roughly 3 hours with great views of the country side along the way and free wifi).

Europe

Lisbon Portugal on a Budget

Lisbon Portugal on a Budget

Lisbon (and Portugal in general) is a very safe and friendly place.  Most citizens in the main city centers speak English and are always looking to help.  Take the usual precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas and trains.

Where to Stay: Yes! Hostels

 

One of the top rated hostels in Lisbon.  Very clean, friendly staff and right in the center of downtown within walking distance of the main attractions.

Cost: €12 – €36/night/person.  The one private room they have is about €36/night for the room regardless of one or two people.

Included:
– Basic Breakfast from 7 – 10:30am.
– Fast and reliable wifi throughout the entire building.
– Free (tip based) walking tours right from the hostel. €5/person is usually sufficient and worth the value.  The tours alternate routes every two days.


 

Additional perks and ways to save:
– There is one laundry machine and one dryer for €3 each with detergent included.
– €10 dinners every night at 9pm with unlimited drinks until 11pm.  A great way to meet new friends!
– Except for Sundays and Mondays there’s a pub crawl nightly starting at 11:30pm for €12 (€10 if you get dinner at the hostel) that goes as long as you want to stay out.
– €15 half day tour to Sintra right from the hostel, including a sunset drive back via Cabo da Roca, mainland Europe’s most western point.
– Of course, the hostel will help you with other tour bookings as needed, including surfing trips
Ask the Hostel staff for restaurant recommendations.  Avoid eating in the main areas as those areas are usually double/triple the price locals would pay.

 

Other:
– Train from Lisbon to Porto: €24 (roughly 3 hours with great views of the country side along the way and free wifi).
Tip: Get off at Lisboa Campanha and take any train towards Sao Bento (one stop that’s also the last stop) to get to the main square and tourist area.
– Plane from Lisbon to Porto: €9 – €55

S. America

Town Hopping in Salta: The Calchaqui Valley Tour

 

In Spanish, Saltar means to jump, or why not, to hop. So as the Northern Argentine province’s name implies, the best thing to do in Salta is to town-hop along the Andes.

The starting line for your town-hoping adventure is Salta Capital, one of Argentina’s fastest growing provincial capitals. Its unchecked-growth is leading to a rather sprawling and messy outer look, but at its heart, where the central square surrounded by the cathedral and the old museums are, Salta Capital is worth exploring for a day. Its colonial charm soon wins you over as you sip a cold beer at one of the cafés on the main square, admiring the old palm trees in the plaza and having your boots shined by one of the many – and famous – shoe-shine boys.

Hotels in Salta Capital are plentiful and you will be able to pick from a long list of family-run B&B’s, small three star hotels or elegant five star hotels. The Hotel Portezuelo, sitting on a hill just outside the buzz but only a 10-minute drive from the plaza, is a wonderful option, boasting a good restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool.

While in town, be sure to check out Doña Salta for the best empanadas (delicious meat or cheese filled pasties) and Locro (meat stew with corn and pumpkin). And whatever you do don’t miss out on the Museo de Alta Montaña (MAM – the High Altitude Museum), where you can see ancient Incan culture and craftsmanship at it’s best.

Once you are done exploring the Capital, hire a car (there are many car rental options) and head for the town of Cafayate. It’s just over a two hour drive along a paved highway with stunning views, as you leave the city behind and hit the Quebrada de Cafayate, one of the most stunning scenic routes in Argentina, with multy-coloured rockscapes and canyons.

Cafayate is the second most famous wine production centre in Argentina, and despite its popularity, has managed to maintain a wonderful small-town feel about it. The surrounding valley is dotted with wineries, many of them offering great accommodation and food. Famous for its Torrontés vines, that produce a wonderful dry white wine, the region also produces great quality high-altitude robust Malbec and Cabertet. If wine isn’t your thing, or once you have had a good wine tasting day, don’t miss out on the under-publicized Quilmes ruins, to see how those who inhabited the valleys before the Spanish lived.

A day or two later, hop to your next stop, Molinos, up the famous Ruta 40, the mountain road that runs along the Andes from the Southern-most tip of Argentina to the Bolivian border up in the North. Gravel and break-neck winding for most of its way, this road possibly has the most stunning views you will ever see, the most famous of them being La Quebrada de las Flechas: a particular bend in the road where you suddenly doubt whether you are in Mars.

Molinos in itself is a very small town, consisting of a main square, a small colonial church, and one very famous and lovely colonial hotel where you must stay a night (Hacienda de Molinos Hotel). The drive will have taken you three hours, so if you are still in the mood for a little more driving, you can take a detour to the Colomé vineyards, belonging to the Hess Estate. Colomé boasts being the highest altitude wines in the world and has its own James Turrel museum to boot (beware, you must call and book to visit the museum, free of charge) which is worth the two hour detour in itself, with or without a glass of wine after.

The next day head for Cachi, a two hour drive away and possibly the most beautiful town in your Calchaqui Valley tour. An exquisitely preserved colonial town 2.700 meters over sea level, Cachi is small and extremely quaint, but yet has a great selection of good restaurants and hotels, from small to large. To stay in the town in a high quality hotel, chose El Cortijo, a stylishly decorated colonial house with a great restaurant. If you would like to take in the awe-inspiring 360° views, La Merced del Alto, a 10 min drive out of town, is a wonderful option which also has a great restaurant, outdoor swimming pool and spa. If you are looking for cheap and cheerful, Hosteria Cardon is both those things, with a lovely tea house and exquisite cakes to boot.

If you would like an unforgettable soul-searching experience, try the smallest B&B in the valley: Lungdan, a 20min drive out of Cachi, it sits in the midst of a grassy valley. With no electricity to distract you, the room is lit with oil lamps, is beautifully decorated and has amazing views. Run by Daniel, a buddhist and writer who will cook you wonderful candle-lit dinners after which you can appreciate the milky way in all its stunning glory.

After Cachi, you can drive back down to Salta down the Cuesta del Obispo, a three hour drive down one of the most beautiful mountain roads in the world.