Posts for Central America Category

TOP FOUR THINGS TO DO IN GUATEMALA

Guatemala - Ross French - September 21, 2017

travel to Guatemala

Guatemala, the most diverse tourist destination of Central America, has been enticing travelers for centuries. Considered the Mayan heart of Central America, this beautiful country offers a lot more than the Mayan wonders though. Guatemala probably has the most tightly packed must do things and must visit sights than anywhere in Central America. From archeological wonders of Mayan ruins to colonial towns, pristine jungles, endless hiking trails and ancient culture – there are simply a ton of things for you to do when you travel to Guatemala. To help plan your tour and avoid the crowd that is slowly discovering this beautiful country, here are the top four things which you must try out when you travel to Guatemala.

1. Visit Tikal National Park

The Tikal National Park is the most famous cultural and natural tourist attraction of Guatemala. Built around the largest excavated Mayan site of Guatemala, the Tikal ruins will give you a sense of adventure like no other. Visit the park early and stroll through the empty ruins, and find yourself lost in the wondrous structures of a long-lost era.

2. Visit the Yaxha Mayan Ruins

The Yaxha Mayan Ruins are much more secluded than the Tikal Ruins. Hike the serene trail through the jungle before reaching the beautiful Mayan complexes. These ruins are smaller when compared to Tikal, but they are much less commercialized and less crowded. You can spend your time looking at the marvelous structures, the ancient drawings, and the carved symbols. If you are interested in Mayan history and culture, visiting this site is a must when you travel to Guatemala.

3. Roast Some Marshmallows on Top of Pacaya Volcano

The Pacaya volcano is one of the most accessible volcanos in Guatemala, which makes it one of the most popular destination. The volcano is still active, which makes the hike to the top of this volcano a must-do activity when you travel to Guatemala. You can hike the steep trail to the top of the volcano in about one and a half hour, and you can indeed roast some marshmallows in the heat which gets eliminated from the ground of the summit.

4. Bask in the Natural Beauty of Semuc Champey

Located near the little town of Lanquin, Semuc Champey is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of Guatemala. You have to travel deep into the jungle to come face to face with this massive natural limestone formation. The formation is covering an underground river, which forms a number of stepped swimming pools. There are a lot of hiking trails, lookout points and guided tours in this area. Apart from all of these, there are many tours to the Kan’Ba caves as well. There you can swim along an underground river. The place is so dark that you will have to hold a candle above your head to light your way as you swim. Visiting here is another one of the must to activities when you travel to Guatemala.

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TOP THREE THINGS TO DO IN BELIZE

Belize - Ross French - September 13, 2017

travel to belize

Located in Central America, the tropical country Belize is famous among travelers for its beautiful beaches, picturesque islands, and its mysterious ancient Mayan ruins. From travel-bloggers, backpackers to luxury tourists, thousands of people from all over the world flock over to the tropical paradise of Belize every year. The plethora of activities that you get to experience when you travel to Belize makes it one of the go-to destinations of Central America. Belize is the perfect destination to spend a vacation experiencing the ancient culture and rich history of Mayan civilization. And after you have got your archeological-fix, take a long walk into the sunset along the coastline, explore the deep blue sea while scuba diving or spend some relaxing days in one of the Garifuna villages. Here are the top three activities which you must indulge in when you travel to Belize. Continue Reading

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Top 10 Mesmerizing Destinations in Central America Must Visit Once in Life

Central America - Ross French - July 24, 2017

Belize

Central America probably won’t attract many travelers to visit all time. But in fact, you wish to explore the nature and outdoor activities then visit Central America as the best destination to visit earlier. In this Central America, you can find many tourist destinations and activities such as relaxing on beaches, hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, touring ruins of ancient civilizations and indigenous cultures. Still, touring Central America is a big dream for everyone and named as must visit spots once in life. Here, the top 10 destinations in Central America are listed, and you have to visit them once.

• relaxing on beaches
• hiking
• snorkeling
• scuba diving
• windsurfing

1. Roatan, Bay Islands

Roatan Bay Islands are a Caribbean Vacation Paradise which located off the North Coast of Honduras and well known for pristine white sandy beaches. Besides, the travelers can enjoy amazing tropical jungle covered hills and various unique reef system.

• Coxen Hole
• French Harbour
• Tranquilseas Eco Lodge and Dive center
• Seagrape Plantation Resort
• Splash Inn Dive Resort

2. Ambergris Caye, Belize Cayes

Ambergris Caye is an eye-catching island in Belize which is known as leading destination for tourists to visit in Central America. The place has beautiful and azure water surface of the Caribbean. You can visit the Maya Mountains and the Pink Ridge to excite many things in this area.

3. Nosara, Costa Rica

Nosara is the best destination which has oldest expat town and familiar in the midst of a mini Renaissance such as fresh restaurants, hotels, and shops. You can explore a budget friendly travel to this destination which is a serene atmosphere for you.

4. Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

The booming surface village of Santa Teresa offers an excellent opportunity for visitors to enjoy a lot. The beaches of Santa Teresa are soft, sandy, and consistent surf break to enjoy with families. It is familiar for sleepy seaside hamlet which is a neighborhood place of Costa Rica.

5. Tamarindo, Costa Rica

It is a prime spot for surfing and sports fishing, diving, and sunning. This place is a must destination for the travelers who need to enjoy a lot with family members. It has gorgeous beach houses, B&B, and luxury hotels in the sunny sands.

6. San Ignacio, Belize

San Ignacio is a heart of Belize which is recognizable for vibrant travelers to spend time here. This destination remains rustic and making significant challenges for budget friendly adventure travel for everyone. Macal River is a famous spot to visit and have rejoice anytime.

7. Antigua, Guatemala

This is a place of rare beauty and considers the major historical significance and vibrant culture. It is a must visit destination and boasts excellent spots to visit by the travelers. The magnificent setting is an attractive one and unfolds beneath of three volcanoes.

8. Boqute, Panama

In Boqute, Panama the many rainbows are the comfortable, eye-catching place that decides to visit the spot by north winds that blow down the admiring features for all. You can see the valley of flowers and eternal spring to rejoice you on a day.

9. Isla Colon, Bocas Del Toro Province

It is a most populated island which has amazing vegetation and gets lots of amusement and amazing activities in this destination. The accommodation in this destination is pleasant by offering fresh foods for the travelers.

10. San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua

This destination is known for a beautiful fishing village that suits for magnet for surfers and sunbathers. At night time, the beach explores with activities, and few popular beachfront bars are the major attractions for you.

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8 Reasons to Visit the USA this Spring

Central America, North America, South America, Travel Blog - Ross French - March 10, 2017

USA

The USA has a diverse climate, ranging from hot and humid to below freezing point. Many travellers who plan to visit America need to be well-informed about its varying climate. However, the spring months between March to May is a perfect time to visit the US.

Since each geographical region in the US is different, visitors can experience a generally mild and pleasant climate in all regions during spring time. In the Northeast and Middle Atlantic states such as New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut, spring is mild and beautiful. In the Central Plains region of Kansas and Nebraska, spring is short and pleasant, and in the Southeast states like Louisiana, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee, spring time is awash with colourful blooms.

Here are 8 great reasons to visit the USA this spring. Choose the most compelling reason, plan a trip well, take our travel insurance, and go have your spring adventure.

1.Portland Rose Festival – Portland, Oregon

Portland’s weather in April, May, and June brings spring showers to the city, which is why it is an ideal place for roses to thrive. Every year, the city of Portland celebrates spring with their signature festival, the Portland Rose Festival. Known as the “City of Roses”, you also get to see and smell thousands of rose varieties all-abloom at the International Rose Test Garden. In April, Portland also hosts the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, where visitors get to see 40 acres of tulips and daffodils in bloom in an event which also includes food, wine, and pony rides.

2.Historic Sights and Beautiful Beach – Cape May, New Jersey

Recognized as one of America’s best beaches, Cape May is a historical seaside town in New Jersey. Being one of the oldest resort towns in the US, the town is dotted with Victorian architecture and it is also a top bird-watching location. Spring is the best time to relax in this beach town, before the summer residents and holidaymakers descend.

3.National Cherry Blossom Festival – Washington, D.C.

From late March to early April, the country’s capital Washington, D.C. is awash with wonderful cherry blossoms. This is why the city celebrates the National Cherry Blossom Festival every year. The mild weather is also perfect for bike rides, moonlit river cruises, and walking around the city where many attractions are free, including the National Archives and the Capitol building.

4.Yosemite National Park – California, USA

Spring time is the perfect season to view the stunning waterfalls at Yosemite National Park. Since warmer weather are starting to melt the snow, you will encounter the gushing falls at its most powerful as you hike through snow-free Yosemite Valley and Hetch Hetchy, which are already snow-free by April. The tourist crowd has not arrived yet, so you get the feeling that you have the vast park to yourself. Weather in the Yosemite Valley is quite variable, though, and lightning-caused fires may sometimes occur. To protect yourself from these calamities, it is best to get proper travel insurance coverage before visiting the park.

5.Post Mardi Gras – New Orleans, Louisiana

When the revellers of Mardi Gras have come and gone, New Orleans still has a lot of fun. Springtime is the best time to visit with its cool weather and list of music festivals and outdoor concerts such as the French Quarter Fest. It is also great to walk around the city and see its best sights by foot. Spring is also crawfish season. You haven’t experienced New Orleans if you haven’t tried boiled crawfish!

6.Santa Fe, New Mexico

The weather in Santa Fe can get extremely hot in the summer, so spring time is an ideal time to visit and appreciate the city’s sweeping view of the desert and its artistic and cultural vibe. This city of art and culture is also an ideal place to visit if you’re into old churches, and interesting architecture.

7.Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is bordered with 1 million acres of forest land, and many people visit this place for its stunning skyline and sandstone colour palettes, which range from burnt orange to mustard yellow. Summer time is stifling hot, but March to May has ideal temperatures. The place is in full bloom with stunning desert flora, and it is an ideal time to engage in outdoor activities.

8.Great American Road trip – Skyline Drive, Virginia

America is known for its vast, scenic highways, and while there are many beautiful highways in this great country, one of the best routes to drive through in spring is 105 miles (169 kilometres) of Skyline Drive, which stretches through Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Spring adds blooming flowers to the landscape. The National Park hosts the yearly Wildflower Weekend to showcase its more than 1,000 species of plants.

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Enjoy the Best Amalgamation of Beach Vacation and Yoga Retreats in Mexico

Central America, Travel Blog - Ross French - February 16, 2017

yoga training in Mexico

Mexico is an exotic location that offers many opportunities for tourists to not only explore the beach, food or local cultures, but also blend them all with health oriented activities. Yoga training in Mexico is soon going to become an attractive idea for vacationers looking amalgamate yoga teacher training with pleasurable travel experience. The grace of having yoga along with the majesty of the Mexican ocean breathes new life to your senses. Yes, the perfect combination of a vacation and education.

Yoga is the perfect way to rejuvenate your soul while toning your body. So, why not make your next vacation an ideal combination of yoga and relaxation.

The Retreats

Yoga training in Mexico will begin in the morning at most retreats. Starting with Morning Meditation and Pranayama also recognised as breathing techniques, the other sessions follow. The classes are usually done in the mornings, to replenish your soul completely. Once the class is over, you can take the afternoon to explore Mexico and its Picturesque locations.

Successive yoga classes in the morning will teach you methods of deep relaxation and then take you step by step through various Asana. You will find that the sessions are building blocks, making slow progressions to allow you to find your alignment and posture in every movement. Yoga is an art form that connects one deep into their soul. The idea is to bring your mind, body and spirit under one unison.

While you do these postures, they are explained with detailed attention. It is important to hold and be slow as you begin, so your body develops strength in each posture. Yoga training in Mexico will be about your personal time; it is only right that you do justice to process. The classes are meant for all levels. As your body is guided through the progressive movements, your understanding of these poses increases with every level.

Yoga teacher training and Mexican Culture

The yoga training programs are pecially designed for professional yogis who aspire to teach yoga to others. The 26- 33 days these last depend on which style or branch of yoga you wish to study. Yoga has eight predominant styles ranging from Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Kundalini, Karma, Hatha, Sivananda, Iyengar and Bikram yoga. All have a different path and channelling energies. The Mexican culture highly supports the learning of yoga and hosts many retreats for student travellers to come down and exchange with the community. Ananda Healing Center, Comunidad Om Shanti, Yandara Yoga Institute, Paraiso Yoga, Horizon Yoga for Women, and Red Buddha Yoga & Wellness are amongst some of the more successful Yoga training in Mexico you can find while on vacation.

The rest of the time, do plunge into the blue Pacific and enjoy the tranquilness of the ocean. Try the local food and delicacies. The Mexican culture has a deep-rooted sense of Dance & Music, do not once miss the local street jam and food. Treat yourself to a vacation that leaves lasting impressions of happy memory in your heart and mind forever.

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