Disney cruise private island Bahamas

Facts You Should Know About Disney Cruise Private Island Bahamas – Castaway Cay

posted in: Blog | 4

Visiting through the Bahamas is a superb experience absolutely on account of its sunlit picturesque seashores. A Disney cruise to the spectacular islands was formerly unimaginable due to its expense, yet at present, it is a brilliant decision with its heaps of characteristic quality. With cruise ports Disney’s private island Castaway Cay, Coco cay and Nassau, you will have a journey bargain that you have constantly longed for. Most of these islands are too small for local people to live in, and in this manner have been rented out to the cruise companies, giving a selective escape to cruise travelers and valuable revenue for the local governments. The cruise lines have changed the once “dead land” into their own tiny paradise islands. We are here to suggest you the Disney cruise private island Bahamas – Castaway Cay for your next dream cruising. Despite the fact that Castaway Cay has a lot of man-made tourist spots and open regions, the island’s rich wildlife, soothing tropical climate and influencing palm trees are picture-perfect.

Castaway Cay is a private island in the Bahamas which fills in as a private port for the Disney Cruise Line ships. It is situated close to Great Abaco Island and 116 km away from Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. Castaway Cay was in the past known as Gorda Cay.

Castaway Cay is Disney Cruise Line’s private piece of heaven in the Bahamas. In 1997, The Walt Disney Company bought a 99-year land rent (through 2096) for the cay from the Bahamian government, giving the organization considerable authority over the island.

Castaway Cay was the first private island in the cruise business where the ship docks on the island, extinguish the requirement for visitors to be offered to land.

The island is still largely undeveloped as just 55 of the 1,000 acres of land are being utilized. Castaway Cay presently has around 140 Disney Cruise Line perpetual inhabitants who keep the island running every day; They incorporate overseers, landscapers, and other people who keep up the island. the numbers vary between the busy and off seasons of the year.

Disney cruise private island Bahamas

Photo Credit: Josh Hallett

Castaway Cay is always the first choice of Disney cruisers. This island is reserved only for Disney Cruise Line Guests on Bahamian and Caribbean travels. Caribbean cruises onboard Disney’s Fantasy and Dream ships usually make one or a couple of stops at this private island.

The Disney ship docks straight at the island, permitting Disney cruisers to just stroll off the boat legitimately onto this island with delightful white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters.

Your youngsters needn’t bother with travel papers for a stop at Castaway Cay. While landing the boat you will each need to take your Key to the World card and voyagers 18 years and older should bring a photo ID also.

There is an official Bahamian post office in Castaway Cay. As you leave the boat, you’ll see the post office. This is the spot to buy unique Disney Cruise Line stamps and mail those postcards that will have the Castaway Cay postmark. Remember that this is one spot where you do require money, on the off chance that you need to buy postcards or stamps. Your Key to the World charge isn’t legitimate here. Likewise, know that it could take weeks or even a long time for your postcard to arrive at its goal.

For a family escape, nothing that compares to Castaway Cay in the Bahamas. Castaway Cay is Disney’s private paradise for children, youngsters, and grown-ups. Castaway Cay pays attention to everything from unwinding to being a child and running around simply having some fun. This is Disney’s own asylum to unwind and have some good times and essentially appreciate the sun. Castaway Cay offers many offshore activities like diving, snorkeling, waterslides, bicycle trails, open-air massages, two water play zones, parasailing, angling, a stingray interaction experience and that’s just the beginning.

Photo Credit: Stephen Kellam

Photo Credit: Inside the Magic

The Snorkeling Lagoon at Disney’s Castaway Cay is undoubtedly at the top of the must-do list when visiting the island. The best piece of the snorkeling lagoon is that it is free in the event that you bring your own snorkeling gear. The main thing you will require is an obligatory snorkel vest which is free to borrow. They provide only underwater features like submarine or Mickey. You can see some sea turtles in the water. there are no sharks in Castaway Cay. One kind of nurse sharks are sometimes visiting Castaway Cay, and this kind of shark posed no harm to humans.

The Atlantis Beach Day and Discover Atlantis trip worth the cash! It is an astounding and awesome experience in numerous ways.

Another most popular activity is Run Disney’s Castaway Cay 5k. If you and your family are enthusiastic sprinters or simply love a touch of inviting challenge then you won’t have any desire to miss the Castaway Cay 5K during your next Disney Cruise. This genuinely one of a kind Port Adventure happens on Disney’s private island Castaway Cay and is accessible to all visitors cruising on itineraries (Bahamas and Caribbean) making a stop here. This 3.1-mile run is intended to be easygoing and ideal for members from running aficionado to an amateur. It is a free fun run and is a 5k distance that has a race clock so you can see your time toward the end.

Disney cruise private island Bahamas

Photo Credit: Josh Hallett

Photo Credit: Josh Hallett

Serenity Bay Beach is the most astounding tropical desert spring for adults only (age 18+) in Castaway Cay. Disney Cruise Line is extraordinary for youngsters, that is no secret, however, what a ton of people doesn’t understand is that it is additionally incredible for grown-ups also! There are numerous reasons why. The Adult only pool, adult amusement district, adult-only dining options, and that’s only the tip of the iceberg! If you need to go on to Serenity Bay Beach you should leave the cable car at the Family Beach and take a different cable car to Serenity Bay Beach. There is likewise a Teen Beach situated at the far west end of the Family Beach.

Photo Credit: Connie Roberts

Castaway Cay doesn’t have WiFi accessible for Guests on the island. You’ll get two Wave Phones within your stateroom that you may carry onto the island with you. On the off chance that you’d prefer to speak with different individuals from your pirate crew during your day at Castaway Cay, you may utilize these Wave Phones to do so!

You cannot remain overnight at Castaway Cay. There are no cruises that stay overnight at the island and you won’t discover an inn on this island. There are particular cruises that offer double dips to Castaway Cay on the off chance that you’d like additional time on the island. In case you’re on a three or four-night voyage, we may suggest skipping Nassau and spending time on the boat. On the off chance that it’s your first time in the Bahamas, you could sheer off the vessel for a little just to check Nassau off your rundown of spots visited. Try not to feel awful on the off chance that you skip Nassau if your itinerary includes Castaway Cay.

You’d love to walk around the gift shops on the island. They have such a large number of charming pieces of stuff. There are two primary gift shops on Castaway Cay selling Disney products. The one nearest to the vessel dock is named “She Sells Sea Shells… and Everything Else”. As should be obvious, “Sea Shells” is crossed out. This is because the one thing you can’t bring once again from any island, including Castaway Cay, is seashells. The subsequent gift shop is found further into the island and is named “Buy the Sea Shore”. While both of the gift stores convey a few similar things, there is likewise a wide variety of products you can just get at either. Buy the Sea Shore is found near the Run Disney Castaway Cay 5K starting line, and it is the main store that conveys things related to that race. You don’t have to have taken part in the 5K to buy the elite pin, shirt, or cap.

Disney cruise private island Bahamas

Photo Credit: Inside the Magic

There is some fun fresh fruit stand remain close to the family beach. There are various beverage stands where you can buy frosty beverages, for example, coconut sippers and strawberry colada drink. While these are non-alcoholic beverages, you can buy liquor in the event that you want as there is a bar available here.

Photo Credit: Josh Hallett

 A BBQ lunch comes complimentary with your journey. Beginning at 11:30 am you can help yourself with as much BBQ you want to appreciate. Cookies BBQ is situated in the family beach area. There are three BBQ areas on Castaway Cay that are included in the cost of the cruise, much the same as feasting on board the cruise ship. Another choice is to return on board the cruise ship and have lunch in one of the regular dining halls.

Disney cruise private island Bahamas

Photo Credit: Inside the Magic

It’s hard to believe, but it’s true, Disney Cruise Room Service is FREE! You can arrange a whole dinner or a small snack from the Disney Cruise room service menu and have them conveyed directly to your stateroom for no additional charge.

You’ll be given a beach towel as you leave the boat, so no compelling reason to bring any towels from your room. On the off chance that you think you’ll require your own towels for a  solo adventure, consider purchasing new Disney Cruise Line themed beach towels on board in the gift shops.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Wear a lot of sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sturdy Bahamian rays. What’s more, in the event that you forget these or some other beach essentials, get them at “Buy the Sea Shore” on the island.

 You may bring water shoes if any in your family or companions have sensitive feet, else you ought to be fine without them in the water and on the beach barefoot. Bring closed-toe shoes/water shoes – You might need to throw a swimsuit and a couple of flip flops into your bag and call yourself packed. Particularly on a Caribbean voyage get-away. Some Carnival journey ships have a Sky Course, which is an excellent fun ropes course and closed-toe shoes are required.

Cool, lightweight attire – tank tops, sundresses, cotton shirts, and shorts are fine to wear both on the boat and in the Bahamas. Bring a couple of sets of jeans, at any rate, one long-sleeved shirt, and a warm sweater or coat to wear on nippy mornings and in air-conditioned spaces.

 For a wintertime voyage, pack a couple of extra warm tops. In case you’re making a trip to the Bahamas in the “offseason” of the year, or pre-summer to pre-winter, temperatures are burning sweltering, so you might need to dress significantly lighter. At the point when your supper calls for Cruise Casual clothing, shorts, pants, shirts are fine. As are flip flops and casual shoes. However, tank tops and swimwear (even with cover-ups) are not allowed.

In the event that you have a dinner jacket and want to wear it, enjoy it. In any case, by and by, just a small percentage of visitors (especially the men) will wear full formal clothing. Recollect that formal night is not mandatory. Many visitors decide to wear something nicer than “cruise casual” on a formal night, however, the range of the dress is open.

In general, the most affordable time to take a Disney cruise is in mid-to-late January, early February or early May. Some weeks in March and April also have lower-than-normal costs. In the event that trying to stay away from noisy ships and crowded ports, the best times for a Bahamas journey may be between mid-April and mid-May, which is before hurricane season begins in June, and from soon after Labor Day until mid-November. (Generally, August and September are the most active months of storm season.) Later in the year, September and early November and early December are acceptable choices.

Generally, four ships the Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream, and Disney Wonder are cruising in the Caribbean, so there are lots of sailings to pick, with a wide range of Caribbean itineraries.

As you’d expect, the duration of the cruise likewise influences the costs. A longer voyage is unquestionably more costly than a shorter journey. The costs are always subject to change and there are numerous factors that influence the costs. In general, you have to pay anywhere from about $2,500 to $5,600 for a three-night cruise on the Disney Dream for a stateroom with 4 individuals. This journey goes to Nassau and Disney’s Castaway Cay.

If you plan to your first ever Disney cruise and you are lucky enough to visit a private island as a port of call, the real luxury is having the opportunity to make the day as unwinding or as dynamic as you need it to be. Disney private island Bahamas, the Castaway Cay is an incredible alternative as a first cruise since it’s more affordable than the others and is a short commitment.

Like this article? Share this with your travel buddies and pit it if you are on Pinterest.

Are you looking for more practical information about the Bahamas? Make sure to check these posts as well:

best travel reward credit cards

10 Best Travel Rewards Credit Card 2020 for International Travel

posted in: Blog | 4

In today’s extremely busy life, it seems difficult to manage travel financed perfectly but due to the blessings of Credit Cards, it is possible now. Travel credit cards bid a variety of rewards either traveling for business or enjoyment or both. You can get Free checked bags, complimentary lounge access, and extra baggage packages. 

Most credit cards now offer more than just cash back incentives they offer perks that can take your next trip from basic to boogie without spending extra money.

To help you choose the best travel rewards credit card for your needs, we analyzed 10 popular travel cards.

In the last few years, travel credit cards have become the most competitive category to choose from. Some features are now standard in all credit cards across the world as foreign transaction fee exemption, special travel credits, and upgrade programs.

A most important thing that you need to consider while you sign up for a new credit card, must carefully analyze how you will use it and what are the benefits you are looking in a credit card. How can you get most out of a credit card as you are going to pay a steep annual fee? It is also important that you will pay your balance on time and monthly basis as these cards not only have high exciting offers but high-interest rates too.

Discover it® Miles

One of the most suitable and basic travel credit cards is Discover it miles with no annual fee. It matches every mile you earn during your first year instead of providing a signup bonus. 

You will also get 0% introduction APR for more than a year and can redeem miles. To maximize its introductory award value, you need to use it excusably throughout the year. It offers a flat reward rate that may be an appealing option for many individual consumers but not a good option for businesses. This card also not has any foreign transaction fees.

Below are the most desirable features of Discover it Miles credit card.

Pros

  • A reward is redeemed on an equal basis for travel or cashback.
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Exciting bonuses on sign up
  • Redemption options are flexible
  • At the end of your first year, it automatically matches the miles that you earn.
  • It delivers 1.5 miles per dollar for each purchase
  • 0% introductory APR on purchase
  • No annual fee

Cons

  • It does not offer luxury perks
  • Discover it Miles is not widely accepted outside the USA. 
  • Requires excellent credit record
  • No traditional sign-up bonus
  • Have no option for bonus rewards
  • Provide no airline or hotel transfer partners
  • Charges a potentially high APR in the long run
  • Discover isn’t accepted worldwide

Discover it miles is a perfect choice for those, who can maximum exploit the first-year bonus and individuals travelers who prefer supple redemption for rewards. It is also a great help to fee-averse consumers.

Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is considered best travel credit cards on the market, due to its 2 miles per dollar rewards rate, low annual fee, and flat redemption options. You can also redeem your miles with any kind of travel points you purchase with the card, or you can also have the option to transfer it to one of Capital One’s travel partners.

Some of the basic pros and cons are discussed below to help you make your decision in choosing a perfect traveling credit card.

Pros

  • Fit for people with extensive traveling opportunities
  • Good for people desiring a big sign-up bonus
  • Perfect for people desiring flexible redemption options

Cons

  • Not fit for In-frequent travelers
  • Not good for modest spenders
  • Yes, is a balance carrier

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a perfect choice for usual traveler’s and especially when you don’t want to fear about expenditure caps and as it earns two miles on every dollar purchase made, with no caps on the amount you can earn.

It also has an annual fee is $95 right after the first year. The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is mainly for those, who can spend more than $ 5,000 each year on their card.

 Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card 

This card is personally my favorite. This premium travel credit card for people, who love to travel and dine a few times a year. The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is 2x as both for traveling and dining, it also gives rich bonus on sign up. It also not have any foreign transaction, you can tale this card as one of the best available travel cards in 2020.

You may earn up to 60,000 after spending $4000 in your first 3 months of sign up. It gives 2x points on both traveling and dining across the world wide restaurants. It has also a special offer of 25% or more value for airfare, hotel, and cruise redemption. On Lyft rides you can get 5x points through March 2022, as it will give 3x points, also, to already earn 2x points on travel.

Pros

  • On spending of $4000 in your first sign up, you can get 60,000 bonus points.
  • 2x points on travel and dining across the world 
  • When selecting an airline or hotel also get 1:1 points
  • No fee for foreign transactions

Cons

  • High annual fee of $95 and not fee waived in the first year
  • No APR offer for the intro
  • To get most out of it, you just need to redeem it for travel expenses

This card is the best choice for, who are planning to travel once a year and will dine out. IT has a smart chip with no transaction fee and 2x points for traveling & dining, this card is a smart choice for international travelers.

Bank of America Travel Rewards Visa credit card 

travel credit cards

The person, who wants to travel frequently, for him The Bank of America Travel Rewards Visa credit card is a sound choice. It gives solid, straightforward travel rewards and redemptions to frequent travelers. These cards always find their way into thousands of American wallets but not a good choice for individuals looking for maximum value. Its most attractive features are its bank size and coverage area, so the landers name is big. This may be not a very good choice for all but very competitive in crowded fields with exciting deals. It also has no annual fee.

Pros

  • You can get 1.5 points on per $ spent on all transactions
  • It has no annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Points never expire
  • After a transaction of $1000, you can earn up to 25,000 points online.
  • You can also use it to book air tickets worldwide. No limitation to book from specific websites.
  • 0% introductory APR for a year and after the first year of sign up there will be 16.49% to 24.49% Variable APR.
  • You can earn 25% to 75% more points on every purchase also.
  • Rewards hurry when you bank with Bank of America or make an investment in Merrill

Cons

  • Traditionally restricted than regular credit cards
  • The high reward for high spenders and high annual fee 

This traveling credit card is a good choice for frequent travelers or some time for occasional vocational like me. They offer a high introduction bonus very well suited to existing Bank of America customers. On a simple note, you will never get any traveler credit card that pays a high earning rate for high spenders.

Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business

This one is also considered the best travel rewards credit card. This card specially offers redemption options for cash awards. Its points can also be transferred to airline partners. It also offers a bonus of 50,000 points miles on spending $4500 in your first three months of signup. 

It offers flexible rewards at good rates as you can earn up to 2 cents per $ spending. Spark miles card also offers some special benefits that you won’t find in any other travel credit card in 2020 mentioned below:

Pros

  • 0% foreign transaction fee
  • Free credit cards for employees
  • Easy accountability
  • Emergency travel assistance services
  • Offers a special tailored accounts management tool
  • Accounts manager for each cardholder
  • Never shows blackout dates
  • No expiration period
  • No miles limit
  • Redeem with any airline worldwide 
  • You can transfer miles up to 15 airline partners

Cons

  • Less than 1:1 ratio of mile transfer
  • Airline partners are only domestic airlines

This card is a perfect choice for businesses as you can earn up to 2 miles per dollar on each transaction. If you have more than one travel card already than Spark miles will be able to increase your earnings on purchases and will never fall into your current bonus categories.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

travel credit cards

This Travel rewards credit card is arguably the most prestigious card on the market. It offers an intro bonus of 60,000 Membership Rewards Points and up to 5x Membership Rewards points on purchases.

Pros

  • Excellent luxury travel benefits
  • Complimentary Gold Status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors
  • Earn 5x points on travel
  • 5x points on travel
  • Travel benefits
  • Protection plans
  • Uber rewards
  • 24/7 Customer Service
  • 60,000 Membership Rewards Points

Cons

  • The high minimum payment for Pay Over Time option
  • No default option to carry a balance on purchases
  • $550 annual fee with no first-year waiver

 Chase Sapphire Reserve

This card is considered one of the well-received travel rewards credit card across the world. It offers 3 points bonus per $ for travel and dining. It also offers ultimate reward points for up to 13 hotels and airline partners. It offers to add in $300 annual travel credit card points, free concierge services, and airport lounge facilities.

You can give guarantee upgraded travel lifestyle with it. This card is the first choice of beginners and advanced travelers since its launch. It has a high annual fee of $95 and gives sign up bonus 60,000 points on spending $4000 in your first 3 months of signup. It has a strong value with simple features. Some of the best features are: 

Pros

  • High bonus
  • A high reward rate
  • High benefits
  • A metal chip card
  • No foreign transaction cost

Cons

  • High annual cost
  • Need high credit point to get the full benefit from all features

This card is a perfect choice for all people if, you get the ultimate reward points currency. These card points are easy to redeem with a variety of hotel and airline partners. It also has a friendly user interface. 

This is also good for no brainers— yes, as for big spenders and people who travel frequently. Its $300 travel card spending also brings the annual cost down from $550 to $250 annually. If you primarily want to earn points than annual fees can easily justify for small spenders also.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card

travel credit cards

Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus credit card is a preferred choice from people living in the south west of America as it offers three personal credit cards under one card. You can get up to $40.000 points after spending $10,000 on first sign up. Their rapid reward offer is also the cheapest credit card on the market

Pros

  • Points don’t expire
  • No blackout dates
  • Unlimited rewards seats

Cons

  • Not for frequent travelers
  • Not for modest spenders
  • Gives a balance carrier

This is a perfect choice for regular travelers and especially when you don’t want to think about cabs and as it earns one mile on every dollar transaction.

American Express® Gold Card

This American express gold card is rated as one of the top-rated credit cards across America for consumers. It is made of metal and top choice for restaurants and travelers. All cardholders can get competitive reward benefits and high-end perks with an annual cost of $250. When you are dinning or purchase groceries in a shopping mall get 4 points of per dollar transaction worldwide and in the US supermarket. As gold is always a better choice it gives a variety of benefits to consumers on groceries and dining out. It also has a $250 annual fee that may look steep but if you look at the benefits of the yearly annual statements, you can digest it well.

Pros

  • Points never expire
  • No blackout date
  • Get $25000 points on US supermarket spending
  • Get points for gift cards, shopping, travel, entertainment, merchandise or charity
  • You can use points for travel purchases
  • You can also transfer your travel points up to 17 airline partners 

This card is a perfect choice for no brainers again as who wants to spend lavishly and get bonus points up to $220 on annual credit streams. If you love to dine out then you can also make good use of this credit card. 

If you love food, you can get 4x points for international restaurants and supermarkets in the US. Its $250 annual fee can be offset if you keep it’s out of pocket cost below $30. 

 Mastercard® Black Card™

travel credit cards

 People with excellent credit spending prefer this metal rewards credit card as it is particularly provided for giving top-notch credit experience to their users. First, it looks amazing, a thick, black metal card give us impressive looks out of its design. It has an annual fee of $495 but it also comes with high-end benefits as airport lounge access, live chat via concierge, luxury card mobile app and unlimited dollar credit at hotels. This premium credit card is made for high spenders and frequent travelers. It is of stainless steel that feels like no other card, eye-catchy. Here below are some of its basic features discussed:

Pros

  • 24/7 luxury card concierge chat
  • Heavy luxury metal card
  • $100 annual airline fee credit
  • 1.5% cashback redemption and 2% on airfare
  • Travel perks 
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Never expiration of reward points

Cons

  • It offers no welcome bonus
  • No annual bonus category
  • No airline transfers
  • High $495 annual fee 

This card is a perfect choice for people who can afford it as it looks impressive. Its awards are better than average credit cards. It gives some luxury perks and got alternative to iconic AMEX Centurion Card.

Conclusion:

To hit your travel goal, travel rewards credit card plays the main role but only when using them rationally. A good credit card can provide you an opportunity to travel the world while saving a few dollars.If you want to get your travel credit card first time for an international tour or an expert to upgrade your existing card, there is a perfect travel card waiting for you. But at the end of the day, it is you, who will pay for it. It all comes down to your choice, make your decision carefully, chose a card that helps to get maximum spending opportunities and hit your traveling goals. 

Like this article? Share this with your travel buddies and pin it if you are on Pinterest.

You may also read:

How to Tour Salar de Uyuni – The Largest Salt Desert Of Bolivia – A Traveler’s Guide

posted in: Blog | 8

What is Salar de Uyuni?

The world’s largest salt flat, also known as Salar de Uyuni, is located in southwest Bolivia and it covers over 4,000 square miles of the Earth’s surface. It is considered one of the most extreme and remarkable vistas in all of South America, if not Earth. It’s the heritage of an ancient lake that went dry, abandoning a desert-like.

Throughout the years, it has become a significant vacation destination – the primary draw being the eccentric point of view photographs you can snap on the white salt. It is also known for being a bit tricky to travel to.

Here’s a traveler’s guide to How to Tour Salar de Uyuni – The Largest Salt Desert Of Bolivia, one of the most breathtaking places I have ever been to.

How much does it cost to go to Salar de Uyuni?

I traveled to Bolivia during my five-month backpacking trip across South America in 2019.

For starters, I paid $US160 to get into Bolivia, since US citizens must pay for a visa to enter the country.

How do you get to Salar de Uyuni?

Like many other travelers, I flew into La Paz, the highest capital in the world which lies over 10,000 feet above sea level.

From there, I traveled by bus to Tupiza, a town in southern Bolivia.

I began my tour from Tupiza, a town that looks as if it’s from a beautiful, old Western movie.

The salt flats around there are ensured, so you can’t openly enter them – you should be on a visit. As soon as I arrived in Tupiza, I found plenty of places offering tours to the salt flat.

I didn’t set up a tour ahead of time, so I browsed a few different options for quite a while and selected the one that seemed the best for me.

I ended up paying roughly $US195 for my ticket and began my four-day tour to Salar de Uyuni the next day.

Getting to the salt flat was a serious adventure that included numerous long periods of driving.

I jumped in an eight-seat, four-wheel-drive Land Rover and began my shared tour with three other travelers.

The tour company I used also brought along an English-speaking guide, a cook, and a driver.

We began the tour with three days of driving across Bolivian Altiplano to end in Salar de Uyuni on the fourth and final day.

Along the way, I got to see and experience Bolivia’s incredible landscape.

For the first three days of the tour, we drove up to 10 hours per day.

Our meals were provided by and prepared by the cook and we stayed in simple accommodations, including a hotel made entirely from salt.

Along the way, we stopped in plenty of beautiful places.

The first day of the drive was tough because we drove up in elevation for about eight hours since the salt flat is about 12,000 feet above sea level.

I drank tons of water since it’s important to stay hydrated in order to ward off altitude sickness.

On the second day, we jumped in hot springs, took photos at Laguna Verde, a famous green-colored lake, and watched geysers spring from the earth.

We also saw a red-colored lake.

Photo Credit: Travelbusy.com

During the third day, we visited Laguna Colorada, a famous shallow lake, and Árbol de Piedra, an isolated rock formation.

We saw animals, too.

We also halted by Lagunas Altiplanicas, where we recognized a couple of various types of pink flamingos. By the fourth day, we had arrived at Salar de Uyuni.

Photo Credit: Pedro Szekely

We woke up at about 4 A.M. On the final day of the tour, driving an hour across the salt flat to get to a place called Isla Incahuasi (Cactus Island) so we could watch the sunrise.

Photo Credit: sandeepachetan.com travel photography

The island is a little hill on Salar de Uyuni filled with thick, giant cacti. We got to the top of it just in time for the sun to rise and shine on the pure white salt flats.

To get into the island area, I had to pay an entry fee that came to about $US4.33, but it was totally worth it.

What is the best time to visit Salar de Uyuni?

The salt flat is known for resembling a mysterious ocean of mirrors — yet it doesn’t appear as though that all year. I visited during the dry season, so I didn’t experience the magical reflective effect firsthand.

The mirror effect of the salt flat happens during the wet season, which is from around December or January to April.

During these months, a slender layer of water covers the outside of the salt, which makes it resemble an ideal mirror in perspective photographs. I visited Salar de Uyuni during November, which is part of the area’s dry season.

At the point when I visited in November, the salt level resembled a sheet of fresh snow, it was crunchy to touch.

Even though the salt was not quite as cold as snow, it was winter when I visited and it was quite chilly so I wore as many warm layers as I could.

Visiting during the dry season did not hinder my experience – in fact, I think it’s better to go during this time because visitors can access more areas of the landscape and there’s less of a risk of tours getting canceled due to excessive rain (which is common).

How to take photos in Salar de Uyuni?

We had two hours to take photos of the salt flats.

After we arrived, the tour guide took us over the salt flat so we could take pictures in an increasingly detached spot. Here, we had about two hours to be goofy and snap tons of perspective photos.

Photo Credit: Geee Kay

To get the perfect shot, the photographer must get low to the ground.

For some photos, the props (toy dinosaurs, boots, and soda bottles) should be close to the camera, while the model is farther away in the background.

You can also do the reverse, standing close to the camera and moving props far away, which might make you look like a giant.

It took us a few tries to get this perspective thing just right, but once we did, it was super fun to pose and snap photos.

Taking pictures was particularly cool since we had a group of individuals to work with.

We did a couple of theatrical videos, such as having one person pretend to be a giant while they chasing the rest of the group, or having the group pretend to walk on a tightrope between two shoelaces.

Where to Stay in Salar de Uyuni?

We stayed in Hotel Palacio de Sal. This lodging is a desert spring in the Salar de Uyuni zone. The Hotel Palacio de Sal is situated on the banks of the grand Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, only 25 km from the city of a similar name, special in its group for being completely worked with salt: dividers, floors, roofs, furniture, figures … everything!.

Driving up to the lodging, the veneer is amazing. Within is well-designed and warm.

We moved up to a suite with a seating zone, restroom, and dozing zone. The beds were OK with a warm cover. The shower was pleasant and hot. Our solitary grumbling was the washroom entryway was somewhat difficult to open.

The café was made up to be extravagant. Very much delegated with polite staff. Nourishment, while not gourmet, was acceptable, new and copious.  

I truly delighted in it remain here and wished we could have gone through the following night here rather than at Tayka de Desierto. It’s such a pleasant respite from the long, dusty, and rough streets in the region.

My just and minor concern is that there are no wardrobes or drawers to put garments, so one needs to live out of the bag or put garments and so on the floor.

Some Important Tips You Need to Know:

It was such a breathtaking experience to be on the salt flat.

I could look for miles and not see anything but a flat, white surface. I found it to be peaceful, stunning, and extraordinary.

I’m really happy I brought my sunglasses since the white was fantastically bright. That said, I wish I knew a few things before I went.

I wish I knew how cold it was going to be at night in this part of Bolivia since temperatures dropped well below freezing and our accommodation on the tour didn’t have heaters.

If I were to do this again, I would bring a really warm jacket.

I also wish I had brought more props for photos, but I am glad I wore black.

I realized later that a ton of voyagers brings toys, for example, dinosaur dolls, to use as props. We weren’t prepared for this, and we only had a bottle of wine and a jar of Vegemite.

Still, they made for some hilarious photos.

I’m really happy I wore dark attire since it appeared to truly fly against the white and blue background of the spot.

All in all, this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I am glad I did.

I had a wonderful adventure to and on this famous Bolivian salt flat and I’m glad I did my research about tours before I went.

All in all, whether you visit during the wet season or dry season, Salar de Uyuni will surely take your breath away.

Like this article? Share this with your travel buddies and pin it if you are on Pinterest.

Are you looking for more practical information about Bolivia? Make sure to check these posts as well:

Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Greece

Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Greece

posted in: Blog | 1

Greece has 13,676 miles of coastline with an incredible number of shocking beaches. In case you’re wanting to visit this beautiful country at any point in the near future, ensure you visit the same number of the accompanying beaches in Greece as you can. So read on for the top 10 most beautiful beaches in Greece.

1. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

Photo Credit: pxhere.com

Myrtos Beach is an image of Greece when you talk about Greece; you talk about its superb beaches and when you talk about the best beaches in Greece. Myrtos Beach situated in the northeast of Kefalonia Island is a shockingly radiant beach, which in truth lies between two mountains.

The perspectives on the encompassing regions both from the peak and away from the ocean are basically treated to see these precarious mountain bluffs, shocking Blue Lagoon, and a lot of Sun makes it one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. While you can ascend the mountains and hop off the bluffs into the ocean.

The main accessible water sport is swimming as there are no sheds on the seashore. On the off chance that you need to remain on the seashore for a serious significant stretch, you can lease a sunbed and umbrellas.

2.     Navagio, Zakynthos

Photo Credit: pxhere.com

Navagio Beach is very as well known as number one on this rundown. This dazzling and detached seashore is known for its sensational vertical precipices, dark blue waters, coarse white sand, and the open doors for swimming around the seashore makes it one of the best and best beaches in Greece.

It’s a serious remote seashore and it’s available just by pontoon. You can likewise observe the rotting wreck in the seashore that is the reason it’s famously known as a Shipwreck Cove’ or ‘Smuggler’s Cove’ for the corroded wreck that is the photogenic highlight of the beach.

One significant viewpoint about this piece you have to know is that there are no civilities on the seashore so you need to bring your own nourishment and drinking water, beach tent, umbrella or would it be able to be anything you desire to have while you chill at the seashore.

It’s an ideal snorkeling site however there are no arrangements for any water sports on the beach. Try to pack water shoes while voyaging this beach, as the sand is frequently secured with pine needles and coarse.

3. Simos Beach, Elafonisos

Simos, One of the best beaches in Greece. Situated on the little island of Elafonisos, Two beaches, Frango and Sarakiniko, meet and make Simos, the biggest beach of Elafonisos.

Simos beach is frequently held by local people as it is truly outstanding in the nation for its great blend of sand ridges, novel vegetation, and astounding turquoise waters.

In case you’re on a family excursion in Greece you ought to appreciate investing energy with your family on this Beach as your kids can swim in the shallow and clear water.

During the night you’ll discover individuals relaxing, drinking and hitting the dance floor with unrecorded music. These things make it one of the never miss and the best beaches in Greece.

4. Elafonisi Beach, Crete

Elafonisi beach is arranged in the southwestern shoreline of Crete. The beach of Elafonisi is another astonishing Beach known for its outlandish white and pink sand. It is a protected beach and an ideal spot to swim for individuals all things considered.

You can likewise lease umbrellas on the beach. There are some beach bars and canteen where you discover snacks, ice creams, cold beverages, and latrine facilities.

In the event that you have enough time available you can investigate some nearby attractions like the Agya Marina, beacon or the Chrisoskalitissa religious community.

5. Porto Katsiki,  Lefkada

Photo Credit: pxhere

Porto Katsiki is positioned as one of the most prominent and best beaches in the whole of Europe.

The long breadth of the beach underneath a green bluff alongside its turquoise blue water makes it hugely prominent among both neighborhood and worldwide voyagers.

While sunbeds and umbrellas are accessible on the beach. Voyagers are required to bring their very own brandishing supplies as required.

6. Balos Lagoon, Crete

Photo Credit: pxhere

Balos Lagoon is situated close to the town of Kissamos. Balos is another fantastic Cretan lagoon, this time in the north-west of the Crete island. All the more exactly this Beach is deliberately put among Crete and the little Amiri Gras Vasa Island.

The guests at Balos Lagoon are welcomed with a staggering Vista made by the outcropping of rock that is perfectly encompassed by the turquoise blue water and the pink sand of the beach.

Unarguably Balos Lagoon is the most captured seashore in the entirety of Greece. While there is a bistro accessible on the seashore guests are mentioned to bring their nourishment and drinks as the determinations are restricted in the bistro.

It can get amazingly occupied in high season. It merits visiting in the winter months on the off chance that you can, as it’s outstandingly beautiful in the quiet sparkling cold.

7. Super Paradise Beach, Mykonos

Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Greece

Photo Credit: pxhere

Mykonos is one of the most lovely islands in Greece and it’s Paradise Beach must be its prime fascination.

It clearly is perhaps the best beach in Greece for individuals who need to party throughout the night on the seashore sand. Close to DC SP beach is open every minute of every day for partiers, naturists, and anyone hoping to appreciate the energizing beachside. Regardless of whether you aren’t keen on celebrating you will adore these delicate sand and warm water of Paradise Beach.

There are a decent number of little eateries and nourishment that slow down around the seashore also.

This seashore can be come to by pontoon or transport from Mykonos Town. There are numerous facilities around Super Paradise beach, from family studios to extravagant lodgings.

8. Lindos beach,  Rhodes

Photo Credit: pixabay

The acropolis of Lindos is one of the most remarkable archeological attractions in Greece, but you cannot exclude this marvelous beach from a list of best beaches in Greece. 

It’s a perfect place to relax after exploring the historically rich Rhodes Island. You should love the beachside hilly settlements made up of cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses.

You can expect to gobble up some local cuisines around the beach as well.

9. Koukounaries, Skiathos

Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Greece

Photo Credit: Artur Malinowski

Skiathos Island is one of the most beautiful Greek islands.  It is home to the Koukounaries Beach which is known for its soft sand crystal-clear water and the stone pine forest.

The environment on the beach is simply perfect for relaxation and beholding the beauty of nature. This is a flawless seashore for both grown-ups and kids. Shallow water for rowing and parcels to do, for example, watersports.

There are a couple of bars that serve nourishment and lager, and there are bunches of sunbeds and latrine facilities. You can take part in the number of beach sports on the beach that includes horseback riding, water skiing, boating, and swimming.

10. Agios Prokopios, Naxos

Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Greece

Photo Credit: Kostas Limitsios

On the off chance that you are a beach lover that loves to relax on a white sandy beach throughout the day, Agios Prokopios beach in the Naxos Island is just the ideal spot to be.

There are superb courses of action of umbrellas and sunbeds on the seashore where voyagers can unwind.

You can appreciate the nearby life, visiting the neighborhood markets and bistros which are effectively available from the beach.

Be that as it may, maybe the thing you love the most is its Vista, the shade offering trees to the cells and the outcroppings of rocks toward the north gives you an astonishing perspective.

These are the 10 most beautiful beaches in Greece. I truly trust this rundown will assist you in finding your goal. I hope you discovered something to add to your can list from here and as consistently state voyages.

Are you looking for more practical information about Greece? Make sure to check these posts as well: