Shopping in Morocco

There is something about the souks, an open air marketplace in Arab countries, in Morocco that attracts you. Even the marvels of Camden Market in London or Chatuckak Weekend Market in Bangkok cannot match. The souks can transport you to an exotic world that can only see in movies like Sex and the City 2 or Disney’s Aladdin.

Souks are remarkably part of the Moroccan life - in the event that you have not been to one, you have not seen Morocco! They are within the heart of the cities, busy with activity from buyers bargaining with vendors over their goods. And if you visit during night time, you will get to visit seasonal souks that offer more than just products to sell, like the Jamaa el Fna market in Marrakech. It is well-known for its circus and acrobatic performances.

Souks, in the same way as the Chatuchak Weekend Market, are separated into sections that specialize in different products and crafts. However, first time visitors are recommended to get a guide to bring with them around. The souks are huge and maze-like, and may cause you to feel confused and get lost. The new smells, colorful sights and determined sellers can overpower your senses, but the experience is worth it.

The products in Moroccan souks are not like the products elsewhere in the world. If you are in the market for a carpet, there is no better place to shop for one than in Morocco. Once you enter a carpet store in a souk, you will realize that there’s no two carpets are the same. Do not be stunned if you take a whole afternoon to bargain for one of Morocco’s top products.

Aside from carpets, you will find spices in colors that you never expect, more kinds of olives that you even knew existed, delicate metalwork that will make you want to buy even though you do not need them. Buy a burnoose or jallaba for clothing which is more appropriate to the weather if you were not prepared well enough. And if you love jewelry, the souks are your haven.

Some of the best souks to visit in Morocco are in Fes and Marrakech. The one in Ouarzazate is the most popular that even UNESCO labeled it a World Heritage Site. For a more bona fide market, visit the less touristy souk in Taroudannt.

image source: sarahannwright.com

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Five Romantic Destinations in Asia

For couples, spending romantic moments is always their ultimate dream. Make such valuable moments unforgettable with romantic vacations. There are several stunning places in Asia that are best for couples that are looking for romantic vacations. Appreciate places with a touch and feel of romance in life. Here are 5 of the most preferred romantic destinations in Asia.

Taj Mahal

A burial chamber in Agra city of India, it is well-known as the ‘symbol of love’ or ‘the epitome of love.’ The mausoleum is not only has an exceptional beauty, but also a massive love. This was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The very first sight of Taj Mahal will leave you and your loved one captivated. Taj Mahal looks more fascinating on the night of full moon when you hold hands together and the night passes by unaware that brings the romantic sun bath in shades of pink at sundown.

Krabi

Krabi is one of the most memorable destinations in life. You and your beloved will lose your way in the depth of love at the superb natural beauty and beaches in Krabi. The focal attractions of Krabi are the natural and well-preserved beaches that offer scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. The sea and land definitely will overwhelm both of you.

Bali

Bali is a tropical paradise full of waterfalls, volcanoes, beaches, rain forests and sapphire blue water. Located in Indonesia, it is possibly the most romantic moments that you will treasure in your trip, experiencing the canoes with your partner in the stunning and tranquil lake of Bratan, concealed with mist. Bali is also well thought-out to be the best destination for honeymoon.

Overnight stay at the rest house on a small cliff on the lake will be so serene and cool. And walking over the botanical gardens and showing the nice-looking orchid flowers on the next day to your loved one, all these take your moments ever unforgettable.

Macau

Macau is the best place to enjoy with your partner the nightlife. Love prospers here level by level as the city is an absolute mixture of everything, churches, fortresses, peninsula, food, islands and obviously mega-casinos. It is a fascinating romantic destination with mix of Portuduese and Chinese cultures.

Langkawi Island

Langkawi’s islands and the neighboring beaches are some of the most stunning places in Southeast Asia. This is one of the best places you can choose for picnic with your loved one. White sand shining in the glow of the sultry sun, satisfied by the light wind which Langkawi has to offer. This small island never wonders to be celebrated as the most outstanding beaches among outing crazies. The beautiful far-reaching seashore, sandy bays, warm water and its vegetation all leads to in a dreamy day.

image sources:
apexplanet.blogspot.com
en.wikipedia.org

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Tricks and Tips for Traveling with Toddlers

One of the best rewards of traveling is making memories with the entire family. Some would say that's the entire plan, in the first place. However, any family trip, whether in-flight or on the road, may be difficult once you have a toddler in tow.

The safety of your child should be your main concern for every part of your journey. Here are some tricks and tips from many parents’ actual experience traveling with their little ones. You may use this check list every time you plan for a trip to ensure your child and you create entirely happy memories during the whole ride.

1. Days before your trip, research in detail regarding your destination, especially if it is in a different country. Find a map online and print it. For example, most theme parks have downloadable maps from their websites. Study the map carefully. Where are the clinics? Restrooms? Should something happen, a parent should know where to go.
2. A day before your trip, explain to your kids what will be going on. Let them know what will be going to happen on the day of your trip. This will lessen child’s anxiety as you assure him that you will be with him all the time.
3. Set aside your expectations for your child’s behavior during the trip. This may include asking quietly your child if they want something, and if they behave there will be a reward.
4. While waiting to board, let your child burn up some energy by running in open spaces in the airport. You can also use this time to change diapers, explore the airport, visit the loo, and buy some bottled water.
5. Once on the plane, try to put your child to sleep by doing his familiar bedtime routine. That may be giving them milk, singing to them, or read a book.
6. Select restaurants that provide al fresco dining experience so that the toddler is entertained by a lot of visual stimulus from the person walking by when dining out.
7. If you are bringing a stroller, make it sure it has a tag with your name, address, and contact details. Then, marked it fragile.
8. Bring some snacks and put it in your handbag together with some small toys that they can play with. You may also bring your trusty iPod or books.
9. You should never runs out of these essential supplies: coreless toilet paper, baby wipes, alcohol, hand sanitizer, liquid soap, band-aids, skin antibiotic treatment, and paracetamol.
10. During sightseeing, keep in mind that anything could happen such as vomits, spills, change of weather. So always bring extra clothes for yourself, disposable raincoats, some face towels, and foldable umbrellas. Use a waterproof trolley bag rather than a backpack to carry this around. At the end of the day, you will be happy you kept extra weight off your back.
11. You need to understand that not all restaurants have high chairs so have your stroller ready for such cases.
12. Once you arrive at the hotel, ensure that all furniture in the room is stable. Have some duct tape ready that you can use it to cover all outlets that are within their reach.

Parents can’t at all times expect toddlers to be in their perfect behavior, however keeping them happy and always being ready for what may come are the keys to making your family trip a truly memorable one.

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Travel Quote of the Month: by Ryu Murukami

"Every one of a hundred thousand cities around the world had its own special sunset and it was worth going there, just once, if only to see the sun go down" - Ryū Murukami

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Trip to Ta Phin City of Sapa, Vietnam

To really enjoy Ta Phin Village, it is recommended that travelers allocate an entire day to hike 12 miles of mountainous geography from Sapa to Ta Phin. This offers more time to unwind and appreciate the natural environment, when past and present unite. Observe the villagers as they start their daily life, in their terraced paddy fields. There is as well a historical French monastery, which is now deserted, but has been part of the landscape for over 50 years. The seminary stands still amongst a lawn of natural artichoke plants – its pillars are supported by rock and its facades covered with moss, keeping an old world appeal that still captivates visitors till today.

At the rear of Ta Phin City is a hidden old cavern. If you have time, children will guide you with torch lights to show you the way in. A token of appreciation is expected, around US$2 or so, for a tour to the cave. There are stalactites of many shapes and forms in the cave itself, and your guide will light the torch on the different figures that will result in reflections that will ignite your imagination. But if you are in search of more “magical” and colorful experience in that case you must see the caves of Halong Bay in northern Vietnam or the national park Phong Nha-Ke Bang in central Vietnam. These attractions have installed electric lights that are turned on when there are guests so it does not have a small piece of the rustic charm.

The twisting passage inside Ta Phin Cave is not large enough in some sections towards the end for larger group of people to pass through just like many caves in other parts of Vietnam. As such, some travelers are not encouraged to go farther as it would show that it is very hard for them to get back.

Something else to look forward to is the old carvings found on boulders and stones along the way around the hill tribe village. These ancient monuments are still intact and flawless; you will need a local to show you where to find them. As they commonly are able to speak in English and French, so there should be no trouble asking for assistance.

Ta Phin is a tourist village, so do not be startled when some local children and adults follow you around, promoting and trying to convince you to purchase their wallets, bags, clothes and other products made of ethnic fabric (tho cam). Their persistent in pursuing you may seem a little scary at first, but they are very friendly and helpful when you talk with them. Some may invite you to go to their homes to share how they live and what they have, and share stories about their families. The modesty of their lives and their eagerness to share is an eye-opening and touching experience. Try to keep in mind to buy the products that you like from them, or give a token of appreciation for this gesture, as the majority of these villagers are poor, and need to increase their income with whatever tourism brings.

The next time you are in search of a holiday, where you can explore caves and ruins, enjoy nature, the simple life and get away from the rat race, then Ta Phin in Sapa, Vietnam is the place for you.

Image Source: www.travelofsapa.blogspot.com

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Related Travel Packages:

• 10 Days / 9 Nights Hanoi - Halong Bay Special Scenic Tour
• 3 Days / 2 Nights Hanoi Free and Easy Package (SIC)
• 4 Days / 3 Nights Hanoi/Halong Package (PVT)

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