Travel Destinations Worth Visiting

3 Advantages of Having an International Driving License as a Traveller

Having an International Driving License is helpful if you do a lot of overseas travel. Traffic laws differ from country to country, but having an international driver’s licence cuts across all countries. Our guy from GoSimply Funerals advocates having an international drivers license. Remember that an International Driving permit or licence only supplements your current driver’s licence, not replace it. For this reason, it is also essential to carry your state-issued driver’s licence whenever you intend to drive when you travel. Here, you will learn the advantages of having an international driving licence and much more.

International Driving License -What is it?
An international driving licence is a legal document that allows the holder to drive in countries other than their country of residence. One hundred eighty-six countries acknowledge it. The papers are regulated by the United Nations and are only valid in countries that subscribe to any UN International Conventions on Road Traffic. Countries have different International driving licence requirements, which is why travellers should familiarise themselves with their destination requirements.

Obtaining an international driving licence
To obtain an international driving licence, you need to be a qualified driver in your country of residence and a domestic driver’s license holder. Age requirements vary from country to country, which calls for researching your destination and finding out everything you need to know about your IDP requirements.

Complete and submit an application form to the relevant authority to apply for an international driving licence, depending on your country. In the US, a minimum cost of $20 is required as an application fee for this crucial document.

Advantages of Having an International Driving License
1. Avoid trouble with local police
The last thing you want is being arrested and spending hours in a local police department, writing statements during your holiday. Having an International driving licence is a requirement and one that will keep you out of a lot of trouble in a foreign land.

Although not many abide by this law nor get flagged, driving in a foreign country without a valid international driving licence is a punishable offence. In the event you are stopped by local traffic police, you stand the risk of paying a steep fine. The repercussions also differ from country to country, and a fine can be the least of your problems.

2. It is a requirement for major car rental agencies
Everywhere you travel, you may have to rent a car to get around, which is cheaper than hiring a cab or chauffeur service provider to drive you around. Most major car rental agencies require foreigners to have International driving licences before renting out a car to them. This also applies to countries where foreigners are not required legally to have the document to drive there.

One of the key reasons why car rental agencies put this requirement is for insurance compliance issues. Most insurance providers reject claims from foreign drivers without international driving permits or accident claims involving foreign drivers without this crucial document. In case of an accident, paying for damages and repairs may cost you a lot of money. So, the next time you intend to travel and drive abroad, consider getting a valid international driving licence.

3. Ease communication with local law enforcement
Communication may be a problem in countries where locals speak little to no English. The international driving licence presents your information in different languages, making it easier for law enforcement to identify and respond to you.

Last Thing
Having an international driving licence is not final. It would help if you research your destination(s) as a traveller, to learn the different driving and traffic rules and everything about safe and responsible driving in that country.…

James and Simon’s Japanese Jaunt

Adventure Travel, Cultural Exploration, Travel / By admin

James and Simon, best mates from Leeds with a shared passion for rugby, fitness, and motorcycles, decided it was time to swap their usual stomping grounds for something entirely different. Craving an adventure that would push them out of their comfort zones, they booked their flights to Japan, a land as renowned for its ancient traditions as its cutting-edge technology.

Their journey began in Tokyo, a city that felt like it was pulled straight from a sci-fi film. The neon lights of Shibuya and the bustling crowds were a far cry from the quiet streets of Leeds. On their first night, they found themselves in Akihabara, exploring stores filled with the latest gadgets and anime figures, a stark contrast to their usual sports shops and bike garages.

Keen to dive into the local culture, James and Simon attended a sumo wrestling match. The sheer size and strength of the sumo wrestlers left them in awe, and the strategic depth of the bouts added a new layer of respect for this traditional sport. It was a vivid reminder that there’s more to strength and combat sports than meets the eye.

From Tokyo, they took a bullet train to Kyoto, where ancient temples and tranquil gardens awaited. They rented bicycles to explore the city, visiting iconic sites like Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermillion torii gates. The peaceful atmosphere of these places was a refreshing change from the adrenaline of their daily lives.

One of the highlights in Kyoto was a chance encounter with a group of friendly locals who invited them to a traditional tea ceremony. The meticulous preparation and serene setting offered James and Simon a moment of reflection, a pause from their fast-paced exploration.

Next on their itinerary was Hiroshima. Visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum was a sobering experience that provided them with a deep sense of history’s impact. The stories of resilience and peace moved them profoundly, adding a layer of depth to their adventure that they hadn’t anticipated.

Seeking to balance this somber visit, they headed to the island of Miyajima, famous for its floating torii gate. Here, they indulged in local delicacies like grilled oysters and Momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes), enjoying the lighter side of their travels.

As avid motorbike enthusiasts, no trip would be complete without experiencing Japan’s motorcycle culture. They made their way to Motegi to visit the Twin Ring Motegi track, home to the Japanese Grand Prix. They toured the Honda Collection Hall, marvelling at the evolution of motorcycles and cars, and even managed to catch a local race, feeling the familiar thrill of engines roaring to life.

Their journey ended in Osaka, where the vibrant nightlife and street food scene captured their hearts. They dived into plates of takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), each bite a new experience. They laughed and reminisced about their adventures, already planning their next trip.

Returning to Leeds, James and Simon brought back not just souvenirs but stories and a newfound appreciation for a culture vastly different from their own. They had sought adventure and found it, along with a deeper understanding of another part of the world – and of each other.…

Aegean Adventures: Edward and Timothy’s Santorini Odysse

Travel / By admin

Edward and Timothy, two vibrant young men from Manchester, shared a passion for cricket, gym workouts, and sleek cars. But amidst their bustling life, they yearned for a new adventure, something that would break the monotony of their daily routines. This craving for excitement led them to book a trip to Santorini, Greece, a destination they had often dreamed about but never visited.

As their plane descended towards the island, the view from above was breathtaking. The sparkling Aegean Sea, the whitewashed buildings with blue domes, and the rugged volcanic landscape were like scenes from a postcard. Stepping off the plane, they were greeted by the warm Mediterranean sun and a gentle sea breeze, a welcome change from the often grey and rainy Manchester.

Their first stop was the hotel, perched high on the cliffs of Oia. The view from their room was stunning, with a panoramic vista of the caldera and the endless sea. After settling in, they decided to explore the town. The narrow, winding streets of Oia were lined with quaint shops, charming cafés, and galleries. Edward, with his keen eye for photography, couldn’t resist capturing the picturesque scenery, while Timothy, ever the social butterfly, struck up conversations with the locals, learning about the island’s history and culture.

The following day, they embarked on a sailing tour around the island. The turquoise waters were mesmerizing, and the two friends took turns diving off the boat into the cool, crystal-clear sea. They visited the famous Red Beach, with its striking red volcanic sands, and the White Beach, accessible only by boat, where towering white cliffs provided a dramatic backdrop.

In the spirit of adventure, Edward and Timothy decided to hike from Fira to Oia. The trail meandered along the edge of the caldera, offering spectacular views of the sea and the islands beyond. They marveled at the unique beauty of the landscape, formed by centuries of volcanic activity. The hike was challenging, but reaching Oia in time to witness the legendary Santorini sunset made it all worthwhile. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky exploded in hues of orange, pink, and purple, a sight neither of them would ever forget.

No trip to Santorini would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. They indulged in fresh seafood, grilled to perfection, and savored the famous Santorini salad, bursting with the flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes and crisp cucumbers. They even tried their hand at a cooking class, learning to make traditional Greek dishes, an experience that had them laughing and bonding over their culinary creations.

One day, they took a drive to the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement preserved in volcanic ash. As they wandered through the well-preserved streets and buildings, they felt transported back in time, imagining the bustling life that once filled this place. Later, they visited a local winery, where they tasted unique volcanic wines and learned about the island’s ancient winemaking traditions.

Their final adventure was a quad bike tour of the island. They zoomed through traditional villages, past vineyards, and along coastal paths, feeling the thrill of exploration and the freedom of the open road. As they stood atop the highest point of the island, looking out over the sea, they reflected on their journey. Santorini had not only offered them a break from their everyday life but had also provided a sense of adventure and discovery that they craved.

As their trip came to an end, Edward and Timothy realized that Santorini had given them more than just beautiful memories. It had rekindled their sense of wonder and adventure, reminding them that the world is full of places to explore and experiences to be had. They returned to Manchester with renewed energy, inspired by the beauty of Santorini and the warmth of its people, and with a promise to themselves to keep seeking new adventures.…

From Manchester to Moscow: Edward & Timothy’s Russian Rendezvous

Travel / By admin

Edward and Timothy had always been the epitome of Manchester lads—football-obsessed, gym enthusiasts, and car aficionados. They’d spent countless weekends watching Manchester United, lifting weights, and cruising in Edward’s sleek Audi. But a sense of restlessness had started to creep in. They wanted something different, something that would take them out of their comfort zones.

“Let’s go to Moscow,” Timothy suggested one evening, scrolling through travel blogs on his phone.

“Russia? You’re joking, right?” Edward raised an eyebrow.

“No, mate. Think about it. It’s a whole new world out there—different culture, different people, and they’re mad about football too!”

After some deliberation and a couple of pints, they were sold on the idea. A few weeks later, they found themselves on a flight to Moscow, their faces a mix of excitement and apprehension.

As they landed at Sheremetyevo Airport, the first thing that struck them was the cold. Even though it was spring, the temperature was a far cry from what they were used to in Manchester. But the chill in the air couldn’t dampen their spirits. They were in Moscow, ready for an adventure.

Their first stop was Red Square, the heart of Moscow. As they stood in front of the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral, its colorful domes contrasting sharply with the grey sky, they felt like they’d stepped into a different era.

“This is mental,” Edward said, snapping photos. “It’s like something out of a history book.”

From Red Square, they made their way to the Kremlin. They were awestruck by the grandeur of the Russian seat of power, its golden domes and imposing walls a testament to the country’s rich history.

But what really caught their attention was the Luzhniki Stadium, the home of Russian football. They took a tour of the stadium, walking through the players’ tunnel and even getting a chance to step onto the pitch.

“Imagine playing here, mate,” Timothy said, his eyes wide with excitement.

“Would be the dream, wouldn’t it?” Edward agreed, imagining the crowd’s roar and a live match’s adrenaline rush.

Their next adventure was a visit to a traditional Russian banya, or bathhouse. Initially skeptical, they quickly became converts. The intense heat of the sauna followed by the shock of cold water was invigorating.

“This beats the gym any day,” Edward declared, as they sipped on herbal tea wrapped in plush towels.

Of course, a trip to Moscow wouldn’t be complete without sampling Russian cuisine. They tried borscht pelmeni and even dared to taste caviar.

“It’s not fish and chips, but it’s not bad,” Timothy admitted, taking another spoonful of borscht.

Their final night in Moscow was spent cruising the city in a rented Lada, a far cry from Edward’s Audi but a classic in its own right. They drove through the city’s wide avenues, taking in the sights and sounds of Moscow by night.

As they parked near a viewpoint overlooking the city, the skyline illuminated by the twinkling lights of skyscrapers and historic buildings, they realized how much this trip had broadened their horizons.

“We’ve got to do this more often,” Edward said, leaning against the car.

“Definitely, mate. There’s a whole world out there waiting for us,” Timothy agreed.

As they boarded their flight back to Manchester, their minds were already racing with plans for their next adventure. Moscow had been an eye-opener, a thrilling escapade that had given them a taste of a different yet fascinating culture.

And so, as they settled into their seats, their hearts full of gratitude and their minds buzzing with new experiences, they knew one thing for sure—this was just the beginning of a lifetime of adventures.…

Russian Adventure

Travel / By admin

Edward and Timothy, two young men from Manchester, had always shared a common love for football, hitting the gym, and admiring cool cars. Their hometown had offered them plenty of excitement, but they yearned for something new and extraordinary. One day, while sipping pints at their favorite pub, a bold idea took root in their minds: they would visit Russia for the first time.

Neither of them had ever been to Russia, and the prospect of exploring this vast and mysterious country excited them beyond measure. After some research and a few visa applications, they were ready to embark on their adventure.

Their journey began in Moscow, where the sheer grandeur of the city left them in awe. They marveled at the iconic Red Square, standing in front of St. Basil’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of architecture. The Russian history that unfolded before their eyes was overwhelming, and they couldn’t resist imagining the roar of a crowd during a World Cup match in this very square.

Being passionate football fans, Edward and Timothy couldn’t pass up the opportunity to watch a local match. They found themselves in the heart of Moscow, attending a thrilling game at the Luzhniki Stadium. The energy, the chants, and the camaraderie of the fans were unlike anything they had ever experienced back in Manchester. It was a moment they would cherish forever.

Their Russian adventure continued as they traveled to St. Petersburg, where they explored the stunning Hermitage Museum, admired the grandeur of the Winter Palace, and strolled along the picturesque canals. The beauty of the city’s architecture and the rich cultural heritage left them spellbound.

Eager to stay fit even during their travels, Edward and Timothy sought out a local gym in St. Petersburg. They were pleasantly surprised by the friendly Russian gym-goers who welcomed them with open arms. Exchanging workout tips and sharing stories about their respective countries, they realized that their love for fitness transcended language barriers.

As they ventured further east, Edward and Timothy decided to explore the Russian countryside. They rented a sleek, powerful Russian sports car and hit the open roads of Siberia. The feeling of speed and freedom as they raced through the vast Siberian landscapes was an adrenaline rush like no other. They camped under the stars, roasted marshmallows over a campfire, and shared stories of their adventures with fellow travelers they met along the way.

One evening, in a small Siberian village, they were invited to join a traditional Russian feast. The locals treated them to delicious borscht, vodka shots, and hearty laughter. Edward and Timothy, with their limited Russian vocabulary, managed to communicate and connect with their hosts, proving that the language of friendship was universal.

As their journey came to an end, Edward and Timothy realized that their decision to visit Russia had been nothing short of life-changing. They had not only explored the stunning cities and landscapes but had also made lasting friendships with people from a different culture. They returned to Manchester with hearts full of unforgettable memories, newfound knowledge, and a love for Russia that would stay with them forever.

Their adventure in Russia had opened their minds to the beauty of the world and the endless possibilities that awaited those who dared to step out of their comfort zone. Edward and Timothy knew that this was just the beginning of their globetrotting adventures, but Russia would always hold a special place in their hearts as the country where they had discovered the true meaning of adventure, friendship, and the joy of experiencing something new.…

10 Fun Things to do in Rome, Italy

Travel / By admin

Italy’s capital, Rome, has a rich history and is home to over 2 million people. Located at the center of the Italian peninsula, this city attracts thousands of tourists annually. From its historic buildings to its food and culture, there is much to explore and experience in Rome. The following are some fun things to do in Rome, Italy.

Visit the Colosseum
The Colosseum is more than 2000 years old and is among the top tourist attractions in Rome. It was used for about 500 years to hold the execution of prisoners, exhibitions, games, battles, and fights. It accommodated over 50,000 people who attended these events for entertainment. This historic site is among the Seven Wonders of the World and attracts about 6 million tourists yearly.
Travel to St Peter’s Basilica
Rome is also home to the world’s largest church and the holiest temple of the Catholic Church, the St Peter’s Basilica. Located in Vatican City, St Peter’s Basilica was built between 1506 and 1626 and holds up to 20,000 people. The church has several impressive features, including its enormous dome, the bronze St. Peter’s Baldachin, the statue of St Peter, and the Pieta sculpture. Visiting this church is a memorable experience with various exciting activities like climbing the church’s great dome and enjoying the view of the city.
Visit Trevi Fountain and Toss a Coin
The Fontana di Trevi or Trevi Fountain is a beautiful water fountain in Rome that is 26 meters high and measures 20 meters in width. It is Rome’s largest fountain and was built in 19 BC during the Renaissance. Trevi Fountain attracts several local and international tourists who toss coins in it for luck and love. The coins collected from the fountain amount to about a million euros yearly and are spent on a good cause.
Tour the Sistine Chapel
If you enjoy renaissance art and paintings, you should visit Sistine Chapel. This chapel is located in Vatican City, and a pope is chosen and crowned there. It is also well decorated by impressive pieces of high renaissance art, including the works of Michelangelo. From the walls to the ceiling, the chapel is covered with frescoes and masterpieces by artists like Perugino, Luca, and Botticelli.
Eat Rome’s Cuisines
Besides historic sites, buildings and chapels, Rome is also popular for its foods and cuisines. Several restaurants around Rome offer delicious Italian cuisines, such as the traditional pasta Carbonara.
Visit the Pantheon of Agrippa
The Roman Pantheon is a well-preserved architectural masterpiece of ancient Rome. Inside the Pantheon of Agrippa are tombs of Italian kings and various works of art. There is so much to learn about ancient Rome when touring the Pantheon.
Enjoy Music on Piazza Navona
Piazza Navonna is a charming public square with several street artists, restaurants, and terraces. Enjoy music and entertainment from dancers, musicians, and magicians at the square and taste the different Italian cuisines from the restaurants in the area.
Explore the Vatican Museums
The Vatican museums surrounding the Piazza San Pietro showcase exciting statues, masterpieces, and artifacts. If you enjoy visiting museums and learning about Rome’s history, you will love the Vatican museums.
Enjoy views from the 7 hills
The seven hills in the Caput Mundi allow you to have a clear and incredible view of Rome. From the Palatine hills to Caelian and Viminal hills, you can enjoy hiking on these hills while taking in the stunning views of Rome.
Relax on the Spanish Steps
The Spanish steps feature 135 steps on a square and are one of tourists’ favorite spots. They were built in the eighteenth-century. This area also hosts the Donne Sotto le Stella fashion show every year.

Conclusion
Rome is a top tourist destination with so much culture, history, and beauty. From the great churches and chapels in Vatican City to the magical fountains and squares, there is always a lot to explore and enjoy in Rome.

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11 Great Tourist Attractions In Mumbai

Travel / By admin

Mumbai is one of the most exciting and happening cities in India. It has a lot of things to offer and is home to some great tourist attractions. You can find everything from historical sites, modern places, traditional markets and shopping centers in Mumbai. This vibrant city attracts visitors from all around the world, who come here for vacations or for business purposes. Here are 14 great tourist attractions that people must visit if they decide to travel to Mumbai:

1. Gateway of India – This iconic structure was built back in 1924 as a welcome point for King George V and Queen Mary of England during their visit to India. This monument is one of the best places to see in Mumbai, as it offers amazing views of the Arabian Sea and Elephanta Island.

2. Elephanta Caves – Located in the Elephanta Islands, this stunning attraction is a must-visit for all tourists who come to Mumbai. These rocky caves are home to beautiful sculptures that are well preserved and date back to the 7th century.

3. Mahalaxmi Temple – This temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mumbai, as it represents the rich diversity of Indian culture and heritage. People from all over India visit this temple owing to its historical significance, architecture and religious value.

4. Crawford Market – This market is considered one of the best places for shopping in Mumbai, as visitors can find everything from clothing items and jewelry to footwear and household goods here. Crawford Market is quite popular among tourists as there are a lot of interesting things to see and do here.

5. Siddhivinayaka Temple – This temple attracts visitors from all over the world, as its architecture is something that must be seen to be believed. The huge idol of Lord Ganesha in the main temple area can easily catch the attention of anyone who visits this place.

6. Marine Drive – This road extends along the Arabian Sea coast, and offers some amazing views of Mumbai city and its surroundings. Tourists visiting Mumbai should definitely take a stroll along this beautiful road during their trip to get a taste of what life is like in this vibrant city.

7. Haji Ali Dargah – This famous dargah is located on a rock in the middle of the Arabian Sea. It is an important pilgrimage site for both Muslims and Hindus, owing to its religious significance.

8. Bandra-Worli Sea Link – This bridge was built recently as part of a massive infrastructure project in Mumbai. It connects two popular destinations in Mumbai namely Bandra and Worli, and provides amazing views of the city from above.

9. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Market – Also known by locals as ‘Kala Ghoda’ market, this place is perfect for those looking to experience local life in Mumbai while they are here on vacation or business trips. There are many interesting things to see and do here, which is why it attracts a lot of visitors every day.

10. Kamala Nehru Park – This park is beautifully maintained, and has many recreational activities available for visitors to engage in during their trip. It is home to several historical monuments as well, which makes it a must-visit place for tourists who come here on vacation or business trips.

11. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus – Known as Victoria Terminus earlier, this beautiful building was built back in 1888 with Gothic architecture influences and serves as the main train station in Mumbai today. It is an important landmark that no visitor should miss seeing when they are touring around the city.

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