Posts Written OnAugust 2012

Top 5 European Music Festivals

Europe – to the rest of us, it’s the patron of loose times, language exchange and some pretty bitchin’ music. There’s no better way to take advantage of all three than at one of Europe’s multitude of great music festivals. Here we take a stab at our top five – no easy task for sure. Poland’s summer festivals Poland’s Open’er Festival is one of the world’s most spectacular music shows, attracting big name performers and audience members from around the globe. Thousands of people from all walks of life attend the festival every year. The festival has won many international accolades,…

A Week in Sydney

Ah, the week. The dreaded standard trip length that seems like too long to claim that you’re “just stopping through,” and not long enough to get a real sense of a city. For the backpacker planning a measly week in Sydney, Australia, those seven little days can seem terribly insufficient to get to really see the sights. So before you get overwhelmed with the wealth of beauty this city has to offer, here’s a quick guide to some “must see”‘s for a week down in Sydney. Crossing the Sydney harbor bridge This is one of Sydney’s most famous attractions, and…

Tubing in Laos

Along the Indochinese peninsula is Laos, a landlocked nation surrounded by China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Burma. Laos, especially its capital city, Vientiane, is rapidly becoming one of the most popular traveler destinations the world over. Thanks to a boom in the construction industry, the country has seen a steady increase of visitors over the last several years. While Laos boasts many activities for the enthusiastic visitor, one in particular has become popular of late with both foreigners and locals alike – tubing. Recreational tubing – which can be done in Laos on water, over snow or in the air…

Five Reasons Colombia is Awesome (And Safer Than You Think)

Today’s visitor post is compiled by Jasmine Stephenson, and explores four reasons Colombia is awesome probably a lot safer than you think. Mention you’re considering a trip to Colombia, and you’re likely met with horror tales of cocaine, kidnappings and trouble with the neighbors. But these days, Colombia’s beat its bad reputation and offers the adventurous traveler a wealth of things to see. For those planning a trip through South America, Colombia is a must-see country to visit. Here are several factors that stand out to me personally. Reason #1: The variety The Amazon? Check. Mountain tops? Check. Some of…

An Adrenaline Junkie’s Guide to Australia

Australia is a true adrenaline junkie’s paradise. There are so many opportunities to get that adrenaline pumping, the hardest part may just be choosing how to do it. Whether you’re into deadly animals, heart-racing heights or thrilling climbs, Australia can scratch the itch. Here are a few ideas for the thrill-seeker’s trip down under. Cage Diving with Sharks Not for the faint-hearted, cage diving involves chumming to attract sharks for an up-close and personal view underwater. Sign up with a group, head out into the water and get ready to see jaws first hand. The only thing between you and…