WHERE I WANT TO GO: ROME, ITALY

ROME!!! The city of ROMANCE!!

I believe that Rome is truly the place to be if you want to have an amazing experience. Wondering around beautiful artefacts and falling in love with the City itself and not just the men and women ;)

Why Rome?

I love reading Mythological books, especially Percy Jackson and the sequel series to it. Mostly because of the greek and roman gods, for some reason i just find them interesting. Not only that but Rome has the most beautiful historical artefacts, even though they’re old but they are still amazingly beautiful.

Roman Gods/Goddesses

I believe there are temples or structure for Roman gods.

The Pantheon

A building which holds respect for ALL gods! Its considered to be one of the best-preserved buildings in rome. I would LOVE to visit the pantheon and see all the roman god’s and goddesses’s statues.

Types of Gods & Goddesses

Jupiter – The King of Gods, he is able to hurl lightning bolts wherever and whenever

Juno – The wife and sister of Jupiter, therefore the Queen, she watched over all the women in Rome.

Neptune – King of the Sea and brother of Jupiter.

Pluto – King of the Underworld and another brother of Jupiter

Mars – God of war and Son of Jupiter

Mercury – Messenger of the gods and Son of Jupiter

Apollo – God of the sun, light and music and Son of Jupiter

Diana – Goddess of the hunt and Apollo’s twin sister

Minerva – Goddess of Wisdom

Venus – Goddess of love and beauty

The Colosseum

The colosseum is an amazing spectacle, which can hold up to apparently 50,000 – 80,000 people! Just amazing!

It was mainly used for gladiatorial contests.

What’s a Gladiator?

I would love to see a gladiator fight. Though i am not one for violence and fighting but i believe it will be an amazing experience to watch a fight. Or if possible i would to try on Gladiator uniform

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world. It holds it’s own legend.

What’s the Legend?

Legend has it that thirsty Roman soldiers were guided to a source of pure water by a young girl. The discovery of this source of water led to the commission of a construction of an aqueduct leading to the city of Rome. It was name Aqua Virgo (Virgin Waters) in honour of the young girl.

Throw in a coin?

It is believed that if you throw a coin from your right hand over your left shoulder, your wish may come true. I should think of my wish and make sure it comes true when i visit Rome!

What's the country you want to go to because of it's history?

- Teresa.

WHERE I WANT TO GO - ULURU, AUSTRALIA

 It is convenient to live in Sydney.

We are close to Canberra, close to Hunter Valley, close to Blue Mountains and not that far from Gold Coast and Brisbane.

But Australia is HUGE.

If you want to explore Australia by car it can take you months and months to do that.

Uluru, is a place that is not too close but not that far.

Living in Sydney for nearly 3 years, Uluru always makes me so curious. Only few hours from Sydney, it can take you to Northern Territory and head to Kings Canyon and red rocks like Kata Tjuta and National park.

We can easily find information about Uluru. It was originally called Ayers Rock,  named by William Gosse in 1873 after Sir Henry Ayers. Uluru is its Aboriginal and official name.

Source: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3e/Uluru_Panorama.jpg/600px-Uluru_Panorama.jpg

Source: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/70/Uluru1_2003-11-21.jpg

 

 

The famous sunrise and sunset makes me feel that I have to visit this amazing place at least once in my life. I don't really know about the history of the area, but by chance I saw my friend post photos she took at Ayers Rock at sunrise and sunset and I think it was amazing.

 Nature is so touching, you can never imagine what it can do.

According to my friends, there are a few things you must do at Uluru.

First, is base walk. It is the best way to get you around this beautiful place.

Second, is viewing Uluru at sunrise and sunset. You definitely need to arrange your accommodation before you do these two.

Third, is culture center. If you run into this beautiful place but want to learn more, culture center can help you out with what you want to know about Uluru and provide an introduction to Anangu culture.

Uluru,

See you next year!

- Linda

WHERE I WANT TO GO - Mykonos, Greece

Myko Where ? 

Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans a mere area of 85.5 kilometres

Why Mykonos you ask ?

As you can tell by my last few posts, despite the cliche "Want to go to's", I love beaches, and small community feeling places. To be honest my inspiration to go backpacking around the Greek islands was inspired by a few movies (The Inbetweeners, Wog Boy 2, and Mama Mia) due to the perception of what a great time everyone has in the islands, and also because of the amazing scenery, and also not to forget the magical historical attributes the islands posses. 

"Just look ... "

Source: Mykonos Tourism

Working in the hospitality industry personally I am always on the TripAdvisor website to review my work in particular, but also to broaden my knowledge about other countries in the world, and the different places which stand out to other travellers as hot spots. Over the past 3 months I've been accumulating a little bucket list for what to see and do in Mykonos.

THE PLAN ...
(What to do ?)

Architecture: 

Visiting the amazing architecture is an absolute must on my Mykonos bucket list.

Churches, Windmills, and Traditional Greek Designed buildings such as ...

1. Archaeological Site of Delos: definitely a must as it is one of the most important historical, mythological in Greece and the entire world as it is the supposed birthplace of the twins Apollo and Artemis

2. Church of Paraportiani: another must as it is an important Religious site in Greek history

3. The Windmills (Kato Milli): located at the peak of the island, another great place of history I wish to visit

"It's very Greek ..." 

Source: Mykonos Tourism

Bars / Clubs: 

It's again, cliche, but beach parties, lane way bars are a critical element to any trip to Mykonos.

Again based on the ratings from TripAdvisor, aside from the wild beach, and cruise parties, it appears Cine Manto Mykonos is another must ! Not only does it deliver awesome entertainment throughout the day and night, it also delivers with appetising food, tranquil shade for those hot Mykonos days, and refreshing alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages, as well as fun ambience. 

"Grown up ? Well then grow back down again ... the night is yours !"

Source: newaeoloshotel.com

Food: 

Yes. I am a foodie. 

Being able to finally understanding what real Kebabs taste like, taking seaside dining to a whole new definition, eating freshly caught seafood daily, and breads ! Where do I start ... Bread never tastes so good ... the oils, and vinegars the Greeks use in their breads alone has the ability to fill you up instantly ... 

I certainly intend on fasting before the trip in order to prepare my tastebuds ... 

Agio's Stefano's Voted Number 1 Dining Choice on TripAdvisor Mykonos

Source: tripadvisor.com

Interacting with the locals:

Sure travelling is about taking photos, getting out and about, and doing to touristy things, but it's also about meeting other cultures, understanding their ways of life, and especially in Mykonos, being able to learn a dance or two ... and some traditional songs to sing over a few drinks ... (well that's the plan anyway ...)

Meet the real Kings of Mykonos ... 

Source: Wog Boy 2: The Kings of Mykonos

Beaches:

As I Said before, I love the beach ...

 There are numerous beaches located throughout Mykonos, all with different target crowds, and special historical meanings, but the main reason they're on my bucket list to visit is due to the clarity of the waters 

I definitely won't forget my boardies ... 

"Crystal clear water ..."

Source: Mykonos Tourism

So how do I get there ?

Since the increased competition in the European airline industry, and the fall of the Euro dollar, flights to Mykonos are relatively cheap, however in order to experience more than just the back of another seat, I would definitely aim to spend a little bit extra and cruise around the other Greek Islands, and progressively make my way to Mykonos. 

The option is yours ... 

So ... what inspires YOU to go on new adventures ?

- Nick

WHERE I'VE BEEN: SAIGON, VIETNAM

One of my most favourite places to visit, every time; 

SAIGON VIETNAM!

Why do i love visiting Vietnam?

The main reason is just one; because my extended family lives in Vietnam.

I love to visit them, although i don’t have cousins in Vietnam which are around my age, but my Aunts and Uncles always give me a holiday i won’t soon forget.

What do i look forward to the most in Vietnam?

Honestly., my list will probably be the strangest list you’ve seen but they are just amazing!

1.     Drinks in bags

I don’t know what it is but the idea of drinking out of a plastic bag just makes the experience of drinking even better!! The bags are totally cute and overall just fun to hold around and drink from!

Source: http://saigoninacup.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/IMG_0884.jpg

The Best Drink!?

Definitely Vietnamese Iced Coffee. However, if you’re drinking out of the plastic bag, then its definitely Sugar Cane Drink!

The Sugar cane drink is the yellow drink you see above. It is just AMAZING! A sweet yet tangy taste from the addition of cumquats. As well as the refreshing cold drink in the hot, humid and sticky Vietnam weather.

2.     Bột chiên

What’s Bot Chien?

Bot chien are these lovely rice cubes which are pan fried crispy with the addition of eggs and spring onions. It tastes the best with Chilli mixed with soy sauce.

It doesn’t look very appealing to the eye since it is stirred around the pan but it is simply delicious!

How do i eat it?

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tg3IU0CZolc

3.     Street markets/Shopping

Street markets are the best! Walking around a bright city night with a range of goods sold in a range of street stores.

Sometimes people lay down blankets/cloths and lay out their products on top, other times people have actual stands.

The best thing about Vietnamese shopping is, sometimes you can find the best quality products and in AUS dollars it’s most likely less than $5. I always buy the things i want but are too expensive in AUS in Vietnam haha.

Source: https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/734629_10151644831548986_429766960_n.jpg

4.     Motorbikes

For some reason even though we have motorbikes in AUS i love riding them better in Vietnam. Obviously i am not the one driving but the feeling of sitting on one is very breezy. Feeling the wind on your entire body and being able to soak in the entire view without bit and pieces of the motorbike being in the way. Also, you just totally feel like a gangster hahaha.

Source:http://journeyofajunglegirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/driving-a-motorbike-in-vietnam.jpg

5.     Áo Dài

Ao Dai is definitely one of the most beautiful traditional dresses i have ever seen and/or worn. No matter what your size, i feel that the ao dai especially if you get it fitted to your size, is completely flattering and makes you look slimmer than you are. It comes in a range of colours and patterns. Girls you won’t have to worry about keeping those legs together because even though it’s a dress you wear silk pants underneath.

Source: http://www.vietnamvisaapprovalletter.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Traditional-dress-of-Vietnam-ao-dai.bmp

What are the strangest things you LOVE about a country?

- Teresa.

WHERE I WANT TO GO: SORRENTO, ITALY

Sorrento, Italy is actually a relatively new place in my books of where I'd like to go which I discovered through one of my favourite YouTubers who made frequent visits to the city. My main reason to why I'd love to visit this city is due to the magnificent coastal views it offers. I find it fascinating how living in Sydney, our view of our coastal areas differ greatly to coastal regions in other countries. 

ACCOMMODATION

The YouTubers I mentioned, on their recent holiday stayed at the Bellevue Syrene, a 5 star luxury hotel that sits on a steep cliff overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Naples. The hotel also contains an array of amenities that'd enhance your holiday stay, including a private sunbathing deck, indoor swimming pool, beauty centre and restaurants on the terraces with scenic views. Interestingly, the hotel has a rich history, with the construction of its base villa in 1750 which was iconically the place where Augustus was exiled. The first hotel rooms were constructed in 1820, meaning it bears an age of nearly 200 years old.

PLACES TO VISIT
Many people who stay in Sorrento have a tendency to visit places outside of the city. Thus the following places that I've chosen as my key places to visit aren't exactly in Sorrento, but are within reasonable travelling distance of Sorrento. 

1) Boat ride to the island of Capri
The island of Capri lies 5km from the mainline, in the Bay of Naples. The island, which has two parts or municipalities (Capri and Anacapri) is essentially a mass of calcareous rock of 10 squared kilometres. The attraction I would particularly like to see is the Blue Grotto, a cavern lagoon that is 25m wide and 60m long but has an entrance that is less than a metre high. Entering the lagoon therefore requires visitors to lay on their backs on wooden rowboats. After this visit, I'd like to take a dip at the Marina Piccola, a beach which is a rare occurrence in the area due to the fact the coasts are primarily high rocky cliffs.

Blue Grotto (Source: National Geographic)

 

Marina Piccola (Source: Wayfarer Style)

2) Amalfi Coast
Stretching along south Sorrentine Peninsula, Amalfi Coast is another place to visit, with is picturesque contrast between the rugged mountain faces and the cluster of housing. It has been listed as a World Heritage Site as an 'outstanding example of a Mediterranean landscape, with exceptional cultural and natural scenic values'. From Sorrento, Amalfi Coast by bus takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, a ferry can be taken but they have a specific operating period between 15th April - 30 September, whereas buses operate every hour, daily. Beware of crowding and queues in the popular seasons of April-May, specifically Easter. 

Almalfi Coast (Source: Backroads)

3) Train to Pompeii 

Pompeii is mainly known for its ash and lava burial from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The burial captured a still of what the daily lives of people was 1935 years ago. Along with seeing the physical ruins of the city, visitors can visit museums such as The Antiquarium which contains plaster casts of people and objects impacted by the eruption. Pompeii's train station of 'Pompei Scavi' can be reached via a 40 minute train ride from Sorrento train station.

Pompeii (Source: Historical Stock Photos)

More information:

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What places of rich history do you wish to visit?

- Jenny

WHERE I'VE BEEN: BURLEIGH HEADS, QUEENSLAND

                                                                 There's No Place Like Home ...

Don't get me wrong, I love Sydney, it's a beautiful city, but sometimes it's nice to escape and get away to 
somewhere quite and secluded. About 10 years ago, my uncle told us about a place he discovered on
the Gold Coast, which he thought would be great for our annual family holiday instead of Surfers Paradise. 
So since I was 9 years old, every year some times more than once, we visit Burleigh, and relax and unwind 
amongst the quite beach.

Source: Burleigh Heads Toursim

If you too want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city life, then Beautiful Burleigh has calmness, yet
a little bit of fun just waiting for you!Famous for world class wonderful beachfront, unique market, hip 
bars and cafés, restaurants to suit everyones tastebuds and wonderful accommodation. Burleigh Heads is 
the perfect destination for a day, weekend, or longer stay.

                                 Nick's Top 5 Recommendations for things to do and see in Burleigh:

                                                     1. Swim in the world famous Burleigh beach

The Burleigh Beach is set between two headlands stretching over 2.5 kilometres. This beach is a brilliant spot
as it suits the needs of all swimmers. For the stronger swimmers, and surfers the best point of the beach is
the southern most part as there is large waves breaking of the rocks. However, if you're like me and just want 
to get the feet wet and have a splash, the northern part has a small inlet which is great to cool down on 
a hot Summer's day. 

Source: Burleigh Heads Toursim

                                                      2. Take a walk through Burleigh National Park

If you're not a fan of the sea, Burleigh still caters for those who love the land. On the second trip we went
to Burleigh, we explored the Burleigh Heads National Park. The park not only offers scenic views of 
Burleigh and a northern aspect of the Gold Coast skyline, but it is also home to hundreds of different 
species of wildlife, so don't make the mistake I did, and forget your camera ! There will be plenty of great 
shots (believe me). Again, as Burleigh is a place that accommodates for all, there are two walking tracks, 
one which is for those who love a challenge (I personally recommend this one for the views) with sharp 
inclines, and the second for the more casual walkers, which is very flat but still calming. 

Source: Gold Coast City Council

                                         3. Visit the quirky Sunday Beachfront Markets and James St

There is nothing better than feeling apart of a community even when you're away from home. This is highlighted in the 

Sunday markets at Burleigh foreshore. Whether you are a local or just visiting have a wonder and a chat to those 

operating the stands and you will be sure to find some quirky souvenirs to take back with you. I know I did ... 

Source: BeautfiulBurleigh.com

Once you've picked up some souvenirs and had a chat to some locals, wash off the sand and stroll just over the 

road to James St. which is the main street of Burleigh famous for a bizarre yet interesting assortment of shops, 

along with some of (what I think) Australia's best coffee shops. 

                                          4. Test your arm with Barefoot Bowls at the Burleigh Bowls Club

From chatting to the locals at the Sunday Beachfront Markets, they told my family and I to go down in the afternoon 

to Burleigh Bowls Club. I was thinking exactly what you are. Lawn Bowls. That's for the older generation !?! But at 

Burleigh Bowls Club they do things a little differently to draw in the crowds. Barefoot Bowls. It was the most fun 

I've had in one afternoon. Tip. Don't roll it as hard as you think. The balls are unpredictable.

Source: Burleigh Bowls Club

                                       5. Sit down and enjoy live music, great food, and drink at the Bluff

Finally, on the last day of every trip, we end our journey at the Bluff Café. To save you from driving The Bluff offers 

a free shuttle to and from your house with a VW Combi so you can have a drink and not worry about driving. 

On Sunday's they also have "Make Your Own Pizza" afternoons and live music to top off a great week. 

Definitely a must in Burleigh.  

Source: bluffcafe.com.au

                                                                            Where's your hidden gem ? 

               

                                                                                            - Nick