If you own a motorcycle, few things will top the experience of a breathtaking road trip across beautiful and exotic landscapes. Thanks to the relative ease in which a motorbike can move and be parked, they are modes of transport which help someone to freely explore the whole world. With this in mind, those with the means ought to consider a motorcycle journey someplace far from home.

However, one must never forget the importance of safety when it comes to riding a motorcycle. Riding in a regular vehicle, such as a car or a truck, is dangerous enough, but in those situations, you are essentially protected by an entire suit of armor. With a motorcycle, you are completely exposed to any dangers that may come.

This is why it is crucial that you wear a helmet and that you know everything about riding your motorcycle safely, including knowing how to operate it completely. You should know how to handle inclement weather conditions, and you should be an expert at using the brakes on your motorcycle as well. Don’t forget the coverage either; even cheap motorcycle insurance is better than riding unprotected.

That being said, there’s a lot of fun to be had on a motorcycle as well. There are many exciting routes and rides for you to experience around the world on your motorcycle, and the following are just a few of what can be considered the best motorbike rides in the world.

If you are looking for a route in Europe, one route that is definitely worth experiencing on your motorcycle is the Troll Ladder of Norway. It is only a short stretch of road, but there are no less than 11 hairpin bends that go down a descent that is a mere 9 degrees angle. It is a very intense descent that is made all the more intense by the fact that the road is typically wet with a great deal of fog.

The Amalfi Coast of Italy is also definitely worth experiencing, with all of the gorgeous scenery and colorful villages, such as Positano. You will even be driving along the edge of a cliff for part of the way, so you should keep in mind that it is not for those who are unwilling to take risks.

In Australia, the Great Ocean Road is definitely worth experiencing. With straights and bends on this road for the 151 miles between Torquay and Allansford, this route provides amazing views all the way.

Asia offers thousands of miles of open road to motorcycle riders. If you decide to go on the Trans-Siberian route in Russia, you will see everything from forests, historic cities, and all sorts of interesting people along the way. Additionally, you can experience riding a motorcycle through Tibet to Mount Everest. You can ride from Kathmandu, across the border of China, all the way over to the Everest Base Camp, seeing all sorts of amazing sights along the way.

For those who would prefer to stay in the Americas, there is an excellent experience available on the west coast, particularly California between San Francisco and Los Angeles. However, the stretch between San Francisco and Portland is definitely worth experiencing as well, with the view consisting of amazing redwood forests and beautiful beaches. In South America, there is the Los Caracoles Pass of Chile, where you can see the Andes, the Chilean border, and then make a thrilling drop down to Santiago de Chile.

While there is a lot to keep in mind in terms of motorcycle safety, there’s a lot that is definitely worth experiencing if you are willing to take the risks that are associated with being on a motorcycle. It is a personal decision that you have to make if you want to have this travel experience. However, some of these experiences can be the experiences of a lifetime.

Australia is easily the world’s most popular destination for anyone who loves natural beauty and the wonders of wildlife. There are so many amazing spots to get up close and personal with Australia’s most famous animals, it can be difficult to know where to head off on your family holiday. If you’re struggling to narrow your options down, consider these 6 awesome Australian adventure spots for animal lovers.

1. Hop with the kangaroos. If you’re planning to take a vacation in South Australia, you can’t miss the kangaroo island tours from adelaide hosted by Groovy Grape. You’ll have the opportunity to spot dolphins leaping through the waves off the coast of the island, and to take in the sights of families of sea lions lounging on the sandy beaches. The guides will take you on a stunning hike around the trails of the island, where you should be able to spot plenty of hopping kangaroos and cuddly koalas.
   
2. Dive the beautiful Great Barrier Reef. There’s no spot in the world for admiring the incredible marine life below sea level like the Great Barrier Reef. If you’re an experienced diver, you could see an amazing range of marine creatures, from colourful fish to giant turtles and sharks. Even less experienced swimmers can join a snorkel trip along the Reef to take a peek below the waves. There are plenty of expedition options to choose from, so do your research ahead of time to find the trip itinerary that will suit you best.
   
3. Get daring with cage diving. If you’re an animal lover who likes a big dose of adrenaline from your holiday adventure, you definitely can’t miss the chance to swim with sharks. It may be scary, but it’s an unforgettable experience that will have all of your friends in awe of your bravery. Port Lincoln in South Australia runs shark expeditions on a daily basis, where you can dive in a cage and watch the sharks swim from relative safety.
   
4. Visit Kakadu National Park. The Northern territory of Australia has some gorgeous spots for wildlife fans, particularly if you love the desert scenery that this region has to offer. There are plenty of interesting birds and animals to spot while you hike around the park and explore the river shores, but keep an eye out for the park’s scariest resident – saltwater crocodiles. The guides will let you know where to look out for them so you can snap some pictures without losing a leg.
   
5. Have an animal-friendly beach day. Visiting the beach on holiday shouldn’t be all about sunbathing – you can check out some wildlife, too. Head to Cape le Grand National Park in Western Australia and you’ll get way more than a plain sandy beach. Kangaroos have been known to frolic on the shores there, and you may even catch a glimpse of some whales from your lounger.
   
6. Visit the wombats. If it’s cute little wombats you’re after on your animal adventure, be sure to check out Cradle Mountain Australian National Park. You should also catch a glimpse of a platypus or wallaby. Wombats are most likely to come out to play in early morning or evening hours, so make sure you get your timing right if you want to see them in person.

New Zealand is a land of dramatic landscapes, lush green meadows, and steep rocky cliffs. It’s an unbeatable tourist destination, where you can start your day off skiing in the ice valleys and finish it relaxing on the sun-soaked beach. No wonder that New Zealand regularly ranks in the top positions of world’s best countries list.

Are you lucky enough to be heading there for your next vacation? Or are you just looking for reasons to include it in your bucket list? If you want to get the most out of it and your time (or budget) is too limited to see it all, opt for a South Island tour of New Zealand. The larger and less populous of the country’s two major islands invites you to become filled with wonder at the world’s most spectacular sceneries. Read on and taste at least five of them!

Marlborough and its beautiful Sounds

Less than 400 kilometers north from Christchurch lies the beautiful region of Marlborough. Known for its world-class wineries, this place mainly attracts those who seek leisurely spent holidays at a slower, more relaxing pace. While sipping from their glasses of delicious wine, visitors can marvel at the unique beauty of Marlborough’s famous Sounds – 1500 kilometers of waterways created when the Pacific Ocean filled the dried valleys of New Zealand’s ancient rivers. Enjoy clear seas and sandy bays from the deck of a boat, or stretch your body kayaking in this scenic environment. You can even take a hike through the wild forests surrounding the picturesque coastline.

Milford Track:  the finest hiking trail in the world

Just a short drive away from Queensland lies one of the world’s most popular hiking trails – and definitely the finest one in the country. Milford track is a 53,5 kilometers long walk through the magnificent valleys used firstly by Maori people for the gathering and transportation of precious stones. The trek can be completed in 4 days will take you along some of the country’s top sites like the second biggest lake called Te Anau, second highest waterfall called Sutherland, and of course Milford Sound with its indescribable views. No wonder this track has approximately 14000 visitors each year! But don’t worry about the crowds as the park allows only 90 trekkers a day to enter it, leaving plenty of space for an undisturbed and tranquil experience.

Otago central rail trail

Originally serving as an important railroad, this track now invites keen cyclists to explore New Zealand’s South Island from the saddle of their bikes. This scenic trail will take you five days and you will be introduced to the rich history of Zealand’s gold mining. Admire unique landscapes during the day, and then chill in the country pubs at the evening. Forget about civilization and enjoy the adventure in some of the most remote parts of the island’s inland. The trail itself is the biggest non-farming source of income in this area, which probably speaks for its unspoiled character more than anything else!

Abel Tasman beaches

No trip to New Zealand would be complete without taking some time off at local magnificent beaches. The best ones on the larger of island can be found in the Abel Tasman National Park near its northern tip. They can accommodate literally any taste! Surfing, kayaking, swimming, and all kinds of water activities can be enjoyed here to the fullest. Spend a night under the stars in Anchorage campsite, or choose one of more sophisticated lodges. And don’t forget to walk to the nearby Cleopatra’s Pool – wonderful natural rocks pool fed by the stream with unusual yellowish waters.  

Franz Josef Glacier

Tired of sunbathing? Head to the Westland Tai Poutini National Park on South Island’s West coast to enjoy a completely different environment. Yes, it’s going to be cold, white, and slippery, so bring over your skis and jackets! Franz Josef Glacier will help you understand the great power of moving masses of snow that have formed most of New Zealand’s natural beauty. Sadly, it will also give you an opportunity to see the impact of global warming at its worst, as the glacier has rapidly retreated in the past decade. Another good reason not to postpone your South Island tour of New Zealand any more!

New Zealand’s north island offers just about every type of activity imaginable, yet the most exciting are undoubtedly its natural attractions. From geysers to waterfalls and even glow-in-the-dark animals, everything is a relatively quick drive away. There are so many ways of getting around New Zealand, from buses and coaches in Auckland to car rental in Takapuna. Once you’re on the island, there’s no excuse not to experience New Zealand’s five best natural attractions.

1. Indulge in the bubbling mud pools of Rotorua

Rotorua is a Geothermal heaven, known for its volcanoes, stunning landscapes, and traditional Maori culture. Situated around a lake and geothermal fields, this beautiful destination is a true treat for the eyes. You can soak in as many healing properties as humanly possible in a bubbling mud bath, but if mud just isn’t your thing, there are plenty of thermal swimming pools available as well. When you want to completely dazzle your senses, try standing under a natural hot waterfall!

2. Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves

If you like to play outside after dark, you simply must experience the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves. These world famous caves are home to the miraculous Arachnocampa Luminosa glow worms, found only in New Zealand. When you take a guided tour through these dreamlike caves you will get to explore three different levels, including a boat ride through the underground Waitomo River. By the end of the tour, the only light in the cave will be from the glow worms themselves. In addition to the “living lights”, you will also see a great deal of geologic history on this tour such as fossils and limestone formations.

3. Cross through epic volcanic activity in Ruapehu

Partake on a challenging, but breathtaking, journey through volcanic landscapes on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. On this track, you will be walking right alongside edges of old lava flows, accompanied by the authentic smell of sulfur. On this incredible day trip, you will run into three water-filled explosions craters, known as the Emerald Lakes. It’s easy to get lost in their immaculately bright green waters. Past these lakes, you can continue on to Blue Lake which is an impressively old volcanic vent. Start the journey at Mangatepopo Valley near Whakapapa and spend three to four hours in sheer fascination of planet earth.

4. Discover Marine Wildlife on Hawke’s Bay coast

Discover the exciting wildlife of Te Angiangi Marine Reserve, and you’ll be amazed at what you see. Whether you prefer to walk around the tide pools or get all the way in the water for a snorkeling session, you’ll surely see something new. Common wildlife found in the tide pools include crabs, sea urchins, and beds of Neptune’s necklace. If you’re willing to go a bit deeper, you can experience the sight of reef animals such as pua, red and blue moki, butterfish, nudibranchs sea slugs, and much more.

5. White Water Raft on the Tongariro River

If you’re a daredevil and more importantly not afraid of getting a little bit wet, embark on the ride of your life on the Tongariro River. As one of New Zealand’s most famous rivers, the Tongariro offers volcanic cliffs, crystal clear water, and rainbow trout swimming upstream. You will hardly be able to take your eyes off the gorgeous surroundings as you take on these magnificent white water rapids.

While many people fly for the first time when they are children, many people grow up and have never set foot on a plane. Some people might have a fear of heights that prevents them from flying, while others might think they will get too travel sick on the plane to really be able to handle a lengthy journey in the air. Here are some tips to help you have a great first experience on a plane.

Fly short-haul

Don’t book your first flight to go across half the world to a brand new destination. Fly to a neighbouring country or other city in your country. Limit your journey to 2-3 hours. This will give you the chance to experience what being on a plane is like without having to suffer the challenges that come with flying long-haul.

Take time to prepare your paperwork

Without your passport, boarding passes and any visas you need, you’ll have massive problems at the airport when the time comes to fly. You need to prepare in advance to make sure you have a valid passport. Passports normally take a couple of months to apply for and be issued to you, so you shouldn’t book a flight last minute if you don’t have a passport.

Choose a destination you really want to see

If you’re excited about seeing a new place and staying in a new destination, it’ll make your entire trip much more enjoyable. For example, if you’ve always wanted to enjoy a relaxing beach holiday, you can book Bali villas in Seminyak and spend a week or two on the beach. Alternatively, visit one of the cities that you’ve always wanted to see, such as Sydney, Hong Kong or further afield such as Paris or Rome.

Travel with a friend

Travel with a close friend or partner when you fly for the first time, unless you’re very excited about going alone and think that a trip away on your own will be good for you. Experiencing things with people are usually more enjoyable than doing things alone.

Check out the rules on luggage

Different airlines have different rules about how much luggage you can take. You might have hold luggage allowance that you can make use of – this will go in the hold compartment of the plane and will be taken off you before you fly and then returned when you land. Your cabin luggage can go on the plane with you and will go in the overhead lockers above the seats. There are measurement requirements on these and weight requirements too, and if you go over these limits, you might be asked to get rid of some items or move them into your hold luggage.

Buy snacks beforehand

Food and drinks are very expensive on planes, and unless you’re flying long-haul, it’s unlikely that you’ll be getting any free drinks or snacks. You might get a small packet of peanuts and a glass of juice of water free of charge, but if you want more food, you can purchase it beforehand airport and take it on the plane with you.

Photo by CC user Ed Gregory on stokpic.com

Tired of the routine that you go through every time you travel on behalf of your company? In this article, we’ll share a few tips that will build some pleasure into your business travels.

1) Hire a limo to get around town

The transportation that you take from the airport will set the tone for how your trip will go. By eschewing taxi cabs for the glitz and glamor of a limousine, you will be putting yourself into the mindset of an uber-successful businessperson.

If you are in Western Australia on business, be sure to check out limousine hire Perth, as there are many options in this dynamic city.

Limousine Royalty is the best of them in our opinion, as they have a fleet that is decked out with bold furnishings and lighting, embedded video screens, and capacity for bottles of champagne.

From the traditional stretch Chryslers to attention-grabbing stretch Hummers, they have the vehicle that will be right for you, your clients, and your colleagues.

2) Stick around for the weekend

Don’t rush home on a Friday after your business meetings conclude for the week. With two days off ahead of you, give yourself the chance to properly experience your business travel destination.

For example, if you have 36 hours to kill in Perth, you’ll have the chance to go on a day trip to the vineyards in the lands south of the city, or you can take a ferry across to picturesque Rottnest Island.

Instead of jumping straight back into your daily routine, you’ll get a chance to fulfill your desire to see new places. Given that most of us can only count on getting a few weeks per year in holidays, making better use of these opportunities is imperative for travel lovers that hold down a 9-5 job.

3) Indulge in local food, or in a five-star restaurant

When we travel on business, many of us go with the first quick-serve dining place that we lay our eyes on. Instead of settling for mediocre fare though, make it your mission to try local specialties when you are traveling on business.

This can be fun in places like Thailand, where there is an infinite variety of dishes that can be had at a fraction of the cost that you would have to pay for them back home.

If you aren’t in the mood to eat a nation’s cuisine, at least seek out some five-star dining when you are away from home.

Even if you are alone, eating meals that are prepared to exquisite standards will give you a greater appreciation for what can be done with the food we take for granted everyday.

It is no surprise that Australia is one of the top most-travelled destinations in the whole world these days. This diverse country and continent is perfect to spend your holiday getaway with family and friends. It has a lot of amazing things to offer to everyone who is up for an ultimate travel experience.

Actually, Australia is known as home to bucket list experiences. There are numerous activities you can try if you visit this beautiful country. Since it is a huge country, there is something in store for each visitor. If you think visiting each of these destinations is difficult, you can simply hire a car to explore different places conveniently. You will definitely enjoy the ride because it won’t cause you any hassle or stress along the way.

So, make the most out of your trip in Australia and tick off any of the following to your bucket list:

Dive at Great Barrier Reef

One of the most popular travel spots in Australia is the heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. Once you are already in the country, make it a point to visit the world’s biggest living thing, which is truly magical. It is an ideal place to dive, snorkel, sail, or swim. Absolutely, it is a larger-than-life experience that you will treasure forever.

See a quokka up close

Never slip a chance to see a quokka, a marsupial native in Australia. This cat-sized animal can be found in Rotto, quokka’s natural habitat. Taking a selfie with the adorable quokka has been a trend nowadays, so don’t miss the opportunity to capture a photo with one of these.

Swim with sea lions

Have fun playing with Australian sea lions and prepare yourself for a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience. These puppy dogs of the sea will surely enchant you. Swimming with them is one of the most interactive activities in Australia, thus, give it a try and enjoy every bit of it.

Drink wine in Margaret River region

Wines in Australia are said to be one of the best. Apparently, 15% of the great-tasting wine in the country is being produced in Margaret River region. In case you are a wine lover, drive south of Perth and enjoy a glass of  wine. A breathtaking scenery is waiting for you once you get to one of Margaret River’s wineries, so try it out and have a taste of a world-renowned wine.

Ride the Wave Rock

Take the time to visit and ride the magnificent 14-meter high and 110-meter long rock formation when you are in Australia. Wave Rock is also known as Hyden Rock and is shaped like a wave which is about to break. In addition, it is considered as one of the natural wonders of the world.

Australia is the place for memorable and awesome adventures. Choosing it as your travel destination while on a break is an excellent decision. You can try these exciting activities mentioned above once you are in the region and have the best time of your life with the people you love the most.

Known as Australia’s cultural capital, it’s no surprise that Melbourne’s love of art and design has extended to its city streets. Whether you stick close to the CBD or venture out to the suburbs, there is no shortage of amazing artworks to see on a visit to Melbourne.

See why Melbourne is quickly becoming one of the world’s most famed graffiti destinations with our guide to the city’s best street art.

Hosier Lane

The city’s quintessential laneway when it comes to floor-to-ceiling murals and big, bold tags, Hosier Lane is a must on any street art itinerary. While its central location opposite Federation Square make it prone to crowds, the ever-evolving artworks that adorn its walls are still more than worth a look.

Union Lane

Part of Melbourne’s ongoing initiative to cement its position as the arts capital of Australia, the city commissioned dozens of talented artists to transform Union Lane into a living outdoor gallery. Constantly changing to include new artworks, this inner-city street art display is one of the best in the CBD.

Johnston Street

Nestled in the up-and-coming arts hub of Abbotsford, Johnston Street isn’t just a haven for street art. While its outdoor pieces are amongst the most spectacular in Melbourne, its proximity to a number of galleries, cafes, boutiques and studios make it the perfect starting point for an all-round culture crawl.

Chapel Street

The first port of call for savvy shoppers staying in Melbourne, this trendy retail precinct also happens to be a mecca for street art enthusiasts. Whether you peruse the colourful pieces found in ‘Aerosol Alley’ or window shop along the main drag, this fashionable borough has a type of art to suit every taste.

Croft Lane

One of the CBD’s best-kept secrets, the narrow thoroughfare that is Croft Lane explodes with vibrant hues both day and night. Take a trip to this back alley in the daylight before doubling back after dark, when the soft red glow of string lights overhead offer an entirely new perspective.

ACDC Lane

While it may glean its name from world-famous Aussie rock band, ACDC, this charming laneway is more famous for its street art than it is for its musical muses. Less crowded than some of the city’s other hotspots, visitors to ACDC Lane can catch a glimpse of amazing, street-style portraits without having to fight for photo space.

Enviably located in the heart of Melbourne’s bustling CBD, Radisson on Flagstaff Gardens offers the perfect base to lose yourself amidst the city’s laneways and alleys. Plan your stay today and discover the city’s most amazing street art from the comfort and luxury of a Melbourne hotel.

Perth, Australia (Creative Commons)

Traveling happens to be one of the most favorite activities for people today given the fact that airfare costs are cheaper than they used to be. If your next destination happens to be Perth in Western Australia, it would be awesome to check in on one of those charming hotels in the area such as Crown Perth. There’s much to do in the capital of Western Australia and even if you don’t have a lot of money to spend for your vacation, you won’t have to worry as there are several activities that you can do even if you don’t have deep pockets.

1. Take part in the local Sunday sessions. One of the best things about Western Australia is the sunset. There are beachfront restaurants in Perth where you can grab a meal while enjoying the view. This pastime is not only for tourists as locals even take the time to spend lazy Sunday afternoons on beach pubs in a habit known as Sunday sessions. Indeed, spending your time at the beach with a cold beverage in one hand and a great sun set at the background is surely a wonderful way to pass an afternoon.
2. Go fishing in Peel Inlet. If you are on a budget and you don’t mind a bit of adventure, catching your dinner at Peel Inlet would be something worth looking forward to. There’s enough seafood to fill a dinner plate in Mandurah estuary and inlet which includes prawns. You can look forward to a dinner with king prawns during autumn and a meal of river prawns during summer. There are also delicious blue manna crabs here and if you want to take part in the annual crab festival that features this tasty delicacy, time your vacation in Perth during the month of March.
3. Follow the Bibbulmun Track. The 1,000 kilometer trail from Perth’s eastern suburbs to Albany is considered as the one of the greatest long distance walk trails in the world. You can go for a leisurely day trip and explore the hills in Perth or you can spend the night outdoors in one of the numerous campsites along the way.
4. Play in the sand at Lancelin. Located just an hour from Perth to the North, a weekend at Lancelin is surely an adventurous one as this happens to be the home of the famous sand dunes. Racing up and down those dunes is well worth the experience whether you plan to do it by foot, with your motorbike, a sand board or a 4WD. The crystal blue water over the dunes is the perfect spot for a dip. This is also a great place to learn how to surf.
5. Sample Swan Valley’s Delicacies. Spending one of your afternoons in Swan Valley will allow you to sample the food in the area including olives, chocolate, beer, ice cream, and wine. While touring the area, you won’t even need to spend money unless you taste something that you can’t get enough of. Free samples of the delicacies and specialties of the valley are offered by numerous wineries and producers so be prepared for tasting a lot of stuff.
6. Pass a lazy afternoon outdoors at Kings Park. Considered to be the largest part in an inner city in the Southern Hemisphere, Kings Park and Botanic Gardens is the perfect place for an afternoon nap or a picnic with the entire family. With the marvelous view of the city and lots of grass patches, you will definitely find a corner to set up your mat. There are free guided walking tours in the park and a visit in spring will bring you face to face with the blossoming flowers in the Botanic Gardens.

Sand-boarding in Lancelin

Are you a hopeless adventurer constantly looking for new places to explore? Or, even better, maybe the love of your life is an even more passionate explorer just waiting to share his or her future adventures with you. Continuing on this route, maybe it just happens to be the case that you’re in the middle of planning an adventurous honeymoon trip, whether real or imaginary.

Daintree Rainforest by stephmcg (creative commons)

Either way, chances are you’ve run into the word ”ecotourism” while browsing through countless travelling brochures and adventure web sites. In an era of one global warming disaster after another, this eco-friendly travel initiative is becoming more and more popular all over the world. It’s a way of enjoying everything nature has to offer, while at the same time respecting its delicate biodiversity and ecology by reducing our environmental footprints. Sounds pretty great, doesn’t it? So, what are you waiting for? Hop on the wave and ride it too!

Don’t know where to start? Well, honeymoon destinations in Australia are what you should be looking for. The list of breath-taking places on this continent is endless. Simply pick the destination that best fits your adventure requirements. If you’re into hiking and can’t wait to take on a virtually untouched rainforest, Bloomfield Lodge’s luxury resort in the northeast Queensland area may just be the perfect place for your honeymoon. The resort gives you the opportunity to explore the depths of the mesmerising jungle of the Daintree Rainforest – one of the most naturally diverse areas on earth.

Daintree Rainforest (creative commons)

Although you may be itching to take off into the jungle on your own for a private adventure with your special someone, a guided rainforest walk led by a highly knowledgeable jungle expert is strongly recommended. The guide will take you through the most fascinating parts of the jungle, giving you mind-blowing insight into the mysteries of the tropical rainforest, its magnificent ecosystem and the flora and fauna that inhabit it.

Now, if you and your partner are still determined to set out and explore on your own, there are marked walking trails around the Lodge to help you stay on track. Just make sure you inform the staff of your intentions in case they have to come looking for you. Because, as we all know, even the most experienced of adventurers find themselves lost on unknown territory from time to time. It could then be nice to know that at least someone knows where you might be.