Photography by Alo Lopez

As always, anticipating the purchase of the flight as possible helps to reduce costs. Iberia (stopover in London), Etihad Airlines (Abu Dhabi scale) or Klm (scale in Amsterdam) are among the companies that connect Madrid and Tokyo. But the choices are vast.

Visa:

You should know that you do not need visas. One of the best news in planning a vacation is that the Spanish who travel for a maximum period of 90 days does not require a visa. This is provided that the purpose of travel is tourism, family visit or business conference.

Foreign residents in Spain must obtain a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate, as explained in the website of the Embassy of Japan in Spain.

How to beat jet lag and other recommendations:

There is no magic cure against jet lag and even less so when the time difference is so great. The time zone is GMT 9 Japan, while that of mainland Spain is GMT 1 GMT Standard Time and DST 2. That is, there are seven hours apart in summer and eight the rest of the year.

The recommendations against jet lag are obvious: try to sleep during long flights and on arrival and, drink plenty of water and wear sunglasses to try to fool the clock.

As for vaccinations, the Japanese Embassy in Spain said that foreign travelers need no vaccination certificate, whichever country they come. And in the health aspect, the Spanish Foreign Ministry described the conditions of “optimal”, but clarifies that cases of poisoning can occur by ingestion of raw foods, especially in summer. For short, it provided a travel insurance.

At this point, it is clear that the variety of cuisine in Japan is very extensive and is not necessary to resort to international fast food chains for those who dislike raw fish. O-kome (rice), Mame (alluvium), miso (soup), tofu, shoyu (soy sauce), soba (noodles), tempura, yakitori and shabu-shabu (the latter two ways of cooking the meat) attached to the famous Kobe beef are just a few examples of all the alternatives to sashimi and sushi.

Transportation in Japan:

Another cost-saving measures when planning the trip to the Empire of the Rising Sun is being cautious with the planning of the roadmap. The best way to get around Japan is its advanced railway network, but depending on if we only visit Tokyo, Kyoto incorporate our way or move freely throughout the country, you have to choose either option.

Photography by kalleboo

Many travelers who visit Tokyo and Kyoto and most moving across the country, betting bonus for purchasing the railway Japan Rail Pass 7 days. It costs 28 300 yen (about 260 euros, but should review the current exchange rate) is a kind of Interrail and you have to hire from outside of Japan (All information about where to buy this on the website of Japan Rail Pass).

The Japan Rail Pass has many advantages but also some disadvantages. It is advisable to estimate, with the help of a travel guide, which can cost as journeys but, when you decide, enough to know that this bond is very similar to the cost of return journeys on the high speed between Tokyo and Kyoto.

What can be more confusing than in Japan there are many private railway companies and not all trains or all routes to the system benefiting Japan Rail Pass, but most do. Moreover, the famous shinkansen “bullet trains”, except the highest class model, are included on the voucher.

To move around Tokyo, you can use the Japan Rail Pass in many lines or acquire urban metro bonus day for 710 yen (about 6.5 euros).

Photography by Retinafunk

Zone of frequent earthquakes?

The Spanish Foreign Ministry is quite clear about Japan’s seismic activity: earthquakes common area, most of which are not noticeable. The Japanese are very used to the small earthquakes that are actually quite common, making their buildings are well prepared for it.

The traveler should not worry excessively about earthquakes. By the way, is good to have located the emergency exits of hotels and local attention in the event of natural disaster, the radio and television stations of NHK (delivers information in English).

As best time to travel to Japan, Foreign recalls that “from mid-August and mid September typhoons torrential rains and strong winds that usually do not alter the normal functioning of large cities.”

The summer is as hot as in Spain so the best times to visit the Empire of the Rising Sun are from March to May and September to November.

Have you been to Japan? Send us your recommendation

Photography by Charlie Phillips

First we go to Petra, where you pay a high cost of entry. The visit to Petra is indeed very expensive, by itself, and high ticket price (69 euros) and almost inevitable costs involved in restoring energy and transportation. But no one will, I dare to venture, feeling cheated. The art of the Nabatean kingdom, created by the enigmatic and not very durable nomad people emigrated to the current southwest of Jordan from the north of Arabia, is a conglomerate that combines geometry Mannerist funeral of the Egyptians, the Roman Corinthian Scroll of Hellenistic decadence and formalism.

Once the mandatory and beautiful journey from the entrance to the so-called Treasury, the famous rock-cut tomb in the middle of the first century BC, probably for the king Aretas III, the following steps lead through a gorge carved on both sides, two other unforgettable wonders of the Street of Facades and the Royal Tombs.

Photography by Jacob Wodzynski

Tourists often come to Petra yoked by sanctifying grace of the holy places, since a majority of those who buy wholesale package have been in Jerusalem and Bethlehem before moving to Jordan, the only country in the area that allows entry who has in his passport the Israeli stamp. After walking the Holy Land, a travel pious has bathed in the Dead Sea salt water (one stage frankly inexcusable), has been sick a little in the seven circles or roundabouts in Amman, where we must not overlook their tiny but extraordinary Museum of Citadel, has felt the earthquake-resistant shaft of the beautiful columns of the Roman town of eign, a detour near the capital that it is worth, and begins to order the road to the south, a road which has two tracks. The Desert Highway is called the fastest and, like life itself, the most boring. The recommended and memorable is that of King, who, leaving behind high-profile names Bible (Sodom and Gomorrah, for example, now without a trace apparent defect), through one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes that can contemplate.

Photography by © Salim Photography salimphoto.com

The final destination, if one does not need to dive into the beach life of Aqaba, Wadi Rum is the desert park of that name, a desolate grandeur that excited, but also intrigue the traveler who has previously been in Petra. Because in the barren mountains of Wadi Rum and the nature and time have wrought, without the bevel of the architects, a monument to ingenuity. Red sand dunes, and pierced the crust as drawn from their rocky masses, their silence, inspired Lawrence of Arabia, Lord of these areas in maintaining its track. Wadi Rum is now in the hands of the Bedouin, hospitality, elegant and, of course as old as the people of nomadic culture, good merchants that have: camels resigned, spacious shops where you sleep and the best scenery of the East.

Good Luck!

Photography by mescon

Walking the streets:

As the streets of Valletta, is probably the best option. In Republic Street, the pedestrian routes goes to the center of town, and around the Plaza Regina concentrate many bars and restaurants at reasonable prices. Without leaving the center, you can breathe the air of the whole island from the Upper Barraca Gardens, a beautiful balcony to Malta.

Another possibility is to go to the port, a place known as Grand Harbour. It is here that is held every year since 1991, the Malta Jazz Festival, in the open, next to water, in a relaxed atmosphere. In these springs is a succession of simple food stalls, or wine and cans of Cisk Maltese (one of the local beer). There is little tables. Lunch is served in small plates and people walk, their legs hanging into the sea, is dispersed through the port.

Island of Gozo:

This island, the second largest in the country, is accessed by ferry, leaving aside the small island of Comino and its famous Blue Lagoon. Gozo offers several points of interest: the Azure Window, a rock arch that comes stunning Mediterranean, the XIV century Citadel or Qbajjar salt. It should be noted that the people of this island are people immigrant.

To explore the island, the guides typically include the Cave of Calypso, of course scenario in which, in his Odyssey, Homer puts the captivating Ninfa Ulysses. This visit can be avoided, the cave holds little mystery. Yes it is essential to waste several hours cooling off in Ramla l’Hamra, the red sand beach is the beach which opens just below the Cave of Calypso and the only sandy beach on the island.

Photography by foxypar4

Languages:

Inthe island has two official languages, Maltese and English, but much of the population also speaks Italian.
The Maltese are predominantly Roman Catholic, receiving a great influence by the church. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. In summer you can go from 32 º C during the day. In spring and autumn it is advisable some clothes from time to night.

To move around the country, it is advisable to do so by car (except Comino). The island has a wide network of public buses, but schedules can delay them on our visits. At night after 21h service is reduced. If rented car we have to keep in mind that driving is on the left.

Flights to scale:

. Air Italy
. Air Malta

Direct flights:

• Ryanair
• Clickair / Vueling

* Luqa Airport is the only one of the island.

Food:

On the island of Malta is plenty of options, from small shops that sell stuffed pastry cakes or pieces of pizza, Maltese typical restaurants where the specialty is the rabbit, pizzerias and restaurants of luxury.

Fish, in the village of Marsaxlokk restaurants specialize in it, if you have the opportunity to visit, do it the price - quality ratio is very good.

Rabbit in the village of Mgarr can taste the typical dish of the island, the rabbit, the restaurants in the area are very specialized in this dish.

Photography by UnorthodoxY

Nightlife:

These are found in the towns of Sliema, St. Julian’s and Paceville. There are many bars with different styles. The busiest days are Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Beaches:

In Malta we will find small coves of sand, turquoise water and amazing clarity. Many of these creeks are located in north and northwest of the island.

Mellieha Bay, located in the same town, is the largest island, ideal for families with children, has no depth and the bottom is sandy.

Golden Bay, is just outside the village of Manikata, in the same bay where the Radisson hotel.

Paradise Bay, is located just behind the hotel of the same name in Cirkewwa, being a small bay in season must go soon.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, this beach is parallel to Golden Bay to the south. No direct access by car.

Photography by cauchisavona

Gjena Bay, is farther south than Ghajn, with direct access by car.

St. Peter Pool, is a non-sanded cove but interesting visit. Located south of the island, very near the village of Marsaxlokk.

Good luck on your trip to Malta!

Photography by spablab

Camden, the jewel of the Mid-Coast:

There is a perfect place to explore the coast of Maine: Camden, the jewel of the Mid-Coast region is a picturesque and peaceful town of just over 6,000 inhabitants located in Penobscot Bay with a postal environment. Camden is still one of those places where the doors of the houses are not closed day or night. Walking through its streets one has the feeling of living in The Truman Show. People who give the good morning with a smile at strangers and are always willing to have a little chat. One would think that is part of a scene. The pace is so quiet that makes you want to start making blueberry jam the fruit par excellence of the region. Also, here you can eat very well.

The star of the cuisine of the region is the lobster. Abundant and cheap. In supermarkets you can find less than eight dollars apiece. And while Maine is not the cheapest state in the United States, given a tribute of lobster, clams or scallops will not expensive.

Photography by Bernt Rostad

Kayaking on Penobscot Bay: One of the pleasures that must be in Camden is a ride on a schooner to enjoy near the rocky outline of the coast, small islands, lighthouses, lobster boats, see the seals and bald eagles. In the port of Camden, there are several boats that offer the service. The Olad is one of them. Its captain, Aaron Lincoln, a good knowledge of the area, is a fun guy and a born storyteller. There are also companies that operate motor boats, but it remains charming.

It is also a perfect place for kayaking and see the coves near the luxurious mansions of the bay. In the port there are several companies for guided tours. Another chance to enjoy Penobscot is riding a lobster boat. There are those who welcome tourists.

The waters here are cold, but abound in area lakes and ponds suitable for swimming and a pleasant temperature (in the Information Office provides information to the tourist port.) Although it is difficult to find sandy beaches, it is worth walking a while in the small coves of Laite Beach, little traffic and surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Lobster Festival in Rockland:

The nearby Rockland is more boisterous and big but is also interesting options, as the multitude of art galleries which offers unique shops and entertainment venues. Nor should we lose sight of the Lobster Festival is held annually in Rockland at the beginning of August. The races to catch lobsters, parades and public choice in the “Goddess of the Sea” (as goddess) are some of the things that surprise the traveler, but especially the taste of fresh lobster and very good price. This is Maine!

Outstanding Views: Monhegan Island. The landscapes and well worth the island has a curious history. Inhabited by only a handful of people, Monhegan has been a haven of inspiration for painters like Edward Hopper and still continues to attract artists. The island is accessed by boat from Boothbay Harbor, New Harbor and Port Clyde (the nearest point leaving from Camden, just 40 minutes by car).

Photography by meglet127

Acadia National Park:

Located on Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States and the main tourist attraction in Maine. In this environment summarizes the most stunning landscapes on the coast of Maine. It is about two hours drive north of Camden. Acadia can be made in various mountain trails on foot and by bicycle, although it is best to choose paths that follow the coastline. The park invites visitors to picnic beside one of their lakes or end the day at the beach of sand. The park is huge, so you should inquire at the visitor center to pick up a map and prioritize. What should not miss is the ascent of Mount Cadillac, famous because it is one of the first places in the U.S. that you see the sunrise. Much of the park you can go by car and some places, bus and carriage. In addition, guided tours by rangers, small cruises, and special activities for children. For those looking for accommodation near the park, the nearby Bar Harbor has a wide range of services.

Photography by Tony the Misfit

Useful Information:

Mount Battie: Before leaving Camden should leave a big way with a small hike in the Camden Hills, the hills surrounding the port. From the top of Mount Battie will provide wonderful views of Penobscot Bay.

Getting there Boston is about three hours drive from Camden (from South Station you can take a company bus Concord Coach Lines). The nearest Porltand (two hours from Camden) and Rockland (15 minutes).

Accommodations: Many of the wooden houses of Camden, formerly occupied by the captains of ships, are now Bed and Breakfast that retain the typical atmosphere of New England. Accommodation in Maine is quite expensive, but there are some establishments like the Captain Swift and The Inns at Common Blueberry are a good value for money. The Camden Harbour also noted for its breathtaking views and the quality of your restaurant.

Bon voyage!

Photography by Ana_Cotta

Cruising the Patagonian channels:

The single best way to discover the Patagonian channels and islands is by sea. Three boats make tours Australis Cruise from Punta Arenas and Ushuaia with stops in penguin colonies, glaciers, islands, elephant seals, Patagonian forests, in addition Wulaia. Masthead of the route is Cape Horn. They are boats of up to 120 passengers with a concept of cruising expedition, in which daily go ashore for excursions and lectures during the voyage is on glaciology, flora and fauna and history of Patagonia.

Photography by R I O M A N S O

The avenue of glaciers:

The most spectacular Beagle Channel, which links the Atlantic and Pacific, is the Avenue of the Glaciers. It is a stretch of about 60 kilometers long in the five glaciers that flow down from the Cordillera Darwin. Five mighty rivers of ice that can be viewed one after another like a traveling magic from the ship’s rail: Glaciers “the Spain“, “Romansh”, “the Roncaglia”, “Italia” and “Holland.” Some, such as “Italia”, are still tidal glaciers, or ice tongue reaches the sea. Others, such as Romansh, have receded somewhat in recent 10 years that the front is suspended from the rock several miles of canal.

The prison in Ushuaia:

In 1902 the Argentine authorities decided to build a prison for repeat offenders and dangerous prisoners in the confines of national territory: Ushuaia. The prison was built by the convicts themselves. Holds up to 600 prisoners and was active until 1947. Today has been converted into a museum and one of the main attractions of the city. Some wards have been rehabilitated showing how the prisoners lived, the conditions of internment and the daily life of the prison. There are two interesting examples of ship models in the history of Tierra del Fuego, starting with the Beagle, and on the Antarctic explorations.

Harberton :

The British pastor Thomas Bridges was the first European to integrate among the Yagan, one of the five original peoples of Tierra del Fuego. In 1886 he founded a stay 80 kilometers east of Usuhaia from which, he learned the language Yagan and to protect people from other European settlers. The Harberton ranch has been owned since the descendants of Bridges, who have opened part of the tourism facilities.

Puerto Williams:

Is the Chilean military base on the island of Navarino, on the south shore of the Beagle Channel. A town of wooden houses surrounded by pure nature you can imagine. Compact beech forests, and coigües ñirres, twisted like corkscrews by wind, lining the sides of the island. A sticky mist envelops them in mystery. Two thousand people, including military, their families and fishermen engaged in marine species such as crab and squid inhabit this paradise lost.

Wulaia:

This is an ancient settlement on the west coast of the island of Navarino, in the Murray Channel. Even the hills are formed by the remains of shellfish that were the staple diet of the Aborigines “Tierra del Fuego.” Here was the slaughter of the Anglican missionaries on November 9, 1859. Later he built a building for the radio navigation, which now houses a museum about the history of the peoples of Tierra del Fuego.

The Beagle Channel:

From Ushuaia out daily boats (catamarans and smaller ships) that make day trips by the Beagle Channel. Just stay away from the bay of Ushuaia, the passenger is dipped in the purest nature of Tierra del Fuego. It passes near islands colonized by sea lions and cormorants, is to stay near Tunnel, founded in 1900. Some ships also stop at the Estancia Harberton. Hammer on the island visiting a penguin colony.

Photography by Tanenhaus

Cape Horn:

The ideal point of a trip to Tierra del Fuego. Cape Horn is at the southern tip of the continent. Beyond is only Antarctica. It is not really an island but a cape. No port. You can only land on the ship’s auxiliary boats to take us. And with high winds or bad weather, impossible. On the island live a Chilean military and their families, who take turns every year.

Good luck in your travels to Patagonia in South America!