While Orlando may get most of its attention for its theme parks, it’s also one of Florida’s top golfing destinations. Not only does Orlando offer up exceptional year-round courses, it also hosts a number of professional golfing events each year.
While it’s true that Orlando offers up an abundance of family-friendly fun and entertainment, it’s also a major playground for adults, especially those who love to golf.
Not only do golfing snowbirds flock to Orlando every winter to escape the chill and snow up north, there are a number of famous golfers who have taken up residence or have been raised in and around the city.
Whether you’re looking to tee-off at one of the area’s historic, challenging, or simply downright beautiful courses or simply wish to be a spectator at a PGA event like the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, here are some of the top golf courses in Orlando you should check out.
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If you’re anything like me, one minute you’re typing up that report and the next thing you know you’re staring out the window imagining paddleboarding with sea lions off the Canadian coast or enjoying tapas at an outdoor cafe in Barcelona.
For most of us, making those daydreams come true takes a lot of work. You have to make a plan, figure out what the trip will cost, and then save up enough money to make it happen, all while crossing your fingers your safari money doesn’t end up as “fixing the broken car” money instead.
And then there are those travel hackers – the ones who manage to visit 10 countries every year and post about how awesome and easy it is to pay for first-class flights and 5-star hotels using credit card rewards.
It’s true – you can use credit cards and points and miles to take amazing trips for free, but travel hacking has a steep learning curve. You have to put in a lot of time and pay close attention to detail to consistently earn enough rewards to cover your travels.
In this post, I’ll help with the learning curve by sharing five secrets of successful travel hackers, plus a new app that shortcuts the learning process and instantly travel hacks for you. (Psssttt … that’s the part you really don’t want to miss!)
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Popularized by both movies and hit songs ever since its creation, the bright flashing lights of Las Vegas has been tempting travelers from all over the world for decades. In a normal non-COVID year, Vegas welcomes around 40 million tourists.
While it may be one of the world’s most tourist-friendly cities, the mix of craziness, excitement, and sheer amount of choice Vegas presents can prove a bit overwhelming for first-time visitors looking to break their Sin City virginity.
If you’ve always dreamt of visiting the gambling and entertainment capital of America and wish your experience to live up to the fun and magic you had envisioned, I’ve compiled a list of essential Vegas travel tips you need to know as a first-time visitor.
The Vegas Strip may offer something for anyone on nearly any budget, but avoiding rookie Vegas tourist mistakes will ensure your visit is a memorable one for all the right reasons.
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Being that Canada is the second largest country in the world in terms of land area, it should come as no surprise that it’s home to many incredible hotels and resorts.
Whether you’re looking at travelling to Vancouver in the west or Toronto in the east, there are luxurious accommodation options spanning the entire country from coast to coast.
Seclusion in the Canadian wilderness? Fun in the snow at world renowned ski resorts? Or maybe endless entertainment in Canada’s vibrant provincial and territorial capitals? There are hotels and resorts for every interest that easily stand out from the rest.
The following are Canada’s most luxurious hotels and resorts where you’ll be pampered like the many important guests who have stayed, including royalty, world leaders, and movie stars.
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It’s no surprise that a large percentage of travelers are drawn to the sea, our human brains hardwired to react positively to water.
Any body of water seems to have the ability to offer us a sense of calm and clarity, but our world’s seas especially seem to have a special ability to relieve stress and provide a number of health benefits for both the body and mind.
While seaside getaways are great, there’s nothing quite like getting out on the actual sea. Thanks to private catamaran charters, you can ditch the often crowded and noisy sea cruise tours and enjoy pure seclusion and bliss.
Many catamaran charter companies don’t require you to have any previous sailing or captaining experience. They’ll often offer a brief training session and you’ll be set free to craft your own personal holiday.
The following are some of the top places around the world where catamaran experiences reign supreme. You’ll be able to snorkel and swim on a whim, suntan on the deck, moor in the bay by day, and still come ashore whenever you wish.
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When you think of big gambling destinations, you no doubt envision places like Vegas, Monaco, or Macau. While these destinations may offer up some of the grandest casinos in the world, there are a number of casinos and gambling spots tucked away in spots you may never have imagined.
Casinos have managed to find a home just about everywhere on the planet including into ice castles like the one once found in Sweden, Antarctic research stations like Argentine Esperanza Base, state prisons such as in Nevada, and even in the back of London taxi cabs.
While these unusual gambling spots may not be as gigantic or opulent as the Bellagio or The Venetian, they are far more unique and quirky. If you’re looking for a truly one-of-a-kind gambling experience, take a chance on one of these crazy casinos around the world and I’d be willing to bet you won’t be disappointed.
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Long regarded as a playground for the rich and famous, the tiny yet popular Principality of Monaco is welcoming to all types of travelers. Set along the breathtaking Côte d’Azur nearly enveloped by France, the Principality of Monaco has been a symbol of luxury and glamour for well over a century.
While it may be small in size, it packs quite a punch with its iconic annual events such as the Monaco Yacht Show and Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix that attract people from all over the world.
It’s important to understand that Monaco isn’t a destination exclusive to the wealthy. There is a wide range of sights and attractions on offer whether you’re traveling as a romantic couple or a family.
With abundant sunshine and an ever-present ideal warm weather, Monaco is home to many treasures both natural and man-made and plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants to fuel your adventures. So whether you’re thinking of a day trip from France or an entire holiday in Monaco, I’ve gathered some of the top reasons why you should visit this French Riviera gem.
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Many people pack a journal to document their travels, as it offers you the ability to later reminisce about the exotic flavors, sights, and sounds you encounter. More and more travelers, however, are beginning to also get paid for their travel writing.
Whether you’ve scribbled a few lines in a notebook or are an experienced writer, there are many ways in which both amateur and professional writers can earn cash for writing about travel which can help fund continued journeys around the world.
I’ve gone further, and for me it’s become a full-time career.
With a bit of self-motivation and willingness to think outside the box when it comes to landing online writing jobs, you too can join the millions of other travelers that are getting paid for their stories which are helping to fund their future travels. Here are some of the top ways you can get paid for your travel writing.
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In addition to Byron being transformed by the new groups of people flocking here, severe coastal erosion has begun taking its toll on some of the area’s beaches. The fear is that climate change may make this more prevalent or at least more difficult to predict.
Australia’s most hashtagable holiday destination is definitely under threat both by an overcrowding of influencers and Mother Nature herself, leaving many to wonder how much longer Byron Bay will keep its appeal.
You may want to check out this beautiful coastal gem sooner rather than later before it loses its shine. Here are just some of the reasons people can’t seem to get enough of beloved Byron.
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Casinos around the world attract tourists by offering much more than simply gambling. Many casino hotels and resorts offer up nonstop entertainment, delicious restaurants, sporting events, relaxing spas, plenty of shopping, and luxurious rooms and suites to retire in each night.
Whether you’re into blackjack and slots or not, casinos still offer something for nearly every traveler, and if Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and America’s Southwest all have something in common it’s their incredible casinos.
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Tasmania is a wild island, packed with powerful landscapes both tranquil and pure, yet at the same time untamed. And it’s one of the safest places in the world to travel right now.
Set in the peaceful Huon Valley atop a hill overlooking Southern Tasmania, Villa Talia is a stunning holiday home which presents as an unassuming Australian homestead, though is packed with treasure in the form of opulent furnishings, contemporary fixtures, and tempting adult luxuries.
It’s an adult kinder surprise, and it’s best to be warned that no matter how much you love your own home, from the moment you step through the door, Villa Talia will forever become the home of your dreams.
It’s like running into the celebrity crush you have a free pass for, and discovering they’re just as eager…
You no doubt love your own home and understand the reality of needing to return, but a few nights with Villa Talia is the ultimate fantasy escape; a home you’ll never want to leave.
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Casinos are a huge part of the nightlife experience in the USA, and while Vegas is a popular hub for most travelers, you don’t have to go to Vegas to enjoy them.
Here are five quick picks for soaking up the culture of American casinos, with plenty of options beyond the obvious choices in Las Vegas.
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When you’re planning on going away, packing can be the most stressful part of preparation.
Packing the right travel essentials can make or break a getaway, but what would it be like to travel like an A-lister? And how can you get the same look for less?
We’ve had a lot of fun this past week playing with the Cashlady travel pack, a handy free online tool that makes it easy to budget and plan the things you need to bring with you.
You set your budget, set your gender, and the tool makes a set of product recommendations for all of the carry-on essentials you’ll need to pack.
And while I’m always traveling on a budget, if you want a glimpse into the lives of the rich & famous, just select ‘Blow The Budget’ and discover a world of eye-watering, diamond-encrusted opulence!
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I’d be willing to bet that most of us like to test our luck from time to time. Whether it’s tossing some spare change in a slot machine or placing a wager on your favourite sports team, the thrill of walking away with some unexpected cash is enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
You’ll find gambling opportunities on every continent including Antarctica. Yes, even Antarctica in all its harshness offers up a modest little casino at the Argentinean Esperanza Research Base!!
All up, there are roughly 10,000 casinos worldwide and plenty of other ways to gamble such as with horse racing and betting on world-class sporting matchups.
And now with the internet and online gambling available right on your smartphone or laptop in many countries, gambling has never been easier. If you’re looking for the top countries to enjoy your own bit of gambling, you’re in luck!
I’ve rounded up my top lucky 7 gambling destinations in the world.
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Restricted to Tasmania during the pandemic, Mike and I have made an effort to explore our home state. Though being ‘confined’ to such a naturally beautiful island with a number of world famous wilderness destinations free of crowds and chaos is far from limiting!
Our experience in the Huon Valley was the perfect balance of wild exploration, while still being able to relax in luxury after days full of dramatic adventure; a balance made possible by checking into the ultra modern Cygnet Retreat.
Nestled in Southern Tasmania just a short drive from Hobart, Cygnet is now known as the place to escape the fast-paced stresses of our modern day to day.
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It only occurred to me recently that I could travel with a portable massage gun. I had always worked the cost of a spa treatment into my budget, knowing I would definitely be in need after adventures like Machu Picchu and Kilimanjaro.
Though I’m starting to crave massage treatments more and more nowadays, even during fairly chilled out styles of travel; whether it’s from exhausted feet after walking a city all day, or pain and soreness during road-trips from driving long distances.
Maybe I’ve finally gotten soft, or maybe it’s the effects of old age (I swear I’m 32 going on 60!), but either way, I’m starting to really value the physical benefits of massage for making the most of my travels.
To date, I’ve just sucked up the high cost and been paying. Though it’s always a tough internal battle when you look at a spa menu and compare that cost to a flight, or a train!
And while there might not be anything which can completely replace a trained professional, why I didn’t realize I could spend the cost of one treatment to buy my own hand-held massage device is beyond me!
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While Las Vegas may be the most visited casino destination on the planet, why place yourself in the middle of the desert when there are luxurious beach resorts offering up just as much fun gambling action!
Whether you’re into roulette, poker, or slots, you’ll find great beach casinos scattered around America, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and even Australia.
All-inclusive beach resorts with casinos are a winning combination for many travellers; you can enjoy lounging beneath palm trees and swimming with friendly reef sharks by day and then take in non-stop night-time action to compete with poker sharks by night.
If you’re thinking about taking a gambling beach holiday, here are my top five lucky recommendations for beachside casinos. You may just end up winning back your vacation travel costs if you play your cards right, or at the very least, come away with a few sand dollars!
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There’s no denying the allure of casinos. They can be found on six of the world’s seven continents and the only reason they aren’t in Antarctica is because no one wants to gamble with upsetting its precious ecosystem!
Casinos attract people from all walks of life and for many more reasons than simply gambling. From being pampered in luxury hotels, enjoying elegant dining, shopping, and getting more than your fill of world-class entertainment, casinos often have a lot to offer.
But there’s no need to take a gamble on these top 5 casino destinations in the world, as I’d be willing to bet each will provide you with an exceptional travel experience.
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People travel for many different reasons; for food, for history, for adventure; and while some people’s idea of adventure might be rafting down the Amazon, many people find their thrills in casino tourism.
In fact, reports into modern travel trends have recently suggested that gambling and casino gaming has become travels most popular sector!
Millions of people love to play casino games at home, but just as many more travel for the gambling experience in other countries; Las Vegas and Macau immediately spring to mind, but casino gaming is also strong in countries like France, the UK, and Australia.
(Fun fact: Australia’s most popular casinos attract more visitors than the Sydney Opera House!)
From dicing in the streets of Greece and Rome, to card games in China, and Baccarat in France, this is a beginner’s guide to casino tourism – an introduction with things about the industry to know.
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Of all the addictions of modern society, I never fell into any seriously bad vices. Though I am addicted to power. Not the type that ‘goes to your head’, but the type that powers your devices, keeps your light on, and your fridge active!
I’m talking about electricity. I cannot go without it! I want it when I’m camping, when living the RV life, and I want it during a power outage, like when you’re visiting a region with recurrent blackouts, or caught in a natural disaster.
Portable power stations have become my best friend – especially those with clean solar recharge. And my favorite brand MAXOAK has just announced their highest capacity portable power station yet.
Eco-friendly, reliable, cost-effective, and with a continuous 2000W AC Output / 1700Wh capacity, this portable solar powered generator can power 17 devices simultaneously, and is powerful enough to charge a Tesla!
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Reports into modern travel trends have recently suggested that one form of tourism is booming well above the rest. There are many markets within travel experiencing growth; solo female travel is increasingly popular, and responsible travel is going viral. But there’s one particular form of tourism that every country is trying to cash in on: casino tourism.
The world’s obsession with gambling dates back centuries to Mesopotamia (historical region of Western Asia), where the earliest six-sided dice was invented in 3000 BC.
Since then, there has been dicing in the streets of Ancient Greece and Rome, card games having been invented in China, Baccarat in France, and we have Italy to thank for the creation of the world’s first gambling houses – the first form of casino.
Gambling has continually fallen in and out of favor with countries throughout the ages, though as one of the biggest modern industries across the globe, it’s now very much legal throughout most of the world. And it has become the most popular tourism sector.
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When it comes to casino tourism, the UK might not share the same popularity as the likes of Vegas or Macau, but it does have a very rich gambling history (pun intended), and its gambling industry today is worth £14.5 billion.
Many tourists looking for an exciting evening take in the theater, as well as local bars and nightclubs (London is particular famous for its gin dens), though for gambling fans, there are also many fantastic casinos.
Casino culture in the UK has had a rocky history; it’s come in and out of favor (most notably having been banned by King Henry XII because he believed that it distracted soldiers from their duties), though the industry remains strong today.
And it’s likely to stay that way – besides the sheer amount of tax revenue that gambling generates for the Government, we all know how Queen Elizabeth II loves a good horse race!
If you’re keen on gambling, and consider yourself more James I than Henry VIII, here are a few things to know about casino tourism, and gambling in cities throughout the UK.
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Helicopter rides are an incredible way to explore a new city, and whether you’re flying above New York or the Grand Canyon, they offer a pretty adventurous birds eye perspective.
From landscapes to seascapes, and cityscapes, taking a helicopter tour is something that’s now available in most of the world’s major destinations, but it’s not something everyone has done before!
Riding in a helicopter is a bucket-list list experience in and of its own, but it makes a trip to somewhere like New York or London, even more memorable.
So, thinking of booking a helicopter ride? Here are 6 things you need to know!
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From Vegas to Macau, and channeling James Bond in Monte Carlo, casino tourism has become one of the biggest travel trends around the world.
We’re living in the age of the casino tourist now, where, just as travelers head overseas to enjoy architecture, history, or nature, gambling is a very real, and very relevant interest that motivates people to jet off to another country.
While there are many bucket-list worthy casinos, and in fact whole casino cities, Australia is emerging as a surprising hot spot for casino tourists. In fact, Australia’s most popular casinos attract more visitors than the Sydney Opera House!
If you’re heading to Australia to take in the casino scene, the following are things you should know about Aussie gambling culture, regardless of whether you’ve got your poker face on in Hobart, Melbourne, or Sydney.
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Placing a bet in Vegas will always be a gamble, but it’s definitely not the most dangerous risk you can take on the Strip (a far bigger gamble could be a shotgun wedding, married by Elvis, with no telling how your life will pan out!!)
While many people migrate to Vegas for the incredible live entertainment, delicious buffets, and adult entertainment, others are dreaming of striking it rich. And the fancy hotels and lights of the Vegas Strip have a magical way of drawing us in!
If you’re hoping to leave Vegas with more money than you arrived with, you’ll need to know what games offer up the best odds. While you may be counting on your lucky charms to give you an edge at winning big, Vegas casinos don’t need to hope for luck – the odds have, and always will, be stacked in their favor!
Casinos aren’t a charity; they’re in business to make a profit. If you aren’t looking to add to their profits, you need to take a moment to learn about “house edge” and why it’s important when it comes to your odds of winning.
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