Archives for January 2020

This is Why You Should Plan a Visit To Spain

28 January, 2020 By Sahar Ajjab

New report reveals why you should visit Spain. In fact, The report released by The World Economic Forum, ranked the top countries for travel and tourism in 2019. They based their research on data mainly targeting tourism rates. At the end, the report found that Spain is the world’s best country to be a tourist.

Spain Has it All

After taking a look at several important factors for a successful vacation, they came to the conclusion that Spain has it all. Sky blue beaches, strong transportation and infrastructures, delicious food, football and a vibrant nightlife.

In addition, Spain attracts tourists from all over for its architecture, culture, art and history. Moreover, it was concluded that it is also much cheaper than many big European capitals such as London, Paris or Amsterdam.

Tourists Mostly Satisfied

The tourism industry contributes 5% to the Spanish GDP. However, figures are on the rise due to tourists flooding the country in recent years. In fact, the city of Barcelona alone receives an annual influx of 32 million visitors.

The report also expect that the next decade will rise the GDP contribution to as much as 50%. Christoph Wolff, Head of Mobility at World Economic Forum argued that ”Increased tourism is bringing great benefits to many economies but must be managed properly by both policymakers and businesses for a sustainable future.”

What Do Spanish People Say About This?

Although Spanish people are very hospitable and generally nice, the languages barrier is constantly a problem for tourists. According to the same source, the 1.2 million residents of Barcelona, have adopted an ”anti-tourist sentiment” among the locals. This is due to the high real-estate prices, and overcrowds of tourists in the country’s costal cities.

In conclusion, Spain is benefiting from tourism, and tourists are enjoying visiting Spain. If you have already started to plan your future getaway, you should definitely consider a visit to this Mediterranean heaven.

Photos: Pixabay, World Economic Forum.

The Most Dangerous Cities For Solo Female Travelers

23 January, 2020 By Sahar Ajjab

Solo traveling is a beautiful enriching experience. Although full of adventures, some cities may be too adventurous for your liking. Imagine getting mugged in broad day light on the street? or having to avoid carrying anything when you go out? Some countries were ranked very low in terms of security. According to Forbes Magazine, here are the 5 most dangerous cities for Solo female travelers in the world.

5. Iran

Iran is a beautiful country, rich in historical sites and culture. However, in the ranking concluded by the Global Gender Gap study, Iran placed the last position of 50 countries. Nevertheless, it has one of the lowest crime rates for homicide against women.

4. Mexico

Beautiful sandy beaches, amazing food and great people. Mexico is a top destination, despite the safety issues. According to experts, Mexico ranked very low in terms of street safety, intentional homicide and non-partner sexual violence. News reports have been recommending visitors to stay within their resorts to minimize incidents.

3. Russia

Russia is the 9th worst country with legal discrimination against women, so it makes sense that solo female travelers should pay extra attention. Moreover, the vodka-loving country is slightly improving, thanks to the #metoo movement that has spread across the country.

2. Brazil

The land of samba, football and party! Who wouldn’t enjoy a trip to Brazil? However, due to high crime rate in certain areas, and especially against women, it was ranked second most dangerous country for solo female travelers.

Similar to a few countries in South America, several governments warn their tourists to avoid walking alone at night. If this goes for men as well, imagine what it would be like for women travelers.

1.South Africa

A bit heavier than in Brazil, the situation for women in South Africa is alarming. Women are advised not to walk, hike or even drive alone. The country ranked poorly in street safety, as well as in Women’s Danger Index. However, one of the authors of the study Lyric Fergusson, explained that the country is ”slowly improving.”

Photos: Pixabay

5 Spots To Enjoy a Spectacular Show of Northern Lights

17 January, 2020 By Sahar Ajjab

Enjoying a spectacular show of the Northern Lights is in everyone’s bucket list. One of the dreamiest activities any travel lover wants to experience living. In fact, Iceland’s peak in tourist rates have been due to northern lights, as reported by CNBC.

Moreover, there are several destinations where you could enjoy a spectacular show of northern lights. Actually, auroras are a common phenomenon in places across the north pole. It is said that the best time of the year to see them is generally from September to mid-April. So, without further ado, here is a list of 5 spots to see the elusive show.

Alaska

Fairbanks lies in the auroral oval, a ring-shaped area around the North Pole. This particular spot in Alaska is located two degrees below the Arctic. Therefore, the show of northern lights there is just surreal. Actually, Fairbanks established their own forecast system to spot the auroras, and organize guided tours for tourists far from city lights.

Iceland

Iceland is probably the best spot for northern lights in Europe. The Scandinavian country’s tourism industry flourished thanks to this spectacular show. Furthermore, Iceland offers a variety of winter activities, such as skying, snowboarding and climbing. And of course, the famous blue lagoons.

Norway

In addition to Iceland, another great spot to enjoy the northern lights is Tromso, Norway. Thanks to being 300 km north of the Arctic Circle, it allows it to have a slightly warmer setting than neighboring countries. Furthermore, they offer their visitors the option of a polar fjord cruise, or taking a sled ride with huskies while waiting for the spectacular show.

Canada

Besides Alaska, North America does have another incredible destination to see northern lights. YellowKnife found in the northwest of Canada, gives you a different kind of experience. Not only you get to see the auroras light up the sky, but you can also enjoy their marvelous reflection on the Great Slave Lake.

Greenland

Despite the freezing cold, what could be better than spotting the northern lights over a floating icebergs? in fact, even in months of summer, the icebergs still stand. Northern Greenland’s best visiting time to enjoy the spectacular show of northern lights is Mid-August to late April.

Photos: Pixabay