With decent tourist infrastructure or camping spots. Te Araroa, Cape-to-Cape, and the Salkantay Trek might be examples, but I haven't done these.
I am aware of routes like the Via Francigena and the Sentiero Italia but these seem to lack options for accommodation. If I'm going to be paying >$50/day, I'd rather be in a city.

Minmatar Fleet Academy [L3ARN] is a new player focused corporation aiming to give pilots a completely different experience than EVE University and the various nullsec feeder corporations.

Philosophy

Our philosophy for new players is simple: you should learn by playing the game. This is a spaceship video game, and rather than sign up for lectures and go through complicated classes- you should just get out there and generate explosions.
We focus on three things,

• Attending fleets. Fleets are the cornerstone of EVE Online content, and most pilots pay their subscription for epic battles, frequent skirmishes, and various other forms of content.
• Meeting people. EVE Online is an MMO, and players should learn by meeting people, talking, and having fun together.
• Having fun. Who the hell wants to sit through a 1 hour lecture? You learn by blowing up spaceships.

Curriculum

Our curriculum is simple- learn how to be a bloodthirsty, self sufficient pilot. Our pilots will understand how to replace hundreds of ships with minimal effort- because destruction is what makes EVE Online unique.

• Generating ISK. You will learn how to generate ISK in Minmatar Fleet Academy, billions of it.
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These fundamentals will tee you up to be an extremely effective pilots across all areas of space- low security, null security, and wormholes. Minmatar Fleet operates in all of these domains.

Application Process

Despite being a new player corporation, this doesn't mean we accept all pilots.
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My wife and I have been to Thailand a few times, but honestly only to the more tourist centric cities.
We are 34. $130kish in savings. $250k in home equity, and an additional 30k-40k in equity from vehicles. I receive $2200 a month for life from military disability.
I've read a lot online about being able to be comfortable overseas, especially in SE Asia but I'm curious about actual experiences.
We want to move somewhere coastal in SE Asia. We are looking at Thailand or the Philippines. Is it realistic that we can actually retire with this money? We will be selling the home and vehicles and such.
Is there any specific cities or towns we should consider?
Also as to not get bored, is there opprutinines to use my paramedic license to volunteer in any rural health clinics or the like?
Thanks!

i emailed this to agencies that deal with hunting and wildlife problems
pasts@varam.gov.lv
info@wildlifesos.org
reportmisconduct@undp.org
there is no obvious place to report this and expect a serious hearing from someone fluent in English and scientifically minded
the following is what I wrote a month ago after the event
i can't judge after hand how much danger i was in but i would treat it seriously
luckily has not happened again in this country for a month. hopefully never happens again. although the next time i will have the benefit of having experienced it already
when police arrived i demanded prison for the dog owner in clearest possible way i could. after my speach was done they did not ask me a single word. they could tell i was furious of fear. and better to talk another time. i am so drained from global security work that i can't follow up on this but this should be available for anyone to read that might experience it themselves or take upon their self to wander around this globe as i do
i will probably feel guilty if the owner lose his dogs or hunting permit or reputation in his community. i am not going to judge anyone extremely harshly
if they ask me to fill out a criminal report according to some kind of format standards i am not going to do it myself an experienced prosecutor that has done it before is free to report this or pass it along. just not going to fill in report fields in some kind of form. you do it for me if you want to. i am not doing it. should be enough information to find
http://geohash.org/u6p4gj36
is the exact location and anyone can guess where the dogs came from probably the nearest mansion two thousand metres away to the east across p111 near upsede. upsede mansion. good luck asking them about it they don't speak a word of English here development is seventy years behind the west

preface

this is so incredulous that it could be picked up by news
still in shock six hours later at dawn
just the title should give you the general idea
i have never heard of such outrageous neglect in dog keeping in my life
the dogs escape unnoticed at night and hunt without human supervision and presumably return in the morning without anyone doing anything about it
this dog owner would make the top ten list anywhere in history
the dogs occasional howl brought up pictures of wolf movies the grey with that guy from Schindler's list the guy that played Oscar Schindler fighting with wolves with broken glass and a big knife to his death but i can safely discard all theories besides a runaway hunting dog militia on four legs in a large pack sounded like at least ten animals
in that immense fear of a completely unfamiliar situation in a life of hiking around the globe thoughts whirled around all possible night mares before i realised it is obviously hunting dogs all else is pure fantasy wolves are absolutely ruled out
they did not retreat when they sensed my presence but stayed in full alarm perhaps as when they encounter prey on a supervised hunt to alert the humans. even though they knew they were alone and no one to alert, they knew i was probably not prey, did not know enough to EVER be alone unsupervised anywhere but home preferably inside, but did NOT know or predict the length of the prison sentence they just brought on their owner by this nightly escapade. whoops
the locals will predictably put the lid on but the power of the internet is a wonderful thing
i can not imagine any circumstance that would make this less than prison anywhere in the union or West europe. now this is the old east. no one understands English etc. one escaped dog barking in the forest. fine. slap on the wrist. possibly losing care of the animal...ten rabid hunting dogs in full alarm scaring the life out of a hiker resting at night. shake those bars for three months. watch that prison television. and there won't be any Marlborough or beers in prison

the entire report

the exact location is near the highest hunting tower on the old railway trail passing by upsede north east of liepaja that is used for hunting commonly judging by all the towers lining the road there
This began around Four hours after dark on the early night of Sunday 28 April 2024 or exactly 1:00 o'clock
I will first describe exactly what happened and after that separately my interpretation in hindsight when recalling these events three hours later when I can calm down
This is a rather long story so I will get to my point right here before the story
What can I do if I encounter a dog pack like this again except tell at them and calmly leave. What if they hunt me or behave like they are guarding a territory. However remotely that might seems. There is a reason this is a serious crime. Too much uncertainty
Can you confirm that this kind of incessant barking is absolutely impossible in any other animal
In no circumstance whatsoever would any wolf pack or any deer flock behave like this even if I stood right on their den with ten kids inside
The occasional howling is something that dogs still retain from their wolf origin not long ago
It is not unlikely that a pack of hunting dogs alone would howl occasionally
Despite yelling at them several times there was no yell back from a human. Very likely the dogs escape at night without anyone caring about it extremely dangerous and frightening to a hiker that need. Rest at night not the fright of a life time
I could not imagine that in a relatively rich country anyone ever would drive their dogs for a night hunt. Would be absolute insanity. Neglect and alcoholism depression (försupen dumhet Swedish) I can easily imagine. Not outright insanity. Even if night hunting permits are sometimes issued in Germany for "animal control" "population control" of wild pigs. This is a completely separate topic that I will not say more about than that I am working on these issues on and off. My view as a progressive world ambassador could not be further from the idea of shooting at anything anywhere for any reason. Except tranquilizer darts for humane population control of CAPTURED animals not hunted. Captured. It is clear in Sweden that shooting anything anywhere with fire arms does not belong in the future society. Now this is all I will say about this. We are working on this as fast as is possible. The education effort still left on this planet is still enormous and daunting
Regarding dog behaviour in detail I know very little despite inspecting a manuscript by the foremost scientist on the subject that work in Budapest that is most famous for working on the Philippine paradise fish ten years ago before they changed to dogs and removed their aquarium
Dogs in particular have very little room in the professional literature since most pros are not anthropo centric. All mammals share common traits like an early recognition of friend and foe. Dogs in particular has almost never been studied at least not dogs for guarding or hunting. There might be one single work perhaps by one single biologist or behaviour ist ethology biology for shepherds dogs that life with grazing livestock
All books cover territory selection and protection and pack hunting or other flock behaviour. But almost nothing has apparently been possible or interesting to anyone to publish as a professional seeking a career in science in ethology animal behaviour or population biology. so i am not the only one drawing a blank when trying to explain the behaviour with any satisfaction more than anecdotal that is hard to call science

what I experienced

A sudden bark that I expect to be a roe deer that bark and run away. happens all the time
Although the bark was not quite right. more like a dog which I have never encountered at night
Suddenly a roaring festival of barking and occasional howling
The distance is extremely uncertain but perhaps five hundred meters
The direction was towards road p111 to the east toeards Upsede. i am by the big tower. There is one house near the road that the dogs could belong to if they crossed p111
Now my primal instinct set in and I envision a pack, a large pack, of wolves near their den the core of their territory. Frothing over my intrusion and ready to approach in full alarm
In hindsight this is just the occasional howling that caused this and everything about this speaks against wolves
IF wolves can behave like this or has been observed or heard doing this in ANY circumstance whatsoever I absolutely need to hear about it because it would bear on my future expeditions
If there is this single wolf dog hybrid pack maybe only one in Europe that I happened to encounter I absolutely need more information. feral dogs that would possibly go unnoticed in Belarus has crossed over to Latvia?
I have never heard of anything like that
All wolf incidents as rare as they are in Poland or anywhere have been with lone wolves that are sick or hungry and have lost their feir of humans
I have never heard of an aggressive wolf pack in Europe or anywhere on the planet
I have seen wolf droppings so many times and spent so much time day and night in wolf territory that I would never expect them to be so aggressive about human scent or sound like that
I have certainly had wolves near me many times but never heard a peep. In Sweden and Norway on long expeditions all summer and even winter and on and off for years from Spain to France Belgium Germany Poland and now here in the Baltics for one month so far direction Finland
The pack was in full alarm with barking and an occasional howl that dogs will still use. But much less than wolves. Wolves never bark together like this in any circumstance I have ever heard it seen if
It is with near certainty the pack of dogs that have hunted there before that happens to live on the farm on the opposite side of the road and escaped west around thousand metres into the forest.
Perhaps they do this regularly but no one cares
And now I happened to be there
Hiking and trekking and wild camping is MUCH more common in Sweden and Norway than anywhere in the world even Finland that is a close second. It is the Scandinavian spirit. As has recently been proven paleo lithic pre farming humans breed into the farming population only in Scandinavian nowhere else in Europe. I am personally absolutely at peace in nature and hate combustion engines that bother few others
Without getting off track completely I am continuing my expedition around Europe and almost all ground breaking record breaking endeavour of exploration has come from Scandinavia specifically. First settlement of the new world five hundred years before another European country etc etc etc first man on the south pole endless list of did what no one else could ot would. I am not placing my breed on a pedestal just explaining that if anyone would encounter something like this most likely it would be a Swede and the locals are most likely entirely puzzled why I am not living my life in doors at home or in a comfortable guest house
But this is beside the point just a side track to explain my presence in this rare encounter

in hindsight what happened

It is clear to me now that a pack of large hunting dogs. Not the small loud ones. Tax in Swedish. I have never owned a dog or hunted. I am a scientist. So I don't know much of anything about dog breeds. But presumably Large dogs that can hunt and kill on their own that have been trained to not kill the prey but only stalk it or drive it and make a loud alarm to draw the apes (not condescending just scientific classification of my species)
This is all speculation I just can't imagine what I heard to be a pack of tax (Swedish) small rabbit hunting dogs. These were large animals certainly with courage to act alone without humans
But I don't know anything about common hunting dogs in this region or anywhere so I can't suggest what breed it could have been that could behave this way
When I yelled at them they silenced for a moment then the roar continued
They had no intention to move back. I called for a police to meet me on road p111 and moved. I could hear the dogs for one thousand metres which gave me the impression that they moved after me at a safe distance perhaps curious about what I was
Again. If wolves can ever in any circumstance behave with this curiosity or aggressive confidence on human scent AND loud roaring. I yelled at them as a three hundred kilos silver back gorilla would try to show how big and powerful he was. No wolves ever no matter how big their biggest packs are in Europe would do anything but withdraw. These animals stayed at a distance and gave me the impression that they followed me on the road even. But not close
Distance is extremely uncertain but my best guess would be five hundred meters
This location has been used before for hunting and these dogs have been released during supervised legal (presumably) hunting in this exact location
They have smelled or sensed a wild animal and followed it into the forest where they have hunted before

will anyone stop this. how common is this

The police said they would call the nearest farms and ask about their dogs and the hunters that set up the hunting towers there in that old railway road where the dogs live that they bring to hunt there
But unfortunately I don't expect them to do anything when the response is "I know nothing". This is obviously a massive incident since I told them I am a scientist that will likely enquire with other scientist and if they cover this up it will explode big time. this is not s minor incident
Jägarna is a popular Swedish movie about the sad reality of this kind of stuff. anything related to mis management with hunting or dogs is so deeply rooted in human behaviour since the stone age that the local police do anything they can to forget about it. "Probably just a barking deer" or "wolves are common in the forest" and might bark despite my sincere explanation that this is hunting dogs not wolves and carries a prison sentence if heard in front of a magistrate
if you imagine "i like logic circuit design" the absolute opposite is "i like dogs and hunting". it's as different as a von Neumann machine is from sticks and stones in technological achievement. and a massive education effort is still needed for that population should they not cause a complete collapse of civilization like 1930s Germany. you might like NATURE you certainly don't like fire arms or dogs. has nothing to do with investigating nature. it is not conscious behaviour. but only photographers and hunters visit nature? you are obviously not a scientist ("what is this?" looking at bowling ball in small Lebowskis bath room. "you are obviously not a golfer")
I don't expect them to even ask anyone and just hope I forgot about it or they never have any other hikers near that spot at night
The "police report" that I received when they returned from the spot I told them to investigate was exactly that "it was probably just a deer and now I will go home and sleep". that only told ne that the pack had moved or did not respond to a car or they went to the wrong place or most likely could not be less motivated to find them
I gave the female officer that spoke English a stern explanation what would happen in Sweden. Prison. Absolutely nothing else than prison. Grave negligence in dog oversight. No hunting license and no dogs for the rest of his life
This is extremely serious that this is seen as a minor mistake that hunting dogs are stalking wild animals alone at night. Only in Sweden do we understand clearly that HUMANS are in the forest at night sometimes. We have palaeolithic blood lines and the world's foremost paleo biologist among other things. I am a renowned explorer. My father and uncle is one of the world's foremost wildlife photographer for WWF NG etc. Wild life is strictly monitored and controlled and this kind of neglect is absolutely treated with utmost sincerity
Our society is not in a state of civil war. Escaped hunting dogs hunting alone at night. Prison. Period. And the local police that tries to suppress it or treat it with a yawn will be investigated by internal affairs and released from service and prohibited from similar work with a responsibility to investigate seriously
We in sweden have the most aggressive policy in the world to combat this suppression of neglect related to hunting from the local community or any kind of coverup attempt or failure to investigate serious neglect, crime or not, we are not "paragraph riders" (paragraf ryttare) we investigate serious problems. anyone can understand how serious this is before digging after paragraphs

more about dog behaviour in general that might be relevant

Regarding dogs that hunt alone. I will not name any names but I have met a couple that lived in a remote valley in Portugal where their two large extremely aggressive dogs (even after ten minutes they were extremely uncomfortable with my presence and would not listen to their owner's calm regarding my encounter near their caravan on Canary islands) hunt together and bring home food. Literally drag it home to the family. Needless to say they have no kids and I will not say more about it more than the point that large dogs can easily on their own learn to hunt wild game. Possibly several breeds. They are still all close relatives of animals that do exactly that to survive. Guard territory identify intruder stalk and hunt prey is their basic behaviour anything else would result from actively counter acting instinctive behaviour that has become common to convert security staff patrol units and killers to social support animals because morons absolutely need to own a dog
Recall that in less developed countries like Chile dogs bark all night EVERYWHERE and run free in the day
I was in Chile for six months and never encountered dogs at night but had to suffer through the incessant noise if "guarding" at night. EVERYONE has night guard dogs. it is completely incomprehensible if you ever passed first grade with honours that they blindly follow a relict tradition for no other reason. Those dogs are GUARD dogs that have no experience of hunting ever. And when they encounter a human in the forest during their daily adventure they are never aggressive that far away from home
In western Europe outside Spain almost never dogs that bark all night. Same in Latvia. Two weeks in Lithuania don't think I ever heard a dog at night. A welcome serenity from Chile that I just arrived from after completing my record breaking expedition there

Hey solo travellers
Georgia has long been on my (30M, European) list of countries to travel to, and I have the opportunity to go solo for 2 weeks in a month’s time. I love the mountains and exploring, as long as I can have a bed and some food in the evening. I am a bit worried about the connectivity. One option I am exploring is to go from Tbilisi to Kutaisi over the course of the two weeks (as there is a direct flight home from Kutaisi), but not sure if I will spend a lot of time travelling and not going to be able to visit some great nature spots during this time. Do I need to rent a car to get around or is it possible to go by public transport and do some (multi)day hiking trips during this stretch?
I have also been keeping a close eye on the protests over the last months, and while I am not necessarily worried about safety in regards to the protests as a tourist, I also don’t want to get mixed up in spots where there are larger issues to deal with at the moment.
What is your advice? Alternatively I am looking into Armenia, although what I understand is that it is less accommodated to tourists than Georgia, possibly limiting connectivity without a car.
Thanks for reading and your advice!

Embrace the Wild: Camping in Himachal Pradesh
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Its pristine landscapes, snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and gushing rivers make it an ideal destination for camping aficionados seeking solace in the lap of nature. Among the myriad of outdoor experiences it offers, camping stands out as one of the most immersive ways to connect with the region's untamed beauty. So, if you're yearning for an escapade filled with wild highs, pack your bags, and embark on a journey to experience Camping in Himachal Pradesh.

The Call of the Wild

Imagine waking up to the melodious chirping of birds, surrounded by towering pine trees, with the crisp mountain air filling your lungs. That's the allure of Camping in Himachal Pradesh. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a novice, the state offers a plethora of camping spots catering to every preference and skill level. From remote wilderness campsites to more accessible locations near popular tourist destinations, you'll find a diverse range of options to suit your taste.

Gateway to Adventure

For adventure seekers, Camping in Himachal Pradesh opens doors to a myriad of thrilling activities. Trek through rugged trails, raft down gushing rivers or simply bask in the tranquility of your surroundings. The options are endless. Himachal Pradesh boasts some of the most iconic trekking routes in the country, including the famous trails of Triund, Hampta Pass, and Beas Kund, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan panorama.

Where Nature Beckons

One of the most enchanting aspects of Camping in Himachal Pradesh is its proximity to nature. Disconnect from the chaos of urban life and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the wilderness. Spend your days exploring hidden waterfalls, picnicking by crystal-clear streams, or gazing at the star-studded night sky. Each moment spent amidst nature's embrace is bound to leave an indelible mark on your soul.

A Cultural Extravaganza

Himachal Pradesh is not just about scenic landscapes; it's also a melting pot of vibrant cultures and traditions. While camping, take the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals, learn about their way of life, and savor the delectable local cuisine. Whether it's indulging in piping hot momos in McLeod Ganj or relishing traditional Himachali dishes like Dham, your culinary journey in Himachal Pradesh is sure to be a memorable one.

Tips for an Unforgettable Camping Experience

• Pack Wisely: Remember to pack essential camping gear such as a sturdy tent, sleeping bag, camping stove, and adequate clothing to stay warm at night.
• Respect Nature: Leave no trace behind and ensure you follow eco-friendly practices during your camping expedition. Respect the flora and fauna, and refrain from littering.
• Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with the local weather conditions and terrain before embarking on your camping trip. It's also advisable to check for any permits or permissions required for camping in certain areas.
• Safety First: Prioritize safety at all times. Inform someone about your camping itinerary, carry a first-aid kit, and be mindful of any potential risks associated with outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Camping in Himachal Pradesh is more than just a getaway; it's an odyssey of self-discovery and rejuvenation. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping adventures or moments of quiet introspection, the rugged terrain of Himachal Pradesh offers something for everyone. So, pack your sense of adventure and embark on a journey to unravel the untamed beauty of this Himalayan haven. Your wild highs await amidst the towering peaks and whispering pines of Himachal Pradesh.

We just got back from a wonderful trip in the northern part of Italy with our 3-year-old. Having spent 2 weeks on one of our best trips so far, I really want to thank a bunch of fellow redditors who helped refine our itinerary and suggested places which otherwise would not have made it to our plan!
Day 1 Milan: We took a flight from India and landed in Milan in the afternoon. Milan was just the arrival point for us and we did not intend to visit Milan as such, so we ended up booking a room in the hotel at the Malpensa Airport itself. Nothing much that day; a bit of rest and a delicious dinner were a great start to our trip.
Day 2 Drive from Milan to Bellagio: Woke up after a good night's sleep (a much needed one after the long sleepless flight the day before). Breakfast at the hotel was really good with a lot of options for everyone. We had booked a car through SIXT at the Malpensa airport. Getting the car was a breeze with great service from the representative at the SIXT counter. The drive to Bellagio was a very good one. I was still getting used to the car, since I come from a land of right-hand drive and switching to a left-hand drive meant putting in a lot more focus on the road. Driving along the Lake Como was a fantastic experience. We reached Bellagio by lunch time and our AirBnB was ready for us. The rest of the day was at leisure, with a casual walk around Bellagio, through the city center and along the lake.
Day 3 Bellagio to Varenna: Took a ferry to Varenna and had breakfast at a lake side cafe. With great weather on our side, a cup of coffee and a little pastry seemed more blissful than we thought of! We had signed up for a picnic on the hills of Camaggiore, a 40-minute drive from the Varenna ferry station. We had our representative waiting for us and she drove us to the picnic spot, sharing tales from the towns of Lake Como, showing us amazing views along the way. The picnic itself was surreal, with the most beautiful view of the lake from 1200 meters above. We spend the rest of the day exploring Varenna at our pace, while our little one slept like a log in the stoller.
Day 4 Bellagio: After debating weather to visit the Como town or not, we decided to stay in Bellagio in explore the town a bit more. We took a ride of the Bellagio Express, the toy train that takes you around the town. It was a fun ride, intended for our toddler, who decided to doze off in the train itself! Post that, we saw the gardens of the Villa Melzi. We had rented a boat to explore the lake ourselves during the evening, but rainy weather made us cancel our plans. We spent the rest of the evening, relaxing at our AirBnB, overlooking the lake.
Day 5 Drive from Bellagio to Gardaland: Moving on to the next leg of our trip, which was clearly planned keeping our little boy in mind, we drove to Gardaland reaching there by noon. Thanks to a wonderful fellow Redditor, we got introduced to this wonderland called Gardaland! Our stay was booked at the Gardaland Hotel and while we were waiting for our room to get ready, we decided to pay a visit to the Gardaland Resort park right away. A drizzly weather kept most of the visitors inside the SEA Aquarium, but that also meant we had absolutely no waiting times on most of the rides in the park! The little one was elated to see the Peppa Pig Land, and refused to move away from it. All in all, day one in the park was a super success despite the wet weather. Evening at the hotel was full of fun-filled activities for the kids. The entertainment team at Gardaland Hotel did a fabulous job at keeping kids engaged.
Day 6 Gardaland: Our second day in the Gardaland park was a much more planned one, since we had already explored some of the park on the previous day. We knew the rides we wanted to go on, and so logistics were simpler. Weather was great too, and so we had a wonderful time! The park has a plethora of options to eat, with a ton of sweet treats along the way. The park is huge but very well laid out with clean facilities. Naturally, day two also could not be completed without visiting our favorite Peppa Pig! Evening at the hotel was again fun-filled with the team at Gardaland doing what they do the best!
Day 7 Parco Natura Viva: Gardaland is in proximity to a lot of amusement parks and points of recreation for family and friends. One of them is Parco Natura Viva, a zoo with a drive-through safari. It was a Saturday and the zoo had enormous waiting times for the cars to enter the Safari. After having waited in the queue for over an hour, we finally started the Safari, which turned out to be pretty great. Next, we had the fauna park (the walkable part of the zoo), the one with animals in their enclosures. With the entire park divided into geographical zones, it was fun seeing animals from various continents. The place is well-maintained, and creates a great experience for kids.
Day 8 Verona: We had kept an extra day in Gardaland just in case the little man wanted to visit the park again. However, given the proximity, we decided to do a day trip to Verona instead. We drove to Verona and parked our car in one of the paid parking lots. We had reserved a morning slot for a walking tour, that took us through the streets of Verona, with our very knowledgeable guide sharing tales from historic Verona, the castle and gate to the old city center. The center was bustling with stores and eateries. Very touristy but was all the more fun! Our taste buds were craving for some Indian food and we ended up having lunch at an amazing Indian restaurant named "Maharajah". The food was delectable with very prompt service. As touristy as it sounds, we did go to "Casa di Giulietta", commonly known as Juliet's house that is known for the legacy of Romeo and Juliet having been inspired from there. The so-called Juliet's balcony is missable at best.
Day 9 Drive from Gardaland to Venice: Switching to the last leg of our trip, this was supposed to be the wife's part of the trip. She has wanted to visit Venice for as long as she remembers, and this trip could not have happened without a leisurely stay in the city of canals! This was also the last day of us keeping the car, and we drove to Venice Marco Polo Airport where we returned the car at the SIXT counter. Once again, just like the pick-up the return process was extremely smooth and lasted barely a couple of minutes. Our plan was to catch the Alilaguna airport water bus to the main island, but we decided to splurge at the last moment and took the water taxi instead. And boy were we happy! The water taxi is an experience in itself, especially when entering the canals from the airport. Our AirBnB was located right on the Grand Canal, giving us uninterrupted views of the Canal. For a place that looked better in person than in pictures, what more could we have asked for! We spent the evening walking to the Rialto Bridge, people-watching!
Day 10 St. Marks square and Dodge's Palace: After a good night's sleep, we woke up refreshed, taking in the morning views of the Grand Canal, with the gondola's and the various boats floating by, doing their chores for the day. We had booked a tour of the St. Marks square and the Basilica, along with the Dodge's Palace. Unfortunately, it had to be a rainy day. While we still participated in the tour, the place became very crowded because a lot of people tried to maximize on the time indoors to avoid the rain. Nonetheless, it was a good experience. The little one dozed off in the Basilica and so we let my wife carry on with the tour of the palace, while I took a table under an umbrella at the Cafe Lavena to get myself some coffee, and to let my son enjoy his sleep. We spent the evening loitering around the Rialto market, spoiling ourselves with a few gelatos at Suso!
Day 11 Murano, Burano and Torcello: We woke up early, fixed ourselves some breakfast and were ready to leave. We had booked a tour of the 3 islands and our job was to get to the meeting point as soon as possible. Unfortunately, we missed our group and had to visit the islands on our own. The upside to this was that we could do it at our own pace! This included having a hearty lunch at a beautiful local cafe in Torcello. This place had a chidren's play area too! This also meant spending more time than necessary in Burano, because why not? We loved the colorful houses on the island and we just wanted to be there, taking in everything it had...
Day 12 Leisure and Photoshoot: My wife and I generally have this idea of booking a small photoshoot at every exquisite location we visit. This not only gives us great pictures for memories, but it also allows us to see areas which we would otherwise not know existed. We booked this experience through AirBnB and our photographer was a wonderful man, very learned and a true Venetian at heart! He took us to places that were free of tourists, for some amazing pictures. Not only that, he also arranged for a special Gondola ride for us, which took us through the narrower canals of Venice, adding to the already special experience. A trip to Venice is really incomplete without a Gondola ride, and we were glad we could! This was the last evening of our trip and we could not conclude it without a few more Aperol Spritz's and Gelatos from Suso!
With every trip we take, we learn a lot, that helps us make our future trips better. We consciously chose to skip the more popular locations like Rome and Florence (Tuscany), since we wanted to have ample time of leisure and just do nothing, with a toddler who wanted to just be.
If I could summarize the learnings of this trip, they would be:

• Travelling with a toddler is great, if you leave a lot of room for rest and leisure. It not only allows you to be, but it also leaves scope to rome around the place and absorb the local life beyond the tourist favourites
• Lake Como has a lot to offer. While day trips from Milan sound good, staying in a Lake Como town lets you enjoy the serenity of the lake in a more intimate manner. A couple of days at the least, three days to make it worth while.
• Driving around Lake Como can be fun, but can also become a bit intimidating if you are trying to drive slow on the roads that circle the lake and there are cars behind you, trying to get ahead. Staying calm is the key!
• Gardaland is unchartered territory for people outside Italy, and if travelling with kids, must find a place in the itinerary.
• We had a lot of people advising us against spending 4 days in Venice, but we do not regret it even a bit. Venice is a city unlike anything we've been to so far. It is very difficult to imagine the daily life of the people living there, unless you decide to stop and slow things down yourself, experiencing the little things that the place has to offer.
• It is absolutely ok to not cover every point of interest at a place you are staying. Ticking everything off the list does not give the same satisfaction as enjoying the few things that you do, at a pace that you like.
• Lastly, strollers are a boon, even with the cobbled streets. They serve a great deal for quick afternoon naps, as well as meal times. It indeed is a pain carrying them over the hundreds of bridges in a place like Venice, but the pros still outweigh the cons.

Philippines
Up to this point, I’ve travelled to most countries in SE Asia (except for Brunei & Timor-Leste), and am returning from the Philippines. I wanted to give some insight, thoughts, and tips for travel.
1. It is relatively more expensive to travel compared to other southeast asian countries. My average was close to $50/day, including accommodation. What I felt made it a little more expensive is the island-nature, meaning flights and ferries tend to add up in cost, say compared to Laos of Vietnam. Secondly, I found it difficult to find the sweet spot of local food that also didn’t feel risky. Many times, my choices were fast food, super local canteen options, or nice western-style restaurants. Consequently, I ended up eating at fast food restaurants mostly, which felt more mid-range (150-250 php/meal).
2. SIM Cards. There are two companies, SMART and GLOBE. Don’t buy from the airport, they are ridiculously overpriced. I’d recommend buying at a local store inside a shopping mall. GLOBE had errors when I tried to install it on my phone & app glitches. SIM cards are a pain, considering to register them you need proof of onward travel and hotel reservations. Don’t do this alone, have a phone rep help you complete this step.
3. Get out of Manila. It may be obvious, the natural beauty of the Philippines lies on the coast and the many islands. But also, I personally found Manila to be a particularly depressing city. The traffic, the un-walkability, the heat, and inconvenience of getting around made me want to leave rather quickly. 1-2 days should be enough. The coffee & food seemed so overpriced. Nothing felt too charming, compared to other SEA capitals. In contrast, I enjoyed Bangkok and Saigon immensely.
4. Most pristine nature in SE Asia. The only place in my mind that can rival the beauty of the islands here would be Indonesia, in my humble opinion.. The beaches, turquoise & clear water, and many waterfalls are stunning. Each place is more beautiful than the next, and it's easy to get off the beaten track with so many islands and waterfalls.
5. Everything moves VERY slowly, take this into account for planning. I was only here for 8 days and barely touched the surface of 2 islands. One month , maybe two months would give a nice introduction to what the Philippines has to offer. Getting around by bus, ferry, and boats takes a long time. Bus’s stop frequently to pick up cargo and passengers. The ferries do not leave on time. Even simple things, such as waiting in line for food or coffee, will take much longer than you may be used to. Entrance and Exit immigration, also, can be hours of waiting at the airport. But this can be good for relaxation too.
6. Flights and Ferries are expensive. I’ve already touched on this, but domestic flights in the Philippines can rival long-haul international flights in the rest of the world. For example, the other day I saw flights going from Cebu-Manila for nearly 12,000 php ($207.44), which is a 1.5 hour domestic flight. The ferries I took ranged from 800-100 php ($13-$18). For domestic flights, purchase well in advance can mitigate these costs.
7. Proficiency of English is very high. The removal of the language barrier for most makes this a great destination. I’d say the only other place in Southeast Asia that can rival the level of English proficiency in the Philippines would be Malaysia/Singapore. I was surprised that even the locals talk to each other in English. For tourism, the fact that English is so ubiquitous means ease of travel for most solo travellers that have a strong command of English.
8. Strong Points: Natural Beauty & Politeness. Throughout the SEA, I’d say the Philippines has some of the most pristine beaches and waterfalls. Additionally, the locals are very polite to tourists. You may get some taxi men pestering you, but they are easy to avoid if you let them know you’re not interested. I never felt in danger, but some of the spots in the cities felt a bit seedier than I am used to.
9. Weak Points: Coffee & Food. I tried the delicacies the Philippines is known for, and at least to my palate, I didn’t think it was too special. Adobo, Chicken and rice, as well as lechon (pork) tend to be popular dishes. Same for coffee, the coffee in the Philippines for most places I have tried was overly sweet and weak for espresso-based drinks. Not the worst coffee in SEA, but pretty low on the list. Additionally, food and coffee was more expensive than most other southeast asian countries.
10. Download these apps. Grab for cars, Move In (owned by Grab) for motorbike taxis, JoyRide also for motorbike taxis, SMART for sim card registration, and eGov pH for entrance into the Philippines as you will be required to fill out the entrance declaration on the app. Last note is ATMs, international ATMS are relatively uncommon. But ask around, and you can find them in each city or island you are travelling to.

Imagine if your next adventure included meeting the fluffiest Australian creatures, known for their cuddly appearance and calm nature. What could be more delightful than sharing moments with these tree-loving fluff-balls? Get ready to experience this in Brisbane, home to the iconic Mirimar Cruise that takes you to explore the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary! Meet and greet these little koalas so close and fall in love with their adorable antics. An unforgettable wildlife experience with these lovable creatures right here in Brisbane!
So why would you choose Mirimar cruise to explore Lone Pine Koala sanctuary? Before that, try answering one small question. Would you like to be on a scenic river cruise that feels like a dream come true, but is actually a beautiful experience in itself? Yes? Then go blind into the adventure offered by Mirimar cruises in Brisbane for that's the high you are looking for in your next vacation! Seize this chance to experience the beauty of Brisbane from a unique perspective with Mirimar Cruises, a scenic river journey that sets the stage for your adventure to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Picture yourself aboard a comfortable boat, cruising along the Brisbane River, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning city views. As you relax on deck, you can also sun-bask in the sights of the city skyline and iconic landmarks such as Story Bridge and South Bank.
Mirimar cruises provide a relaxing and fun way to get to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Instead of regular transportation, imagine traveling through beautiful waters, making your wildlife adventure even more exciting. This scenic river journey lets you enjoy Brisbane's natural beauty on your way to meet goofy koalas and other native animals at the sanctuary. It's a wonderful start to a memorable wildlife experience in Brisbane. Mirimar cruises in Brisbane are also famous for providing the tourists with the most beautiful natural scenery along the Brisbane River, surrounded by mangroves, eucalyptus trees, and wildlife. At the sanctuary, you'll have a special chance to interact with koalas, learn about them, and even hold one with the help of experienced handlers. The cruise also provides educational commentary about Brisbane's history, the environment, and wildlife conservation efforts, adding depth to your adventure. Afterall, it's a shame if you visit a popular tourist spot and don't get to know a lot about its rich history, ain't it? These cruises offer a complete experience that combines nature, wildlife, and learning in a relaxed and enjoyable way.
Now, Why Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?
Did you know that the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is actually the world's first and largest koala sanctuary? Imagine taking your whole family there and enjoying a little tinge of history! Here, you can meet Australia's iconic wildlife up close. It's home to koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and many native birds. Picture walking among eucalyptus trees and seeing koalas high in the branches. In fact, there's a fact behind it! The Eucalyptus trees, also known as gum trees, are native to Australia and are beloved by koalas for their leaves, which form their main diet. Hence, being surrounded by eucalyptus trees offers a unique and beautiful experience. Once you arrive, you'll have the chance to feed kangaroos, watch platypuses swim, and attend interactive shows with birds and reptiles. You can even hold a koala and take amazing photos! Imagine flaunting those in front of your dear ones? Lone Pine offers interactive ways to learn about and enjoy Australia's diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
If you're looking for a special and educational adventure in Brisbane, consider taking Mirimar cruises to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. This journey offers a perfect mix of relaxation, wildlife encounters, and sightseeing, ensuring you have an unforgettable visit to this beautiful part of Australia.

hi r4r,
i'm a Canadian born Filipino who recently came back from a trip to Asia (🇨🇦>🇯🇵>🇵🇭>🇨🇦). i loved watching anime in high school and while i don't watch as much as i used to, i believe the language and culture of Japan is beautiful and i plan on visiting again. on my trip i also visited the Philippines as a tourist for the first time without my parents. there's so much beautiful nature to explore and an extroverted culture which i admire.
i have been casually learning Japanese on and off for about 6 years, and practicing Tagalog for about 6 months. my parents never spoke to me in Tagalog growing up (only in their local dialect that has some similarities to Tagalog, which helps). i realized you learn languages incredibly fast when being surrounded by native speakers. i'm not expecting to get the same level of immersion as i would by being in these countries again, but i would like some friends who wouldn't mind teaching me/answering my questions. not necessarily looking for native or fluent speakers either! i'm looking for friends first and foremost.
things I like: * going out for food - when you live in the GTA there's not much else to do but eat 🥲 i do appreciate the food scene here tho

• raving - usually sober but will occasionally take substances, never alcohol
  
• partying - i like to dance and meet new people. always sober as i enjoy driving at night to and from Toronto
  
• gaming - currently playing MH:W and persona 3 reload. i play league and valorant socially only. co op games are my fave 🥹
  
• hiking - i like nature and walking. also everyone is so friendly on hikes! only downside is how far you need to drive for good hikes in Ontario 😔
  

comment or DM if you're interested in a conversation or a meetup! thanks for stopping by

**Index:**

1. Introduction
   
2. The Unique Ecosystem of Sundarban
   
3. Adventure Activities in Sundarban
   

- Boat Safaris
- Bird Watching
- Jungle Walks

1. Conservation Efforts in Sundarban

- Protection of the Royal Bengal Tiger
- Mangrove Restoration Projects
- Community Involvement in Conservation

1. Balancing Adventure Tourism and Conservation
   
2. Case Studies and Success Stories
   
3. Comparison Table: Adventure Activities vs. Conservation Efforts
   
4. Conclusion
   

**1. Introduction**
Sundarban, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is a unique destination where adventure tourism and conservation efforts intersect. Known for its rich biodiversity, including the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, Sundarban offers thrilling experiences while emphasizing the importance of preserving its delicate ecosystem. This blog explores the adventure activities available in Sundarban, the significant conservation efforts in place, and how these two aspects coexist to protect and promote this incredible region.
**2. The Unique Ecosystem of Sundarban**
The Sundarban forest spans over 10,000 square kilometers across India and Bangladesh, characterized by an intricate network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands covered with mangrove forests. This diverse ecosystem supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a critical area for biodiversity. The region is home to over 400 species of wildlife, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, saltwater crocodile, spotted deer, and various bird species.
**3. Adventure Activities in Sundarban**
*Boat Safaris*
Boat safaris are one of the most popular ways to explore Sundarban. Navigating through the narrow creeks and rivers, visitors can witness the stunning landscape and catch glimpses of wildlife in their natural habitat. The thrill of potentially spotting a tiger swimming across a river or watching a crocodile basking in the sun makes boat safaris an unforgettable adventure.
*Bird Watching*
Sundarban is a bird watcher's paradise, with over 300 species of birds recorded in the region. The mangrove forests and wetlands provide ideal habitats for both resident and migratory birds. Commonly spotted species include the lesser adjutant stork, mangrove pitta, and various kingfishers. Bird watching tours often take visitors to specific spots known for high bird activity, providing ample opportunities for photography and observation.
*Jungle Walks*
Guided jungle walks offer an immersive experience into the heart of Sundarban. Walking through dense mangrove forests, visitors can learn about the unique flora and fauna, the importance of mangroves to the ecosystem, and the challenges faced by the region. These walks are usually conducted with the help of local guides who share their knowledge and insights, making the experience educational as well as adventurous.
**4. Conservation Efforts in Sundarban**
*Protection of the Royal Bengal Tiger*
One of the most significant conservation efforts in Sundarban is the protection of the Royal Bengal Tiger. This apex predator is crucial to the ecological balance of the region. Various measures, including anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and monitoring through camera traps, are in place to safeguard the tiger population. The Sundarban Tiger Reserve, established in 1973, plays a pivotal role in these efforts.
*Mangrove Restoration Projects*
Mangroves are vital to the health of the Sundarban ecosystem, providing coastal protection, supporting fisheries, and acting as carbon sinks. Restoration projects focus on planting mangrove saplings, rehabilitating degraded areas, and educating local communities about the importance of mangroves. Organizations like the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve and WWF are actively involved in these initiatives.
*Community Involvement in Conservation*
Involving local communities in conservation efforts is essential for the long-term sustainability of Sundarban. Initiatives such as eco-tourism, sustainable fishing practices, and alternative livelihoods help reduce pressure on natural resources while providing economic benefits to the local population. Programs that train and employ locals as guides and rangers also foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards conservation.
**5. Balancing Adventure Tourism and Conservation**
Balancing adventure tourism with conservation is crucial to ensuring that the natural beauty and biodiversity of Sundarban are preserved for future generations. Sustainable tourism practices, such as limiting the number of visitors, regulating boat traffic, and enforcing strict guidelines for wildlife encounters, help minimize the impact on the ecosystem. Educating tourists about the importance of conservation and encouraging responsible behavior is also essential.
**6. Case Studies and Success Stories**
Several success stories highlight the positive impact of conservation efforts in Sundarban. For example, the increase in the tiger population over the past decade is a testament to effective anti-poaching measures and habitat management. Similarly, mangrove restoration projects have successfully rehabilitated large areas of degraded land, providing critical habitat for wildlife and improving coastal resilience.
**7. Comparison Table: Adventure Activities vs. Conservation Efforts**
AspectAdventure ActivitiesConservation Efforts Primary FocusExploration and thrillPreservation and protection ExamplesBoat safaris, bird watching, jungle walksTiger protection, mangrove restoration Economic ImpactTourism revenueSustainable livelihoods for local communities Environmental ImpactPotential disturbance to wildlifeHabitat restoration and species protection Role of Local CommunitiesGuides and service providersActive participants in conservation projects Educational ValueLearning about wildlife and ecosystemsRaising awareness about conservation challenges
**8. Conclusion**
Sundarban is a remarkable destination where adventure meets conservation. The thrill of exploring its vast mangrove forests and encountering its diverse wildlife is complemented by the knowledge that significant efforts are being made to protect and preserve this unique ecosystem. By balancing adventure tourism with conservation, Sundarban serves as a model for sustainable eco-tourism, ensuring that its natural wonders remain intact for future generations to experience and appreciate. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or a conservation advocate, Sundarban offers a rich and fulfilling experience that highlights the importance of preserving our natural heritage.

Have you ever wondered about the wonders of the deep blue sea? These huge creatures swimming deep in the ocean, singing songs that travel for miles underwater. Well, we're talking about whales – the most wondrous creatures on Earth! Did you know that some whales are larger than the biggest dinosaurs that ever roamed the planet? Yeah! Whales are not only fascinating for their sheer size but also for their intelligence and social behaviors. Now, set sail from Broome's shores and delve into the mesmerizing world of marine giants by booking whale watching tours in Broome.
Whale Watching In Broome - A Coastal Spectacle
Broome, nestled on the northwest coast of Australia, is a beautiful destination about which you might have read in various magazines or travel brochures. Known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and exciting tourism opportunities, this place is beyond mere words. Tourists flock to Broome to experience its unique mix of natural beauty and history. The town boasts beautiful white-sand beaches, such as Cable Beach, where visitors can relax and enjoy breathtaking sunsets. But that's not all.
One of the highlights of tourism in Broome is its unique whale watching. Here, the experience is quite distinct due to its stunning location along the Kimberley coast. Here, you can witness the annual migration of humpback whales in a beautiful setting surrounded by a rough coastline and clear waters. Being close to the whales' migration route means you're more likely to see these amazing creatures up close during the tour. And that's why Broome's Whale Watching Cruise is a must-do activity during your visit to this region. It offers the perfect opportunity to observe and learn about these amazing mammals in the vast ocean.
The Ideal Climate for Whale Watching
Broome has the perfect weather for whale watching, especially from June to October. During this season, Broome enjoys dry, sunny days with comfortable to warm temperatures. The clear skies and calm seas make it ideal for spotting whales and enjoying the beautiful views along the Kimberley coast. This nice weather makes whale watching even more enjoyable, whether you're on a guided tour or exploring the coastline on your own. Moreover, the favorable climate ensures a memorable experience during the Whale Watching season In Broome.
Dive Into the Details!
Whale watching cruises in Broome offer a variety of options, each with unique features and experiences. When selecting a cruise, consider factors like the reputation and quality of the crew, their knowledge of marine life, and the type of boat used. Look for tours that prioritize safety and sustainability, with experienced guides who respect marine animals and their habitats. During a Broome Whale Watching cruise, be sure to opt for a boat with perfect viewing decks so as to make the journey smooth and effective. Knowledgeable guides will share information about whales and other marine life encountered along the way. Be sure to follow safety precautions, such as wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the sun. It's also a good idea to bring binoculars, a camera, and water to stay hydrated during the cruise. Most whale watching cruises in Broome last between 2 to 4 hours, offering ample time to spot whales and enjoy the coastal scenery. Besides humpback whales, Broome is also home to other fascinating marine species like orcas (killer whales) and rare blue whales. You will be really lucky if you spot one of these!
Now to the crux of the matter - the affordability? Prices can vary depending on the tour operator and the type of cruise, but they are generally affordable for tourists. During peak season, expect moderate tourist numbers on cruises, allowing for a personalized and enjoyable experience without overcrowding. Remember to book your cruise in advance, especially during busy periods, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. With these tips in mind, you'll be ready for an exciting and memorable whale watching experience in Broome! So, let's go!