Despite not having much of a town center, shopping outlets, and just a few western-style accommodations, Koh Kong is non-the-less, one of Cambodia‘s best-kept secrets. An eco-paradise, the isolated and unspoiled tropic southwest region of developing Cambodia is full of plush waterfalls, picturesque beaches and mountains, most of which are accessible via small touring companies or guides. With the added charm of being engrained in rural Cambodia, the sites and landscapes of stilted-homes along dirt roads and palm trees towering over gleaming rice field, Koh Kong may just be the getaway spot you were looking for.

1. Trekking the Cardamom Mountains

See the bright colors of the Cambodian countryside at the Cardamom Mountains - photo courtesy of Axel Drainville via Flickr

Considered one of the most beautiful rainforests in Southeast Asia, exploring the untouched biodiversity of the Cardamom Mountains will leave you feeling overwhelmed. Though Cambodia has been notorious in neglecting care of its natural landmarks, the mountain’s geographic isolation from the country’s settlements has left it well in tact. Grab a kayak and explore the jungle on either side of you, as you make your way to hidden waterfalls prime for swimming.

Hosting a handful of endangered animals, such as Eld’s deer, Siamese crocodiles, and Asian elephants, the Cardamom’s exotic wildlife is just as exotic as the highlands themselves–swirling with untapped fauna and undiscovered species–so make sure this is your first stop in Koh Kong.

2. Koh Kong Island

Located in Koh Kong’s conservation corridor, Koh Kong Island is one of nature’s brightest gems located along the Gulf of Siam. Free of many tourists or civilization for that matter, the island remains as it was first created with clean sandy beaches, clear, immaculate water, and the only sounds are the resonating of water crashing into the shores.

Though it comes without accommodations, and visitors may not go inland any further than the beaches, a moment in isolation at this tropical paradise is not something that should be overlooked. Then head down to the island’s only settlement at the fishing village of Alatan, just near another of Koh Kong’s natural wonders, Botum Sakor.

3. Botum Sakor National Park

After visiting Koh Kong Island, facing its southeast corner is your next logical destination, and also perhaps Koh Kong’s most beautiful, in Botum Sakor National Park. With over 180,000 hectares (almost 700 square miles) of natural park to explore, you will encounter a plethora of exotic wildlife, you may not get anywhere else. From elephants, tortoises, tiger and bears, Botum Sakor is also known for hosting quite a selection of rare birds. Accommodations are quite difficult to reach and underdeveloped, so camping is the preferable sleeping method.

Also, without many routes in and around the park, the best way to see it is by boat. However, as you may find yourself mostly alone on this adventure (aside from your guide, of course), the sheer sense of serenity provided here is a once in a lifetime experience.

Quiet Koh Kong Island - photo courtesy of Axel Drainville via Flickr

4. Peam Krasop Wildlife Sanctuary

Housing a network of channels, rivers and waterways, Peam Krasop Wildlife Sanctuary is a complicated yet unparalleled landscape known for its glorious mangroves, and protected coastal allure.

Like Botum Sakor, the best mode of transport is to hire a boat to guide you through this complicated yet majestic terrain. Peam Krasop is also home to an impressive list of wildlife, including dolphins and saltwater crocodiles, so be on the lookout for endangered birds such as the spotted greenshank.

Located just north of Botum Sakor and Koh Kong Island is Smach Meanchey district. Peam Krasop is in itself a coastal ecosystem, home to thousands of native Cambodians, who make a living through fishing off the wetlands. Don’t be surprised to see such inhabitants making their way upstream with the day’s catch, or to see families in their stilted wooden homes.

- Philip Heijmans

Planning a Trip? Browse Viator’s Cambodia tours and things to do, Cambodia attractions, and Cambodia travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Cambodia for a customized tour!

Top 4 Things to Do in Koh Kong, Cambodia by Philip Heijmans from Viator Travel Blog

Editor’s Note: This post is from Diana Edelman, a travel writer and PR professional. Her popular blog, d travels ’round, shares entertaining stories from her travels, along with travel tips and photos from all over the world. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook for travel stories, news and more.

Europe is full of romantic spots. With castles, winding paths through medieval cities, views of sparkling water from cliffs and intimate cafes in which to sip coffee with your significant other, it’s easy to plan a Valentine’s Day holiday anywhere on the continent.

Need some destination ideas?

1. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is one of the top romantic spots in Italy

Located on the south coast of the Sorrentine Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast is one of those sigh-inducing spots complete with picturesque and colorful villages set against a 43-mile stretch of coastline. Valentine’s Day is the off-season, and with a mild winter, it makes it a perfect spot for romance. Stay in Positano and take trips down to Naples, Pompeii or even a boat to Capri. Be sure to take time to sip limoncello, a strong liqueur the area is known for making.

2. Dubrovnik, Croatia

The weather may not be warm, the sun may not always be out, but Dubrovnik is romantic year-round. The old city, surrounded by ancient walls, provides plenty of opportunities to get lost in little side streets. For amazing views of the Adriatic, head up to walk the walls of the city.

3. Paris, France

Of course, no “romantic spots in Europe” list is complete without a mention for Paris. The architecture, River Seine, cafes that line the streets … they’re all reasons to spend some time in this beautiful city, even in the middle of winter. Bundle up and head to the top of the Eiffel Towerfor a breathtaking panorama of the city, then head out to wander the streets of Montmartre hand-in-hand. No Valentine’s Day is complete without trying some of the city’s world-famous chocolates.

No romantic trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower

4. Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

With the snow-capped Alps and medieval buildings as a backdrop, it’s easy for romance to be inspired. Located in north central Switzerland, Lake Lucerne is the place to get bundled up and stroll hand-in-hand around the old city. Be sure to check out the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument.

5. Santorini, Greece

The Aegean Sea paradise of Santorini regularly makes the list as one of the most romantic spots in the world. With its whitewashed buildings, blue-capped churches and stunning views of the sea from a top Fira’s caldera, it’s easy to see why. Take a donkey ride or hop on a boat to check out a steaming volcano, and then unwind in hot springs and tour a vineyard.

6. Venice, Italy

Another must on any romantic list; Venice is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Take a romantic gondola ride through the canals to see the colorful aged homes, and then wander the streets, stopping in Saint Mark’s Square.

Get serenaded on a gondola in Venice

7. Prague, Czech Republic

Bundle up and explore the gorgeous city of Prague in the Czech Republic. Colorful buildings, Gothic churches, a castle and little, intimate restaurants await couples in search of a perfect Valentine’s Day.

8. Budapest, Hungary

Located on the banks of the River Danube, Budapest and its gorgeous buildings alone make it romantic. Add in the allure of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath – an indoor and outdoor area with pools, saunas and spas, plus the old Castle District with spots to take in the dramatic city split by the river, and the stage is set for love. Known as the “Pearl of the Danube”, book a cruise to see Buda and Pest from an entirely different vantage point.

9. Sintra, Portugal

Visiting Sintra makes for a great romantic day trip from Lisbon

Sintra, a quick train ride from Lisbon, takes couples into a fairytale world where views of the Atlantic are as mesmerizing as views from the top of the hilltop castle. Take some time and explore the little streets of town that are packed with cafes, restaurants and shops.

10. Hamburg, Germany

Oft referred to as the “Venice of the North,” Hamburg has more bridges than Venice and Amsterdam and plenty of romantic spots to cuddle up and take in the view of its numerous canals and lakes. Walk along the harbor promenade, Landungsbrücken and then visit St. Michaelis Church.

- Diana Edelman

Editor’s Note: This post is from Diana Edelman, a travel writer and PR professional. Her popular blog, d travels ’round, shares entertaining stories from her travels, along with travel tips and photos from all over the world. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook for travel stories, news and more.

Top 10 Romantic Destinations in Europe for Valentine’s Day by Diana Edelman from Viator Travel Blog

It’s never easy trying to make sense of Venice’s meandering backstreets and dead-end alleys, but who in their right mind would try to follow a map in this famously confusing city? When you make it your mission to visit as many churches as you can squeeze into your five-day Venice itinerary, sometimes you just have to put on your reading glasses and do the hard yards.

There are around 150 churches scattered across this sprawling city. Having run the gamut of Byzantine and medieval, Renaissance and Baroque, here is my selection of Top 5 Venice churches. And if you’re planning on visiting more than half a dozen churches, pick up a Chorus Pass at the first church you visit and save plenty of Euros on entry to Venice’s most famous 16 churches.

1. Frari

Inside the Frari

The massive red brick church known as the Frari – or Chiesa di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, to give it its full name – is synonymous with one Venetian artist in particular: Titian. All eyes are drawn to the red and gold altar painting of the Assumption, depicting an ecstatic Mary rising skywards on fluffy clouds supported by dimpled cherubs.

Tear your eyes away to look around the huge Franciscan church, and you notice the funerary monuments of Venetian Doges like Foscari and Dandolo. You’ll find the elaborate tomb of Titian himself near another of his masterpieces, the Pesaro Madonna; look for the young page in the painting’s right-hand corner whose gaze is turned away from the Madonna, looking directly out at you.

Titian’s tomb is topped with the Venetian lion, and was carved centuries after his death by Canova, whose heart is interred in the eerie triangular vault directly opposite.

The Frari is in San Polo, opposite the stunning Scuole Grande di San Rocco – step inside to be wowed by Tintoretto’s awe-inspiring cycle of 50 paintings covering the walls and ceilings.

2. Madonna dell’Orto

One of Venice’s gems is tucked away in the boondocks of northern Venice. The red-brick Gothic Madonna dell’Orto just happened to be the parish church of Renaissance artist Tintoretto, and over the course of several years he decorated the church with sumptuous paintings. Standouts are his Presentation of the Virgin and Last Judgement, but most poignant is the blank space that once held a Madonna and Child by Bellini, removed by a light-fingered art thief in 1993. Pay your respects at Tintoretto’s tomb, then cross the bridge to Fondamente Mori and look for the plaque pointing out the home studio where the artist lived and painted.

The Chiesa della Madonna dell’Orto is in Cannaregio, near the Fondamente Nuove.

3. Santa Maria della Salute

The white marble Santa Maria della Salute. Photo courtesy of Mircea Turcan via Flickr.

The Salute has been welcoming visitors to Venice since the 1650s, and is included here as much for its baroque beauty as for its location on the entrance to the Grand Canal. With its many doors opening onto the canal, there’s a feeling of openness and lightness to this baroque masterpiece by Longhena. You can sense the architectural legacy of Palladio in the building’s classical pediments and columns, ringed by eight chapels and altars. Look for the Byzantine icon hidden at the heart of the high altar.

The white marble domed church was built in thanks for Venice’s victory over the Black Death in 1630. More artworks by Titian and Tintoretto lie inside, including The Wedding of Cana.

The Salute is in Dorsoduro, across the Grand Canal from San Marco and next to the Punda della Dogana, another iconic Venetian building that now houses an annex of the cutting-edge contemporary collection of French zillionaire industrialist Francois Pinault (for more contemporary art with wow factor, visit the main collection at Palazzo Grassi on the Grand Canal).

4. Santa Maria dei Miracoli

Everyone loves a miracle, none more so than the Venetians who built this marble jewel box of a church to house a painting of the Virgin that caused a sensation when it began to weep tears in the 1480s. You can still see the painting today – just walk up the red-carpeted steps to the altar, and there she is – and don’t miss the balustrades’ carved animals and angels.

The tiny church is squeezed beside a canal, so that you almost stumble upon it when you round the corner. Shaped like a casket with a rounded lid, the barrel-vaulted church is an early example of Venetian Renaissance architecture, with carved columns and different coloured marbles dividing the exterior into panels. Who says perfection has to be large scale?

The Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli is on the eastern edge of Cannaregio, on the border with Castello.

Outside the Santa Maria dei Miracoli. Photo courtesy of HarshLight via Flickr.

5. Santo Stefano

In a quiet campo near the Accademia Bridge, the Gothic Chiesa di Santo Stefano has a prime example of a ship’s keel roof. Outlined in a checkerboard pattern of grey and gold, the wooden beams look just like an upturned boat.

Less busy than many of Venice’s churches, Santo Stefano is a tranquil setting to rest your feet before admiring yet more paintings by Titian and Tintoretto in the adjoining cloisters. Seek out the Hollywood Gothic sculptures of women weeping by Canova, then step outside to gasp at the bell tower’s gravity-defying angle.

Santo Stefano is in San Marco, in the campo leading to the Accademia bridge.

- Janet Austin

Planning a Trip? Browse Viator’s Venice tours and things to do, Venice attractions, and Venice travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Venice for a customized tour!

Top 5 Venice Churches by Janet Austin from Viator Travel Blog

In many ways, Budapest is a perfect city break destination. Like many perennial favourites, it is pretty – there are numerous spots for the postcard shot – but there’s also plenty to do. The city has two distinctive characters, split by the River Danube.

On the western bank there is staid, leafy and traditional Buda. This is where a lot of the eye candy – such as the Castle District, Matthias Church and Citadel – can be found. Pest, on the eastern bank of the Danube, is where the city’s action and life is to be found. There are some pretty impressive tourist attractions here too, but it’s shopping, eating and drinking that give Pest its hugely enjoyable edge.

Perhaps Budapest’s best quality, however, is that you never feel like you’ve ‘done’ it.  Spend a long weekend there, and you’ll probably only get a fraction of the way down the list of things that grab your interest and attention. That’s no bad thing, and there are a few things about Budapest that may come as a rather pleasant surprise. These include:

1. The Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall

It would be fair to say that markets can be of variable quality across the world. For every one bursting with life gem, full of fresh gourmet treats and skilfully made handcrafts, there’s another sad barn of bleak, smelly utilitarianism. Budapest’s is mercifully at the more impressive end of the scale. Part of this is down to the building – it looks like one of the world’s grandest railway stations. Even empty, it’d be worth a visit. But the food quality is high too.

The main floor is largely dedicated to food. There are massive salami sausages dangling down, cheeses sourced from across Europe, goose and duck liver patés and multi-coloured paprika peppers. It’s also the right spot to buy seasoning packets of dried paprika.

The upper floor is more for arts, crafts and clothing. You do have to sift amongst the tat for the good stuff, but it’s still a good spot to get gifts and souvenirs for relatively little expenditure.

If downstairs has got you hungry, then the upstairs food stalls are the place to indulge. Sandwiches and crepes are amongst the obvious options, but it’s worth trying the special Hungarian hamburgers, goulashes and something unique – the langos. A langos is somewhere between a pizza and a doughnut – the garlic ones are something of an acquired taste, but become rather moreish. They’ll ruin a diet, keep in mind.

Paprika peppers in the Great Market Hall

2. Wine-tasting

The Great Market Hall is the first stop on Viator’s Budapest Wine Tasting and Lunch tour, which then heads farther into Pest to an underground cellar. This is where the wine comes in. It might not be what instantly comes to mind when you think of Hungary, but the country is rather proud of its wines. It’s certainly a grape rather than grain kinda place, and there are 22 wine regions across Hungary. Whites predominate over reds, although the Bikaver blends (known as Bull’s Blood) are enjoyably meaty.

The real stars are the Tokaji wines, however. French kings raved about these sweet – but not overly sticky – dessert wines as being the best in the world. Have a sip, and you can begin to see their point.

Wines from the tasting

3. Food

Central European fare has an unfortunate (and often entirely justified) reputation for being hearty stodge with an obsession with pork and dumplings. Whilst you’ll not struggle for that in Budapest if you want it, the city has a genuinely international culinary outlook. You’ll find French cuisine, Argentinean steaks and Indian curries without having to look too hard, whilst the top end restaurants take their influences from across the planet.

But the one dish that Hungary is best known for is goulash soup, and it’s fairly ubiquitous in Budapest. You get to try it on the last stop of the Wine Tasting and Lunch tour. In many tourist-focused restaurants, the goulash soup can be watery and bland, but at Kiado Kocsma it’s delicious. Arriving with large hunks of bread and a side dish of peppers with which you can spice things up to your own personal level of bravery, the paprika-heavy dish is delicious – more stew than soup, and warming without being artery-clogging.

4. The kerts

Budapest is one of those cities that feels both safe and fun to stroll through at night. The Buda side of the Danube is rather sleepy, but Pest is full of life. To get a good look, a night time walking tour is a good way of checking out Pest’s main areas, while an hour-long Danube cruise allows you to see the city’s most prominent buildings, bridges and churches lit up spectacularly. Do both on a Budapest Night Walking Tour and River Cruise.

See Budapest at night on a Danube cruise!

That’s fine as an orientation evening, but to enjoy the nightlife fully, it’s an idea to hit the kerts. These ‘garden bars’ are often only temporary affairs, but some are open year-round. Some of them are essentially beer gardens tacked onto already existing bars, but the true spirit remains in the standalone affairs that have been built into abandoned courtyards. Décor tends to be rough and ready, furniture utterly random and floors left as bumpy and debris-strewn as they were initially found. This leads to some quirky personalisations, however, and the atmosphere in the kerts tends to be one of great community. A number of them are clustered on Kazinczy utca, with the Szimpla kert being both one of the scene’s stalwarts and one of its most enjoyable examples.

5. The Vasarely Museum

There are plenty of other art museums and galleries in Budapest, but none are quite as interesting or as focused as the Vasarely Museum. It’s a bit of a trek to get to – you’ll find it in the northern suburb of Obuda – but it’s unquestionably worth it.

Victor Vasarely was a pioneer of Op Art, and many of the works on display will seem strangely familiar. Op Art is a rather design-led and mathematical approach to art – using colour and pattern to make the image look slightly different from wherever you’re standing. The geometry, repetition and use of 2D to 3D techniques play with your perception – and there are over 400 of Vasarely’s paintings, tapestries and sculptures on display.

- David Whitley

Planning a Trip? Browse Viator’s Budapest tours and things to do, Budapest attractions, and Budapest travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Budapest for a customized tour!

5 Unexpected Highlights of Budapest, Hungary by David Whitley from Viator Travel Blog

Traveling is always a costly endeavor, but if you have more time to take the bus or do some additional research on airfares and places to crash, then you will find yourself enjoying the pleasures of a more costly trip.

1. Location, Location, Location

The first thing you’ll need to do when booking your low-budget trip is pick a place that won’t drain your expenses. Maybe hold off on that trip to Paris, and try something like Mongolia or Southeast Asia. The general rule of thumb is that the more developed a country, the more you will have to spend.

Southeast Asia has a lot to offer the budget traveler

2. Fly only when you have to

You should try to limit your flying time to your initial flight, and even then, if you are willing to do your homework, you can easily string together a series of flights on different aggregate sites that will get you where you need to go on the cheap. Try booking each leg of your flight separately on different websites, being conscious of deals, and mix and match. When you get to your continent of choice, buses, trains, and boats will be far cheaper.

3. Bunking down in cheaper accommodations

An obvious suggestion, yes, but valuable none-the-less. If you are only looking for a place to crash for a few nights, and don’t mind the possibility that Johnny-O from Tasmania may be snoring a few feet away, then hostels are the way to go. If you prefer more private quarters, you will have to pay for them. But even then, hostels are the way to go as most offer rooms with lower occupancy at cheaper rates than boutique hotels or motels.

4. Learn to haggle

There is no reason you can’t buy what you like, even on the most stringent budget. Haggling is one of the greatest skills a budget traveler can obtain, and boy-oh-boy, you won’t even believe the savings. Bargaining for that great souvenir you can’t keep your eyes off is different from region to region, but as a principal, remember that you have the money, and therefore the leverage. Chances are there are 10 other people in a short radius selling exactly the same thing, so don’t be afraid to strike out.

5. Eat local

Eat locally to save money

This is a no-brainer. Fancy restaurants are out the question for most budget travelers, and after all, you are exploring. Find yourself a food truck, hawker or local joint to get your grub on. The trick here is simply to see whether the place you have spotted has customers or not. Nobody wants to get sick, and if a place offering a bargain meal has other locals dining in it, it is probably a safe bet.

6. The more the merrier, traveling in packs

The more fellow travelers you are able to take with you, the more discounts you will be able to finagle. From share-cars, to hotels, there are savings all around. If you are with 12 people and decide to get a shared mini-van for example, the rates are actually cheaper than an individual bus ticket in most places. Plus they get you to where you need to go quicker and more comfortably. Same rules apply in booking a room for the night, though maybe you won’t want to pack 12 people into one bed.

7. Knowing which landmarks are really worth your coin

There is no doubt that the Eiffel Tower in Paris is one of the most sought-after places to go in France, but perhaps climbing to the top isn’t your thing. Some people would prefer to grab a few bottles of wine and parking in the Luxemburg Gardens for a while.

8. Working through your vacation?

Riding local transportation is cheaper--and always an adventure!

You may lose a little of the glamor of a full-on vacation, but if you are back-packing and have time to kill, finding a job teaching English, or volunteering at an NGO has serious benefits for the financially constrained. Heck, some places will even pay for your visa and maybe even a flight!

9. Win a contest!

Win a what? You heard it right. If you happen to find yourself in a back-packer haven abroad somewhere, you will undoubtedly come across tons of bars and stores offering cheap-to-free contests you can enter to win a get-away weekend for you plus one to some quite decent places. It’s worth a shot, and even if you lose, it’s still fun.

10. House-swapping/renting your home

This might be not such an ideal tip for some people, and is understandably a bit of a risk. However, if there is one great way to stick an extra couple hundred dollars back in your pocket, this is it. There are several sites online that offer this service, free-of-charge, where you can either rent your home as a place to stay for trusting visitors to your town, or if you live in a desirable area, you can just as easily swap homes with somebody abroad, cutting down on perhaps the most costly traveling expenses.

- Philip Heijmans

Traveling on a Budget: 10 Ways to Save by Philip Heijmans from Viator Travel Blog

Frayed by the poor reputation of its political landscape, many detracted globetrotters overlook the satiable value of the Burmese physical landscape. As a former British colony, the country is studded with fine, though aged, colonial architecture, and is also sprawling with religious tradition and a natural charm all of its own.

At the heart of it all, is the former capital and economic hub of Yangon (or Rangoon, as many know it), complete with irreplaceable cultural landmarks, beautiful lakes and booming food scene. All the more exhilarating are its diverse inhabitants, hailing from the regional corners of Bangladesh and India, to China, to the Bamar themselves. The ethnic mish-mash of the country radiates through the urban landscape and day-to-day.

1. Shwedagon Paya, the Crown Jewel

Shwedagon Pagoda. Photo courtesy of Hybernator via Wikimedia Commons

The first and foremost destination for all Yangon-goers, Shwedagon Pagoda, is the most sacred and revered site in the country. As such it is also the most visited. The famous bell-shaped gold stupa, standing at a height of 98 meters (about 300 feet), is a glorious sight in its own right, visible from almost anywhere citywide. Inside are various shrines, bells, stupas, monuments of Buddha and even exhibitions, outlining the history and legend of Shwedagon and the beliefs of its followers. Covering more than 14 acres of land, the structure – composed of 90 tons of gold – is extravagantly ornamented with an 87-carat diamond.

2. Martyrs’ Mausoleum

While in the area, take a stroll over to the centrally located Martyrs’ Mausoleum. Just on a hill near to the north, it is a historical landmark known as the final resting place of Burma’s last Queen Supalayat, who reigned in the late 19th century, and was the mother of national hero, Aung San Suu Kyi. The mausoleum also serves as the place where independence movement leader General Aung San was assassinated in 1947. Foreign dignitaries often visit the site to pay their respects.

3. Kandawgyi Park

Kandawgyi Park with the Shwedagon Pagoda in the background. Photo courtesy of onourownpath.com via Flickr

With Shwedagan peering in the background, you will quickly notice that many of the city’s destinations shrink in comparison to the great stupa, but that does not mean there aren’t amazing things to see in Yangon. Kandawgyi Park (Royal Park), for example, is an attractive lakeside stroll baring some charming trinkets. There is a nominal fee to get in if you are a foreigner, but it is well worth it. At the center of it all is the large Royal barge called Karaweik Hall. Residing on the east end of the lake, the gold gilded floating restaurant is a terrific way to spend a meal amid, terrific views, and sometimes, live traditional dance.

4. Bogyoke Aung San Market

Hands down the best market in town, Bogyoke Market provides not only an opportunity to do a little shopping in Burma’s notably growing commerce scene, but soak in some day-to-day Yangon. Always on the move, you can pick up traditional handicrafts, wooden souvenirs, multimedia, and of course, cheap garments, as is so famous in Southeast Asia. Be sure to sharpen your bargaining skills as negotiating is all a part of the game here. Housed in a colonial structure in Padeban downtown, fine art connoisseurs will have the chance to haggle over antiques and local art.

Shop for Burmese goods at Bogyoke Market. Photo courtesy of Alan Cordova via Flickr.

5. Yangon Zoological Gardens

Built during the British colonial era, early 20th-century, the Yangon Zoo is one of the city’s most important and well-developed landmarks, ever growing and equally impressive. Drawing millions of visitors a year, the zoo contains hundreds and hundreds of different animals, representing a multitude of species, including a few endangered animals such as the tiger, Burmese tortoise, Asian elephant and hornbill. Scattered about the 42 acre zoo are more than 300 different kinds of flora, and various insightful and entertaining facilities, including Museum of Natural History in the south, an aquarium, seasonal live animal performance shows, and even an amusement park.

With so much intriguing culture and natural wealth, a week in Yangon and your legs will certainly tire from all the strolling. With the added stress of Southeast Asia’s often unfriendly weather conditions, make sure to afford yourself plenty of relaxing extracurriculars, perhaps a leisurely riverside boat cruise at sunset, or ask your hotel which one of Yangon’s thousands of massage parlors are best.

- Philip Heijmans

Planning a trip to Southeast Asia? Browse Viator’s Thailand tours and things to do, Vietnam tours and things to do, and Cambodia tours and things to do.

Top 5 Things to See in Yangon, Myanmar (Burma) by Philip Heijmans from Viator Travel Blog

Whether you’re planning to escape the cold, surprise someone with a Valentine’s Day trip, or just treat yourself to a fun excursion, we’ve got February travel deals and giveaways to help you plan your next getaway! Plus, the votes are in for our Top Travel Photos of 2011 and Top Travel Destinations for 2012. Read on to see the highlights of the Viator Travel Awards, our latest travel news, and what travelers are up to this month!

2011 Top Picks

The 2011 Viator Travel Awards have come to a close, and we would like to congratulate some of our top travelers and things to do from last year.

Our #1 travel photo of 2011!

Top Travel Photos: After compiling almost 1400 votes from our Facebook page, we have named the Top Travel Photos of 2011! It was a close race—Bernie, the photographer for our #2 photo, even created a mini-campaign to try to win!

Our predictions for the World’s Top 50 Travel Destinations in 2012 were chosen by our Facebook fans as well.

The World’s Top 25 Attractions have also generated some debate—let us know what you think should have made the list!

Top Travelers of the Year: These travelers spent 2011 visiting Europe, touring Australia, hopping around North America, planning day trips, eating foreign foods, taking bike tours, writing reviews, submitting photos… they must be exhausted!

Our Top 10 Viator Travel Videos give you a first-hand look at some of our top tours.

Viator’s Top 10 Private Guides make sure your tours are fun and memorable.

The Top 25 Travel Blogs advise and entertain travelers with stories and photos.

Our Top 10 Dining Experiences can help you decide where to plan your next foodie adventure.

What’s Happening in Travel

Valentine’s Day is a great time to give the gift of travel! Surprise a loved one or treat yourself to an Oahu Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise, New York City Valentine’s Dinner Cruise, Paris Paradis Latin Dinner and Show, or Melbourne Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise!

Say hi to the fish for me!

Spring Break is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to beat the winter blues than to escape to somewhere sunny. Plan a getaway with Viator’s beach and island tours. Some highlights: Party on the Key West Pub Crawl, tour the Mexican jungle on an Extreme Zipline Canopy Tour, or go on a Bavaro Splash Speed Boat Ride in the Dominican Republic!

What’s Happening at Viator

We love our Twitter followers!

Our Twitter page recently passed 100,000 followers! Follow @ViatorTravel to be the first to know about giveaways, exclusive promo codes, travel news, and updates about our destinations.

Our mobile app was recently nominated in all three categories for the EyeForTravel Mobile Innovations Travel Awards. Vote for us here!

New tours: Looking for an adventure? Experience Sydney Harbour from a unique perspective on a guided Sydney Harbour kayak tour, cruise the palm-fringed waters of India on a private boat tour of the Kerala backwaters, learn how to surf in Puerto Rico, see the Rockies from above on a Helicopter Tour over the Canadian Rockies, or go on a Karlstejn Castle Bike Trip from Prague!

If you prefer a more leisurely pace of travel, try Wine Tasting in Budapest, Wine and Cheese – An Introduction to Bordeaux Wines, Private Evening Tour of Central Amman with Arabic Meza Dinner, Bearizona Drive-Thru Wildlife Park or our Lisbon Old Town Small-Group Walking Tour!

Or just sit back and be entertained with War Horse on Broadway, Iris by Cirque du Soleil at the Kodak Theatre, or La Nouba at Walt Disney World Resort!

Floriade comes to the Netherlands this year! Photo courtesy of WindoC via Flickr

And we can’t forget that Floriade 2012 is coming up! Don’t miss the world’s largest flower and gardening exhibition–it’s held only once every 10 years! Want to learn more? Read about it here.

Giveaways and discounts: Planning a trip to Amsterdam, Paris, or San Francisco soon? Check each destination’s Facebook page for giveaways this month! Similarly, find a promo code for 10% off all Cancun tours on our Cancun Things to Do Facebook page.

Plus, find our best weekly travel deals right here on the Travel Blog!

Here’s wishing you safe and happy travels in February. Keep checking back for more travel news, promotions and inspiration throughout the month, and look forward to another update from us in March!

- Viator Travel Team

Travel with Viator: What’s Happening in February by Viator Travel Team from Viator Travel Blog

So you’ve trawled the British Museum for Egyptian relics, the Science Museum for dinosaur bones and the V&A for Art Nouveau designer flair, but now you’d like to visit something a little different… London’s top-drawer museums are just the tip of the iceberg in this huge metropolis, and there are scores of tucked-away gems in this English capital of all things eccentric. To get you started, here is our list of London’s most idiosyncratic museum experiences.

1. Dennis Severs House

Inside the Dennis Severs House - photo courtesy of Tom Jenkins via Flickr

Dennis Severs House is not a museum at all – rather, it’s like entering a time and imagination capsule that’s quite unlike anything else in London.

The Georgian terrace house at 18 Folgate Street in Spitalfields re-creates the imagined life of a house and its silk-weaver occupants over the centuries. Only candlelight illuminates your path as you make your way from one room to the next, one floor to the next. Adding to the sensorial experience are whispered voices and subtle sound effects, as if the occupants of the empty room you stand in have only just left.

The scents of wine, tobacco, scones and potpourri fill the air as candles light up each tableau: an unfinished 18th-century feast of bread and fruit in the living room, a half-eaten breakfast of boiled eggs and toast in the bedroom.

It’s almost impossible to convey the magic of a visit to Dennis Severs House: the experience embraces poetry, history, drama and art. The motto of the house is ‘you either see it or you don’t’, and when you visit (on Sunday afternoons only), you’ll appreciate the requests for silence so the atmosphere and your imagination can take hold.

2. Old Operating Theatre Museum

Museums don’t get much quirkier or gorier than the Old Operating Theatre Museum, at the top of a winding staircase in the rooftop garret of St Thomas Church. Before being used as an operating theatre, the garret was used to store and cure medicinal herbs used by the hospital.

A semicircular ring of seats looks over the operating theatre, lit by a skylight for maximum light. Students and apprentice apothecaries would look on as surgeons performed speedy and painful operations on the unfortunate patients, in a time well before antiseptics and anaesthetics.

Display cases in the attic reveal the painful realities of life in days gone by, with all sorts of scalpels and hammers and forceps on display. The smell of dried herbs and the attic’s old beams add to the atmosphere.

St Thomas Church is on the south bank of the Thames in Southwark, on the former site of St Thomas’ Hospital.

3. Geffrye Museum

History buffs and interior designers alike will love the Geffrye Museum, on Kingsland Road in Shoreditch in London’s East End. The museum buildings are special enough, a rare survivor of a low row of almshouses from 1714.

The long succession of rooms is ideal for the museum’s contents, taking you on a room by room stroll through English history as you take in a series of domestic interiors.

The 11 period parlours begin at around 1600, and end with a funky warehouse apartment typical of the present day. The rooms’ vintage furnishings, decor, details and ornaments evoke the various eras, revealing the possessions and traditions their middle-class occupants held dear. The living rooms are especially evocative if you visit at Christmas, when each is decorated in period fashion for the festive season.

Don’t miss the shop at the end of the room displays – it has a great selection of books if you’re interested in domestic architecture and interiors, plus a small range of London gifts.

4. Pollock’s Toy Museum

Find every kind of toy you can think of at Pollock's Toy Museum - photo courtesy of Hannah Simpson via Flickr

Board games, dolls, teddy bears, tin cars, puppets, doll’s houses, toy theatres – big and little kids will love the array of children’s toys on display in at the Pollock’s Toy Museum. Pollock was a maker of toy theatres, and the collection of cardboard theatres brought together here is especially fine. Narrow winding stairs lead to tiny rooms filled to the brim with every toy imaginable, divertingly displayed to provide a surprise around every corner.

As well as much-loved childhood toys from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, there are English dolls and European folk toys, plus, of course, a toyshop on the ground floor. The museum is housed in twin terrace houses, one dating from the 18th century and the other from the 19th century, adding a special atmosphere to this fun, quirky museum.

5. Twinings Museum

When it’s time for tea in London, make your way to the Twinings tea shop on the Strand. It’s tucked away but easy to find – just look for the white pediment dating from 1787, topped by the Twinings gold lion flanked by two brightly painted Chinese purveyors of tea.

Inside you’ll find an extraordinary array of different teas, loose leaf and bagged. Keep walking through this narrow shop until you come to a small museum at the end, where you can hear more about the Twinings Company and their famous teas, learn tea preparation techniques and compare tea-making paraphernalia past and present.

- Janet Austin

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s London tours and things to do, London attractions, and London travel recommendations, or book a private tour guide in London for a customized tour!

Top 5 Unusual Museums in London by Janet Austin from Viator Travel Blog

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a traveler looking for a new experience, adventure travel will get your adrenaline pumping plus you’ll see amazing sights and scenery along the way. On an adventure vacation, you can whiz through a rainforest on a zipline, discover an array of sea life along a colorful coral reef, hike to a volcanic crater at sunrise, or see gorillas on a jungle safari. Check out these 10 adventure tours and see which ones fit you best.

10. The Grand Canyon 4-in-1

Fly over the Colorado River on this ultimate Grand Canyon tour!

This unique Grand Canyon adventure trip is a great introduction to this natural wonder’s rugged beauty. A helicopter takes you over the Grand Canyon West Rim, including breathtaking views of the Colorado River and Hoover Dam. Then you’ll go down 4,000 feet (1,200) meters to the Colorado River, where a pontoon boat awaits for a short ride on the river. You’ll then explore the rim on foot, stopping at Eagle Point Indian Village to learn about Native American History. Then it’s back to Las Vegas and more scenic views in a helicopter.

9. Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda

The mountain gorillas that live near the volcanic range of Virunga are rare, indeed—only 700 live in this spectacular natural setting. You can, however, catch a glimpse of these rare creatures on a gorilla safari in Volcanoes National Park, but the arduous trek through the steep mountainous terrain and dense rainforest is challenging. Your rewards, though, are beautiful, you’ll see lush green landscape and a variety of wildlife close up, plus catch a glimpse of the silverback gorillas.

8. Dune Buggy Riding in Punta Cana

Explore the Dominican Republic on a dune buggy adventure

Adventure travel comes in all forms, and this Punta Cana dune buggy tour is lots of fun. You’ll rumble through the ever-colorful Dominican countryside, passing palm trees and banana plantations, before stopping to explore an old limestone mine. Back in the buggy, you’ll motor down to the white sands of Macao Beach, stopping for snacks, drinks, and even a dip in the ocean.

7. Kayaking Alaska

One of the earth’s last frontiers, Alaska teems with adventure experiences. One of best ways to see this wild land up close is from a multi-day kayak trip on the southeastern coast, near Juneau. You’ll paddle through placid inlets and bays, watching calving glaciers crash into the water from mountain slopes. In these salmon-rich waters, you’ll spot humpback whales, sea otters, and brown bears. A real treat is spending a few days traveling around Glacier Bay, a wilderness otherworld of ice and mountains, and visiting frontier towns like Gustavus.

6. Exploring Ancient Ruins in Jordan

Adventures are not always in the rainforest or near a glacier. The ancient city in Petra is a hidden gem, located in the southern desert of Jordan. Built sometime in the 6th Century B.C., Petra was carved out of a stone canyon. Jordan has even more ancient riches, including Roman ruins in the capital city of Amman, and Mujib, the world’s lowest nature reserve at 410 meters below sea level, which holds nearly 300 plant species.

5. White-Water Rafting in New Zealand

Novice and expert rafters will find much white-water adventure on a rafting trip along Queenstown’s Kawarau River. The river itself is featured in the film Lord of the Rings, but it is much better known for its thrilling Class II and III rapids. You’ll power through four rapids—Smiths Falls, Twin Bridges, Do Little Do Nothing, and Chinese Dog Leg—with ample stretches of calm waters in between.

4. Hiking to Diamond Head Volcano

See Diamond Head at sunrise

The sunrise hike to Diamond Head volcano is one of the most awesome experiences in Hawaii. A professional hiking guide leads you through Diamond Head State Park at dawn up to the summit of the crater, nearly 800 feet (300 meters) high. You’ll learn about the history, flora and fauna, and geology of the crater on the way, but it’s the panoramic views of Oahu that will take your breath away.

3. Exploring Australia’s Outback & Great Barrier Reef

Adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers have much to uncover on this 11-day trip exploring Australia’s Outback & Great Barrier Reef. On land, you’ll encounter rushing waterfalls, hike through the rainforest of Daintree National Park, see an array of wildlife close up, and discover the astonishing rock art at the Aborigine community of Ubirr. On water, you’ll prowl the vibrantly colorful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Your adventure ends with a thrilling Class II and III white-water rafting trip along the Barron River.

2. Safari in Phuket

Go on an elephant safari in Phuket

Families will have much fun on this adventure safari in Phuket. You’ll ride on the back of an Siam Safari elephant for a breathtaking view of the Chalong highlands and Chalong bay; later a wooden junk boat is your carriage for a cruise around bay. Monkey shows, a Thai jungle curry cooking demonstration, and feeding bananas to the elephants will keep you entertained in between. End your experience with a tasty Thai buffet.

1. Hiking Patagonia

No doubt, Patagonia is one of the most scenic places on the planet. This 3-Day Tour of El Calafate and the Glaciers takes you to Lake Argentino and Los Glaciares National Park from El Calafate. You’ll tour Perito Moreno Glacier, an impressive natural wonder that has become world-famous for its easy access and continuous advance. The Parque Nacional Los Glaciares area is home to other important glaciers such as Upsalla, Onelli and Spegazzini.

- William Travis

Planning a Trip? Browse Viator’s North America Outdoor Activities, Australia and the Pacific Wildlife Attractions, and Africa Safaris.

Top 10 Adventure Tours by William Travis from Viator Travel Blog

Exciting activities and experiences abound in New York City. No matter where in the city you visit, you’ll find something to do that’s unique to the Big Apple. And with that many choices, even locals find it a challenge to decide what to do. However, underneath its skyscraper skyline, New York City does have some must-do experiences. So we’ll start you off with our Top 5 Things to Do in NYC.

1. Visit Central Park

Central Park is nice at all times of the year!

Taking up 843 acres in the center of Manhattan, Central Park is a natural oasis that provides daily respite for visitor and locals alike. Bounded by Harlem, Midtown, and the Upper East and West sides, Central Park is filled with lakes, ponds, jogging paths, fountains, woodlands, monuments, concert stages, and massive green spaces under the sun.

Enjoy an afternoon in sunny Sheep’s Meadow or plying the lake in a rowboat. You’ll discover some of the best people-watching at Bethesda Fountain and on the Mall, where jugglers, skaters, and musicians entertain visitors year-round. Stroll the winding paths around the reservoir, over the Bow Bridge, or along the grassy hillsides. Visit the John Lennon memorial gardens at Strawberry Fields; across the street is Lennon’s former home in the Dakota apartment building.

Families will find much fun here, too. Climb to the top of Belvedere Castle for a view over the wooded Ramble, a popular photo opportunity, or take a spin on the Carousel. The Central Park Zoo is always a favorite, especially for a glimpse of sea lions frolicking about during feeding time. If you’re here in winter, you can ice skate at Wolman Rink. In summer, SummerStage cooks with weekly performances from top local and national acts, while Shakespeare in the Park draws crowds for its star-studded performances.

What’s great about Central Park is that no matter how busy it is, there’s always plenty of space to get away from it all.

2. Eat, Eat, Eat!

New York City is the food capital of the world, and this city of immigrants serves up an eclectic plate of flavors in every place from hole-in-the-wall pizzerias to elegant dining rooms with world-renowned chefs. You can pick out your lobster from the tanks in front of Chinatown restaurants or splash out on sushi in minimalist surroundings in Midtown. Even street food is tasty: pizza by the slice, hot dogs, pretzels, bagels with a smear of cream cheese, and a plethora of ethnic eats.

Head to Greenwich Village for steak frites and people watching at a French bistro, or indulge your appetite (and wallet) with fine culinary creations in one of Jean-Georges restaurants. Pizza is always a favorite, whether eating at Lombardi’s or John’s in Manhattan, or making the trek to Grimaldi’s in Brooklyn. Brunch is a New York specialty, be it pastries and iced tea in the smart sidewalk cafés of the Upper East Side or spicy huevos rancheros and syrupy Cuban coffee from an authentic East Village cantina. You’ll be happy to know you won’t go hungry.

3. See a Broadway Show

There’s something about seeing a blockbuster performance on Broadway. It’s walking through the bright lights of Times Square or a pre-show dinner at a bistro in the Theater District. It’s sitting in some of the most opulent settings imaginable, where lavish sets and creative costumes, romantic heroines and dashing heroes transport you into a fantasy world of Disney extravaganzas, splashy musicals, and tingling dramas.

Don't miss a Broadway show when you're in NYC!

New shows open in the autumn but you can see plenty of long-running performances, such as The Lion King at the Minskoff Theater, Mamma Mia! at the Winter Garden Theater, and Phantom of the Opera at the historic Majestic Theatre. Other long-running shows include Billy Elliot, Chicago, and Mary Poppins. It’s a must-do New York City experience. Most shows have matinee and evening performances.

4. Go on a Sightseeing Tour

One of the best ways to learn about New York City and get oriented in the process is to take a sightseeing tour. The Big Apple offers many different tours, from general to specialty, and on many different forms of transportation, from boat to helicopter. See iconic highlights like Central Park, the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and the World Trade Center site via bus and boat on the New York in One Day Sightseeing Tour. Take to the skies for a Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York for a view of Ellis Island, the Chrysler Building, and Central Park from above. A New York City Hop-on Hop-off Tour enables you to create your own sightseeing itinerary, complete with a lively tour guide in tow.

For specialty tours, bring your appetite for a New York Dinner Cruise, where you can eat, dance, and watch a skyline sunset. Other specialty tours include World Trade Center Walking Tour, a Sex and the City Hotspots Tour, a Harlem Soul Food and Jazz Evening Tour, and a New York City Original Rock ‘n’ Roll Walking Tour.

5. Explore the Museum of Modern Art

See the famous Starry Night at MoMA

The coolest looking museum in New York City, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a pretty impressive space. The museum’s 2004 renovation, designed by Yoshio Taniguchi, presents a stunning venue to view art, with a smart balance of space and light, high ceilings, gardens, and open rooms. Inside this extraordinary space is where you’ll see Monet’s Water Lilies, van Gogh’s Starry Night, and standout cutting edge works by Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, Salvador Dali, and Frida Kahlo.

Outside, you can relax in Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden, the site of occasional special events. The gift shop is worth spending some time in, too, as you can find many unique prints, books, jewelry, and gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Special exhibitions and events are held throughout the year.

- William Travis

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s New York City tours & things to do, New York City attractions, and New York City travel recommendations or book a private guide in New York City for a customized tour!

Top 5 Things to Do in NYC by William Travis from Viator Travel Blog

Nashville is indisputably, “Music City, USA.” Home to some of the most legendary music venues in the country, Nashville spectacularly documents the city’s influence on the evolution of music in America, especially country music. Here are some of the top sights for music fans making a pilgrimage to this city in the heart of American pop culture.

See tributes to Country Music legends at the Hall of Fame

Artifacts from country legends at the Country Music Hall of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame, located in the heart of downtown Nashville, has a beautiful façade made to resemble a piano with strategically placed dark window strips that mimic the placement of the black sharp and flat keys. You don’t need to be a country music fan to appreciate the history found in the Hall of Fame. From Bill Monroe’s guitar to Merle Haggard’s elaborate performance outfits, Elvis’ Cadillac to Hank Williams’ boots, and a video tribute to June Carter and Johnny Cash, the legends of early folk and country music are well represented.

The listening pods placed throughout the museum allow visitors trace the changes in country music stylings and the influence of radio broadcasting and recording technologies. Displays with the outfits of these beloved country stars really bring the exhibits to life, whether it’s one of Dolly Parton’s famous frocks or Taylor Swift’s gorgeous dress from the Grammys. The final room of the museum contains the plaques for the Hall of Famers themselves, where the most recent inductees include Bobby Braddock, Reba McEntire, and Jean Shepard.

See a show at Ryman Auditorium

The pew seating and bright stained glass at the Ryman Auditorium

Weave your way through Broadway’s honky-tonks, where many of today’s popular country stars paid their dues, and continue your musical tour of Nashville at the famous Ryman Auditorium. Originally built to house the revivalist movement of Samuel Porter Jones, the Ryman is affectionately known as the “Mother Church of Country Music” after it hosted the Grand Old Opry Radio Show for 35 years.

The pew seating and bright stained glass create an intimate setting that attracts some of the most sought-after performers. The Ryman also boasts the second-best acoustics in the United States, even better than New York’s famous Carnegie Hall. Pick up a copy of Nashville’s entertainment and nightlife weekly the Nashville Scene for the inside scoop on all the best shows in Music City.

Tour the historical Grand Ole Opry House

On stage at the Grand Ole Opry!

While all genres are represented in some way in Music City, there is no denying Nashville is the “Mecca” for country music enthusiasts. Those hankering for a taste of a good old-fashioned country shouldn’t miss seeing a show at the Grand Ole Opry House. Although the Opry is located further afield from Music Row, it continues the traditional live broadcasted radio show most nights of the week. The segments feature country stars, both new and old, from Carrie Underwood to 90-year-old legendary host Little Jimmy Dickens. You never know when there might be surprise guests, Opry member inductions, or debut performances. All of these special moments keep the magic of the Opry alive for the audience as well as musicians.

Take a backstage tour after the performance and see the themed dressing rooms, Opry member mailboxes, and get behind-the-scenes scoop from video clips narrated by Blake Shelton. One of the most interesting parts of the tour is being able to see all of the pictures from last year’s devastating Nashville flood and the subsequent restoration. The final stop on the tour allows visitors to stand on that famous wooden circle of the stage that has been the Opry’s signature over the decades. Standing in the same spot as virtually every country musician gave this fan the chills.

- Claire McConnell

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Nashville tours and things to do, Nashville attractions, and Nashville travel recommendations, or book a private tour guide in Nashville for a customized tour!

The Best of Music City, U.S.A. by Claire from Viator Travel Blog

Before I arrived in Seattle, the sum total of my knowledge about the city amounted to a handful of stereotypes. Plucking words at random, I could give you Starbucks, Microsoft and Nirvana. What I wasn’t expecting was a truly endearing city that ticks the right boxes on almost every level. It’s a chilled out, dressed-down place where the nerds outnumber the jocks, and people have a genuine enthusiasm for giving something a go.

It’s also rare to find a place with so many options for keeping yourself occupied. I had four days there and felt it wasn’t nearly enough – which says something  coming from someone who subscribes to the blitzkrieg model of travel. The other key point is that most of what I did see, I’d happily go back to.

Fish stall at Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market

Seattle’s unquestioned star is the Pike Place Market. I live in a city where the market is a grotty affair that makes you want to head in, get what you need and head out as quickly as possible. And frankly, everyone will quite rightly go to a supermarket instead. Pike Place Market pulls locals in as well as tourists, whilst the mix of history, charm and quality makes it the sort of place you want to hang around in all day.

It is something of a maze, sprawling over multiple levels and with no seemingly logical plan. This, of course, is part of the fun. One minute you can be looking at chocolate-dipped cherries, the next watching fishmongers theatrically throwing salmon around and the next looking at locally-made glassware. There are many food specialists here – some focus on truffles, others on fruit, others on naughty sweet things that will send your waistline ballooning. But it’s incredibly rare to find anything that’s poor quality, and the exploration proves to be a gourmet dream.

Beer and wine

One key part of the Pike Place Market is the Pike Pub. Like the market itself, it seems to sprawl over many levels, containing various nooks and crannies. But the most important of these levels is at the bottom – as this is where the beer is brewed. The Pike Pub does what Seattle and the Pacific Northwest do exceedingly well – craft beer. The city and surrounds have scores of small breweries – often started up by enthusiastic home brewers – and this makes Seattle a beer lover’s paradise. Most pubs will have at least one or two local microbrews on tap, and while the Pike Pub is the most famous example, there are plenty of other joints that you can rock up to where the beer is brewed on the premises. If heading to the Pike, the sampling paddles are a good idea, although the Kiltlifter and the IPA are the most sensational drops.

Seattle is also a surprise wine hotspot. Over the Cascade Mountains, the central and eastern parts of Washington state have an ideal climate for viticulture. Conditions are similar to those in Bordeaux, France, and some seriously good wines are being made there. There are a number of tasting rooms in Seattle where you can taste some of them – with 106 Pine and The Tasting Room being conveniently located in or near Pike Place Market.

Beer sampling paddle at Pike Pub

The music

For many people, Seattle equates to Nirvana and the grunge movement. Nevermind (see what I did there?) that Nirvana were actually from the small town of Aberdeen and they regarded themselves as punk rather than grunge, Kurt Cobain and co. are the band most associated with the city. Others are covered in the Experience Music Project – the baby of Microsoft founder Paul Allen – but it’s the exhibition on Nirvana that really captures the attention. It’s a big, flashy building featuring massive screens, an impressive guitar collection and huge banks of screens playing pre-recorded ‘oral histories’. The Nirvana exhibit has been timed to run in the same year as the breakthrough Nevermind album’s 20th anniversary. It’s a fascinating, detailed exploration of the Seattle scene and how Nirvana’s rise to global superstardom took everyone by surprise – not least the record label.

The Boeing Factory

Long before Microsoft, Starbucks and Amazon came to town, Boeing was the huge megacompany most associated with Seattle. It’s where the aviation giant was born, and most of the wide-bodied planes are still made in Everett, around 30 to 40 minutes north of Seattle by car or tour bus. Security is fairly tight at the massive Boeing Space and Flight Center complex – don’t even think of bringing cameras, phones or notepads on the tour with you – but it’s still possible to go behind the scenes. The Future of Flight exhibition is more hands-on – you can touch engines and measure yourself up against the tail fin of a 747 – but it’s the assembly building that’s most exciting. This is not only where most of the big planes are put together, it’s also the largest building by volume in the world. A walk from the entrance to the elevator is a long enough stretch, let alone a stroll around the perimeter.

Thousands of people are working in the building at any one time, and the sense of scale plays tricks on you. Because there’s so much going on, everything seems small – like you’re watching the inhabitants of a doll’s house.

Where to stay

Pike Place Market in the evening

The Scandinavian-influenced Hotel Andra gets that blend between style and practicality right, and its position on the cusp of Belltown, Downtown and Pike Place makes it an extremely solid choice. If it’s proximity to Pike Place Market and superb views out over Puget Sound you’re after, then try the Inn At The Market.

- David Whitley

Planning a Trip? Browse Viator’s Seattle tours and things to do, Seattle attractions, and Seattle travel recommendations. Or book a private guide in Seattle for a customized tour!

The Best of Seattle and Washington State by David Whitley from Viator Travel Blog

A small delight of a city just 125 miles (200 km) north of the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh is a relatively young city that has seen a wealth of movement since its inception in the 19th century. It found prosperity through a booming mining industry brought on by British colonization, and though things have since cooled off, Ipoh has become a relatively quiet town known for its delicious cuisine and regal infrastructure. With the added benefit of being nuzzled in the depths of Malaysia‘s distinctly unique terrain, Ipoh affords the opportunity to explore jungles or go cave diving, making it an ideal weekend trip from the regular hum of Southeast Asia.

1. Ipoh Padang

Once you’ve settled down in your accommodations, going to Ipoh Padang is a great spot to admire the city’s general qualities. Surrounded with some of the city’s best landmarks, visitors and locals alike assemble at this wonderfully manicured field to play sports, have a walk or just sit for a while. With historical sites a plenty, including the mammoth St Michael’s Institution, the Federated Malay States (FMS) Bar and Restaurant, the HSBC building and colonial Ipoh courthouse, not to mention the stream of modern shops and eateries, Ipoh Padang is the best way to orient yourself with Ipoh.

2. Old Town Heritage Walk

Ipoh's City Hall - photo courtesy of BertholdD via Wikimedia Commons

The next thing to do is take the free guided Old Town Heritage Walk, setting sail from the Ipoh railway station every Saturday at 8 am. What better way to get to know a city then a free three-hour tour? Exploring more than 30 historical sites and locations such as the Birch Memorial, which commemorates the first British resident in town, the tour also acquaints you with Ipoh’s modern landmarks, such as the Town Hall, High Court, and St John’s Church. In order to get this tour be sure to call in advance.

3. FOOOOOOD!

Although Penang is hands-down Malaysia’s (if not all of Southeast Asia’s) first and foremost destination for food tourism, Ipoh isn’t so bad either. Just a few hours from the food capital, Ipoh wields an impressive selection of delectable cuisine you’ll definitely want to try. Ipoh Sar Hor Fun is a local dish consisting of chicken, prawns, and noodles that you can find in many restaurants and also at very cost-effective hawkers. Ipoh is also known for its curries, satay, and superior tasting white coffee, which uses coffee beans roasted in palm-oil margarine combined with condensed milk.

4. Gua Tempurung

A look inside the Gua Tempurung caves near Ipoh - photo courtesy of Calvin Teo via Wikimedia Commons

A no-brainer destination for all Ipoh goers, the more than 1.2 mile (2 km) long cave in Perak, known as Gua Tempurung, is a spelunker’s dream. Lain beneath a limestone hill, this glorious cave, brightly lit and complete with walkways, contains a complicated network of rock formations. The breathtaking beauty of gargantuan stalactites, rock and stalagmite formations are estimated to be 10,000 years old. Walking through it is simply other-worldly. Just 15.5 miles (25 km ) from Ipoh these caves are a treat not seen enough by Ipoh passers-through. The caves are chalk-full of interesting lore and history, so be sure to do your homework and quiz your guide.

5. Sam Poh Tong (Cavern of Triple Gems)

Located just outside the city, this Chinese Temple built within a limestone cave is a Buddhist temple discovered early in the 20th century, and now draws droves of visitors for its beautifully decorated pavilion, lavish garden, and fish pond. The temple contains a plethora of religious trinkets and traditional décor, and even has a small pathway leading to a tortoise pond. The temple itself is only half of the appeal, as it is surrounded by limestone formations and mountainous terrain that can only be described as exotic.

- Philip Heijmans

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Malaysia tours and things to do, Malaysia attractions, and Malaysia travel recommendations, or book a private tour guide in Malaysia for a customized tour!

Top 5 Attractions in Ipoh, Malaysia by Philip Heijmans from Viator Travel Blog

Editor’s Note: This post is from Diana Edelman, a travel writer and PR professional. Her popular blog, d travels ’round, shares entertaining stories from her travels, along with travel tips and photos from all over the world. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook for travel stories, news and more.

Move over Spain. Beat it, Italy. There’s some competition over in Europe these days. While Spain, Italy, France and the rest of Western Europe will always remain as some of the best spots for European holidays, Eastern Europe is picking up steam and grabbing the hearts of travelers around the world.

Why holiday in Eastern Europe? For one, it’s cheap. Maybe not Southeast Asia cheap, but prices are significantly less than the western counterparts. Food is cheap (and seriously delicious), and in some countries, the price can be negotiated. Drinks are super cheap (less than $1 for a liter of beer!). Lodging, depending on your tastes and travel style, can cost around $10 a night for a shared room.

What’s more – Eastern Europe isn’t nearly as crowded as Western Europe. You can easily travel to places of interest without hearing your own language more than the native tongue. Sure, summer time on the Adriatic will still have packed beaches, and you will have to book lodging ahead of time, but for the most part, even those tourists aren’t Americans. Ironically, they’re Western Europeans headed away from their tourist-packed towns to their own secret enclaves.

There are plenty of towns in Eastern Europe worth a visit. They’re packed with history, beauty, culture, good food … and of course, aren’t pricey.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

While Croatia is one of the more expensive countries in the region, the Balkan city of Dubrovnik is also one of the most stunning. The old city, set inside enormous walls, is romantic. Complete with refreshing water to cool off in during the summer months and cliff-side bars to enjoy the pinks and reds of the sunset reflected in the azure Adriatic, this town has been described as “paradise.” Whether or not you agree, it’s worth a visit. Plus, there are plenty of trips you can take from there – up the coast to the seaside town of Split, which is where the ferries to islands operate, or down the coast to Montenegro (which is on the Euro, but very inexpensive).

Easily travel to Montenegro on a day trip from Dubrovnik

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

A blending of old and new happens in Sarajevo. A stroll through the heart of the city takes you through different periods in the town’s history – from its Turkish roots to Austro-Hungarian roots and to the sad reality of the ethnic cleansing that went on in the 1990s. It’s hard not to notice the pock-marked buildings, the red cement roses that signify losses of life on the street and on walls. But, more than the history, Sarajevo tells a tale of redemption. All around, life flourishes. Sidewalk cafes are packed all day. Museums proudly educate visitors on the country’s morbid past, and show off its present day accomplishments.

Brasov, Romania

Be careful at Bran Castle, there may be vampires lurking in the shadows... photo courtesy of jtriefen via Flickr

Located in the heart of Transylvania, Brasov is a perfect launching point for tours of the region. Nearby is Bran Castle (also known as Dracula’s Castle), along with the stately and ornate Peles Castle in Sinaia, Poiana Brasov, a mountaintop town. In town, there are plenty of places to explore, including taking a tram (or braving it and hiking) up the Brasov hill. From the top, you can see the entire town and the South Carpathian Mountains. Also be sure to check out Rope Street, perhaps the narrowest street in Europe, measuring approximately four feet in width. In the heart of the expansive town square is the Gothic and gorgeous Black Church.  And while there aren’t any vampires here … you can imagine the spooky Transylvania depicted in the books.

Goreme, Turkey

Home to the fairy chimneys and caves, Goreme, in Turkey‘s Cappadocia region, is a sight. Treat yourself to a hot air balloon ride at sunrise and float over the amazing stone formations in Love Valley. Stay in a real cave hotel. Dine on authentic Turkish dishes served in clay pots. While the prices here are more expensive than other places in Eastern Europe, it is the only place to experience these stunning formations from your own point-of-view.

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

Interesting houses along one of the many winding roads in Veliko Tarnovo - photo courtesy of aneye4apicture via Flickr

A charming mountain town with a fort at the top, Veliko Tarnovo is a place to go and unwind for a few days. Tsarevets Castle, an old fortress, stands at the top of this town on a hill, and features nighttime events in the summer months. Spend time wandering the meandering streets, checking out local restaurants and exploring the beauty of the surrounding lush green mountains. Be sure to sample any of the local rose products – this region is known for its roses and mingles them with water, liquor, soap and more.

- Diana Edelman

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Editor’s Note: This post is from Diana Edelman, a travel writer and PR professional. Her popular blog, d travels ’round, shares entertaining stories from her travels, along with travel tips and photos from all over the world. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook for travel stories, news and more.

5 Can’t-Miss Destinations in Eastern Europe by Diana Edelman from Viator Travel Blog

As the largest and most heavily populated city in Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar is a logical place for many visitors to start their exploration of this beautiful country. Though the city itself can hardly be recognized for having a particularly clean environment, the pulsating hub of Mongolian commerce is home to both modern ways of life and the quaint and serene tradition of Mongolia’s rich culture and religion.

Nestled between four pine-laden sacred mountains on the bank of the Tuul River, there is a lot to do in Ulaanbaatar, from exploring its somewhat naughty and fast-paced nightlife to strolling through the relative ease and peacefulness of its temples and select nooks within the city, there is something for everyone. These are our top five things to see and do in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

1. Gandan Monastery

The foremost religious structure in the country, the 85-foot-high (26 meters) Gandan Monastery is one of the only Buddhist structures to survive the religiously oppressive communist regime of 30 years ago. The largest in the country, inside the temple is a wonderful gilded and jewel adorned 82-foot-tall (25 meter) statue of the Magjid Janraisig. Coming in at 20 tons, this behemoth is a functioning symbol of Mongolian post-communist revival. With services going on every morning, see entrancing Buddhists flock to the temple to pay homage to their spirituality and new freedoms.

Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar - photo courtesy of Vadara via Wikimedia Commons

2. The Museum of Natural History

For a real insight into Mongolia’s natural history, there is no better place to go than this museum. Complete with two full dinosaur skeletons, that of the 15-foot tall (4,5 meter) flesh-eating Tarosaurus and the duck-billed Saurolophus, the museum is an old but provides a detailed account of Mongolia’s storied natural past. Full of wonderful exhibits, be sure to see the geology section, full of interesting meteorites and minerals, or get to the several rooms displaying embalmed native animals. It has a terrific section showing ancient and modern flora and also includes a section on the origin of humans, so grab an English-written guide and wind your way through this insightful national landmark.

3. Naadam Festival

Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar - photo courtesy of Vidor via Wikimedia Commons

This is a bit of a special order, since it only happens in July, but if you can make it, you are in for a heck of a time. The biggest festival in Mongolia, this three-day annual event is a feast of national pastimes and tradition. “The three games of men” as they might call it, see celebrated Mongolian wrestlers pick their opponents and face off in a single elimination tournament as zasuuls sing in praise. The other two events, horseracing and archery, are a bit more close to home though with a bit of a twist.

4. The Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan and Museum

Certainly one of the most interesting places you can go in Ulaanbaatar, the spanning complex contains six temples containing the many possessions of the early 20th-century Great Khhan known as Bogd Khan. It is the last remaining residence of the emperor and it contains his throne, bed, beautiful collection of art, and oddly enough, stuffed animals. It even has his boots, given to him as a gift by the famous Russian Tsar Nicholas II. Beyond this, there is much more to see, such as the Palace Museum.

5. Get to the Theaters

Mongolia has a pretty vibrant arts and culture community under several establishments. With places and groups around town such as the State Academic Drama Theater, the National Academic Ensemble of Folk Dance and Music, and the Mongolian State Puppet Theater, you get the chance to see one of the world’s most storied cultures at work. Enjoy a romantic evening at the Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet or check out the Symphony Orchestra or the Mongolian State Philharmonic. There’s something for all tastes.

- Philip Heijmans

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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia by Philip Heijmans from Viator Travel Blog