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Bangalore Fort (Kempegowda's Fort)
Also known as Kempegowda's Fort after the founder of Bangalore (Kempe Gowda), this landmark construction was originally built in 1537 out of mud and converted to stone in 1761. It was later captured by the British East India Company in 1791. Today, only two bastions and one gate remain, along with gardens and a Ganesh temple.
The Basics
While much of Bangalore Fort has since gone to ruin, spending time here provides an excellent glimpse of what life was like under the city's famous founder, Kempe Gowda. It’s still a popular stop on many city tours, and going with a guide can help provide some context, especially if you’re interested in understanding how large the fort once was (before parts of it were destroyed to make way for roads and buildings).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bangalore Fort is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat, along with comfortable shoes.
- The fort is not suitable for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The fort is located on Krisnarajendra Road in Chamrajpet, a short walk from the City Market and right behind the KR Market Metro station, which connects to Lalbagh Gardens via the Green Line. It's about a 5-minute walk from Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, and the two attractions are often visited together.
When to Get There
Bangalore is a year-round destination, with a moderately warm climate throughout the year, even in the cooler winter months of November through January. Things begin to heat up around April, and temperatures peak in mid-May before the rainfall of the monsoon. Rains continue through August or September, but usually do not bring the city to a halt.
Kempe Gowda and the Birth of Bangalore
Kempe Gowda ruled during the Vijayanagara Empire, which had control over much of present-day South India in the 17th century. According to legend, during a hunting trip he had a vision of a large city, leading him to conquer the surrounding areas and eventually form Bangalore, starting with what was then an 8-gate fort.
Address: Krisnarajendra Road, Chamrajpet, Bangalore, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 59
Bangrak
Hugging the Chao Phraya River and home to some of the city’s best hotels, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, Bangkok’s Bangrak is a blend of international and local culture. Particularly famous for the commercial shopping district around Silom Road, Bangrak covers a huge area, although most locals usually consider it to be the area surrounding the river.
Aside from its shopping centers and high-rise hotels, Bangrak is home to a number of attractions, including the Bangkok Folk Museum, plus the religious sites of Wat Hua Lamphong and the famous Hindu temple, Sri Mahamariamman.
The area between the Saphan Taksin Skytrain station and the junction of Charoen Krung and Silom Road is well worth a stroll along. It’s a teeming melting pot of local life and home to a number of hawker food stalls serving delicious and traditional local cuisine.
Practical Info
Bangrak is served well by both Bangkok’s Skytrain and Metro lines. Skytrain stations include Sala Daeng, Chong Nonsi, Surasak, and Saphan Taksin. Metro stations include Lumphini, Silom, and Sam Yan. Bangrak can also be reached by river via the Chao Phraya Express Boat.
Address: Bang Rak, Bangkok, Thailand
From $ 50
Bangkok National Museum
The main branch of the National Museums in Thailand, Bangkok's main public museum is also the largest museum in all of South East Asia. Spread out over acres of green grounds and multiple buildings, the museum is a showcase for Thai art and history. Although it used to be considered unorganized, dusty and forgotten, it's recently been renovated and updated and now features a vibrant collection of artifacts with clear English-language descriptions.
Inside you will find a truly enormous collection of treasures including paintings, sculptures, bronzes and prehistoric art from Thailand and other Asian countries. You will want to give yourself plenty of time to thoroughly cover the exhibits and may want to consider hiring a guide for a more targeted tour. Highlights include a replica funeral chariot hall, the Buddhaisawan chapel and the weapon galleries.
Inside you will find a truly enormous collection of treasures including paintings, sculptures, bronzes and prehistoric art from Thailand and other Asian countries. You will want to give yourself plenty of time to thoroughly cover the exhibits and may want to consider hiring a guide for a more targeted tour. Highlights include a replica funeral chariot hall, the Buddhaisawan chapel and the weapon galleries.
Address: 4 Thanon Na Phra That, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Hours: Open 9am - 4pm Wed-Sun, closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and national holidays.
From $ 10
Bangalore Palace (Bengaluru Palace)
Among the most stunning landmarks in the city, Bangalore Palace is one of many homes of the Wadiyar family, who ruled much of South India for centuries. Portions of this palace have been open to the public since 2005, though one of the Wadiyars still lives in a private wing of the gargantuan structure to this day.
The Basics
Spread out on more than 450 acres (182 hectares), including a large landscaped garden, this huge palace complex is one of the most popular attractions in Bangalore and a frequent stop on cultural tours. It features an impressive mix of Tudor, Gothic, Victorian, and neoclassical architectural elements.
Visitors are allowed access to a large part of the palace, including gloriously decorated bedrooms, royal halls, and a ballroom. It also houses one of Bangalore's first elevators, which is operated by hand.
Things to Know Before You Go
- An audio tour is included with admission.
- Travelers must pay extra if they want to use their cameras.
- A visit to Bangalore Palace is an excellent choice for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Wheelchair users might find it challenging to get around the palace.
How to Get There
Bangalore Palace is located on the Palace Grounds, off Jayamahal Road in the Vasanth Nagar area, about a 20-minute walk from the Bangalore Cantonment railway station. Getting to Cubbon Park takes around 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or auto rickshaw, traffic permitting, while Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace and Bangalore Fort take about a half-hour to reach by car.
When to Get There
Bangalore Palace is a year-round destination, though it’s partially outside so weather might be a consideration for some visitors. Bangalore’s climate is pleasant throughout the year, with mild winters and slightly cooler summers than many parts of the subcontinent. The monsoon rains that start in early June and continue through August or September can make getting around a bit of a soggy experience, while October through March tend to be cooler and drier.
Concerts at the Palace
For many years, the palace grounds doubled as a concert venue, with huge international acts, such as Elton John, The Prodigy, Guns N' Roses, Metallica, and even the Rolling Stones, performing here. However, the grounds stopped hosting concerts in 2012 due to legal issues, leaving the city without a venue capable of hosting huge crowds. Whether the palace will eventually open up again for concerts or not remains unclear.
Address: Bangalore, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 33
Bangkok NANTA Theatre
The Bangkok NANTA Theatre stages unique NANTA shows, a non-verbal comedy musical that originated in Korea. Nanta literally means 'to strike relentlessly' in Korean, and this instrumental performance, with a kitchen as its backdrop, uses everything from knives and other utensils to traditional water drums to create a show like no other.
Audiences are taken on an action-packed adventure where performing chefs dazzle and impress, using nonstop percussion, acrobatic cooking styles, and hilarious facial expressions to convey their story.
NANTA made its international debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 1999, where it received the best performance award. Since then, the show has been entertaining audiences worldwide, from cities in Europe to those across Asia, and beyond. The show also made history when it became the first Asian production to open its very own large-scale theater in New York.
Practical Info
The Bangkok NANTA Theatre is located in the RCA Plaza, close to the Petchaburi Road. Nightly performances start at 8pm, with a running time of 90 minutes. Round-trip hotel transport is often included in tours. Alternatively, the venue can be reached by taxi, although be sure to leave enough time as traffic in Bangkok can be exceptionally busy.
Address: 31/6 RCA Plaza Building, Floor 1, Soi Soonwijai, Pharam 9 Road, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Shows at 8pm daily (closed every first of the month)
Admission: Royal seat: THB 1300; Standard seat: THB 1100
From $ 14
Bali Botanic Garden
At the heart of sleepy lakeside Bedugul, amid Bali’s cool central highlands, is Bali Botanic Garden, an underrated Bali attraction. Plant-lovers enjoy forest walks and gardens full of orchids and Balinese plants, while families and adventure-seekers gravitate to the park for the zipline and rope adventures at Bali Treetop Adventure Park.
The Basics
Highlights of the Bali Botanic Garden, established in 1959, include a large collection of begonias, wild orchids native to Bali, and local carnivorous plants—in total the garden holds more than 21,000 living specimens belonging to 2,400 species. There is a per person fee and per vehicle parking charge to enter the 388-acre (157-hectare) garden. Bali Treetop Adventure Park is located within the park.
Bali Botanic Garden is a popular stop on Bedugul tours. The botanical gardens are typically visited on tours with other lakeside attractions such as Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and local farms. There are overnight accommodations on the property.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bali Botanic Gardens appeals to plant-lovers—and anyone who’d like to beat the heat.
- Bali Treetop Adventure Park within the park requires a separate fee and includes rope-walking circuits and zip lines for kids and adults.
- Temperatures in Bedugul can drop as low as 55°F (13°C): Bring layers and rain protection.
How to Get There
Perama runs a regular shuttle bus to Bedugul, with stops in Kuta, Ubud, Sanur, and Lovina. In the morning, “bemo” minibuses from Denpasar’s Ubung terminal stop at Bedugul on route for the north coast city of Singaraja. Besides Bali’s usual traffic, the steep, winding, often misty roads make self-driving challenging: Many opt to hire a car and driver or join a tour.
When to Get There
At around 5,000 feet (1,500 meters) above sea level, Bedugul is cool enough for strawberries to grow. During the rainy season (October until early May), temperatures drop low enough for locals to light fires. If you plan to visit Bali Treetop Adventure Park, arrive in the morning for the best chance of dry weather: June, July, and August are driest. On weekends, the Adventure Park is overflowing with locals and expats alike.
Bali Treetop Adventure Park
Designed, built, and managed by French nationals, Bali Treetop Adventure Park follows European Union safety standards. It offers seven challenging rope circuits through the woodland of the botanical garden. The smallest circuit is suitable for children as young as 4; the most advanced will challenge teens and adults. There is a maximum weight limit of 265 pounds (120 kilograms).
Address: Jl. Kebun Raya, Tabanan, Bali 82191, Indonesia
Admission: Varies
From $ 55
Bangkok Chinatown (Yaowarat)
With its heady smorgasbord of street food, gold merchants, wooden shophouses, and ancient Chinese temples, there’s never a dull moment in Bangkok’s Chinatown, also known as Yaowarat. Exploring the bustling sois (side streets) of the city’s oldest district is a must on any trip to the Thai capital.
The Basics
Bangkok Chinatown envelops the streets and alleys branching off Yaowarat Road, its main thoroughfare. Since the area transforms into a food street after dark, many visitors choose to explore it on a walking food tour. Those more interested in the history and heritage of Bangkok’s Chinese immigrants can opt for a daytime biking tour or walking tour to visit the area’s Buddhist temples and neighborhood markets.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bangkok Chinatown is a must-see for foodies and first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes and prepare to walk; there’s a lot to see in this busy neighborhood.
- Most Chinatown tours include a bit of shopping, eating, and temple visits.
- Walking and biking tours that include Chinatown typically last three to five hours.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Chinatown is by boat; alight at Ratchawong Pier and walk up Ratchawong Road until you get to Sampeng Lane or Yaowarat Road. You can also disembark at Harbor Department Pier or Memorial Bridge Pier. Alternatively, take the subway to Hua Lamphong Station on the eastern bank of the Phadung Krung Kasem Canal.
When to Get There
To get the most comprehensive Chinatown experience, plan to visit by day and after dark. Plan to arrive hungry at night, when the street-food stalls are in full swing. The neighborhood is at its most vibrant during major Chinese festivals, especially Chinese New Year (January or February).
Must-Try Foods in Chinatown
Food is one of the major reasons for a visit to Chinatown. Seafood restaurants here serve some of the freshest crabs and prawns in the city, while street-food vendors cook up grilled squid, Thai toast, kway chap (a peppery noodle soup), pad thai, and bird’s nest soup.
Address: Thanon Yaowarat, Samphanthawong, Bangkok, Thailand
Admission: Free
From $ 11
Bangkok Cruise Port
Bangkok is one of Asia’s most exciting capital cities, and there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained while in port. Bangkok cruise port is a popular start or end destination for cruises to China, Singapore, and Southeast Asia, welcoming cruise liners from Viking, Windstar, and Silversea, among others.
The Basics
With so much to see and do in Bangkok, most cruise visitors opt for a shore excursion to make the most of their time. Tours typically focus on the highlights, including the Grand Palace, home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha; temples, such as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and the Temple of the Golden Buddha; or the gigantic Chatuchak Market, a great place to purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes, and street food. Some tours also include lunch at a local restaurant or a scenic cruise around Bangkok’s canals.
Another popular choice for a shore excursion is a visit to the coastal town of Pattaya. The beach resort is just a 30-minute drive from Laem Chabang port.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
- Laem Chabang port has food kiosks, gift shops, a massage spa, and a visitor information center.
- With transfer times taking around two hours, full-day shore excursions can last up to 12 hours.
How to Get to Bangkok from the Port of Laem Chabang and Klong Toey
Most cruise ships dock at Laem Chabang, about two hours south of Bangkok. Public transport options from Laem Chabang are limited, so it’s best to prearrange a private transfer or take a taxi. Smaller ships may dock at Klong Toey, located on the Chao Phraya River on the outskirts of the city. For ships docking at Klong Toey, free shuttles often bring passengers into Bangkok—an around 45-minute journey.
Port Information
The official language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The local currency is the baht. Some shops may accept euros and US dollars, but be sure to check the exchange rate before agreeing on a price. ATMs are widely available and credit cards are generally accepted, although it’s best to carry some cash in smaller denominations, especially for taxis, tuk-tuks, and markets.
Address: Thailand
From $ 121
Bamboo Hanging Bridge
Don’t look down! This thin and wobbly bridge made of woven bamboo is a great thrill, especially for those conquering a fear of heights. Suspended some 131 feet (40 meters) across the murky, green Loboc River in southwestern Bohol, the flexible bridge creaks, bounces and sways with every step as you make your way across. Add a whole family and it’s an experience you’re not soon to forget.
The bridge, originally constructed of just bamboo and rope, was once open to local foot traffic and (eek!) small motorcycles heading in both directions. As a popular tourist attraction, the bridge has since received some safety upgrades: steel cable handles, a 10-person maximum on the bridge, and a second return bridge that ensures traffic is always one-way only. On the other side, vendors sell affordably priced hats, fans, t-shirts and snacks, and the “Buko (Coconut) King” offers his namesake nuts impressively stripped of their husks using his teeth.
Practical Info
The bridge is located in Sevilla, 22 miles (36 km) east of Tagbilaran City on Bohol Island in the Philippines. The bridge connects Sitio Sipatan of Barangay Ewon and Sitio Ilawod of Barangay Lobgob. There’s a $0.50 (25 PHP) roundtrip charge to experience the bridge. The attraction is included on some day tours of Bohol and often coupled with visits to the nearby Tarsier Sanctuary.
Address: Sevilla, Philippines
Admission: 25 PHP
From $ 60
Bang Pa-In Palace
The Bang Pa-In Palace is situated 60 kilometers from Bangkok and just a few kilometers from Ayutthaya. Originally built in the 17th century by King Prasat Thong of Ayutthaya, it was later destroyed by the Burmese and left abandoned for almost a century.
During the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV) in the 1850s, part of the palace was restored, but most of the site seen today is down to his predecessor, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), who restored and expanded the entire grounds. Today the palace is still used by the Thai royal family as a summer residence.
The iconic buildings scattered across the complex each feature their own unique architectural style. For example, the Wehat Chamroon Palace was built using traditional Chinese materials and designs, while the Aisawan Tippaya Asna Pavilion, set in the middle of a lake, is typically Thai. Other buildings are clearly European in architectural style.
Practical Info
If not on a day tour, visitors can reach Bang Pa-In by train from Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok, or by catching one of the regular buses that departs from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Moh Chit). The Bang Pa-In Palace is open from 8:30am until 5pm, although the ticket office closes at 3:30pm. The entrance fee is currently 100 Baht.
Address: Highway 308 Ban Len, Bang Pa-In 13160, Thailand
Admission: 100 Baht
From $ 12
Banganga Tank
In the heart of Mumbai’s most exclusive district, Banganga Tank is one of the oldest and holiest sites in the city. First built in 1127 AD during the Silhara dynasty, this natural freshwater spring is surrounded by the stone-turreted temples and colorful shrines of Walkeshwar Temple Complex. As you sit on the pool’s surrounding steps, notice the wooden pole which appears like an arrow in the middle of the water. Said to point to the center of the earth, legend has it that, 5,000 years ago, while the Hindu god Ram was searching desperately for his kidnapped wife, Sita, he stopped at this spot and begged his brother Lakshmana for a little water. Lakshmana threw an arrow into the ground, and immediately an eruption of water burst forth.
Said to be a tributary of the Ganges, which flows 1,000 miles away, on a visit to Banganga Tank you may well see religious pilgrims bathing themselves in the spiritual healing waters. An especially good time to visit Banganga Tank is in January, when the annual two-day Banganga Festival celebrates classical music performed by Indian musicians from across the country.
Practical Info
On the southern tip of Malabar Hill, in Walkeshwar Temple Complex, Banganga Tank and the temple complex is around a 10-minute walk from Walkeshwar Bus Depot. Entrance is free, and the holy site is open year-round.
Address: Walkeshwar Road, Mumbai, India
Hours: Year-round
From $ 18
Ballestas Islands
A cluster of tiny islands off the Peruvian coast, the Ballestas Islands (Islas Ballestas) are often touted as the “Peruvian Galapagos,” famed for their spectacular variety of birdlife and rugged coastline of soaring cliffs, rocky beaches, and remote sea caves.
The Basics
It’s possible to visit the Ballestas Islands on a 2-hour speedboat tour from Paracas or combine a scenic boat ride with a private tour of the mainland Paracas National Reserve. If you’re visiting from Lima, a full-day Ballestas Islands tour typically takes in the highlights of the Paracas peninsula before continuing to nearby sights like Chincha, the Nazca Lines, or the Huacachina sand dunes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ballestas Islands are only reachable by boat, and landing on the protected islands is prohibited.
- Be sure to pack sunblock as there is no shade on the boat, and also bring a wind or waterproof jacket.
- Boat excursions take place on small open-air boats and you may get splashed with spray, so consider bringing a change of clothes.
How to Get There
The Ballestas Islands are located along the Pacific Coast of Peru and the closest mainland town is Paracas, Pisco, in the Ica region. The only way to visit is on a boat tour, leaving from San Martin Port in Paracas and typically lasting two hours. From Lima, it’s about a 4-hour drive south to Paracas.
When to Get There
December to February is the most popular time to visit the islands, and it coincides with the breeding season for the local sea lion population. But it’s worth a visit anytime of the year, barring extreme weather conditions.
Ballestas Islands Wildlife
Wildlife lovers will be in their element on a Ballestas Islands tour—the rocky islands are home to thousands of birds, sea lions, and penguins. As you pass the landmark Candelabra rock formations and cruise around the islands, look out for Peruvian pelicans, red-legged cormorants, Inca terns, and Peruvian boobies, as well as the island’s famous colony of Humboldt penguins.
Address: Peru
From $ 109
Bandra-Worli Sea Link
Epic bridges are a hallmark of big cities. From the Golden Gate to the Brooklyn Bridge, these concrete and steel structures have become the icons of urban skylines. India’s expansive Bandra-Worli Sea Link, which connects the western suburbs of Mumbai to the well-heeled neighborhood of Bandra, is no exception.
This eight-lane bridge opened to the public in 2009 and cost some $250 million dollars to construct. But locals say that despite a steep price tag the bridge was worth the expense, since it’s finally possible to escape old road bottlenecks between north and south. Travelers love the epic views that await them as they ascend from the color and chaos of Mumbai into the calm, open road. Colorful lights and cool evening breezes make for an ideal evening drive, but visitors agree it’s still worth a trip any time of day.
Practical Info
Nearly 40,000 vehicles traverse the Bandra-Worli Sea Link each day. Travelers should expect to spend upwards of an hour on the drive from Bandra to Worli during peak hours. Cars are expected to pay a minimal toll to access the bridge.
Address: Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Mumbai, India
From $ 50
Bandstand Promenade
Every city has its prime people-watching spot, and in Mumbai, that spot is the Bandstand Promenade. Just over a half mile (1 kilometer) long, this stretch of pedestrian walkway hugging the coast has become one of the city’s most popular hangout spots. On any given day, you’ll see locals jogging or relaxing in the park and young couples sneaking in displays of affection away from the prying eyes of parents.
On weekends and evenings, the promenade’s amphitheater hosts concerts and performances, as well as the annual Mumbai Festival and Celebrate Bandra Festival.
Many of Bollywood’s biggest stars, including Shahrukh Khan, own flats just across the road from the promenade. In 2012, a Walk of the Stars opened on the promenade, featuring life-sized brass tributes to Bollywood legends, each likeness lounging on a park bench.
On weekends and evenings, the promenade’s amphitheater hosts concerts and performances, as well as the annual Mumbai Festival and Celebrate Bandra Festival.
Many of Bollywood’s biggest stars, including Shahrukh Khan, own flats just across the road from the promenade. In 2012, a Walk of the Stars opened on the promenade, featuring life-sized brass tributes to Bollywood legends, each likeness lounging on a park bench.
Address: Byramji Jeejeebhoy Rd, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050, India
From $ 46
Balos Beach and Lagoon
Bridging the gap between the wild Gramvousa Peninsula and the idyllic Cape Tigani, Balos Beach is a startlingly blue lagoon, framed by jagged sea cliffs and pristine pink and white sand beaches. A pocket of paradise, Balos Beach is one of Crete’s most photographed natural beaches.
The Basics
The best way to experience the natural beauty of Balos Beach, is on a boat trip, which affords stunning views of the lagoon and the Mediterranean Sea. A typical full-day tour begins at Rethymnon, Georgioupolis, Kolymbari, or Chania. Continue on to discover the caves around Kissamos Bay, the beautiful beaches of Gramvousa Island, and Imeri Gramvousa fortress, before diving in to swim in the lagoon’s turquoise waters.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Between April and October, visitor facilities include restrooms, a beach café, and sun beds.
- Visitors arriving by road are required to pay a small entrance fee to enter the Balos Reserve and parking area.
How to Get There
Balos Beach is located along the Gramvousa Peninsula on the northwest coast of Crete, around 35 miles (56 kilometers) from Chania and 11 miles (17 kilometers) from Kissamos. Daily ferries run from Kissamos port to Balos, but it’s also possible to arrive by 4WD, following a dirt road from Kaliviani along Cape Gramvousa.
When to Get There
Summer is the most popular time to visit Balos Beach, though the small beach can get crowded—especially in July and August. For peace and quiet, make an early start and arrive before the crowds descend upon the lagoon.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at the Balos Lagoon
The Balos Lagoon is a Natura 2000 reserve, where monk seals and loggerhead sea turtles might be spotted. It’s a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling, and scuba diving—another popular activity around the lagoon—includes the possibility of exploring the underwater wreckage of an English landing craft.
Address: Balos, Crete, Greece
From $ 72
Ballintoy Harbour
Located along the scenic Antrim coast, the harbor of the traditional fishing village of Ballintoy offers striking Atlantic views and insight into a rural way of a life. The village has remained virtually unchanged over the last few centuries, and as such was chosen as a filming location for Pyke’s harbor in Game of Thrones.
The Basics
Due to its recent fame as an Iron Island filming location, the harbor features on a number of Game of Thrones tours. Day tours typically offer round-trip transfer from Dublin or Belfast, and include other highlights such as the Giant’s Causeway, with some offering private service for a more personalized experience. For those with more time, multi-day tours offer a more relaxed pace, while thrillseekers may prefer the more immersive experience of a coasteering excursion.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Remember to pack a sweater and raincoat, as the north Atlantic can be stormy.
- This is a must-see for Games of Thrones enthusiasts or landscape photographers.
- The small village and harbor don’t take much time to explore, so make the most of your time by combining a visit with a wider itinerary.
How to Get There
Ballintoy is located between Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the Giant’s Causeway, both top attractions themselves. The village is easily accessible by road, so take advantage of round-trip transport provided by many sightseeing tours, or take a train to Coleraine then transfer to a bus to complete the journey.
When to Get There
The seasonal blooms of spring and summer along the Antrim coast are a sight to behold, though the harbor itself is famous for its winter views across a stormy Atlantic.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
A half-hour coastal walk from Ballintoy is the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, erected by fishermen over 350 years ago and still worth a visit today. The island across the bridge is ideal for snapping pictures and wildlife watching; be aware, though, that the bridge is closed during turbulent weather.
Address: Belfast, Northern Ireland
From $ 38
Bali Butterfly Park
Butterflies are some of nature’s most fascinating, intriguing, and colorful creatures, and the best place to see them in Indonesia is the Bali Butterfly Park.
At this lush and exceptionally well-manicured enclosure, visitors can walk through a netted area to see 15 different butterfly species in all phases of metamorphoses. It’s an educational visit for children—since the park staff discusses the transformation from caterpillar to cocoon to wings—and you hear about the efforts that are being made to preserve and research the butterflies. Since there are literally hundreds released every day, there’s a magical feel to strolling through gardens that flit and twinkle with color. You’ll also find spiders, scorpions, and beetles displayed inside of glass cases, and the Bali Butterfly Park is a convenient stop when traveling to the island’s north side.
Insider Tip: If possible, try to visit in either early morning or late afternoon when the butterflies are most active.
Practical Info
The Bali Butterfly Park is located 18 miles, or 45 minutes, north of Denpasar, and 20 miles, or just over an hour, from the city of Ubud.
Address: Wanasari village, Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia
Hours: 8am-5pm daily. Last entry is at 4:30pm.
Admission: About $4
From $ 45
Ballycastle
Situated at the east end of the Causeway Coast and to the north of the Glens of Antrim, Ballycastle offers easy access to outdoor delights. The seaside town is filled with old-fashioned pubs and shops, while a family-friendly beach and promenade runs along the shore. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Scotland from here.
The Basics
Ballycastle is on the Causeway Coastal Route and is often visited as part of Northern Ireland day tours and multi-day tours departing from Belfast and Dublin. These tours typically include stops at other nearby sights, such as the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Bushmills. Because of its proximity to Fair Head, Ballintoy, and other filming locations, Ballycastle is also a common stop-off on Game of Thrones tours.
Things to Know Before you Go
- Ballycastle is a must for scenery seekers, outdoors lovers, and Game of Thrones fans.
- Find plenty of cafés, pubs, and fish and chip shops in the village.
- For extra information on Ballycastle, stop by the Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre near the marina.
- Free maps and Wi-Fi are available at the visitor center.
How to Get There
Ballycastle is in County Antrim on the northeast coast of Northern Ireland. From Belfast, drive along the M2 and A44. The journey will take about 70 minutes. Alternatively, follow the longer but more scenic Causeway Coastal Route along the Antrim Coast. Car-less travelers are best going as part of organized tours.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Ballycastle is in summer. During this time, the weather is better suited to outdoor activities, and you’ll find most operators and tourist-oriented businesses open. If you want to experience Ballycastle at its quietest, come in winter when only the resident population remains in place.
Rathlin Island
Ballycastle is the departure point for ferries to Rathlin Island, which sits just 6 miles (9.5 kilometers) offshore. Explore the Boathouse Visitor Centre to find out about life on the island and go trekking along the island’s trails. Hikers often encounter wildlife, such as resident seals and puffins, which are most commonly seen between April and July.
Address: Ballycastle, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland
From $ 45
Baldi Hot Springs
Located at the base of the Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, San Carlos, Baldi Hot Springs features thermo-mineral hot water pools with great views of the volcano. It’s the biggest hot springs facility in the region and the perfect way to relax after hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park.
Located within the Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa, there are day-use options as well as availability for hotel guests. The 25 pools range in temperature from 93 to 152 degrees Fahrenheit and get hotter as the elevation rises. It's recommended that you balance your time between pools, as your core temperature will begin to rise after about 20 minutes in a hot pool. The minerality and temperature of the water is believed to rid the body of germs and viruses while increasing blood circulation and releasing harmful toxins.
For the adventurous, Baldi Hot Springs also has extreme water slides that send you bumping and sliding before landing in the natural hot springs pool. Have children? his site is family friendly and features specially designed secure shallow pools with slides and a continuous stream of water that will keep kids thoroughly entertained.
Practical Info
Despite its proximity to Arenal Volcano, the Baldi Hot Springs are located outside of the volcano risk zone established by the National Prevention of Risks and Emergency Commission. The site is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and smoking is not allowed on the premises. Be sure to bring a waterproof camera and a change of clothes; lockers are available for an additional fee.
Address: Del Centro De La Fortuna 4 Km, San Carlos, Costa Rica
Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Admission: ₡12000
From $ 225
Ban Mae Sa Mai Village
One of the most fascinating and enriching aspects of traveling to Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand is the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of some of the local hill tribes. The Hmong, believed to be the first inhabitants of the Yellow River Valley in China, are today one of the most successful tribes in Thailand, and Ban Mae Sa Mai Village is one of the most accessible Hmong villages from Chiang Mai.
Only reachable via four-wheel vehicles, the mountain village is somewhat of a step back in time, as local residents often don their traditional garb and demonstrate to visitors what day to day life is like in a Hmong village. Since the village is frequented by tourists, the village houses a few shops selling Hmong handicrafts.
Practical Info
While it’s possible to visit Ban Mae Sa Mai Village on a day trip from Chiang Mai, it’s also possible to stay in the night in the area to give you more time to explore the village and surrounding forests.
Address: Thailand
From $ 49