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Visiting El Salvador: Everything You Have to Know

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Visiting El Salvador could be one of a kind experience. An underrated one probably, but… With its abundance of parks, the tiny Central American country that is El Salvador is known for its warm climate, but also for its rather difficult situation. Breathtaking landscapes can be observed as far as the eye can see, giving El Salvador its charm. Although the country is not very developed in terms of tourism, it still has a lot to offer. Geography As mentioned earlier, the country is located in Central America. It is the only country on this continent to touch only the Pacific Ocean. By this fact, we can deduce that it is located completely to the west. Two countries are connected to it: Honduras to the east and Guatemala to the north-west. Throughout El Salvador, there are numerous valleys. There are also many volcanoes, some of which are still active. The country’s main river is the Rio Lempa, located mainly in the north. Know the Climate Before Visiting El Salvador The first season is the dry season, which runs from November to April. The other one is the wet season, which runs from May to October. It is also known as the rainy season. The ideal time to visit El Salvador is during the dry season, for the simple reason that rainfall is practically non-existent, or almost, unlike the wet season, when it rains daily. During the dry season, it’s pleasant to note that it’s very warm, as it is every other day, but the humidity level is remarkably low. So, it’s nice to stay out in the sun. There is also another good thing about this country : because it’s on the west coast, it’s rarely or never hit by hurricanes. One less danger for those who are there during the season! How to Enter the Country For Canadians, the requirements are fairly straightforward: a passport is all you need. There may be different requirements when it comes to different types of stays or countries, such as a temporary passport or an emergency travel document, but there is still a way to enter the country. Other documents, such as visas, are not required for residents of Canada. You can find all the informations you need on your government’s site, it’s usually very clear. Medication and health El Salvador is home to a range of diseases that are not necessarily found in northern Canada. In fact, this is a location where hygiene leaves to be desired. The risk of illness is therefore a little higher. According to the Canadian government’s official website, the recommended vaccines for traveling to El Salvador are yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, influenza, rabies and measles. As you can see, some of these vaccines are recommended when traveling almost anywhere, but it’s still important to have them to avoid any risk of getting sick. As far as food and water safety are concerned, these can occasionally contain cholera, typhoid fever or hepatitis A. So, it’s advisable to be on the safe side. Great caution is therefore advised. Traveler’s diarrhea is also common among tourists to this country. Comparing Canada and El Salvador, the food and water are not at all the same. So it’s a good idea to take some medication with you. The same applies throughout Central America and Mexico. The Canadian government is quite clear: it’s best to be very careful not to consume anything that hasn’t been cooked properly and to drink bottled water while exploring El Salvador. Languages In this country, the official language is Castilian, or Spanish, as in many of the surrounding countries. On the other hand, the country’s varied ethnicity makes it difficult to preserve. That’s why it’s the government’s duty to protect it. You could compare this to law 101, in Quebec, to protect the French language. For them, Spanish is a means of preserving their culture as well as spreading it. Currency and economy El Salvador’s official currency is the US dollar. Currently, 1 Canadian dollar is equivalent to 0.75 US dollars, which is a fairly standard rate. We strongly advise you not to change $50 or $100 bills, as not only are these bills rarely accepted, but they also increase the risk of being robbed. Indeed, this is an ever-present risk, given the level of poverty in El Salvador. Which Transportation to use while Visiting El Salvador The primary means of transport, much used by locals, is the bus. Not only is it affordable, it’s also very efficient, for the simple reason that buses go everywhere, even to neighboring countries. Renting a car is also an option. However, you should be aware that some companies may overcharge tourists. You need to be careful to choose a company that won’t do so. If you want to cross the continent, the boat may also be an option to consider. Several times a week, boats run along the Ruta del Golfo waterway, at an affordable price. Finally, as far as air travel is concerned, even local flights are exorbitantly expensive. So it’s not the most attractive option. Accomodations: Explore El Savador, but Don’t Sleep in their Street When it comes to spending the night in El Salvador, you can expect anything. Hostels and hotels can be very good, but they can also be very unpleasant. It’s a good idea to find out first. Also, there’s the ever-popular Airbnb, but again, it’s all the same. To sum it up, if you do your homework, you should have a good time. It all depends on what you’re looking for! If you’ve enjoyed our article and want to keep the fun going, why not join us on our social media? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for even more updates, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else! Keep the exploration going! Discover more hidden gems and insider tips by browsing through our library of travel articles. https://theglobetrotterbible.com/what-to-do/best-spots-to-visit-in-thailand-before-you-die/

What to do

Best Spots to Visit in Thailand Before You Die

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AH, Thailand… Known for its exotic people and because of the famous Hangover movie. Let me promise you, fellow travelers, this country is not all about partying and meeting weird people. Let’s discover together the best spots to visit in Thailand before you die. Bangkok Wat Phra Kaew Meaning The temple of the Emerald Buddha, this temple is known for being one of the best spots in Thailand to visit. This Buddha is still to this day the most important statue of Thailand. On this same campground, you’ll also find The Grand palace, which is home to the most important art and history of the country. In my opinion, both these locations are worth your time. The architecture is breathtaking and is only $15 USD per person to visit. Wat Pho This is the second most visited temple in Bangkok and also one of the most ancient. It is just south to the previous temple I mentionned. It has been constructed to represent the buddha on its death bed. This location also offers classed on how to do a traditional thai massage, if it’s something you’re interested in. The site is also protected by the UNESCO. What’s so impressive about this temple is its high towers, made of gold with a thousand other colors. I recommend visiting it in the evening because the sunsets are so incredible. Erawan National Park This is probably one of my favorite spots from all my trip, and also one of the best spots to visit in Thailand. Located just 3 hours north of Bangkok, it offers a generous hike where you can observe seven different waterfalls. Swimming is also allowed, so don’t forget to bring a swimsuit. We rented a tour bus from Bangkok, which left at 7am and came back around 10pm. You have to know that this is a trip that’ll take your whole day, but in my opinion extremely worth it. Don’t worry, this hike can also be for beginners. If you’re usually easily out of breath, I promise you this one won’t be a problem. But I also have to warn you : there are A LOT of people who want to visit this place. So, if you hate being crowded, it might not be the best idea for you. Khao San Road This has to be one of the most touristic street in all of Bangkok. I was lucky enough to spend new year’s On Khao San. Let me tell you, it was something! Once again, extremely crowded, but it’s actually reasonable when you go in the middle of the day. You can find multiple bars, local shops, restaurants, and more! We also had the chance to meet a lot of people from all around the world while walking down this exact same street. This location also has to be one of my favorite spots. Outdoors markets You probably have once heard about big, local markets where you can get food, souvenirs and all sorts of things. Well, the good thing about these markets is that they’re outdoors and you can find everything you’re looking for at a reasonable price. The most popular in Bangkok is the Wang Lang Market, located near Don Mueang International Airport. They’re mostly open from 9am to 8pm most of the days, every single day of the week. That is a good thing to do if you don’t feel like going on hikes or visiting temples. There are also evening markets, night markets, weekend markets… I could go on for a while but, you get the point. There’s one for everybody! Chiang Mai Chiang Mai Zoo Yes, I know, not everyone enjoys going to the zoo. But, in my opinion, you should try this one. You can find pandas, giraffes, koalas and elefants in their natural habitat. There are also various animation sites, such as animal shows and tours. The good news is, it will only cost you $10 USD to visit such a big zoo. Pai Village This village is just a few hours up north of Chiang Mai. It may look like a small town where there’s nothing to do, but in my opinion, it has to be one of the highlights of my trip. It is actually a very small town, and it takes up to 3 hours to get there from Chiang Mai, using serpentines roads (not gonna lie, one of us got sick while getting there). This just shows how isolated it is. But, once you get there, you’ll spend an amazing day. You’ll have to rent a scooter if you wanna make sure you get to have some time to visit everything (if you have an international permit, of course). My first recommendation would be the Pai Canyon. It kind of reminds me of the Grand Canyon, which I’ll do an article about in a few weeks. The views are breathtaking and really make you feel like you’re in the middle of the desert, while being in the jungle. If you’re clumbsy like me, be aware. It’s really easy to fall off the cliff, but it’s definitely worth some of your time. Let’s not forget about Pai Hot Springs. Isolated into the naturre, it’s the best way to experience a warm soak. There’s also a very good news : this activity will cost you less than $10 USD. Elephant sanctuaries Chiang Mai is one of the best cities for you to visit elephant sanctuaries. For my part, I went to the famous Bamboo Elephant Family Care, named after the baby elephant that was born a few years ago. If you book a tour with them, you’ll get to feed the elephants, bathe them and more! But I have to warn you : Don’t go anywhere near places where riding them is offered since it’s considered animal abuse. Surat Thani Islands Koh Tao This island is my opinion one of the best spots on the planet to experience snorkeling, which means in other words scuba diving. Personally, I had the

Tips to travel

How to Plan Your First Trip: The Do’s & Don’t

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Ah, the exhilarating journey of planning your very first trip! It’s like preparing for a treasure hunt where the real loot is the memories you’ll make and the stories you’ll gather along the way. But let’s face it, navigating through the labyrinth of flights, accommodations, and all the quirky intricacies of travel can sometimes feel like deciphering hieroglyphs after a night of questionable decision-making thinking about: “How to plan my first trip?”. Fear not, fellow wanderers, for I am here to guide you through this whimsical maze with all the finesse of a GPS system and the humor of a stand-up comedian stuck in an airport security line. So, grab your travel pillow, strap in, and prepare for an adventure that will leave you both enlightened and slightly bewildered. Welcome to the crash course on planning your very first trip where we’ll explore the art of jet-setting with the grace of a seasoned traveler and the enthusiasm of a kid in a candy store. Buckle up, folks, we’re about to take off into the wild blue yonder of travel planning, where the only turbulence you’ll encounter is the occasional hiccup in your carefully crafted itinerary. Let the journey begin! Plan your First Trip: The Flight Flights can be expensive and complicated to book and/or understand if you’ve never had to travel by plane. Let me guide you through this. First of all, you need to know the dates of your trip (after knowing where you want to go, of course.) My favourite tool to chose a flight is called Skyscanner, which is a website that will look up all the companies that sell flights, to help you make the best and cheapest decision, if the budget is an issue for you. The good thing about this website is that you can also search for the cheapest destinations if you dont know where you want to travel. You can also chose the option to not pick any specific dates, so that’ll also help you to find a flight at a lower price. Another tool that I like to use, if you’re open to any destination, is something called Les Vols d’Alexi. The only issue with this one is that you have to subscibe for 5$ CAD a month, but you’ll get the most exclusive and cheapest deals to travel around the world. Alexi sends an email almost every single day about a new deal he just found. In my opinion, for 5$, you’ll be saving a lot of money in the long-term and it’s totally worth the price – Girl’s math. Also, don’t forget to keep a copy of your flight informations and tickets to make sure there is nothing unexpected happening once you’re already at the airport. What I like to do is put my ticket with my passport if I’m traveling internationally, because I know I’ll need it at some point. Last but not least, make sure to get to the airport AT LEAST 2 hours before your flight. There is often a significant amout of wait time, so let me tell you, you don’t want to miss your flight because you got there late. The Accomodations Anywhere in the world, there are many types of accomodations. You just need to do your reaserch and find the one type that suits you best. TIP : Don’t forget to match the dates with your itinerary, you don’t want to find yourself sleeping in the streets! (yes, I’m unfortunately saying this from experience… I’m gonna tell you this story later in an other article.) Hotels They are the most common type of accomodations. You can find anything you’d like, on a variety of websites. My favourite is Trivago, because just like Skyscanner, it looks up all the companies that offer hotels. So, you can easily find a good deal with this one. The one good thing about hotels is that you are typically offered amenities and breakfast, depending on the room you chose. There are twin-sized bed, queen-size bed, king-sized bed room, suites… pretty much anything that you could imagine. Once again, it all depends on what kind of hotel, room and service you’d like best. Hostels This one is for the people who don’t mind about their intimacy and enjoy meeting people from all around the world. An hostel is usually very public. What I mean by that is that the rooms are furnished with single beds, which makes it most likely that you’ll have to sleep next to strangers. That’s why they are way cheaper than a regular hotel. If you’re a teenager/young adult, I highly recommend it because you’ll get to meet a lot of people that are in their 20’s, and like I just said, you get to meet plenty of people from all around the world. Airbnb / Vrbo The Airbnb might be a favourite of mine. Not only is it sometimes cheaper than a hotel, but you get to have your own private house for the duration of your stay. It is very popular with friend groups. Once again, you’ll have plenty of options depending on where you decided to go. There are private rooms, whole houses, shacks, apartments and so on… The only negative point, compared to the hotel, is that you’ll have to buy your own food if you want to cook breakfast, because if there are Airbnb’s or Vrbo’s that offer breakfast, I’ve never seen one. Campings / State parks That is more relevant if you’re traveling with a tent or an RV. Indeed, campings, as you may know, are outdoor spaces. So, if you don’t have any of those, it might not be the best options for you. But, once again, it’s a great way to meet new people. There are also very cheap options, as some others are more expensive. You’ll have to do your research, because there are so many of them, everywhere. State parks are also a thing. The difference is that you get to sleep in the nature, with no one around

Tips to travel

All-inclusive Resorts : What to expect?

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All inclusive resorts can be found all around the world, but mainly in southern and exotic countries, such as Jamaica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Vietnam, etc. Most people think that these resorts are made for older people, that it’s boring, all there is to do is drink and that you won’t get to use your phone for the entire time of your stay. Let me break it to you, these stereotypes are far from true. Meeting people It is well known that these resorts mostly attract North Americans. Although, you can find travelers from all around the world, and that’s in my opinion the best part of traveling there. I remember from a few years ago, when I was just in Dominican Republic, we had the occasion to play beach volleyball with a guy from Germany and a woman from Sweden. Later on, someone in the group broke her finger while playing water polo, so this same woman, being a surgeon in her own country, literally fixed her finger. That’s how easy it is to make friends in an all-inclusive resort. The staff Those who work there are geniuenely the kindest individuals you’ll ever encounter. These countries are not the richest and run on tourism, so the staff works hard to make a living out of it and to make sure you’ll want to come back. Myself made some friends who were part of the staff, because they are so nice, friendly and generous. Here’s a little tip for you all : If you want to please the staff (especially the bartenders and servers), offer them just a little bit of money from time to time. It can literally be $1 USD, but you’ll still become their best friend and they’ll give you a special treatment. What is there to do? On the site Most resorts offer the same kind of activities on site : spas, gym, paddleboard, water ski, etc. There is one for everyone there. Many of these place also offer a huge variety of restaurants. You can always find an all-you-can-eat restaurant, which is typically where you eat breakfast and lunch. But, in the evening, fancier restaurants are open. They all have a different theme : italian, african, seafood, mexican, etc. So, let me reassure you, you eat extremely well in an all-inclusive resort. You also usually find a big pool and a big beach with chairs with umbrellas. They sometimes also offer a VIP section, which is less busy than the regular area. That is if you paid for the option, of course. Outside of the site Most of the all-inclusive resorts, if not all, offer excursions outside the site. You can think of anything, depending on the country you’re staying. There are a lot of yatch tours, where you can visit different islands, go snorkeling, swim in clear blue water… I’m also thinking of visiting historic sites. For example, when I was in Cancun, I went to visit the famous Chichenitza site, which is part of the mexican history. Of course, you have to pay for those as it is not included in the price of the trip.  Also, you are always free to go out of the resort by yourself to discover the surroundings. Not everything has to be related to this one place! What to bring The resorts will usually have a lot of amenities for you to use, in the rooms or for the beach. For example, the staff can lend you freshly dried towels for the beach/pool, so that’s one thing you won’t need to pack in your suitcase. Plus, in the rooms, you’ll typically find an hair dryer, multiple power outlets, the towels come in all sizes and you’ll also find soap, shampoo and everything you need to shower. Most of the time, there is also a small store on site where you can buy other types of amenities and souvenirs, such as medication, other brands of soaps, games, snacks and more! So, to sum up, all you really need to bring is your clothes, shoes, bathing suits and some other specific products you might think of. That’s one of the best parts about all-inclusive resorts : everything is included! Beware of the salesmen! Some resorts own the beach, and some others don’t. On those beach, you’ll often see people walking around, asking you if you want to buy their products. If you refuse to buy, they’ll leave you alone. But, it’s not forbidden to buy a souvenir from them, as it is often hand-crafted, which makes it more authentic. The prices are also reasonable, in case you were wondering. It won’t be any more expensive than any other store. If you’ve enjoyed our article and want to keep the fun going, why not join us on our social media? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for even more updates, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else! Keep the exploration going! Discover more hidden gems and insider tips by browsing through our library of travel articles. https://theglobetrotterbible.com/what-to-do/guide-to-explore-toronto-in-spring/

What to do

Explore Toronto in Spring: April Fools or April Fabulous

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Welcome, fellow adventurers, to the wondrous city of Toronto, where the sights are stunning, the food is fabulous, and the people are… well, let’s just say they’re pretty darn awesome! As April blooms into full swing, it’s the perfect time to pack your bags, grab your sense of humor, and dive headfirst into all the hilarity and excitement this vibrant city has to offer. So, buckle up and get ready for a trip to remember and get ready to explore Toronto. Weather Shenanigans Ah, April in Toronto – the time when Mother Nature can’t seem to make up her mind! One moment you’re basking in the warm sunshine, and the next, you’re dodging raindrops the size of golf balls. But hey, who needs consistency when you can have spontaneity? Embrace the unpredictable weather like a true Torontonian and pack your umbrella one minute and sunscreen the next. It’s all part of the adventure! Explore Toronto & its Outdoors April in Toronto means saying goodbye to winter’s frosty grip and hello to budding flowers and chirping birds. Embrace the crisp air and venture to High Park, where cherry blossoms paint the landscape in shades of pink and white. Pro tip: Avoid reenacting scenes from The Princess Diaries under the trees—those branches may not be as supportive as they seem! For the brave souls, dare to take a dip in Lake Ontario—emphasis on dare. While the water may still be chilly, the sight of fellow swimmers braving the waves might just warm your heart (if not your toes!). Foodie Adventures Toronto’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population, and April brings a smorgasbord of delicious delights. Start your day with a hearty brunch at one of the city’s trendy cafes—just be prepared to wait in line longer than it takes for spring to arrive in Canada! Feeling adventurous? Hunt down some of Toronto’s infamous food trucks. From gourmet grilled cheese to Korean-Mexican fusion, these mobile kitchens are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Plus, chasing after a moving target adds an extra layer of excitement to your dining experience! Patio Puns and Pints What better way to soak up the April sunshine than by indulging in some patio hopping? Toronto’s vibrant bar and restaurant scene offers up a plethora of patios perfect for sipping cocktails, enjoying a cold brew, and engaging in some top-notch people-watching. And hey, if the weather takes a turn for the worse, just think of it as an opportunity to test out your best dad jokes under the cover of an awning – trust me, hilarity ensues! Here’s 5 spots to discover: The Pilot Tavern Located in the heart of Yorkville, The Pilot Tavern boasts a spacious rooftop patio offering stunning views of the city skyline. Enjoy a cold drink and delicious pub fare while soaking up the sunshine in this iconic Toronto spot. You can also enjoy their saturday jazz and relax on a musical notes. Amsterdam Brewhouse Situated along the picturesque waterfront at Queens Quay, Amsterdam Brewhouse offers not only delicious craft beers brewed on-site but also a sprawling patio overlooking Lake Ontario. It’s the perfect place to unwind with friends and enjoy the gentle breeze off the water. Hemingway’s Nestled in the bustling Yorkville neighborhood, Hemingway’s is a lively pub known for its expansive patio and lively atmosphere. Sip on a refreshing cocktail or indulge in classic pub grub while basking in the sunshine and people-watching on Yorkville Avenue. El Catrin Destileria Located in Toronto’s historic Distillery District, El Catrin Destileria features a vibrant Mexican-inspired patio adorned with colorful umbrellas and festive decor. Savor authentic Mexican cuisine and sip on handcrafted margaritas while enjoying the lively ambiance of this popular patio spot. The Porch at Rock ‘n’ Horse Saloon Situated in the heart of downtown Toronto, The Porch at Rock ‘n’ Horse Saloon offers a unique rooftop patio experience with a country twist. Kick back with a cold beer or signature cocktail and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and bustling streets below. With live music and a lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the sun and enjoy a taste of southern hospitality in the heart of the city. These patio hotspots offer the perfect combination of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and sunny ambiance, making them must-visit destinations for anyone looking to enjoy a sunny day in Toronto. Yeehaw, cowboys and cowgirls! Let’s explore Toronto with a touch of old-country charm. Cultural Escapades No trip to Toronto is complete without immersing yourself in its vibrant arts scene. April showers may bring May flowers, but they also provide the perfect excuse to duck into one of the city’s many museums or galleries. Explore the Royal Ontario Museum and marvel at ancient artifacts—or, if you’re feeling particularly whimsical, stage your own Night at the Museum-esque adventure (just don’t blame us if the exhibits come to life)! For a dose of laughter, catch a show at one of Toronto’s comedy clubs. Who knows, you might even spot the next big thing in stand-up—or at the very least, get some material for your own amateur comedy routine! Conclusion For those seeking Toronto adventures in April, this guide is your ticket to navigating the city’s eclectic offerings with humor and flair. From outdoor escapades to culinary delights, cultural excursions, and the occasional April Fools’ prank, Toronto in April promises an unforgettable experience for all. So pack your sense of adventure (and maybe an umbrella, just in case) and get ready to discover the magic of the Great White North! If you’ve enjoyed our article and want to keep the fun going, why not join us on our social media? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for even more updates, behind-the-scenes, and exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else!

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