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More Than A Postcard: Tourism & Tradition in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Once part of a volcanic crater, formed more than 80,000 years ago, the lake’s history is as layered as the hills that surround it. Travelling here, you are a visitor to a space that transcends time, with traditional textile activities, customs, sacred ceremonies, myths and stories, which go back centuries, still present and demonstrated in and around the lake today. The people in the village are very connected to nature, following traditions which go back generations - for example, using plant m...
hptraveldiaries •

Morocco Through Our Eyes: The Land of Souks, Camels, Tea and Tajine!

When we first looked into it, we were tempted to book a flight, because the idea of a 9 hour bus ride in Morocco sounded like it could be a bit of an adventure, and not overly comfortable. However, our volunteering hosts advised us that the best way to get to Tagounite was by taking the bus from Marrakech. Not only is it a more cultural experience, but it’s also actually a lot more comfortable than we thought it would be, and the views are very scenic as you go round the windy mountain roads. P....
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My top 3 solo travel destinations

Your first solo travel experience will ultimately depend on the destination you select, therefore it's important that you pick wisely. I understand the mix of excitement and nerves that come with jetting off solo for the first time - and these feelings re-emerge before every trip, even though I've travelled to 14 countries on my own. Here are three of my favourite solo-travel destinations that stood out to me...There are plenty of great hostels to choose from, one being, We Hate F Tourists. But...
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24 hours: A budget and solo traveller’s guide to Edinburgh, Scotland

With cobblestone streets, small boutiques, and hidden walkways, there’s no doubt it’s a city full of endless charm, and it's very walkable. Despite its high prices compared to other towns in the UK, there are many affordable things to do in the city, if you're on a budget. In regard to solo travel, did you know it’s one of the safest cities in the UK?It seamlessly blends the old with the new, with a medieval castle perched atop a volcanic rock, as well as Gothic architecture and other ancient bu...
hptraveldiaries •

4 Reasons Why Colombia Beckons Solo Travellers

Buses are an even more affordable transport option, and the network is extensive. Bus companies like Bolivariano, Rapido Ochoa, and Expreso Brasilia connect major cities and towns, and they can be booked online via redbus. The only thing I'd note with buses is that you should expect delays. For example, going from Salento to Jardín, was only meant to take 3 hours - but it ended up taking 10! As a solo traveller, I'd recommend avoiding travelling on buses at night, especially on less-travelled ro...
hptraveldiaries •

How To Make The Most Of A Parisian Weekend On A Budget

Paris is known for being an expensive city with its fine dining, luxury hotels and haute couture. But, there are plenty of ways to explore the French capital on a budget, with careful planning and a local guide (i.e. my friend on her work abroad).

I stayed with my friend in the 16th arrondissement, which was right in the centre - a 10 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower viewpoint, Trocadero, and a 10 minute walk to the Arc De Triomphe. With numerous metro stations in the area, it was quite easy t
hptraveldiaries •

Discover the Ultimate Wellness Retreat in the Heart of Seville, Spain

Seville is a city located in the Spanish autonomous community of Andalusia. Whether you want to see a flamenco performance, get a taste for the tapas scene, walk through quaint neighborhoods or observe eye-catching monuments, Seville encapsulates an ambivalent and enticing nature, which no tourist can ignore.

Despite visiting at the start of March, the temperature was around 20 degrees plus, making it the ideal winter-sun, European escape. As well as this, the city is bursting with culture and
hptraveldiaries •

Top 5 Things To Do In Barcelona

Known for its architecture, cuisine, and nightlife, Barcelona ranks as one of the most popular cities in Europe. With the perfect combination of coastal tranquility and city hustle-and-bustle, it entices a diverse range of travellers.

The iconic landmark which you cannot miss - Antoni Gaudi's masterpiece. Although it has been under construction for 130 years, it still remains unfinished. It's one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain, so it can get very crowded. Because of this, it's
HPtravels •

A Cosy New Year's Retreat with Friends: Nature Walks, Pub Grub And Cottage Comforts

After many years of partying as the clock struck midnight, I decided a change of scenery was more of the vibe I was going for this year. So, as the bells rang and the fireworks began on the TV, I found myself nestled in the heart of Surrey, England, on a three-day escape with friends.

Living in London, Surrey is only about 40 minutes away by car, making it a very quick and easy escape from the chaos of New Year's Eve in the touristy capital.

On day one, we drove to Boxhill, a place which is pa
HPtravels •

An Idyllic Find in Bocas Del Toro, Panama

Bocas Del Toro has one of a kind charm, attracting an estimated '100,000 visitors per year'. It is located just a short boat ride from Almirante (Panama mainland), even if it is a rather rocky and uncomfortable one.

Its name refers to a small piece of mainland - Isla Colon - home to Bocas Town (the tourist hotspot), and an archipelago of islands.

Water taxis are the primary mode of transportation between Isla Colon and the other nearby islands. For someone like myself, who is used to the public transport functioning city
HPtravels •

An evening of elegance at Mozarthaus

Vienna is an enchanting city rich with music, art and history, a place which culture enthusiasts would classify as 'paradise'.

Travelling to Vienna mirrors travelling through time, with the echoes of classical compositions, from the likes of Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Bruckner, and others, lingering in the air.

I had the opportunity to be in the space where the musical genius, Mozart, once lived and composed (three floors above). He and his family lived in the building, which is now named Moz
HPtravels •

Border Crossing: Vienna to Bratislava in under 60 minutes

Taking the bus from Vienna (Austria) to Bratislava (Slovakia)

Are you looking for a day trip from Vienna, Austria? Or maybe you’re looking for your next city-stop or city-break?

The Vienna to Bratislava bus ride is a true hidden gem, connecting not just two capital cities, but also two countries in just under an hour!

Costing from around 4 euros and up, this is one of the quickest and cheapest bus rides you’ll take to reach another country.

The allure of this journey lies not only in its bre
HPtravels •

The Benefits of Solo Travel And Why You Should Try It at Least Once in Your Life

Solo travel has surged globally, with millennials and Gen Zs leading this trend, citing a desire for self-discovery and independence, and forming a new cultural norm of travelling alone.

So why is it so popular and why should you give it a go?

Solo-travelling gives you the opportunity to self-reflect. When you’re in a new environment without the influence of familiar faces, you are able to better understand what your strengths and limitations are, as well as your likes and dislikes. Through the
hptraveldiaries •

3 Reasons To Add A Surf-Camp To Your Travel Bucket List

Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate, surf-camps offer the perfect blend of challenge and community.

They are the best way to get a taste of the culture surrounding surfing, which is more than just riding waves.

You bond with others over the fact you got ‘washing-machined’ by a wave, or rode it ‘like a pro’, and support one another through the ups and the downs of the experience. You be-friend people from various places around the world, despite language barriers, and learn about each other
HPtravels •

72 hours in Vienna

Solo-exploring Vienna, Austria's capital city, in November, uncovering hidden gems, trying culinary delights and witnessing the city's remarkable contrasts between modernity and tradition.

I spent three days in this enchanting city, people-watching from aesthetic cafes, attending a live performance, discovering the famous Christmas market, wandering around impressive palaces and admiring other stunning elements.

Three days is enough time to appreciate everything the city has to offer, making i
HPtravels •

ICELAND TRAVEL GUIDE: A White Christmas

A place full of friendly locals, tourism hotspots, and scenery like nowhere else. But, Iceland at Christmas time is even more magical.

After experiencing winter in Iceland, it is now clear to me why it is one of the most popular times to visit.

Due to limited daylight in December (approximately around 5 hours), you have to take advantage of the hours of light and renting a car is the best way to do this. You can create your own schedule and weather conditions are less likely to get in the way o
HPtravels •

4 days in Malta

Malta - an island with fascinating history, unique architecture, breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable sunsets and clear blue water.

Many travellers venture there in the warmer months of the summer, when it’s heaving with tourists and sun-seekers. However, despite the slightly cooler temperatures in March, the off-season is way quieter and slightly cheaper.

We stayed in a hotel located in St Paul’s Bay; Mayflower Hotel. It cost us 149 euros for four nights for two people. With a rooftop pool
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