MK Travel With https://travelwithmk.com/ Adventures beyond borders Fri, 31 Jan 2025 12:34:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://travelwithmk.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MK-Travel-With-150x150.jpg MK Travel With https://travelwithmk.com/ 32 32 Beautiful Places to Visit in Argentina https://travelwithmk.com/beautiful-places-to-visit-in-argentina/ Thu, 02 Jan 2025 11:10:39 +0000 https://travelwithmk.com/?p=38 From the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the spectacular vistas of Patagonia, Argentina offers a diverse palette of natural and cultural wonders. This South American gem beckons travelers with its vibrant cities, rich history and some of the most stunning scenery our planet has to offer. Embark on a journey to explore ten of […]

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From the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the spectacular vistas of Patagonia, Argentina offers a diverse palette of natural and cultural wonders. This South American gem beckons travelers with its vibrant cities, rich history and some of the most stunning scenery our planet has to offer. Embark on a journey to explore ten of the most beautiful places that are sure to capture your heart and leave you with lasting memories.

Buenos Aires – The Paris of South America

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is a vibrant metropolis that combines European elegance with Latin flavor. The city is known for its impressive architecture, cultural events and vibrant nightlife. Stroll along wide avenues and cobblestone streets, admiring grand buildings and historic districts such as San Telmo and La Boca. The colorful Caminito Street Museum and the famous Casa Rosada presidential palace await you here.

Enjoy the city’s passion for tango: sultry dance halls invite locals and visitors to witness this romantic art form. Gastronomes will enjoy the city’s culinary scene, where traditional parillas (steakhouses) serve succulent cuts of beef and upscale restaurants offer a combination of gourmet dishes. The city’s numerous parks, such as Bosques de Palermo, provide a respite from the greenery, and the thriving art scene, with museums like MALBA, showcases Latin American creativity in all its glory.

Iguazu Falls are a thunderous natural wonder

Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, the Iguazu Falls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Spanning 2.7 kilometers and with 275 separate cascades, the falls create a spectacular sight. The surrounding Iguazu National Park offers a variety of flora and fauna, including colorful birds and capuchin monkeys, enhancing this unique ecological experience.

Pathways and viewing platforms, such as Devil’s Throat, allow visitors to get a closer look at the roaring waters. For the adventurous, a boat ride offers a breathtaking view from the riverbank. In addition to the falls, the park’s subtropical rainforest invites you on guided tours to learn about native plants and wildlife, providing a deep dive into this natural wonder.

Patagonia is a majestic land of glaciers and mountains

Argentine Patagonia is a vast region of spectacular scenery, from crystal clear lakes to snow-capped peaks. Los Glaciares National Park is the jewel in its crown, home to the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive ice formation that is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing. The park offers boat tours and hiking opportunities to admire close-up views of the glacier wall and its spectacular ice chipping events.

Further south, the rugged beauty of Tierra del Fuego awaits explorers. Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, serves as the gateway to Tierra del Fuego National Park and the starting point for expeditions to Antarctica. Adventure activities abound here, from hiking and skiing to cruises through the Beagle Strait to see sea lions, penguins and dolphins. Patagonia’s unspoiled nature is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, promising an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature.

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What to See in China: the Main Sights of the Country https://travelwithmk.com/what-to-see-in-china-the-main-sights-of-the-country/ Thu, 12 Dec 2024 23:54:00 +0000 https://travelwithmk.com/?p=55 The grandeur of ancient temples, the noise of megacities and the peace of mountain provinces – welcome to China. The country is big and you will not be able to see everything, even if you stay in the Celestial Empire for life. But you can visit the main sights of China in one visit. How […]

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The grandeur of ancient temples, the noise of megacities and the peace of mountain provinces – welcome to China. The country is big and you will not be able to see everything, even if you stay in the Celestial Empire for life. But you can visit the main sights of China in one visit. How to do it and what exactly is worth seeing, we will tell you in this article.

What you need to know before traveling

People travel to China most often to see the imperial palaces in Beijing, climb the Great Wall, see the Terracotta Army and the mountainous nature of Asia, but also for the delicious food, Hainan beaches, Tibetan temples and the skyscrapers of Shanghai. The most visited cities are Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong and Macau.

What to see in Beijing

Beijing is the capital of China, the main cultural city, the keeper of history and centuries-old traditions. People come here to see the palaces of emperors, the Temple of Heaven and Mao Zedong’s mausoleum. Let’s tell you about these and other important historical places in Beijing.

Forbidden City

The main palace of the 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties who ruled from 1420 to 1918. For many years ordinary people were not allowed to enter the city: the ruling emperor’s family lived here, and it was forbidden to enter without permission on pain of death. Now everyone can get there. Inside: throne rooms, the main palace, religious buildings, pavilions, pavilions, arbors, galleries, lakes and gardens. The palace is listed in the UNESCO list and is located in the very center of Beijing.

Summer Palace

In the Forbidden City the emperors of China lived and ruled the Celestial Empire, and in the Summer Palace they rested from state affairs. It includes 3,000 buildings and a painted corridor 728 meters long – about 8,000 paintings hang on the walls. The Summer Palace is considered one of the best preserved imperial gardens in the world. It is located on the northwestern outskirts of Beijing.

Temple of Heaven

The temple was built from 1420 to 1530 and is almost 500 years old. The emperors of China observed a three-day fast once a year, brought generous gifts here and prayed for the prosperity of the state. The temple is on the UNESCO list. It is located in the center of Beijing.

Mao Zedong Mausoleum

Memorial to revolutionary and founder of the People’s Republic of China Mao Zedong. The mausoleum has several historical halls, the main one containing a crystal coffin with the remains of the leader. The mausoleum is located in the center of Beijing.

Tiananmen Square

A large square opposite Mao Zedong’s mausoleum. The name translates as “Gate of Heavenly Tranquility.” Here, on October 1, 1949, Mao announced the establishment of the People’s Republic of China.

Main attractions of China

Great Wall of China

Where: northern part of China ~ 70 km from Beijing.

The construction of the Great Wall began in the 3rd century B.C., and was finished only in 1644. It was built to clearly mark the borders of China and to defend against nomadic enemies. The Great Wall of China is even mentioned in the anthem of the People’s Republic of China – so great is its importance for the people of China. It is included in the UNESCO list. It is the longest artificial construction in the world. The first traveler who conquered the Great Wall of China spent 5 months on foot.

Terracotta Army

Where: Shanxi province, Xi’an city.

There was an emperor in the 3rd century B.C. – Qin Shihuangdi. He ascended the throne at the age of 13 and began to build himself a huge tomb in advance. The emperor’s plan was to erect several thousand statues of warriors to accompany him after his death. It is said that this is how he decided to satisfy his power ambitions even in the other world. Qin Shihuangdi lived to 48 years. The burial site is on the UNESCO list.

What else is worth considering

WeChat. The main app in China that everyone uses. Combines messenger, online banking, cab ordering, home rentals and more. We recommend installing and using it when you arrive in the country. You can only sign up through a local SIM card or with the help of another user.

Language. In China poorly know English, it is spoken only in large cities, and then not everywhere. Few signs are translated into English, and street names, the words “toilet” and “cafe” are often needed to use maps. We advise you to download an offline translator and actively use it, the locals are fine with it.

Air. The country has a high level of air pollution. We recommend taking a mask with you – almost everyone in China uses them.

Souvenirs. From China you can bring: tea, porcelain, fans, Chinese spices, cosmetics, Chinese silk, rice vodka, jade jewelry. Chinese lanterns or beautiful chopsticks are sold everywhere.

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Lesbian Traveler: Stories, Tips and Safe Routes https://travelwithmk.com/lesbian-traveler-lestalkmoretravel/ Sun, 14 Jul 2024 17:33:00 +0000 https://travelwithmk.com/?p=24 Travel opens up the world to us, giving us new emotions and unique experiences. For lesbian travelers, an important aspect of travel becomes not only the destination itself, but also safety, acceptance and comfort. And while the world has become more inclusive, choosing safe and welcoming destinations is still a hot topic for many. In […]

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Travel opens up the world to us, giving us new emotions and unique experiences. For lesbian travelers, an important aspect of travel becomes not only the destination itself, but also safety, acceptance and comfort. And while the world has become more inclusive, choosing safe and welcoming destinations is still a hot topic for many. In this article, we’ll look at some helpful stories, tips and itineraries for lesbian travelers.

Lesbian traveler stories

Many lesbian travelers share how important it is to choose destinations where they can feel free and safe. Sarah from the UK, for example, recounts: “My travels in Europe have been absolutely wonderful, especially in cities like Amsterdam and Barcelona where LGBTQ+ communities are supported at all levels. I feel confident and relaxed in places like that.”

Thomasina from Canada adds: “I discovered Sydney as the perfect destination for lesbian travelers. The beaches, nightlife, and variety of activities, including Gay Pride, make it a unique and friendly place for women who want to explore the world without fear.”

Tips for lesbian female travelers

Research local traditions and laws

Before traveling to a country, make sure it supports LGBTQ+ rights. Some regions may have strict laws restricting the rights of lesbian and gay tourists. Research the specifics of local norms and customs to avoid unpleasant situations.

Choose inclusive destinations

Many cities and countries such as Amsterdam, Barcelona and San Francisco are known for their tolerance and openness. These places host events, gatherings and celebrations that will help you find like-minded people and feel part of a big inclusive family.

Don’t forget about safety

Even in friendly places, it’s worth remembering personal safety. Make sure your routes and accommodation are safe and well-lit. Notify friends or family of your location and time to return to your hotel.

Use technology for convenience

Mobile apps and websites for LGBTQ+ travelers, such as “Gay Cities” or “Pink Pill,” provide helpful information about places, clubs and events that are especially suitable for lesbian travelers. This will help you find the best spots to socialize and relax.

Best Safe Routes

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a mecca for lesbian female travelers and offers a wide range of nightclubs, cafes, and cultural events. The city is also known for its support of LGBTQ+ rights and its annual Pride Parade.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam has been a model for other cities on equality and human rights for many years. With many cozy cafes, bars and activities, the city welcomes all travelers, including lesbians.

Conclusion

Traveling is an opportunity to discover new horizons and learn about other cultures. It is important for lesbian female travelers to feel safe and confident that their chosen destination will open up new opportunities for them. By choosing inclusive and welcoming cities, travelers can not only enjoy new discoveries, but also feel free and comfortable anywhere in the world.

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Unknown Europe: Cozy Towns for the Perfect Weekend https://travelwithmk.com/europe-lesser-known-towns-weekend-getaways/ Fri, 10 May 2024 17:17:00 +0000 https://travelwithmk.com/?p=17 When it comes to traveling in Europe, everyone immediately thinks of Paris, Rome or Barcelona. But beyond the popular routes lie the real gems – small, cozy towns where you can feel the true spirit of the country, enjoy the leisurely pace of life and avoid the crowds of tourists. Annecy, France This city on […]

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When it comes to traveling in Europe, everyone immediately thinks of Paris, Rome or Barcelona. But beyond the popular routes lie the real gems – small, cozy towns where you can feel the true spirit of the country, enjoy the leisurely pace of life and avoid the crowds of tourists.

Annecy, France

This city on the shores of Lake Annecy is often called the “Venice of France”. Narrow streets, canals, flowering balconies and an ancient castle create a unique atmosphere. Here you can take a boat ride on the lake, taste the local tom cheese and just enjoy the Alpine air.

Albarracín, Spain

An ancient town in Aragon, where time seems to have stopped in the Middle Ages. Narrow stone streets, fortress walls and stunning views of the surrounding mountains make it the perfect place for a secluded vacation.

Bled, Slovenia

Famous for its picturesque lake and small island with a church, only accessible by boat. Bled cream cake is a must on the gastronomic itinerary!

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

This town looks like it stepped off the pages of a fairy tale: winding streets, Gothic houses, a majestic castle and cozy cafes by the Vltava River. Perfect for leisurely strolls and the atmosphere of old Europe.

Dinan, Belgium

A charming town on the river Maas, surrounded by cliffs and forests. The saxophone was born here, so the spirit of jazz is in the air. A stroll along the waterfront and a tasting of Belgian beer is the best way to end the day.

These towns are a great alternative to noisy megacities. They will give you a cozy, unhurried and real European atmosphere. Where would you like to spend your next weekend?

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Best LGBTQ Destinations: Traveling Without Borders https://travelwithmk.com/destination-lgbtq/ Sat, 18 Nov 2023 10:26:00 +0000 https://travelwithmk.com/?p=21 The world of travel has become more accessible and inclusive to the LGBTQ community. From friendly cities to unique cultural events, many destinations around the world open their doors to people of all orientations and identities. Here are a few places where everyone can feel comfortable and safe. Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam has long been a […]

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The world of travel has become more accessible and inclusive to the LGBTQ community. From friendly cities to unique cultural events, many destinations around the world open their doors to people of all orientations and identities. Here are a few places where everyone can feel comfortable and safe.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam has long been a symbol of freedom and inclusivity. Since day one, when the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, Amsterdam has remained a hub for the LGBTQ community. The city, known for its canals, museums and nightlife, hosts a huge Pride parade every year.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is not only great architecture and beaches, but it is also a warmly welcoming city for LGBTQ tourists. Barcelona Pride is not only about the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudi, but also about the variety of cultural events, bars and clubs. Barcelona Pride in Barcelona is one of the most colorful in Europe.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is one of the most progressive and liberal cities in Europe. LGBTQ+ communities are firmly established here, and the city’s streets have witnessed many historic events to protect the rights of sexual minorities. It’s easy to find places to socialize and have fun, as well as walk through historic neighborhoods and learn about the city’s role in the fight for equality.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney is not only one of Australia’s most beautiful cities, but also a place that is always supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. Sydney’s Pride Parade is one of the largest in the world, and Visak Festival is becoming a vibrant symbol of openness and inclusivity.

San Francisco, USA

San Francisco is rightly considered the capital of American gay culture. With its history dating back to the 1960s, the city continues to be a place for open expression of identity and equality. Walking down Gay Street, participating in Pride parades and a host of themed events will make your stay unforgettable.

These destinations will not only provide a comfortable travel experience, but will also help deepen your understanding of the culture and historical context in which the LGBTQ community has defended its rights. Traveling through these cities, you will feel free and equal anywhere in the world.

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How to Avoid Travel Mistakes: Personal Tricks and Tips https://travelwithmk.com/how-to-avoid-travel-mistakes-personal-tricks-and-tips/ Wed, 02 Aug 2023 05:14:00 +0000 https://travelwithmk.com/?p=67 Traveling is always a new adventure, but sometimes small mistakes can turn it into a stressful experience. Over the years of traveling, I’ve accumulated a few tricks that will help you avoid common problems and make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. First, always check the rules and requirements for entering the country you are […]

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Traveling is always a new adventure, but sometimes small mistakes can turn it into a stressful experience. Over the years of traveling, I’ve accumulated a few tricks that will help you avoid common problems and make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.

First, always check the rules and requirements for entering the country you are going to. There are often changes in visa regulations, vaccination requirements or quarantine measures. For example, in some countries a passport is sufficient, while in others you may need a special visa or health insurance. Familiarize yourself with these rules in advance so you don’t end up in an unpleasant situation at the border.

It’s also worth remembering about chargers and adapters. Despite the fact that cell phones and other gadgets have now become an integral part of travel, many people forget about outlet adapters. Before traveling, check what outlet standards are used in your destination country and bring an adapter if you need one.

Don’t forget about insurance. Very often it is ignored, thinking that nothing will happen to them. But a case of lost luggage, injury or sudden illness can turn out to be a significant expense. It is better to spend some money on insurance than to risk your comfort and safety.

One of the most common mistakes is planning an itinerary that is too tight. I used to make this mistake of trying to see everything in a few days. But this only causes fatigue and frustration. It’s better to plan your days more loosely, giving yourself time for rest and spontaneous discoveries.

Another important rule is not to forget about local currency. Bank cards are convenient, but don’t always work in remote locations or markets. It’s better to have some cash so you don’t get into an awkward situation where you can’t pay with a card.

Equally important is the consideration of travel time. Many travelers do not pay attention to seasonal price fluctuations and tourist flow. High season attracts crowds of tourists, and prices for accommodation and food can be many times higher. By planning a trip in the off-season, you can avoid this and have a more relaxed and enjoyable experience of the place.

Another useful habit is to check your reservations. Always make sure your reservations for lodging, transportation or excursions are still valid before you depart. There are often mistakes or problems with reservations that can be corrected in advance.

In the end, traveling is not only about beautiful pictures and new experiences, but also about thinking through all the details in advance. Avoiding these mistakes will allow you to focus on the real adventure and enjoy every moment of the journey.

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Phuket’s Most Deserted Beaches https://travelwithmk.com/phukets-most-deserted-beaches/ Tue, 28 Mar 2023 06:47:00 +0000 https://travelwithmk.com/?p=52 Let’s face it, probably the thing that attracts us most strongly to Phuket is its wide variety of picturesque beaches. It’s not just the place where the sand meets the sea, but a place that has incredible charm and commands love and respect. The most popular beaches in Phuket are just a few such as […]

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Let’s face it, probably the thing that attracts us most strongly to Phuket is its wide variety of picturesque beaches. It’s not just the place where the sand meets the sea, but a place that has incredible charm and commands love and respect. The most popular beaches in Phuket are just a few such as the beautiful Kata, Karon, Kamala and Bangtao, but there are also plenty of gorgeous hidden deserted beaches.

Ya Nui

This charming 500-meter beach is just around the corner from the more famous Nai Harn Beach and is quite rarely crowded. Despite this, you can easily find everything you need here: refreshments, restaurant, kayak rentals, etc. Two small coves are separated by a rocky promontory where you can take stunning photos. About 300 meters from the shore is a small island with a sheltered cove where you can snorkel and watch the many fish swimming among the coral reefs.

Hua Beach

Just south of Kamala Beach is another slice of tropical paradise. This small 200-meter beach is a short walk away. Elephants can sometimes be seen swimming in the sea here. Be careful of the rocks in the water and take a snorkel with you. This beach is best visited during high tide.

Banana Beach

Banana Beach is farther away from the center, making it virtually deserted on any given day. The beach is located between Layan Beach to the south and Nai Ton to the north. Parking with limited spaces is available by the road, with a steep descent through the jungle leading to the beach. The beach is surrounded by many trees, in the shade of which you can hang a hammock. On the sides of the beach are rocky headlands where hermit crabs abound. When the sea is rough, the current here can be quite dangerous, so use caution.

Sai Khoo

This beach is suitable for particularly adventurous travelers as it is off the beaten track. To get here, you need to head to the southern part of Nai Yang Beach and start hiking from here. You can park at the boat ramp and walk around the promontory or climb the hill behind an abandoned hotel, where there is a small parking lot and a highly visible trail.

A hike along the trail will take you to several beaches, which are best visited at high tide if you want to swim. The beautiful path winds through bamboo groves and several headlands. The furthest beach is about 2.5 kilometers away. Here you will find beautiful cliffs, several reefs for snorkeling and a soulful atmosphere.

Mai Khao

Although this beach is not a secret beach, its large area makes it quite deserted. Be prepared for a long walk, as it is 10.5 kilometers long. The sheer size of this sandy strip itself is a delightful sight.

Most of the beach is surrounded by palm trees and pine trees swaying in the wind. The beach is divided into several different sections, but the northernmost 2.5 km looks particularly enticing. Again, the thing to be aware of here is the presence of strong underwater currents. Stay cautious, as it is unlikely that anyone will be able to help you here should you run into problems.

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Pyramids of Chichen Itza – an Ancient Mayan City https://travelwithmk.com/pyramids-of-chichen-itza-an-ancient-mayan-city/ Sat, 06 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000 https://travelwithmk.com/?p=35 Chichen Itza is an ancient city founded by the Mayans in the 6th century. The Chichen Itza pyramids are one of the most visited places in the Yucatan. The very name Chichen Itza from the Mayan language translates as “well of the Maya”, because of the fact that on the territory of the ancient city […]

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Chichen Itza is an ancient city founded by the Mayans in the 6th century. The Chichen Itza pyramids are one of the most visited places in the Yucatan. The very name Chichen Itza from the Mayan language translates as “well of the Maya”, because of the fact that on the territory of the ancient city there are 13 cenotes (natural wells). One of them, the Sacred Cenote, served as a sacrifice to the Rain God.

Chichen Itza MexicoThe ancient city and pyramids of Chichen Itza is located on the Yucatan Peninsula, 205 km from the famous resort of Cancun and 120 km from Mérida. Chichen Itza is one of the most popular and most visited attractions on the Yucatan Peninsula. Almost all tourists who came on vacation in Mexico, in Cancun, consider it their duty to visit the archaeological complex of Chichen Itza, so there are always a lot of people here. It is desirable to arrive at the opening, then there is a chance to walk around the complex alone

How to get to the pyramids of Chichen Itza, Mexico

By bus. From Cancun, from Mérida there are buses of the company ADO. The cost of a ticket Cancun – Chichen Itza 80 – 140 pesos (depending on the class of bus). Travel time is 3-4 hours. The cost of the ticket Mérida – Chichen Itza 50-80 pesos, travel time 1.45 – 2.5 hours. You can buy an organized excursion to Chichen Itza, group or individual. The excursion can be booked at any hotel or arranged in advance with an individual guide.

By rental car. In my opinion, this is the best way to get to Chichen Itza. On the way you can see other sights.

Mode of operation and cost of visiting the archaeological complex of Chichen Itza

The Chichen Itza complex is open to the public from 8:00 to 17:00. The evening light show takes place at 19:00 in winter and at 20:00 in summer.
Chichen Itza ticket cost: a ticket to Chichen Itza consists of two parts – a 125 peso ticket and a 57 peso ticket, totaling 182 pesos ($14.5). These are the most expensive pyramids we’ve been to in Mexico Parking near Chichen Itza is also paid – 22 pesos (just under $2).

We knew that we should come to Chichen Itza as early as possible, so we left the hotel in Cancun at 6:30 am! We drove to Chichen Itza on the toll road to save time. Passage, on the toll road Cancun – Chichen Itza is not cheap: we paid twice, the first time 251 pesos, the second time 61 pesos, a total of 312 pesos (almost 25 dollars!!!)…. and for what? For a little less than 200 kilometers of travel. These 200 km we traveled for 3 hours, I do not know how people manage to pass them in 2 hours? We didn’t break any rules, we didn’t exceed the speed limit, we stopped once at a gas station for 5 minutes.

We arrived at the entrance to the archaeological complex of Chichen Itza at 9:30 am. There were already cars of independent travelers in the parking lot, but not as many as I thought. We bought tickets, immediately the guides started pestering us, but of course we refused them. At the entrance to the complex there is a toilet (free), souvenir stores, cafes.

The first thing that catches your eye when entering the archaeological zone is the main attraction of Chichen Itza – the pyramid of Kukulkan (or El Castillo, translated from Spanish as “the castle”).

This nine-tiered pyramid, 24 meters high, on top of which there is a temple where sacrifices were performed. The pyramid of Kukulkan is symmetrical, has four staircases. And each staircase consists of 91 steps. If quantity of steps 91 multiply on quantity of ladders 4 and add one (the top platform), we receive number 365 – number of days in a year!

The pyramid of Kukulkan is also known as the pyramid of the Feathered Serpent. Every year, in days of equinoxes, March 20 and September 21 to the pyramid of Kukulkan a lot of people come to look at one very interesting phenomenon: approximately at 3 o’clock in the afternoon the sun illuminates the main staircase of a pyramid so that shadows – triangles together similar to a tail of a snake are formed, in process of movement of the sun triangles go out and form the effect of a snake crawling down.

By the way, you can watch this spectacle at the evening light show.

We walk a little further and get to the Temple of Warriors, in front of which are a number of columns depicting Toltec warriors.

Group of a thousand columns

In general, in this part of the archaeological area of Chichen Itza is quite crowded and quiet. And the sun does not bake, it is pleasant to walk or rest under the crown of trees. Attracts the attention of the field for playing ball. It is one of the largest fields on the territory of the complex, its length is 166 meters, width is 68 meters, height of the walls is 12m. At a height of 8m stone rings are fixed. Mayan Indians played ball here. The game was called “pot-ta-pok”, they played with a rubber ball, which weighed about 4 kg and it could be beaten only with the hip. It is assumed that the game ended with a sacrifice.

On the pyramid of Kukulkan and on other ruins it is impossible to climb. They say, earlier it was possible to rise on a pyramid, but then this business forbade. Either someone fell from the pyramid, or they are just afraid that the pyramid will spoil and collapse…That’s why the walk around the complex of Chichen Itza took us not so much time – only two hours. When we headed for the exit, about 11:30, crowds of tourists began to pull up in front of us.

Local vendors have already set up their stalls with souvenirs. By the way, you can buy souvenirs here not expensive. Much cheaper than in Cancun. Here they sell a lot of interesting masks, which we did not meet anywhere else during our further traveling in Mexico. Later we regretted that we did not buy anything from souvenirs near Chichen Itza. If you need souvenirs – buy them here and be sure to bargain!

Souvenirs in Chichen Itza are for all tastes and cheaper than in Cancun

You can spend the night near the Chichen Itza complex in one of the hotels. Choose to your taste and enjoy your vacation. At the same time you can visit the archaeological complex of Chichen Itza twice: during the day to see the sights, and in the evening come to see the evening light and music show, for which you do not need to buy a separate ticket, the cost is already included in the day tickets.

Super 5 star hotels:

  • Hacienda Chichen Resort and Yaxkin Spa (5 stars)
  • Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows (5 stars)
  • The Lodge at Chichen Itza (5 stars)

And two simpler hotels (3 stars):

  • Hotel Dolores Alba Chichen Itza
  • Hotel Chichen Itza

We did not spend the night near the pyramids of Chichen Itza, and went on, ahead of us was waiting for an interesting busy program, so subscribe to the newsletter of the site to be notified about new articles in the blog!

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Route from Rome By Car: Ravello, Pompeii, Vesuvius, Salerno https://travelwithmk.com/route-from-rome-by-car-ravello-pompeii-vesuvius-salerno/ Tue, 31 May 2022 04:21:00 +0000 https://travelwithmk.com/?p=64 Italy is a country where every road reveals new wonders, and traveling by car offers a unique opportunity to explore not only famous cities, but also small hidden gems. One of these routes starts in Rome and leads through the incredible sites of Southern Italy, from the historic ruins of Pompeii to the picturesque towns […]

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Italy is a country where every road reveals new wonders, and traveling by car offers a unique opportunity to explore not only famous cities, but also small hidden gems. One of these routes starts in Rome and leads through the incredible sites of Southern Italy, from the historic ruins of Pompeii to the picturesque towns of the Amalfi Coast. This journey allows you to experience the spirit of Italy at full speed, stopping at the most stunning locations.

Rome – Beginning of the journey

Start your journey in Rome, where you can spend a day or two exploring its famous sights such as the Colosseum, the Vatican and the Pantheon. After that, head south. The drive from Rome to Ravello, one of the most beautiful towns on the Amalfi Coast, will take about 3-4 hours. The journey is about 280 kilometers long, but it will be so scenic that time will fly by.

Ravello – the city on top of the hill

Ravello is an amazing city located 350 meters above sea level, overlooking the blue Mediterranean Sea and verdant hills. The town is known for its stunning villas, such as Villa Ruffolo and Villa Cimbrone, which are surrounded by magnificent gardens and offer spectacular views of the coast. Stroll through the narrow streets, enjoy the atmosphere of this tranquil and majestic town and sample local specialties in one of the cafes overlooking the sea. Ravello is a great place to relax before your onward journey.

Pompeii – a return to antiquity

Next, head to Pompeii, a place that will take you back to ancient Rome. The drive from Ravello to Pompeii will take about 1.5 hours. Here is one of the most famous archaeological complexes in the world, destroyed in 79 AD during the eruption of the volcano Vesuvius. A walk through the ruins of Pompeii allows you to see ancient houses, temples, theaters, baths and other structures that have been preserved thanks to the ash. Be sure to visit the House of Dionysus, the Great Theater and the Museum of Pompeii to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the ancient city.

Vesuvius – the volcano that changed history

The next stop on the journey is the famous Vesuvius volcano, located near Pompeii. It is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world and is still active. Famous for destroying Pompeii, Herculaneum and other cities in 79 AD, the volcano is now one of the region’s top tourist attractions. To climb Vesuvius, you’ll need to park at the foot and walk to the crater. From the top, you’ll have a breathtaking view of Naples, Salerno and of course the volcano itself. The scenery here is an amazing contrast – lava fields, green slopes and blue skies.

Salerno – the final point of the route

The final leg of your journey is Salerno, a town located on the coast overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Salerno is a less touristy place compared to its more famous neighbors, but it is no less enchanting. The city is full of historical monuments, such as Salerno Cathedral, as well as cozy cafes and restaurants overlooking the sea. A stroll along the promenade and through the old town will give you plenty of pleasure, and an evening at one of the restaurants serving fresh seafood will be the perfect end to your trip.

Conclusion

This itinerary from Rome by car will allow you to see Southern Italy in all its glory – from the historic ruins of Pompeii to the majestic views from Vesuvius and picturesque towns on the Amalfi Coast. Your trip will be full of vivid impressions and inexpressible atmosphere that will stay with you for a long time. No matter which route you choose, Southern Italy will give you unforgettable moments and unique memories.

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How to Travel on a Minimum Budget: My Secrets and Lifehacks https://travelwithmk.com/how-to-travel-on-a-minimum-budget-my-secrets-and-lifehacks/ Wed, 24 Nov 2021 05:11:00 +0000 https://travelwithmk.com/?p=73 Traveling is not just for the rich. With the right approach, you can see the world without spending a fortune. My own experience has shown me that traveling with a minimal budget is quite possible, the main thing is to know a few tricks. The first thing you should pay attention to is booking accommodation. […]

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Traveling is not just for the rich. With the right approach, you can see the world without spending a fortune. My own experience has shown me that traveling with a minimal budget is quite possible, the main thing is to know a few tricks.

The first thing you should pay attention to is booking accommodation. Sometimes you can find secluded rooms from locals for the price of a cup of coffee at an expensive cafe. Another tip: book accommodation in advance, but not too early – prices can change and you won’t always have time to take advantage of discounts.

Transportation is also an important aspect. Lowcosters are a great way to travel cheaply. Sign up for airline newsletters so you don’t miss out on promotions. You can often find cheap tickets months in advance, but there are also last minute bargains to be found. Within the city, choose public transportation over cabs. Local buses and subways are much cheaper and often allow you to see more than traditional tourist routes.

Don’t forget about food. Instead of restaurants, opt for local markets and street food. Not only is it cheaper, but it’s also more authentic. I always look for places where locals eat rather than tourists, as the food there can be tastier and cheaper.

If your goal is not just to see, but to immerse yourself in the culture of the city, check out the free attractions. Museums often offer discounts or free admission on certain days of the week. Strolling through city parks, old neighborhoods or along waterfronts is also cost-free, but will give you a lot of impressions.

And, of course, try to avoid long-term tours with included excursions. Independent travel is often much cheaper. Use maps and mobile apps to avoid paying for group excursions.

By following these simple rules, you can significantly reduce costs and make traveling more affordable. Remember: the main thing is not how much you spend, but how much new impressions and knowledge you get!

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