Want to experience the ultimate vacation vibes in Panama? Then be sure to stay a few nights at Bambuda Lodge in Bocas del Toro. This awesome spot on the water is beloved for its unique location, social atmosphere, and relaxing tranquillo vibe. Float on an inner tube with a piña colada in hand, or take a plunge into the sea via the 45-meter-long jungle slide. Hop on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the waters around the island, or catch the magical sunset from the pier. Staying at Bambuda Lodge is an experience in itself and a must-do in Panama!

What makes Bambuda Lodge special?

Bambuda Lodge is an eco-friendly lodging that combines the features of a boutique hotel with the warmth of a hostel. It boasts a seaside location in the front and a jungle in the back, allowing you to enjoy all that nature has to offer. The surroundings are stunning, with a variety of flowers, hummingbirds, and occasional sloths or monkeys. In the evening, you can watch the sun sink into the sea from the pool. What more could you ask for?

De locatie van Bambuda Lodge

Bambuda Lodge is located on Isla Solarte, which is a part of the Bocas del Toro archipelago in the northwest of Panama. This Caribbean island is just a five-minute boat ride away from Bocas Town on the main island of Isla Colón. Isla Solarte only has a handful of other lodges and is entirely surrounded by jungle. Bambuda Lodge is situated right on the water, with no roads, only walking paths. It’s a fantastic place to explore the jungle or take a dip in the water.

The swimming pool of Bambuda Lodge

The lodge’s main attraction is a large pool overlooking the sea, and it’s a delightful place to spend your time. You can play volleyball, float on a rubber band, or relax on a lounge chair. For some extra water fun and excitement, you can slide down the unique 45-meter water slide straight from the restaurant into the ocean. You won’t be bored here for a moment.

The restaurant of Bambuda Lodge

Staying on an island can make it difficult to find restaurants nearby. Luckily, the restaurant at Bambuda Lodge serves delicious food, including breakfast, lunch, and pool snacks. The staff takes great care of you while you relax by the pool, ensuring you have a great time.

Join the family dinner

During your stay at Bambuda Lodge, you can join the communal dinner every evening. You can choose from several different dishes that always include a meat, fish, and vegetarian option. After the sun sets, everyone eats together on the veranda, which is a great opportunity to mingle with others and share travel stories.

Hike to Hospital Point

At Bambuda Lodge, there’s a daily organized jungle hike to Hospital Point. You can wear rubber boots or go barefoot as you make your way through the jungle. You’ll see a lot of the jungle and can even spot red poison dart frogs along the way. The trail can be quite muddy, which makes it a fun experience. It feels like a bit of survival. When you reach the other side of the island, you can snorkel a bit before a boat picks you up and takes you back to Bambuda Lodge.

Tip: Bambuda Lodge provides boots, which you really need. Be on time to choose your size because there may not be enough for everyone. Better a size too big than nothing because otherwise, you’ll have to walk barefoot.

How to get to Bambuda Lodge?

Bambuda Lodge is located on Isla Solarte island. To get there from Bocas del Toro, you can take a ferry from Almirante to the main island, Isla Colón, which takes about 30 minutes. From there, you can take a taxi boat directly to Isla Solarte for an additional fee. The ride only takes five minutes, and you’ll arrive at Bambuda Lodge, where you’ll feel like you’re in a completely different world. However, keep in mind that you can only visit if you’re actually staying there. It’s not possible to come for just a day of relaxation.

The different types of rooms at Bambuda Lodge

Bambuda Lodge offers a variety of rooms to suit every budget. If you’re on a tight budget, you can choose a dormitory or a private room with a shared or private bathroom. If you have a bit more money to spend, it’s fantastic to book a jungle hut or canopy room. You can relax on your own veranda in a hammock and maybe even be joined by a curious monkey. All the rooms at Bambuda Lodge are surrounded by jungle, so you’re guaranteed to wake up to the sound of birdsong and a distant howler monkey.

Make sure to book your stay at Bambuda Lodge in advance

Excited about the idea of chilling in the pool here? Make sure to book your stay at Bambuda Lodge in advance, as it’s a highly popular spot. If you want to stay in one of the cheaper rooms, booking early is a must.

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Southern Mexico is a tropical paradise, with hundreds of cenotes, dozens of Mayan temples, and countless beautiful beaches. While some of these hotspots are quite far apart, it can be advantageous to rent a car for a few days. You have the option of renting a normal rental car, but for a more unique experience, we found something really cool on the internet: a Volkswagen Kombi! Not only does it look stylish, but you can also sleep in it, waking up in the most beautiful places. Start the engine, play some relaxing music, roll down the windows, and hit the road!

Why a Volkswagen Kombi?

The Volkswagen Kombi gives you complete freedom to explore the Yucatan and Quintana Roo region. You’re not tied down to buses or cabs, so you can go wherever you want without breaking the bank. Say goodbye to expensive taxi rides and crowded tour buses with 30 other tourists. Plus, you can save on hotel stays by sleeping in the van. Pop the roof for some extra space and fresh air. Park anywhere you want, whether it’s on a palm-tree lined beach or a chill campsite. You feel like a true outlaw on the road when you’re on the road with the Volkswagen Kombi.

About the Kombi Experience

The Kombi Experience has a fleet of 4 cool Volkswagen Kombis: The Whale, The Kiwi, The Azulita, and The Mandarina, which we rented and is featured in the photos in this article. Each van is equipped with 2 double beds, seating, a pop-up roof, and a unique, eye-catching color. The vans are owned by Martin, a friendly Argentine in his 30s who has been living in Tulum for a few years. You’ll meet Martin in Tulum to pick up your Kombi and get all the info you need for your trip. Martin will give you the rundown on everything you need to know about the van and your journey, and provide plenty of tips on the most beautiful places, the best campsites, or unique places to spend the night.

What about safety?

You don’t have to worry about safety. In Yucatan and Quintana Roo, you mainly have straight roads with little traffic. The Kombi has a top speed of 75 km/h, so you may get passed by other cars.  The roads in Mexico are very wide, so as long as you stay to the right, you’ll be fine. Traffic rules are mostly similar to those in the United States. Watch out for speed bumps in Mexico, they can be very high and you have to take them slow. Speed bumps may not always be clearly marked, but there’s usually a sign nearby to warn you.

Putting together a road trip itinerary

Once you’ve picked up the Volkswagen Kombi in Tulum, the adventure can start! From here, you can go in any direction. We recommend not exploring Tulum by van, though, as it’s easily done by bike. The beachside of Tulum is always congested with traffic (think gridlock!) and parking can be expensive. We rented the Kombi for three nights and took a fantastic route. Martin has loads of tips for you and has even created a whole book filled with great campsites, beautiful cenotes, and many more useful tips

Our route with the Volkswagen Kombi from Tulum:

Day 1: Drive to Coba and watch the sunset from the top of the temple. Overnight in Coba.

Day 2: Visit Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, and Samula Cenote. Overnight in Akumal.

Day 3: Visit Casa Cenote and camp on the beach at ‘El Ultimo Maya’ campsite.

Day 4: Return to Tulum and return the Kombi.

Cost and where to book?

The prices vary by season and range from $90 to $150 per night. If you book, make sure to give Martin our regards! You can book or check availability on www.thekombiexperience.com. If these costs are too high for your budget and you still want to go on a road trip, you can always rent a regular car. That’s often much cheaper. You can read more about that in our article on tips for renting a car and driving in Mexico.

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In Portugal, there’s an atmosphere that many travelers instantly fall in love with. This ambiance is best described as romantic, charming, and relaxed. You can experience this blend all over the country, but there are certain places where you can immerse yourself in it even more.In Portugal, you’ll find many country houses transformed into luxury B&Bs or retreats. These country houses are often situated on large estates where they keep animals and grow their own food. Here, you can relax, meet other people, surf, take a yoga class, and much more.Some are very luxurious, others are entirely ecological, or offer stunning views. Whichever you choose, you’ll taste that ambiance we’re talking about at all of them!

Conversas de Alpendre

Stay in style and tranquility at this delightful hotel. It’s located in the eastern part of Algarve, in the Ria Formosa Natural Park known for its 60-kilometer-long paradisiacal lagoon with numerous islands boasting pristine white beaches. There’s a lovely swimming pool, and the hotel is surrounded by a large orchard. The hotel’s styling has received a lot of attention, and you’ll be amazed at every turn. There are comfortable seating areas everywhere, and the rooms are fully equipped. Want a truly romantic stay? Book the treehouse with a spectacular view!

Double room starting at $150 per night

Quinta Alma

You can’t get much closer to nature than this. In this ecological retreat, you’ll sleep in a luxury tent in the mountains of Monchique, right next to Aljezur. The retreat is situated on a 50-hectare piece of land and is just a 10-minute drive from the beautiful coast. Quinta Alma is not only a retreat but also a farm, so if you love animals, you’re in the right place. There are donkeys, sheep, dogs, cats, and chickens on the farm! The owners of Quinta Alma also grow their own food, and you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast in the morning. So, it’s not just a place to stay; it’s a whole experience to be here.

Double tent starting at $130 per night

Farmhouse Of The Palms

This is a typical Portuguese B&B with whitewashed walls, terracotta floors, and a stunning view over the Algarve countryside. The building is over 200 years old and was fully renovated in style a few years ago. This small-scale boutique B&B has 7 rooms, so it’s never crowded at the pool, and you’ll have plenty of privacy. The Belgian owners will go out of their way to make your stay unforgettable.

Double room starting at $135 per night

Herdade do Amarelo Nature & Spa

Immerse yourself in luxury at Herdade do Amarelo. There’s no doubt you’ll find complete zen in this hotel. Each room offers a breathtaking view and a delightful whirlpool bath. In addition to the comfortable stay, you can also book various relaxing activities on-site, such as a Turkish steam bath, a private Jacuzzi with mountain views, massages, horseback riding, boat tours, or stand-up paddleboarding. You won’t have a dull moment here.

Double room starting at $170 per night

Herdade da Matinha Country House

Nestled in the heart of nature, in a beautiful valley, you’ll find this amazing country house. Besides offering a delightful stay, they also provide a wide range of activities. You can attend yoga classes, get a relaxing massage, enjoy a picnic in nature, go hiking, biking, or horseback riding with one of their 10 horses. There’s also a restaurant serving delicious dishes. In short, you won’t be short of anything here.

Double room starting at $175 per night

Luz Charming Houses

Are you traveling from Lisbon to Porto? Then Luz Charming Houses is a fantastic hotel to spend a few nights in between. The super cozy atmosphere, beautiful garden, and lovely wellness area make it a delightful stay. In the morning, you’ll enjoy a lavish breakfast, and the staff goes out of their way to make you feel right at home.

Double room starting at $120 per night

Vila Monte Farm House

Last but certainly not least: Vila Monte Farm House. This hotel is a bit larger than the ones mentioned above, but it still maintains a very cozy atmosphere. This is partly thanks to the beautiful garden where you’ll find many inviting seating areas. There are also two pools, and during the winter months, they are wonderfully heated. The rooms are extremely spacious, beautifully decorated, and fully equipped. Furthermore, you don’t have to leave the premises for great food. There’s an excellent restaurant here where they prepare delicious dishes!

Double room starting at $120 per night

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When you think of Oman, you think of the desert. From endless sand plains where hardly anything grows to enormous sand dunes that form an infinite sea of sand. A staggering 70% of Oman consists of desert. Therefore, a trip through Oman always includes an overnight stay in the desert. We share our tips for Wahiba Sands, the most beautiful part of Oman’s desert. Enjoy the clear starry sky, take a camel ride, watch the sunset, or rip over the dunes in a 4×4!

Dune bashing through the desert

In the desert, you can choose to take a camel ride or go dune bashing. The latter is something you certainly should not miss in our opinion, as it’s thrilling to rip over the gigantic sand dunes in a 4×4. It’s not wise to do this with your own rental car as it’s not insured for such activities, and you likely have little experience with it. That’s why you arrange for an experienced driver to pick you up from your camp at the end of the afternoon. These guys love to show off their skills, literally surfing the orange waves of sand in their rugged 4x4s. It’s more thrilling than a roller coaster, and all the while, you get to enjoy the most stunning views. Just before sunset, you stop atop a high sand dune to watch the sun go down. What an adventure! For about an hour and a half of dune bashing, you pay approximately $68 (€58) per car (up to four people).

How do you get to your camp in Wahiba Sands?

Almost all the camps are located about 9 to 19 miles deeper into the desert from the paved road in the village of Al Wasil. There are makeshift roads leading to the camps that have formed due to frequent vehicle traffic. These roads are simply flat tracks of loose sand between the sand dunes, so you need a 4×4 to reach your camp independently. There are about five different tracks like this, all leading straight into the desert from the paved road. Once you follow the signs to your camp and are on the right track, you can’t get lost in the desert. If you don’t have a 4×4, you need to arrange a pickup in advance through your camp. Because the camps are quite far into the desert, this can sometimes be quite expensive. In our case, it would cost $71 (€60) including drop-off the next morning. In the end, we decided to rent a 4×4 in Oman and drove ourselves to our camp, which was a fantastic experience. With some great music on, we cruised over the sandy road which felt like driving on smooth ice, and along the way, we encountered many camels.

Choosing between the different camps in the desert

In the Wahiba Sands desert, you’ll find more than 15 different camps to choose from. They range from small and simple camps to incredibly luxurious ones. You’ll typically pay around 154 dollars (€130) or more per night for a stay in the desert. We stayed at Sama al Wasil camp, which was a great middle-ground between basic and luxurious, and we didn’t lack anything! It’s located near a huge sand dune that you can climb, and a wonderful dinner and breakfast buffet is included in the price. It’s very easy to find due to the many signs, and upon arrival, you can immediately arrange for dune bashing that afternoon. We’ve also heard great stories from other travelers about the luxurious Desert Nights Camp and the small-scale Desert Retreat Camp, but both were fully booked months in advance.

Sama al Wasil More information

Desert Nights Camp More information

Desert Retreat Camp More information

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When you think of Morocco, you quickly think of the desert. The Erg Chebbi desert is part of the Sahara, and you can find several beautiful camps where you can stay overnight, mostly in luxury tents. In the evening, while sitting by the campfire, you can admire the most brilliant starry sky as the locals bring out their musical instruments. Here are some tips on how to arrange your desert overnight stay in Morocco.

Merzouga, the base for the Sahara

On the edge of the desert, you’ll find the town of Merzouga, which serves as the base for a stay in the desert. After a long journey of about 8 hours from Fez, it’s nice to spend a night here and take it easy. We stayed at Kasbah Azalay and can highly recommend it! From the pool, you can overlook the desert, enjoy a delicious meal in the evening, and Youssef is an excellent host. The next day, you can relax by the pool or hop on a quad bike to explore the desert. In the afternoon, you can travel to your desert camp during the sunset, either by a 4×4 vehicle or on a camel.

Choosing from the different camps

There are various camps to choose from, and at first glance, most of them seem quite similar. However, there’s a significant difference in prices. Some camps are very basic, while others are luxurious with comfortable beds and private bathrooms. Additionally, some camps include dinner and breakfast in their price, while others don’t. We stayed at Sahara Desert Luxury Camp, where both breakfast and dinner were included. After dinner, the camp staff lit a campfire in the desert, and traditional Moroccan musical instruments made an appearance. Don’t forget to take a walk into the desert where there’s no light pollution, allowing you to marvel at the most brilliant starry sky!

Camel Riding and Sunset in the Desert

You can choose to go to your camp on a camel or a quad bike. Riding a camel is not inherently bad like riding an elephant. However, it’s always a question of whether the camels are well taken care of and treated properly. In some camps, this is better than others, and it can be difficult to check. So, you may consider if you want to do this. You can arrange transportation to the camp with a camel or a quad bike through your camp in advance, and both camels and quads depart from Merzouga. You’ll enjoy the sunset in the desert and arrive at your camp shortly afterward.

Tips for Sleeping in the Desert

• Don’t expect the camps to be completely secluded. Due to new regulations, the camps are no longer allowed to be located deep in the desert. As a result, the camps are relatively close to each other and on the edge of the desert. However, you won’t notice this when you’re in the camp because you’ll still have a view of the tall orange dunes.
• Take only carry-on luggage and leave your large suitcase or backpack at the hotel in Merzouga.
• In the winter months between November and March, the nights can be quite cold. So, bring some warm clothing.

Sample Itinerary for Your Sahara Experience

Day 1: Drive from Fez to Merzouga (8 hours with short stops)

Day 2: Morning and afternoon by the pool and optional quad biking in the desert. In the afternoon, travel to the camp for your overnight stay in the desert by 4×4 vehicle or camel.

Day 3: After breakfast, retrieve your luggage in Merzouga and head to the Todra Gorge.

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When you have a trip to Marrakech planned, staying in a riad is definitely a must. A riad is typically Moroccan and literally means ‘garden’. A riad always has a beautiful inner courtyard and was often the home of a wealthy Moroccan family. The bedrooms of the riad are situated around the courtyard, and the windows overlook the patio instead of the outside. This was all about the privacy of the family, especially for the women. The courtyard often features plants, trees, and a fountain or swimming pool. Nowadays, almost all riads have been transformed into hotels or restaurants. There are so many beautiful riads in Marrakech that sometimes it’s hard to see the forest for the trees. We’ll lend you a hand and have listed the top 5 most beautiful riads below.

We mention a ‘starting price’ because the prices of the riads vary greatly depending on when you book and which rooms are still available. Therefore, prices can sometimes differ by several euros.

Riad Kasbah & Spa

Located in the heart of the Medina is the incredibly beautiful Riad Kasbah & Spa. You’ll be amazed by every detail as everything has been thoughtfully designed. This small-scale riad is run by a lovely family who will make you feel at home from the very beginning. Additionally, you can pamper yourself in the spa, a perfect place to unwind after a busy day in Marrakech!

Double room starting from $94

Riad l’Oiseau du Paradis

This riad is definitely one of the most beautiful riads in Marrakech. As soon as you step into Riad l’Oiseau du Paradis, you’ll experience an oasis of tranquility. The patio is richly decorated with plants and trees and features a small but lovely swimming pool. There’s also a cozy rooftop terrace with plenty of seating areas. It’s the perfect place to completely unwind! This riad is located a 10-minute walk from the famous Jemaa el Fna square.

Double room starting from $57

Riad Casa Sophia

Riad Casa Sophia is a beautiful riad in Marrakech at a very affordable price. You can see that a lot of attention has been given to the interior design here as well. Throughout the riad, you’ll find lovely accessories such as beautiful cushions, rugs, and wall decorations. Riad Casa Sophia has a great location in the medina of Marrakech, just a 2-minute walk from Djemaa el Fna square.

Double room starting from $40

Riad Farhan

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The rooms of Riad Farhan are beautifully decorated, and the bathroom looks like something out of a fairy tale. The friendly staff is ready to assist you at any time of the day. Riad Farhan is just a two-minute walk from the vibrant Djemaa el Fna square. The location is super central and the perfect base for a city trip to Marrakech.

Double room starting from $112

Riad Selouane

Also, Riad Selouane is a little fairy tale in Marrakech. It has a lovely swimming pool, and you’ll find charming seating areas throughout the riad. Watching the sunset or sunrise from the rooftop terrace is highly recommended. The rooms are spacious and beautifully furnished. The riad can arrange airport transfers for you, which is ideal if you don’t have a rental car.

Double room starting from $111

Riad Le Petit Joyau

If you prefer to stay in a quiet location, book a stay at the beautiful Riad Le Petit Joyau. This riad is not located in the medina but in the kasbah of Marrakech. The kasbah is a walled district where you’ll experience a lot more tranquility than in the medina. The medina is within walking distance, making many attractions easily accessible. Once inside the riad, you’ll be amazed by its beauty! Every morning, you’ll enjoy a fantastic breakfast on the rooftop terrace, and the staff is incredibly friendly.

Double room starting from $84

Tip: Since Marrakech is a very popular destination and riads are quite small-scale, the most beautiful riads are often fully booked early. Therefore, we recommend booking your favorite riad as early as possible.

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Looking for a unique stay in nature? We have a wonderful recommendation for you! Winterwoods is a unique pop-up campsite located in the beautiful forests of Drenthe, dedicated to tranquility and nature. You’ll spend your nights in an authentic Mongolian yurt and during the day, you can participate in many fun and sometimes challenging activities. Experience the beauty of the Dutch winter by immersing yourself in the elements. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate by the campfire, unwind in the forest sauna, join a yoga class, or brave the icy water during cold training. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend or an active exploration of the Dutch wilderness, Winterwoods has it all. Here we’ll share our experience from our Winterwoods weekend, so you know exactly what to expect.

The Winterwoods concept

Winterwoods is nestled in the beautiful forests of Drenthe. You’ll stay for a minimum of two nights in one of the 17 yurts scattered among the trees. Chop your own firewood and keep your yurt cozy and warm with a wood-burning stove. Never used an axe before? Don’t worry, they’ll teach you on the first day, and there’s always someone available to help. During our stay at Winterwoods, we filled our days with various exciting activities and relaxed in the cozy outdoor living room furnished with vintage pieces. You can play games, make music, read a book, or toast marshmallows on a stick and make them crispy over the fire. Nature takes center stage at Winterwoods, making it the perfect place to unwind.

What’s it like to sleep in a Mongolian yurt?

One of the unique features of Winterwoods is the opportunity to sleep in a traditional Mongolian yurt (pronounced “yurt”). Yurts originated in Mongolia and are large round tents used by nomads who roam the cold steppe regions of Central Asia with their livestock. The yurts at Winterwoods are imported from Mongolia and hand-painted.

Upon checking in and arriving at our yurt, we immediately lit up the wood-burning stove. The yurt was beautifully decorated with colorful rugs on the floor and cozy lights all around. Once the yurt was warm, we started cooking on the stove. We had brought all the ingredients in a large cooler box, and the yurt was equipped with pans and utensils for cooking. In the evening, we went to sleep under a clear starry sky, which we could admire right from our bed because the yurt’s roof was partially transparent. With the wind rustling through the trees and the distant sound of an owl, we drifted off to sleep. Simply delightful!

Tip: If you don’t feel like cooking, you can always go out for a meal. Just a 5-minute drive away, there’s a great pancake restaurant to try.

What to do at Winterwoods?

During the day, you won’t run out of things to do at Winterwoods as there are plenty of activities organized on the campsite. We tried almost all of the activities, and below, we describe what they entail.

Cold Training

Have you ever watched a video of Wim Hof in an ice bath with complete admiration? At Winterwoods, you can learn how to stay in cold water for minutes on end. It was our first time trying it, and we found it a challenging but incredible experience. Just one kilometer away from Winterwoods, there’s a beautiful lake surrounded by trees. Together with a small group and two experienced trainers, we walked to the lake. We couldn’t yet imagine ourselves sitting in the cold water for minutes, but we were eager to give it a try.

The two trainers explained to us how to conquer the cold of the water and teached us how to control our breathing while in the water. First, we practiced a well-known breathing technique from the Wim Hof Method on the beach, which increases oxygen in the blood. Afterward, we did some physical exercises and then walked into the water. Initially, both of us had a shock reaction, but we quickly regained control of our breathing. For the following three minutes, we sat still in the icy lake and focused. Everyone in the water remained silent, and the trainers on the shore encouraged us. After three minutes, we quickly exited the water and dried ourselves off. It’s very cold, but we felt incredibly strong. Truly a victory!

Mountain Biking

Winterwoods provides mountain bikes that you can borrow to explore the forests of Drenthe. You can ride the beautiful MTB route between Gieten and Gasselte. This route takes you through the stunning Hondsrug area and includes sandy paths, winding singletracks, and occasional short climbs and descents. The entire route is 29.5 km long. After the ride, you can enjoy a warm hot chocolate by the fire.

Yoga & Meditation

On the Winterwoods site, alongside the yurts, there’s a large tipi tent dedicated to yoga and meditation. In the center of the tipi, there’s a big fire pit that keeps the tent warm, and there are yoga mats spread around it. It’s incredibly calming to practice yoga exercises and meditate by a crackling fire.

Finnish Sauna

We have arrived at our favorite activity, the Finnish sauna! It doesn’t get more idyllic than Winterwoods’ sauna because you have a view of the surrounding forests. It’s heated with a wood-burning stove, and there’s a plunge pool for cooling down.

Micro Hikes

From the campsite, you can embark on a few beautiful hikes to explore the surroundings. Winterwoods has some recommended hikes of varying distances. The hikes start from 5 km, and the longest one is 21 km. We did the Veenpluis Route, and it was a truly beautiful walk. We even saw a couple of deer leaping by!

Tip: Start the hike during sunrise if you want to spot wildlife.

Bread Baking

Bread baking is a cozy and relaxing activity. You roll a bit of dough onto the end of your stick and hold it over the fire. Just be careful not to let it burn, like we did.

Sweat Lodge

Chances are you’ve never heard of a sweat lodge before. The sweat lodge is a hidden hut in the woods, made of willow branches and thick woolen blankets, resembling an “igloo.” There is no flooring inside, so you sit on the ground. The sweat lodge is heated with coals, and you will experience a 3-hour-long spiritual ceremony here. The experienced crew at Winterwoods will provide you with more details about the sweat lodge.

Good to know: All these activities are included in the price, except for the sweat lodge.

Do we recommend Winterwoods?

We highly recommend Winterwoods to anyone who loves nature and wants to experience the outdoor life. It’s truly delightful to be surrounded by nature for days on end and fully recharge. Worried it may not be your thing because you’re sensitive to the cold? Winterwoods is the perfect place to learn how to deal with the cold. We found the combination of cold and warmth to be very enjoyable during our stay. You’ll often be near the warm fire or seek refuge in the sauna when you feel cold. In short, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

When is Winterwoods and how much does it cost?

Winterwoods is a pop-up campsite open every year from late October to the end of March. The price varies depending on whether you book on weekends or weekdays. Yurts can be booked for a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 4 people. The more people you book the yurt for, the more cost-effective it becomes per person. The price includes all activities except for the sweat lodge. Check the Winterwoods website for current prices and available dates.

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Your journey through South Africa is not complete without staying in a lodge in Kruger National Park. You’ll stay in a private reserve, and the lodges often offer incredible views of the park. From your room or the pool, you can gaze out over the savannah or a river, and with a bit of luck, an elephant may come to drink from the pool. That sounds like the ultimate South Africa experience, doesn’t it? Most lodges are very luxurious, and the prices can be alarmingly high, ranging from several thousand euros per night. Fortunately, there are also some beautiful lodges in Kruger National Park that are still reasonably affordable. We have researched and selected the lodges that offer the most beautiful experiences and value for your money.

A Lodge in Kruger National Park?

Kruger National Park consists of two parts: Kruger Park and the Greater Kruger. The Greater Kruger refers to all the private reserves within Kruger National Park. The animals can freely roam between Kruger Park and the Greater Kruger. In Kruger Park (the government-managed part), you’ll find mainly basic camps run by the government, while the lodges are located in the Greater Kruger. In a lodge, it’s important to feel like you’re sleeping in the heart of the bush, as nobody wants a view of another lodge, right? We’ve taken this into account when compiling these tips.

Bushriver Lodge

Location, location, location. This lodge is the most affordable on this list and is situated on the Olifants River, where crocodiles swim, elephants come to drink, and hippos take their evening walks. It’s an incredibly beautiful place with comfortable budget rooms and affordable villas. From the balcony, you’ll overlook the river, immersing yourself in the true African experience. It’s good to know that the entrance to Kruger Park is a 45-minute drive away.

Nearest Kruger Park entrance: Phalaborwa Gate & Orpen Gate

Rukiya Safari Camp

Rukiya Safari Camp is a fantastic lodge to stay at in Kruger National Park. You can choose between a luxurious safari tent with a view of the river or the bush. Both options are truly fantastic! There’s a wonderful pool for cooling off after a morning safari, and even from the pool, you can enjoy a beautiful view. In short, Rukiya Safari Camp is the perfect lodge to treat yourself (or surprise someone else) with affordable luxury.

Nearest Kruger Park entrance: Phalaborwa Gate & Orpen Gate

Lion Tree Top Lodge

This lodge has a very special story. The owner, West, was a ranger for many years and has always been passionate about animals. When he learned that a breeder had two white lion cubs and planned to raise them for later hunting at a high price, he bought and raised the cubs. By doing so, he saved their lives. However, because they were raised by humans from the age of 5 days, they cannot be released into the wild. In the following years, West developed a unique friendship with these lions, which had grown to weigh 200 kilograms. He would take them for walks twice a day on a large piece of land he had purchased. Unfortunately, during one of these morning walks in 2020, West was killed by one of the lions. It was a tragic ending to a remarkable friendship. West’s family aims to continue what he started, and you can still stay at this small-scale lodge with beautiful treehouse accommodations. In the evening, you can enjoy a delicious meal by the fire, and in the morning, you can spot animals from the comfort of your treehouse bathtub. We found this to be an unforgettable experience, and West taught us a lot about South Africa and the challenges its wildlife faces. Hopefully, his wife will now share these stories and provide that unique experience. We would love to hear about your recent stay here! If you want to fully enjoy the amazing experiences they offer, it is recommended to stay at least 2 nights.

Note: The lions have been relocated to a sanctuary elsewhere in South Africa following the accident and are no longer present at Lion Tree Top Lodge.

Nearest Kruger Park entrance: Phabeni Gate & Orpen Gate

Pezulu Tree House Lodge

Have you always wanted to sleep in a treehouse? Then Pezulu Tree House Lodge is perfect for you! At this lodge, you’ll sleep feet above the ground in a villa perched on stilts among the treetops. From your treehouse, you’ll have a view over the surrounding nature, and you can even hear the animals grazing below you while lying in bed. With this lodge, you’ll have a unique experience that you won’t quickly forget.

Nearest Kruger Park entrance: Phabeni Gate & Orpen Gate

Parsons Hilltop Safari Camp

This small-scale lodge offers the ultimate luxury experience. You can choose between a classic tent or a luxury tent, both of which provide privacy and amazing views of the surrounding nature. You can spot wild animals right from your veranda! The owners and staff are incredibly friendly and helpful. Parsons Hilltop Safari Camp is situated in the Greater Kruger and is openly connected to Kruger National Park. There are no fences around the camp, which makes the experience really authenthic. The Big Five will be on your doorstep!

Nearest Kruger Park entrance: Phalaborwa Gate & Orpen Gate

Starting from $370 per night (Includes breakfast, lunch & dinner)

Don’t hesitate too long!

While there are numerous lodges in Kruger National Park, only a few are truly good and reasonably priced. These lodges are often small-scale, so it’s essential to book in advance if you want to stay in a good and affordable lodge in the heart of nature. If possible, plan your trip to South Africa at least 6 months in advance and prioritize your visit to Kruger National Park. This way, after booking your flights, you can be sure of a remarkable overnight experience in Kruger National Park.

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Staying at the Marina Bay Sands hotel is a bucket list experience you shouldn’t miss when you’re in Singapore. Marina Bay Sands is unique because of its architecture, size, and, of course, the incredible infinity pool on the 57th floor. With a height of 200 meters (656 feet), this is the highest pool in the world! The construction cost of Marina Bay Sands was $5 billion, and it boasts a total of 2,561 rooms. The entire complex also includes 1 museum, 7 five-star restaurants, 2 theaters, and the world’s largest casino with 500 tables and 1,600 slot machines. In short, it’s a remarkable hotel! We stayed there for one night and are sharing our experience and tips for your visit.

Our Experience at Marina Bay Sands

When we decided last minute to take a trip from Indonesia to Singapore, we spent about 4 hours contemplating whether to book a night at Marina Bay Sands and which room to choose. It had been on our bucket list for years, but booking last minute made the prices quite steep as the cheapest rooms were already sold out. Ultimately, we made the decision and booked the Club Room with a city view. This was the cheapest room with a king-size double bed and breakfast still available at the time. The cost? A staggering amount of $610 for one night, twice as expensive as the cheapest room if booked in advance. In hindsight, it was fine because it included a lot, making the whole experience even better, but it was still a bit of a shock.

Upon arrival, we were already amazed because the lobby is the size of a whole shopping mall and has a ceiling that is at least 60 meters (197 feet) high. With this room, access to Club 55 was included, which was ideal because they had a buffet with all sorts of goodies available in the morning, afternoon, and evening. We arrived at 1 o’clock and went for lunch on the 56th floor right after checking in. Afterward, we received an email notifying us that our room was ready.

Holy moly, what luxury and what a view! The room has 3 spacious areas, and is truly equipped with all the comforts. We won’t bore you with details about how comfortable the bathrobe was or how soft the slippers were, but you can be sure that everything was top-notch.

Since we had booked only one night, it was time to take a dip in the pool immediately. For us, this was the #1 reason to stay at this hotel. The pool is 150 meters (492 feet) long, and considering Marina Bay Sands has 2,561 rooms, we found it surprisingly uncrowded. For example, you could easily take a photo without having 5 other people in the picture. The view is 10 times better than in the photos, and what we didn’t know is that on the other side, there are two more jacuzzis with a view of the Gardens by the Bay. Perfect for when it cools down a bit in the late afternoon!

We decided to enjoy the sunset peacefully from our room. As the sky starts to change colors, the lights in the skyscrapers illuminate, and we savor the most brilliant view of Singapore. Now, we’re certain that this was a very wise decision and worth every dollar.

After a restful night’s sleep, we choose to wake up early and have breakfast at Spargo. We had the option to pick from three different restaurants for breakfast, but this one seemed by far the best, given its location on the 57th floor, just behind the pool. The breakfast buffet is the best we’ve ever seen. Whatever you fancy, it’s all here for you. From smoked salmon to dates, and from fresh croissants to melon. After the hearty breakfast, it’s time for another refreshing dip in the pool while everyone else is either still asleep or having breakfast. We spend some time on the sunbeds, enjoying the view, taking a few beautiful photos, and reflecting on how incredibly amazing this experience was. Eventually, it’s time to pack our belongings and move on to our next hotel, ready and refreshed to explore Singapore in the coming days.

Choosing Between a Garden or City View

When booking a room at Marina Bay Sands, you can choose between a city view, which overlooks Marina Bay and the downtown area of Singapore with all its skyscrapers, or a garden view, which offers a vista of the lush Gardens by the Bay and the sea. If it’s not specified, you’ll be staying on a lower floor without a particularly scenic view. Rooms with a view always come at a slightly higher price. Both views are spectacular, but in our opinion, a room with a city view is the best choice, especially because the sun sets on that side.

Double-Check Your Room Selection

No matter which room you book, you always have access to the pool. However, breakfast is not included with the cheaper rooms. If you want access to Club 55 (with snacks and coffee/tea served three times a day) and breakfast at the hotel, opt for a Club or Suite. On Booking.com, it’s clearly indicated when the room includes breakfast and/or Club 55. When selecting your room, also make sure to check whether you have a garden view or a city view; this information is in the room title.

Conclusion: Is Marina Bay Sands Worth the Money?

Let’s say you book the cheapest room, which costs approximately $270 to $305, depending on the season. That’s a substantial amount of money, but an average hotel in Singapore will still set you back around $90 to $110 per night. This means you’ll pay about $100 per person extra for this extraordinary experience. It’s still a significant expense, but in our opinion, it’s absolutely worth it. Experiencing luxury, the view from your room, and, above all, the pool are unique experiences that make your visit to Singapore truly special. You probably won’t visit Singapore many times, so if you have the chance (and the dollars), you should definitely go for it.

Tip: Book as early as possible to get the best prices. The ‘cheaper’ double rooms up to $440 are often fully booked many months in advance. When you book here, you can cancel for free up to 4 days in advance. This way, you’ll secure a room and have all the flexibility if your travel plans change.

The post Marina Bay Sands in Singapore: an Infinity Pool at 200 Meters (656 feet) in Height! appeared first on TRAVELREBELS.

In the vicinity of Tayrona National Park, you will find some exceptional hotels, eco lodges, and hostels. In this paradisiacal region, Colombia’s lush jungle meets the Caribbean Sea, making it the perfect place to treat yourself to a unique hotel in the midst of Colombia’s rich nature. Especially after a back-to-basics visit to Tayrona National Park, you’re probably ready for some relaxation. We’ve searched for the most beautiful hotels and lodges in the vicinity of Tayrona and have found five very special places to stay.

Quetzal Dorado Eco Lodge

We start with a small paradise just 2 km away from the entrance of Tayrona. Quetzal Dorado Eco Lodge is located on a small hill, allowing you to overlook the jungle of Tayrona National Park from here. You’ll sleep in a beautiful bungalow with a small veranda and a comfortable hammock. Tropical birds fly around you here, and with a bit of luck, you’ll hear howler monkeys roaring in the morning. There’s a restaurant at this eco lodge serving delicious food. Additionally, there’s a nice swimming pool, a pool table, and a foosball table.

Double bungalow $$

YAY Sustainable

Do you love yoga, meditation, and nature? Then YAY Sustainable is perfect for you. This incredibly beautiful hotel is located in the middle of the jungle, along the Guachaca river and 11 kilometers from the entrance of Tayrona National Park. Feel free to book one or more extra days, as you won’t be bored for a moment in this lodge. Take a yoga or meditation class, enjoy a massage, or take a refreshing dip in the natural pool. Additionally, you can participate in some cool activities from the hotel, such as ecological hikes to waterfalls and tubing down the river. You’ll stay in a beautiful bungalow, and the restaurant serves delicious plant-based food. Virtually everything they serve comes from their own garden, a so-called garden-to-table experience. YAY is all about sustainability!

Double room $$

Senda Koguiwa

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay just a 5-minute walk from the entrance of Tayrona, then Senda Koguiwa is for you. This hotel consists of various bungalows that are equipped with all the comforts. The bungalow is spacious, has air conditioning, a nice shower, and a comfortable bed. Some bungalows even have a private pool! The hotel is located next to the river, where you can take a beautiful walk or a refreshing swim around sunset. The price for a double bungalow includes a delicious breakfast.

Double bungalow $$$

Finca Barlovento Cabaña & Maloka

Finca Barlovento Cabaña & Maloka absolutely belongs on this list. The location is very special, situated on the beach, next to the river, and overlooking the jungle. Finca Barlovento Cabaña & Maloka is divided into two hotels. The rooms of Senda Cabaña Barlovento are located directly on the beach where the waves come super close, as you can see in the photo below. Very unique! At Senda Maloka Barlovento, you’ll stay in a more luxurious room, some of which also have sea views. The amenities such as the restaurant and nice swimming pool are the same for both accommodations.

Eco Hostal Yuluka

Eco Hostal Yuluka is definitely the best choice when you have a smaller budget. This charming hostel is located about 2 kilometers from the entrance of Tayrona National Park and is a tropical paradise. There’s a lovely pool with a slide and mini waterfall. Both the double rooms and dorms have air conditioning, and a nice breakfast is included in the price.

Double room $$ | Dorm $

Tips for visiting Tayrona National Park

Have you already read our extensive article with Tips for Tayrona National Park? In it, you’ll read everything about the different entrances, practical tips, and fun hiking routes through Tayrona National Park!

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