Salar De Uyuni: a Peek Into The World’s Largest Natural Mirror

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Last summer, I traveled to Bolivia to see the world’s largest natural mirror. I thought it was all just hype, so my expectations weren’t that high. Little did I know that I’d be for a major treat. Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat, spanning thousands of square miles in southwestern Bolivia. Not your typical sandy desert, the Salar de Uyuni features vast expanses of shimmering white salt.

The landscape is unbelievably flat. It was created when a prehistoric lake dried up and left a salty crust behind. Located at the Altiplano (high plateau) where there are no drainage outlets, the area forms vast but shallow lakes when it rains and then disappear once the skies get clearer. With the presence of these lakes, the salty crust becomes a giant mirror ... and a giant mirror means giant, double sunsets! The scenery is so surreal it almost seems like CGI in a fantasy film. I thought the glassy Pacific featured in the film “Life of Pi” won’t translate into reality. I was wrong.

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The best and most popular way to fully experience Salar de Uyuni is by taking a 4x4 tour across the salt flats. Shared tours usually accommodate for up to six tourists, and thus, for a more comfortable experience, a private tour might more preferable.

My name is Louis Habash. I’m a freelance travel writer based in Los Angeles, California. For more of my adventures, follow me on Twitter.

Travel: Not a Waste on the Young

People should travel. It not only represents the chance to see the world. It makes people open to cultural and emotional change and growth. It is an option that is open to anyone; though many travel enthusiasts recommend starting early and for three very important reasons:

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Learning while it still means something: There is a saying that "you can’t teach an old dog new tricks." This has scientifically proven to be untrue, but only if the person places much diligence and patience in acquiring new experiences. Younger people have more malleable minds, which pick up concepts faster and more easily. Furthermore, traveling encourages tolerance for other cultures. This shapes worldviews and personal biases. Again, this is not to say traveling has no effect on older people, but younger people exposed to different views have more potential to be effective leaders and tolerant human beings.

Becoming more independent: Studies show that traveling increases independence among individuals in that it encourages people to fend for themselves. Young adults who start traveling early know how to handle themselves in more challenging situations and are less likely to panic during emergencies.

Priceless adventures: Traveling while young fulfills the wanderlust most people feel. Those who travel young end up growing with a rich array of priceless memories which shape the way they become adults.

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It must be emphasized that traveling should not be limited to any age. The world is such a spectacular place and each place visited is a paradise discovered for everyone.

As a travel writer, I, Louis Habash go where my feet take me. The experiences I’ve collected have convinced me of the wonders of travel and of Earth’s beauty. Learn more about my travels by liking my Facebook page.

Playa del Carmen: The Caribbean Diamond of Mexico

When people talk about visiting Mexico, most listening expect to hear common city names like Tijuana, Acapulco, or Los Cabos. Cancun, always a hot-spot destination for tourists, has its fair share of sandy beaches, nightlife entertainment, and popular visiting areas. But drive just an hour south of the city you will find one of the trendiest and most-up-and coming diamonds in all of east Mexico: Playa del Carmen.

Image source: Riu.com

Situated between the hustle and bustle of Cancun and just off the world famous scuba diving island waters of Cozumel, Playa del Carmen was originally a small fishing town, quickly developing over recent years into a prominent spot for travelers the world over. Playa offers pristine sandy beaches, designer boutiques, archeological wonders, luxury hotels, jungle exploration, and a true cultural juxtaposition where modernism meets history dating back thousands of years.

You can settle into the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle by staying at one of the all-inclusive posh resorts lining the coast, or get adventurous with tours that are not only exciting, but unlike anything you will find anywhere else.

Chichen Itza stands as the most famous archaeological ruin in Mexico, and is one of the 7 wonders of the modern world. The site is a city of temples deep in the Yucatán jungle estimated to have been built between the 6th and the 10th century A.D. These mysterious Mayan ruins give one a glimpse into one of the most progressive civilizations of its time. Each year thousands of people flock to the site during the equinox to witness the serpent descending the steps, a true shadow phenomenon that will take your breath away.

 Image source: TopMexicoRealEstate.com

Few places offer more astonishing water activities than those found around this area. Between mid-May to mid-September of every year, whale sharks migrate to the islands off the coast of Cancun. Guided tours to these areas allow visitors to get right in the water and swim with the whale sharks. These gentle giants can range in size from 25 to 40 feet long, weighing an average of 20,000 pounds. They swim slowly and are agreeable to swimming with swimmers and snorkelers, allowing people to observe them up close. This once in a lifetime opportunity is one of the many remarkable experiences happening in and around Playa del Carmen.

If you are considering taking a holiday south of the border, do yourself a favor and check out Playa del Carmen. The colorful variety of activities, mixed with the culture, both from the past and that of today, are things you do not want to pass up.

Kutna Hora: The Bone Church

In a previous post, I sang the praises and pleasures of traveling to Prague, in the Czech Republic. If you want to get even more out of your trip to the Czech Republic, and you are fascinated with the bizarre or macabre, you simply must take a day trip to Kutna Hora.

Situated about 90 minutes outside of Prague, this town is famous for its Sedlec Ossuary, more commonly known by tourists as the Bone Church. Built in the 13^th century, this small Roman Catholic Church was not much different than many other churches that were established across Europe during the period. However, because the abbot of the Sedlec Monastery had sprinkled the grounds with soil from Palestine, this church was considered very holy ground and was a popular burial spot for Czech residents.

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 However, during the Thirty Years’ War in the 17^th century, the demand for burials in this sacred spot outstripped the available plots in which to bury the dead. In order to accommodate the desire to be buried in holy soil, they began digging up previous corpses and started to decorate the church with those skulls and bones.

As you walk into the little church today, you will be awestruck by the walls, chalices, and even a chandelier, that are decorated with the bones and skulls of previously departed souls. It feels cold upon entry, even on a hot summer day, and you will probably remain speechless as you walk around this rather spooky chapel.

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While this is not the only tourist spot outside of Prague that is worth visiting, you can certainly say that it is the most unusual place to visit, perhaps in all of Europe. It is definitely worth the time to visit and explore. However, I would not recommend you spend the night inside it, unless you are an uncommonly brave adventurer! (Just kidding: it is only open during the daytime.)

Discover Prague

If you ever travel to Europe, one must-see spot is Prague in the Czech Republic. Besides its intrinsic beauty, Prague was one of the few major European cities to not be destroyed during World War II. This was because, during that tragic period of our world history, Prague (and all of Czechoslovakia, as it was then known) was occupied by Nazi Germany. The Allies viewed the Czechs as involuntarily occupied and consequently did not attack this country.


This fact means that Prague is one of the few ancient cities in Europe that still has all of their historical buildings and landmarks intact. Perhaps most famous is Prague Castle, which receives thousands of visitors each year. Built in the 9th century and currently operating as the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic, this is an unforgettable tourist spot. Many of the great and beloved royal families of old are still interred under the main chapel in the castle. Upon entering the chapel, one immediately senses that marvelous and deep history that properly stirs the pride of any native Czech.

Image source: Time.com

Another spot that offers more wonderful history and sites is Old Town Square, which is down the hill from Prague Castle and across the Vltava River. While thronging with crowds year round, visiting during the Easter or Christmas season is highly recommended. At those times, many small booths are set up with lots of wonderful local crafts and foods being offered as you meander through the square. During Easter, be sure to pick up one or two of their marvelously painted and delicate Easter Eggs. At Christmas time, enjoy the gigantic Christmas tree that is planted in front of Tyn Church.

Image source: Irongate.cz

Finally, be sure to enjoy the unusual and fantastic cuisine that the Czech Republic offers. Beer lovers from around the world never cease to enjoy the wide variety of local beers. Likewise, get some of the best schnitzel around and do not forget to sample their famous dumplings. You have the choice of bread, potato, or bacon dumplings, or if you are really hungry, order a plate that offers all three styles.


Trust me, if you want to see Europe as it was centuries ago, Prague is the place for you!

Summer Colony: One Day In Martha’s Vineyard Island

Martha’s Vineyard could be the country’s weirdest island as far as its name is concerned. It is perhaps the only island to have the possessive apostrophe (correct me if I’m mistaken). But beyond the unique name, the island has an intriguing personality. I’ve been to one of its famous gingerbread houses and was lucky enough to see the splendor that is the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary. As a popular summer colony, Martha’s Vineyard is a favorite among the rich and famous.

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Originally a whaling center, Martha’s Vineyard reached one of its economic peaks in the 19th century. But as the industry declined, it started to rebuild and rebrand itself as a resort island. It has since been frequented by wealthy vacationers; some of them even bought parcels of land to set up a permanent holiday home. Casual tourists can still visit, though.

The island was named after English explorer Bartholomew Gosnold’s daughter, Martha. Found in Dukes County, Massachusetts, Martha’s Vineyard is composed of six townships: Tisbury, Edgartown, Oak Bluffs (where the gingerbread cottages stand proud), West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah.

Image source: mvy.com

A history of peaceful coexistence with the Wampanoag tribe members established the island’s reputation for equality. Not only was it a home for many African-American elites but was also a safe haven for Jewish families who were discouraged from buying on nearby Nantucket Island during the more prejudiced times.

My name is Louis Habash. I love traveling around the U.S. and the world and writing stories about my adventures, mishaps, and unique experiences in my journeys. Follow me on Twitter for more of my escapades.

Exploring Arizona

It’s always exciting to explore new places and learn more about the amazing things awaiting discovery. Seldom does one think of the vast desert terrain cascading through the southwestern portion of the United States without considering the Grand Canyon and its gateway state Arizona. And although it is understandable for some of the state’s other glorious sites to lose the limelight to such an awe-inspiring national landmark, one should take the time to venture out into other areas of Arizona and visit some of its many hidden gems awaiting exploration.

Arizona is a very uniquely situated state, with California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico arching from the west to the north to the east, while Mexico itself rounds out the equation due south. The state is surrounded by different cultures rich with history. And the many natural backdrops you will find in Arizona are absolutely incredible. They serve as a direct influence on the mixed and diverse personalities you can come across when navigating the pristine landscape scattered throughout the area. Doing some research and learning about hidden gems that locals can direct you to is an excellent way of gaining traction on what lies beneath the flashier and better known attractions.

Historical significance is literally set in stone throughout Arizona, and checking out the Canyon de Chelly National Monument most certainly reiterates the timelessness of this region. For nearly 5,000 years people have lived uninterrupted in this canyon. Navajo Indian Reservations outline the park, and tribal lineage raise families, livestock, and farm the lands of the canyon to this day.

Located just south of Payson, Arizona is Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, home to what is believed to be the biggest natural travertine bridge in the world. Measured at 183 feet high with a tunnel underneath running approximately 400 feet long, this is a natural phenomenon anyone should witness and experience first-hand.

If you want to make your vacation a truly slumberous vacation, then don’t worry. Arizona has all of the amenities you need to sit back, relax, and let time do the talking. Less adventurous travelers looking for more leisure should check out Buckskin Mountain State Park. This 1,644-acre park has all of the amenities one needs for a holiday of respite, including campgrounds, cabana sites, beaches, hiking trails, restrooms, showers, boat ramps, picnic areas, a basketball and volleyball court, playground, restaurant, camp store, arcade, gas dock, and ranger station. If you like picturesque scenery, a true desert escape, and water activities under the sun, Buckskin might be a destination to visit one day.

Pockets all over the United States have their own little hidden gems awaiting discovery, and Arizona is no exception. There are countless destinations to consider when visiting the amazingly beautiful and unique landscape that makes it something beyond special.

Making the Most out of a Staycation

Travelling to foreign or unfamiliar destinations is certainly wonderful, but there's a whole lot to be said about the staycation. Of course, lounging around your back yard in a swimsuit can be great, but why not get creative? Here are a few staycation tips that will make your home city seem like the ultimate vacation destination!

Learn your city's history

Naturally, you can head to your local museums and theaters, but I'm willing to bet that you can find some really interesting things around your home town. Does your town have a brewery or distillery? Take a tour! Check out some local sporting events and cheer on the athletes! Go on a themed bus tour – there are tons of eating tours, history tours and even crime and haunted house tours!

Do what the tourists do

Pretend you're an out-of-towner, and visit all of the sites that you'd see with unfamiliar eyes, and take lots of pictures. If you want to get out of the house for a day or two, check into a hotel and take advantage of their amenities. Lounge by the pool, have room service – live it up, if only for an overnight stay!

Finally learn how to Salsa

Or line dance, or foxtrot! Just because you aren't a thousand miles away, it doesn't mean you can't do things that are still totally new to you. Go to a dance club, or take a class! Learn how to play tennis. Eat cuisine you've never tried. Take an art class and learn how to paint or draw!
Staycations can be much more than just not travelling on your time off. No city is so small that it doesn't offer up some little cultural goodies that you haven't tried yet. Take the time to enjoy your home town – it will make the times when you do travel that much richer!

3 Tips For Road-Trippers

Students, adventurers, and people on a tight budget might forgo the trappings of luxury vacations and go on a rugged road trip. Since the bulk, if not the entirety, of the vacation is the journey itself, it is critical that the time in the car, truck, or RV is enjoyable. Here are a few tips on how to make the voyage as fun as the destination!

Research, research, research!

Granted, it's best to be flexible, but don't hit the open road without knowing which towns and rest stops have certain features you might want. Finding hidden and unexpected gems is one of the many fun things about road trips, but being caught unawares when you stop in a small town can be a major bummer. Don't make the mistake of pulling into a town after an 8 hour drive needing a cold beer and then discovering (surprise!) you're in a dry county!

Pack light, but pack smart.

Try not to take more than one bag per person, so you'll have plenty of room for souvenirs and other road trip goodies. Pack practical and easy-to-launder clothes, so if you need fresh underwear, all you'll have to do is stop at a laundry mat.
Make sure you have an extra set of car keys – better safe than sorry.
Unfortunately, if you're going through parts of the Midwest, there will be huge stretches where you'll be looking at absolutely nothing except dirt.It's a good idea to have a wide variety of music, and even comedy recordings, if that's the kind of thing you all enjoy. Monty Python has a bunch of albums that will make even the dreariest road trip a blast!

Eat local.

Have you tried the pasties in Michigan? How about the Illinois Horseshoe sandwich? One of the best and most delicious ways of learning about a region's history is by eating the local fare. There's almost no point in going on an extended road trip if you only eat at nationally franchised fast food restaurants. Make the effort to find out from locals where the best little food nooks are, because those are what make vacations truly memorable.
If you're hitting the road this summer, make room for plenty of fun! Road trips aren't necessarily glamorous, but they can be fantastic!

New Mexico as a Travel Destination-Part III

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Part I of this series focused on the benefits of visiting the city of Santa Fe and part II discussed how you can enjoy Albuquerque. This final article describes other parts of the state that are enticing to travelers.

If you visit in the winter, you will want to take advantage of the world class skiing that is available in the state. In particular, the Taos area offers great winter sports and excellent ski runs for beginners and experts. Snowboarding and cross-country are available, too. The town of Taos is very attractive because of its artist and alternative culture. The food in the area ranges from basic to five star.

Heading south past Albuquerque, are a number of interesting attractions. The city of Socorro is home to New Mexico Tech, an excellent technology and mining college, but is also only 50 miles from the Very Large Array. This “farm” of 27 radio telescopes has appeared in a number of films, most prominently “Contact.”  The array provides an eerie feeling of connection to the cosmos. Also in that general region is the Bosque del Apache reserve, a wildlife area devoted to migrating birds. In the late fall, the Bosque hosts thousands of birds, including ducks, geese and Sandhill Cranes.

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If you visit the area during the first week in April, keep alert for the first Saturday, when you can tour the Trinity site. It is only open one day a year because it is part of the White Sands Missile Base. Trinity is the location of the detonation of the first test atom bomb. Just as a visit to the Very Large Array connects you to the cosmos, a visit to Trinity connects you to the power of humanity and its fragility.
 

Image Source: en.wikipedia.org

There is so much more to New Mexico than what you find in this three-article series, but it gives you a good start.

Louis Habash writes about travel as a freelancer. He lives in Los Angeles. A lover of photography, hiking, water sports and nature, Louis Habash is able to combine these interests while travelling.

Dive into a New Culture

If you are an experienced traveler and have decided to return to a spot that held good and special memories for you, do not hesitate to expand your horizons on your next trip. Of course, returning to special areas and rekindling the awe and inspiration of your first impressions is always good, but also call the adventurer within yourself to forge a different and new path that will also create new moments that will forever remain within your memories.

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Sometimes, that unknown place will be right around a famous corner. Other times, a long rambling walk through a new neighborhood or nearby city will reveal an establishment that beckons with soft lights and quiet laughter. Perhaps best of all is when you hear a voice singing or guitar playing, and you are lured around corners and down alleys only to discover true local genius that will offer you a night of entertainment and a memory that will last forever.

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Now take this very same idea and apply it locally. Yes, you have your favorite haunts and love to congregate with like-minded appreciators of music and cuisine, but every once in a while, you might want to scratch that adventurous itch and try something that is not your normal locale. Hit a neighboring city or simply go into a section of your town that you usually skip. Taste the magic and uniqueness of your own city and state and commune with your fellow citizens.

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Keep in mind that nor every adventure will end up becoming eternal in your mind. But at the same time, without leaving your own home town, you can travel to a new and as yet undiscovered world, where people thrive on getting together and having a fantastic time. Yes, even at home, you can dive into as yet undiscovered and special cultures!