Anyone that has been traveling before will know that it is not all action and adventure. There is a lot of downtime between the exciting parts of travel, and you spend a lot of your time traveling between destinations and hanging around at hostels or hotels. These do not have to be dull periods, though, and sometimes it is these aspects that become the most memorable. There are a few activities that you can turn to in these times that will make the downtime a lot more enjoyable and hopefully help you to make the most of the time that you have.

Journaling

Perhaps the best use of this time is to update your travel journal. You should always keep a travel journal during your adventures so that you can cement your memories and create something that you can always look back on and show to others. It can be easy to forget things when you are experiencing so much, so downtime can be a great opportunity to catch up.

Research Upcoming Destinations

In addition to looking back, you can also use this time to look forward and research the upcoming destinations that you have. To really make the most of your travel experiences, you want to know as much about where you are traveling to as possible. This can include local attractions, customs, transport options and accommodation.

Card Games

If you have been traveling before, then you know just how common it is for people to play card games during downtime. Whether you are playing a solo game in your hotel or playing with a group of people in a hostel, card games are a great way to pass the time and can also help you to make new friends – many card games are universal, and you can play them even if language is a problem!

Online Casino Games

Similarly, online casino games can be a great way to unwind and have some fun during your downtime. You can play online blackjack and other popular casino games on your phone, tablet or laptop, which means you can enjoy these games while on the move or while chilling in your accommodation. These games are quick and easy to pick up and play, so they are ideal when you have five or ten minutes to kill.

Catch Up with Loved Ones

It can be hard to maintain communication with loved ones during a travel adventure, so downtime is a chance for you to catch up with everyone and update them on what you have been doing. This could be sending out emails or texts, arranging a video call or updating a blog to keep everyone informed (also a great way to log your journey).

These are a few of the best activities to try during downtime on a travel adventure. It is not always action and adventure on these trips, and you will have a lot of downtime to fill, but these periods can be special and memorable when you have a few activities to turn to.

A skiing holiday is a big adventure and not a decision to be taken lightly. The good news is that going on an amazing skiing holiday to remember doesn’t need to cost a huge amount of money and you don’t always have to travel halfway across the world to enjoy one, either. If you’ve never been on a skiing holiday before and need an excuse to go on one, then there are lots of benefits of going skiing to consider, including that it can really benefit your health. Whether you’re feeling stressed out and anxious, have been struggling to sleep or need to ease some tension in your body and relax, skiing can help.

Improve Your Mood

Like any kind of exercise, skiing can improve your mood by releasing endorphins. In Korea, research was conducted that found that people who go skiing come away feeling more positive and satisfied than they did before. Not only does skiing have a lot of physical benefits such as improving your flexibility and strengthening your muscles, but it can also improve your self-confidence and help your self-esteem. If you want to plan a holiday that involves doing something different and come away feeling better than ever, then it’s definitely worth looking into ski holidays at one of the best ski resorts.

Lose Weight

If you have some extra pounds that you have been trying to shift without getting much luck, then going on a skiing holiday could be just what you need. And the best part is that these trips are so physically active, you don’t have to follow a strict diet or deprive yourself of any treats while you are there. Simply hitting the slopes will do wonders for helping you get down to your goal weight – something that can’t always be said for any other kind of holiday! The best thing about skiing is that you’re doing a lot of exercise, without it feeling like a workout because it’s simply so much fun.

Improve Your Strength

If skiing is something that you have done before, then you’ll know what it feels like to be aching in the morning – but it’s a good kind of ache, like the type you get after a really productive workout, as it means that your body is getting stronger. Skiing holidays can help you get much stronger physically and build your muscles. If you are not a fan of lifting weights over and over in the gym, then this can be a great alternative to consider. Along with improving your muscle strength, it will also improve your flexibility and balance.

Boost Heart Health

If you need a solid reason to take more skiing holidays, then the fact that skiing can be really good for your heart is definitely a reason to consider it. Over the years, the heart health of the average person is getting worse and worse. Since skiing is an endurance sport, it helps with improving heart health as it gets your heart pumping and keeps it at a healthy rate while you are skiing. Studies have found that even when using the ski lift, the heart stays at a healthy rate. Since skiing is a sport that can help you feel relaxed, it can do wonders for reducing your blood pressure.

Get Your Vitamins

Since skiing is often associated with a lot of snow, most people forget just how much sunshine they are getting when they are on the ski slopes. But in reality, you’re getting a lot of sun when you are skiing, which is soaking up a great amount of vitamin D into your skin. If you tend to get depressed or are more prone to picking up bugs during the winter months, then it might be because you are not getting enough of this essential vitamin. Going skiing can help!

Wind Down and Relax

While skiing down slopes might not seem like the most relaxing thing to do in the world at the time, there’s nothing more relaxing than afterwards, when you’re sitting on a comfortable sofa in front of an open fire, enjoying a warm drinking and reminiscing about your skiing experience. Coming in from the cold, warming up in a warm bath and relaxing in a luxurious, cosy environment is one of the most comforting and relaxing things you’ll do. Slip into a soft, fluffy dressing gown and slippers, put your favourite film or some music you enjoy on, and let yourself slip into a totally relaxed, stress-free state.

If you are looking into your next trip or want to take a winter holiday and do something different, there are lots of reasons to consider going skiing. Whether you’re an avid skier or have never done it before, going on a skiing holiday can benefit your health and wellbeing in so many ways.

Choosing the best bikini begins with understanding the shape of your body and the swimwear style that suits it best. You may also consider measuring your bust; however, you should not squeeze the tape too much; take measurements that will enable you to breathe deeply.

Also, measure your waist size and do not squeeze your stomach. Also, take measurements of the hips, the widest point below the waist.

Rhyle Swim offers a variety of bikinis from which you can choose. This article provides an ultimate guide to choosing the suitable cheeky swimsuits for you.

Consider The Shape of Your Body

When it comes to choosing cheeky swimsuits, everyone’s body shape is unique. Therefore, you need to choose a bikini that perfectly fits you. Various body shapes will fit your descriptions, including the pear body shape, apple body shape, hourglass body shape, rectangle body shape, and athletic body shape. It is also important to note that body shape is not the same as body weight; a body shape can measure any weight.

Picking A Bikini for Apple Body Shape

The apple body shape refers to a woman’s body shape, which tends to be heavy at the top; that is, she has a broader bust and shoulders proportional to the hips. Therefore, it is advisable to emphasize the hips curves with side ties and patterned bottoms for this body shape. Also, a high-waisted bottom paired with a tankini will flatter and tone your figure. Halter tops and plunging necklines will make your thick torsos and broad shoulders look slim.

Picking A Bikini for A Pear Body Shape

A pear body shape is also referred to as a triangle body shape and refers to a woman’s body shape that is generally wide at the hips but with narrow shoulders and a smaller bust. Therefore, for a pear body shape, go for cheeky swimsuits with bold top patterns, padded cups, and elaborate styles, and to emphasize your bust’s natural curve, have plunging necklines. Also, for your bottom, emphasize figure-flattering darker shades with solid colors. The high-cut bottoms will also make your thighs look longer and slimmer.

Choosing A Bikini for A Rectangle Body Shape

A rectangle body shape refers to a straight silhouette with slight measurement differences in the bust, hips, and waist. All bikini types add a curve to the hips and bust so that the rectangular body shape looks perfect for all bikini types. Therefore side tie bottoms and skimpy triangle-style tops are ideal for this body shape.

One-piece cheeky swimsuits with cut-out sides may create an hourglass body shape for the straightest rectangle body shapes. Ruffles, colors with bold patterns, ruching, and frills can add extra volume to your busts and hips.

Picking A Bikini for Hourglass Body Shape

An hourglass body shape refers to unevenly proportioned hips and busts but with a well-defined waist. An hourglass body shape fits most of the cheeky swimsuits’ flattering styles; it all depends on how much you want to emphasize the curves. So high-waisted bottoms will make your waist look slim and cover your tummy.

Choosing A Bikini for Athletic Body Shape

Athletic body shape is also known as an inverted triangle and refers to a body shape that combines straight hips, waist, and bust with broad shoulders. For this body shape, choose cheeky swimsuits that combine fancy bottoms with simple plain tops to balance out the hips and shoulders. Padded cups and plunging necklines will enhance smaller breasts and minimize broad shoulders.

Summary

When choosing cheeky swimsuits, you should consider various body shapes to make the best choice. These include the apple body shape, pear body shape, rectangle body shape, hourglass body shape, and athletic body shape.

There’s something about travel where, it’s great to see places on the tv that you add to your bucket list or to read about the coolest destinations within the glossy pages of a magazine, but nothing beats going and seeing it with your own eyes.

Words and pictures will never be able to express the feeling that you get by being in a destination and, if that happens to be Nikki Beach, that feeling will be one of excitement, pride and achievement. Because visiting Nikki Beach, wherever you are in the world, will be a memory that will last a lifetime.

Recently, I visited Nikki Beach Resort & Spa in Dubai, located on the waterfront of Pearl Jumeira, where guests can enjoy the Arabian Gulf’s blue waters and stunning panoramic views from every corner of the property. Having already frequented their St Tropez location, my expectations were high and the experience didn’t disappoint. However, this time it wasn’t the Instagrammable moments, the incredible sushi platters or the iconic DJ’s that will forever be etched on my heart, it’s the story behind Nikki Beach itself that will live with me forever.

Having recently suffered the excruciating pain of losing my incredible dad unexpectedly last year, I know what grief can do to a person. It will either make you sink or swim and, for the first part, I sank lower than the ocean floor. However, over time I have managed to get my head above water and, with a few gasps for air, I am swimming again. I know how hard it is to turn your mess in to a message and that is exactly what the founder of Nikki Beach has done.

Jack Penrod is the brainchild behind Nikki Beach but first and foremost, he is the father to Nicole. Sadly, back in 1997, Nicole died tragically in a car accident at the tender age of 18. This tragedy became the fuel for Jack and his wife Lucia to build a lasting legacy in Nicoles name. That is when and why Nikki Beach was created. They believe that you should wake up every morning ready to celebrate life and make it contagious and I couldn’t agree more.

I could wax lyrical about the spectacular views from Nikki Beach Dubai, I could while away hours telling you about the awe-inspiring Dubai skyline or the endless and unique in-room features that are on hand when you stay at this hotel, but it wouldn’t even come close to the story behind the brand. Nikki Beach is a legacy and, to me, a legacy is the amount of lives that you touch along the way and thanks to Jack Penrod, he has touched many many lives all in the name of his gorgeous daughter.

For every glass of champagne that has ever been poured, for every memory that has ever been made at Nikki Beach Dubai, it was all done for Nicole Penrod. Cheers to her.

Canada is a beautiful country where you can immerse yourself in its culture and exciting destinations. But if you genuinely want to experience what Canada offers, the only way is to share the place as a local. There are various exciting activities that you can do, like only Canadians can show you how. Here are ways that you can travel to Canada as the locals would

Learn A Few Canadian Slang

There is a saying that when in Rome, do what the Romans do. And that’s the same when you’re in Canada if you’d like to blend in with the locals. To get to know people is to learn their local jargon or slang. While English is the primary language in Canada, you’ll notice a few differences, such as a new dialect.

The French language is also spoken in Canada, and it will serve you to learn a few phrases if you come across French-speaking citizens. It is considered respectful to do your best and speak the native language when you visit various provinces. Montreal, for example, has locals speaking French. Learning how to converse with the locals will help you get around after getting off the Toronto Montreal train.

Head For A Mount Royal Stroll

If you were to stay in Montreal, you could enjoy the place as the locals do and take a walk to Mount Royal. Montreal loves the outdoors and nature. And it’s convenient for them to enjoy outside since it is nearby. While it is a small mountain, Mount Royal has a park-like atmosphere that allows visitors to relax.

The foot of Mount Royal plays host to the ‘tam-tams,’ a collective of drummers and dancers who entertain visitors every Sunday when the weather permits it. It is a harmonic gathering for both the young and old. Locals and guests can watch fun medieval battle scenes play out from the hill using foam weaponry. It is a chance for joiners to be creative with their handmade costumes.

You can also head over to the winding path leading to the top of the mountain, where you can have a picnic and watch happy banters from families and friends while enjoying the Beaver Lake scenery.

Look For Local Cafes

Canada is rich in beautiful scenery, and you can spend your time enjoying them. Come resting and eating time, there are also many charming places to go local regarding dining and drinking. Experiencing the country like a local means looking for local cafes and eateries where you can eat. These are the establishments only known by regular citizens and not famous restaurant chains that most people want.

Local cafes would likely have authentic cuisine featuring specialties you won’t find anywhere else. Pull up a chair and enjoy the fine day if you can find an outdoor seat and table.

Try Hiking At The Right Season

If you’re in Alberta, you’d want to immerse yourself in Canada’s natural wonders, like the Jasper National Park. In the nearby town, you can also check out the local hikes. But the place can be packed, especially during the peak season. It would be like a crowded city.

If you’d want to explore the Canadian Rockies with as few other hikers as possible, you’d want to be there during the fall season. The best times are a few weeks before the opening of the ski hills. The spring is also ideal after the closing of the ski hills. Around this time, there will be no hikers close to town, although you might find a few people in the park.

You can check out the Valley of The Five Lakes, where you can hike to see the beautiful blue waters. It is surrounded by woods where you can enjoy trekking for a few hours.

Don’t Forget Your Manners

If you’d like to enjoy Canada as a local, you’d want to display your manners as Canadians do. Remember to cover your mouth when you yawn, keep your elbows off the table, and always say ‘Thank you.’ Buying and eating out also means tipping the service people at an average of 15%.

How you are in public also matters to avoid being offensive. When you’re in Canada, avoid discussing politics, as it is considered a private matter in the country. Also, take note that pointing to anyone is considered rude. When you’re meeting people, always be on time and respectful.

A handshake at the first meeting is also important. If you’re anywhere other than the west, you will need to be more open-minded because it is considered impolite if you don’t shake an extended hand to you.

In Conclusion

Canada is a beautiful and cultured place that you wouldn’t easily forget. While travelling, you can get into the local spirit by eating at local establishments, staying at local accommodations, and learning the people’s language. You’d also want to try the local spot where people enjoy spending time. A place can be even more unforgettable when you learn how to get along with its people.

If you’re looking for an outdoor holiday that’s low-cost and high-reward, then it’s difficult to beat a walking holiday. These come in many different forms to appeal to a broad range of people, and it’s worth fully exploring your options before you get started.

Why Choose a Walking Holiday?

There are a number of great reasons to choose a walking holiday. First, walking is a form of exercise that’s low-impact, and that will help you to lose weight and reduce your risk of developing a whole range of different health problems. Second, walking holidays will allow you to explore parts of the world that might otherwise be denied to you. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a gruelling scramble.

Let’s assess some of the different types of walking holidays available.

Guided Walking Tours

If you’re looking to go for a walking holiday as a group, and you’d like some supervision and guidance through an unfamiliar part of the world, then a guided walking tour might be for you. A guide will be able to provide you with insight that you might otherwise have missed out on, and show you the best routes through a given location.

Self-guided

If you’d prefer to economise, then you might elect to guide your own walk. This is an option that might appeal to walkers who’ve got a little bit more experience, and are comfortable planning their own routes.

Point to Point

This is a holiday where you’ll walk from one place to another over the course of the entire trip, with a different stop-off point every night. It’s something that works if you’re carrying a tent with you, or if you’ve booked your accommodation at a different stop, according to your planned itinerary. You’ll need to put in a bit of planning to make this kind of trip work, and you might lose some flexibility, but there’s a sense of larger achievement that’s difficult to replicate with many disparate, shorter hikes.

Centre Based Walking

This is a kind of walking holiday that involves staying in just one place, and going through all of the walks in the immediate vicinity. Not every location is suitable for this kind of trip: after all, you don’t want to be travelling long distances before you can reach the trails you’re interested in. On the other hand, you do get a degree of flexibility. If you decide that you’re not up to a longer walk on any given day, then you can take a shorter one instead.

What would you need to take?

Certain items of equipment stand out as essential. You’ll need a backpack, a supply of socks, and windproof clothing that’s suitable for the expected weather. If you want to save your knees, then you might take some sticks, too. By far the most important item of equipment, however, are the boots you’ll be wearing.

Mountain Atlas offers stunning vistas, Berber settlements, and abandoned Kasbahs. It is an excellent place for those who love hiking or have always wanted to go trekking on mountains.

Hiking in a picturesque valley or among towering peaks is also a great possibility on mount atlas. Trekkers can explore red sandstone canyons, haggle in local markets, and see deserted Kasbahs in mount atlas.

Each year, mont atlas attracts a large number of vacationers. Visiting the place will find lively nightlife, delicious cuisine, and fascinating culture.Before you decide to go hiking, it is suggested to research the surroundings of Atlas Mountains

You should also investigate the local climate and lodging options of the Atlas Mountains. Please refer to the following checklist to successfully summit Mount Toubkal of Atlas.

Why Are Trekking Trails in the Mount Atlas so Popular?

This mountain range is between the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts and the Sahara. Mount Toubkal, located there, is the highest point in all of North Africa.

There is a little town named Imlil, now the epicenter of mountaineering in the world’s highest mountains. It may lack the culture and charm of other Berber communities in the Atlas, but it more than makes up for adventure and beauty.

Mount Toubkal, the tallest mountain in the area at 4,167 meters, may be seen here. Those who go to Imlil do so almost exclusively to partake in its most popular activity: trekking.

Both short-day walks in the valley and longer multi-day excursions to the highest peaks are available. If you, your partner, or some friends are interested in visiting a fantastic location, you may organize a trekking excursion.

The naive need not worry; there is enough assistance to go around. Travelers who have been here previously, in particular, have provided helpful information. Atlas mountain guided treks are reliable trekking guides that can help you to visit the eastern ascent of Mount Toubkal. North African Berbers live dispersed in the barren desert. Bring binoculars to observe Atlas deer, Barbary leopards, wild cats, jackals, red foxes, and polecat ferrets.

The valleys have more luxuriant juniper woods, almond orchards, and argan plantations. In Morocco, you may find the Middle Atlas, the High Atlas, and the Anti-Atlas.

• The High Atlas

The Sahara Desert to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the west are separated by the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. Ait Benhaddou, Morocco’s famed fortified town, is located at the base of the mountains. High Atlas has been used as a scenic background for various films.

• The Middle Atlas

The Middle Atlas in northern Morocco has extensive oak and cedar woods. The weather is often colder than in the cities and towns in the interior of Morocco.

Jebel Bou Naceur reaches 3000 meters above sea level, making this Atlas region the most fertile area (3340m).

• The Anti-Atlas

South of the Atlas Mountains is where you will find the Anti-Atlas. It starts near the Atlantic and extends 500 km inland. It is expected to have the fewest hotels in the Atlas Mountains, given it is the least traveled area.

Due to its closeness to the Sahara, summer temperatures may skyrocket. When possible, plan your trip during the shoulder seasons between spring and fall or winter and spring.

Five Best Practices for Hiking up Mount Atlas

1. Having Done Sufficient Prep Work

Professional athletics and marathon running are not necessary to become physically fit to visit mount atlas. Success will always be on your side as long as you dedicate some time to being ready for the test that lies ahead.

We suggest that trekkers who want to be in shape do so by walking up and down hills regularly. Improving your stamina and self-assurance is also crucial to your achievement.

• Long-distance running, swimming, cycling, and walking are examples of low- to moderate-intensity exercise. Aerobic exercise improves cardiovascular health and oxygen use.
• Light leg, core, and upper body strength training are advised, along with cardio. Since you will carry a pack for 6-7 hours a day, strengthen your core (abs and lower back) and shoulders.
• Preparing for a lengthy trek requires actual practice on the trail. We advise setting out on at least two multi-day treks (over 5 hours). It would be ideal if you could complete it on consecutive days. We strongly advise including some practice hikes in your training regimen.
• During the night of the walk, you may feel like giving up. Drawing on one’s inner resources and being able to use them is crucial. Fortunately, cardio and strength training will prepare your mind for the task, making climbing less tiring. The last step to mentally preparing for a climb is to sign up for a half-marathon. Long-distance running tests one’s mental fortitude and physical strength.

1. Know When the Weather Is Ideal for Hiking

Certain seasons are best for climbing the Atlas Mountains and Toubkal. Consider weather, cloud cover, visibility, and hikers while hiking Toubkal.

The Atlas Mountains are most pleasant from November through March when snowfall is scarce.

• Do you long to see stunning snow-capped peaks? If so, you should try summiting Toubkal in the dead of winter. Temperatures dip below freezing at night, and snow covers the Refuge (3200 m).
• Would you instead go climbing in the fall or the spring? Consequently, you need to take appropriate measures against both the heat and the cold. Trails leading up to the Refuge at 3200 meters might become relatively warm on the first day of your journey there. Sunscreen (factor 50), a hat, and sunglasses are essential since the sun will be intense. You should bring a collared shirt (polo), a scarf, or a buff. Otherwise, the burn on your neck may be somewhat painful. Mount Toubkal will likely snow on the second day of the ascent, and temperatures will hover around freezing. You should wear long trousers, warm coats, hats, scarves, and gloves.
• Contrary to popular belief, summer is the busiest time for ascents of Mount Toubkal. Residents and visitors alike seek relief from the sweltering temperatures in the highlands. Even in the heat of July, a trek across the Atlas Mountains may be a delightful experience. It’s essential to be well-prepared for the sun. Pack long pants and a warm coat for the last ascent to the peak.

1. Keep an Eye Out for Signs of Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is possible if you climb higher than 3,000 meters. The first night of your Toubkal ascent, and maybe the second, will be spent at an altitude of 3,200 meters.

Knowing the indications of altitude sickness might help you avoid it. Nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, and headaches are all symptoms of altitude sickness.

You may also feel an intense headache, disorientation, and trouble falling asleep.

The causes of altitude sickness include:

• Too fast ascent (rapidly)
• Physical exhaustion from climbing too fast
• drinking too little water
• Hypothermia
• Alcohol and other sedative use

Slowly acclimating to greater altitude may prevent altitude sickness (Acclimatization). Acclimatization must occur for the human body to function normally at high elevations.

To adjust to low oxygen levels, acclimatization promotes ventilation. The blood’s pH must be lowered to account for the increased oxygenation. Diamox is an altitude medicine; take it slowly, drink water, and listen to your body (and your tour leader).

Mount Toubkal’s 4,100-meter height causes headaches and sleepiness in almost everyone. Get enough sleep, eat properly, and take altitude medication frequently to succeed.

1. Know the Culture and Customs Before Going

Morocco is more than mountains, camel safaris, trekking trails, and tea. As you journey through these places, you will meet many residents. It is a cultural journey as well as an exciting one. We recommend chatting with the close-knit families who run the refuge and teahouses.

1. Have the Correct Gear

Nothing is more annoying than starting a trip without the correct gear or with worthless stuff. When trekking, you need weather-appropriate attire, a day backpack, and well-worn shoes.

You must think carefully about the kind of day pack you carry on your hike. An innovative daypack includes breathable nettle shoulder and hip straps. Your daypack for Toubkal shouldn’t be more than 3 kilos, and your kit should weigh less than 10 kilos.

Consider your hiking boots to be the workhorse of your hiking gear. A vacation isn’t worth the effort if your feet suffer, become cold, or remain damp. Break in some sturdy boots to keep your feet dry, comfy, and safe.

Anyone who’s been on a multi-day journey will tell you that hiking boots are necessary and worth the money.

Check out this list of must-haves before heading to Mount Atlas:

• Sunglasses

• Scarf

• Face Mask

• Some sunscreen and a hat

• Wind stopper / rain coat

• T-shirt (short & long sleeves)

• Shorts/skirt

• First-aid kit

• Locks for bags

• Reusable water bottle

• Toiletries (preferably biodegradable)

• Trekking trousers

• Trekking boots (worn in)

• High-energy snacks

• Small travel towel

• Polypropylene thermal tops and bottom (two pairs)

• Down jacket (can be provided)

• Head torch with spare batteries and bulb

• Reusable water container (3 litres carrying capacity)

Conclusion

Take some time to absorb the knowledge you just gained from reading the tips mentioned above regarding trekking. If you need assistance planning your trip to Mount Atlas, don’t hesitate to ask for it.

Packing for this hiking trip should not be rushed. Putting these fantastic suggestions to use on your adventure will be a wise move.