The Fairy Pools (Isle of Skye, Scotland)

The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye, Scotland | Two Travelling Texans

The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, are just magical.  They are a set of waterfalls flowing into crystal clear pools with the stunning Black Cullins mountains as the backdrop.  The colors of the water and mountains are so intense, it seems like a place out of a fantasy movie.

It’s a short easy walk to the largest waterfall, you just have to navigate across the stream on a rock bridge.  If you are up for it, you can even go for a swim in the crystal clear waters but let me warn you it will be cold.  I would allow an hour for the 2.4 km round trip walk so that you have plenty of time for pictures.

How to get there: To get to the Fairy Pools, take the road to Glenbrittle and you will see the car park.  It is free to visit the Fairy Pools, you don’t even have to pay for parking.  Bring along some rain gear, just in case, as the weather in Scotland can be unpredictable.  Get there early to beat the crowds, the Fairy Pools are popular and parking is limited.

Anisa from Two Traveling Texans

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The Fairy Glen (Isle of Sky, Scotland)

The Fairy Glen on the Isle of Skye, Scotland | Travel Hacker Girl

Enikő Krix from Travel Hacker Girl

Termas Geometricas (Pucón, Chile)

Termas Geometricas in Pucón,, Chile | The Family Voyage

Stepping into the mist-shrouded ravine of Termas Geométricas, located on the side of a volcano in Pucón, Chile, on a drizzly spring day is truly like walking into a fairy tale. Imagine yourself sitting in a naturally heated rock-lined pool, with rainwater dripping through vines and moss onto your head to cool you from the relaxing waters and steam shrouding your views of the other pools and bathers. A walk along the paths brings you through 17 pools, past a charmingly-defunct water wheel and all the way to a secluded waterfall at the end. The designers seem to have taken strong cues from Frank Lloyd Wright’s built-into-the-brow style, allowing the ravine’s natural beauty to shine through at every turn while punctuating it with the stunning red angular walkways. No visit to Chile’s Lake District is complete without a stop at Termas Geometricas!

Melissa from The Family Voyage

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Pena Palace (Sintra, Portugal)

Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal | Stef’s Journey

Sintra seems like a place taken from a fairy tale and a dream come true. The only difference – Sintra is real! Located not very far from the capital of Portugal, Sintra is going to take your breath away. The romantic aura of this charming city has been attracting artists for centuries, such as Lord Byron who believed it is the most beautiful place in the world. Sintra is a place that can keep you captivated for many hours since there are so many things for you to see whether it’s the magnificent palaces, the luscious gardens that surround the palaces or the panoramic views of the city. The most iconic place in Sintra is Pena Palace which looks like it got straight out of a Disney movie with its vibrant colors and unique architecture. My ultimate favorite place in Sintra is Quinta da Regaleira, a former Gothic residence compromised of a palace, luxuriant gardens, secret tunnels, hidden wells and much more. When you walk around the gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, you will instantly sense an alluring sense of mystery as it contains an enigmatic system of tunnels, caves and underground walkways that you have never seen before.

Stefanie Konstanta from Stef’s Journey

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The Pink Lagoon Salinas de Torrevieja (Spain)

The Pink Lagoon in Spain | Heart of Everywhere

Torrevieja is a coastal Spanish town. It’s not as famous as Barcelona or as charming as Seville, but its pink lagoon is a unique attraction that no other Spanish city can offer. Torrevieja Pink Lake is one of the two lakes of Natural Park de las Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja.

If you are already picturing yourself bathing in this strawberry milkshake lake, like I was, let me just warn you that it’s a forbidden activity. Nevertheless, when I visited this spot most of the people were enjoying it like a free and secret saline spa. However, being a prohibited activity, if caught by the civil guard or by environmental agents, may lead to a fine.

Lara from Heart of Everywhere

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Hokitika Gorge (New Zealand)

Hokitika Gorge viewpoint | Suzy’s Stories

Nestled in an enclosed rainforest on the West Coast of New Zealand lies a very special secret. You may have seen its otherworldly hues of popping color on your Instagram feed, or it may be recognized for its Tolkien-inspired ambiance, but I can assure you that is nothing compared to witnessing its alluring charm in real life.

Hokitika Gorge is a truly magical spot that simply cannot be overlooked while exploring the ultimate fantasy destination. With vibrant colors and a peaceful atmosphere, you’re soon transported to a dreamy pocket of natural beauty.

After a brief walk through the bush, you cross a narrow bridge over the mouth of the gorge getting just a sample glimpse at the extraordinary blue waters below. Once at the iconic viewpoint overlooking the heart of the gorge, you’ll simply marvel at the stunning view ahead. Flanked by rich forest greens, the turquoise colors stand out even more.

One could stay staring at the still serenity of this mesmerizing water the color of liquid crystals for hours. However, clambering over the rugged rocks makes for an even more adventurous visit and allows you to perch atop the rocks to get that perfect perspective. Needless to say, I can’t recommend soaking up the tranquility of Hokitika Gorge enough, it’s locations such as this that make it all too easy to imagine mystical creatures living deep in the woods around this enchanted scenery!

Suzy Whittle from Suzy’s Stories

If you choose to travel to New Zealand it’s worth renting a car from a company like Enterprise Rent-A-Car to get yourself around and have a fun road trip

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The Hidden Canyon (Bali, Indonesia)

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A post shared by Nam | Traveller Hiker Foodie (@laughtraveleat)

One of the most surreal places I’ve visited in Bali was the Hidden Canyon. While Bali is not short of stunning locations, Hidden Canyon is easily the most memorable with its dark rocks, deep gorges, and weird weather pattern. A walk through it was almost like stepping into a mysterious, fantasy world. The Hidden Canyon consists of a series of three gorges, and you would need to hire a guide in order to go in to ensure that you are on a safe and right path. We arrived in the early morning just after it was open and was able to walk through the canyons alone, soaking in its beauty while surrounded by high cliffs and forests. The gorges are a result of millions and thousands of years of erosion by the river, and at the end of the tour, you would also walk through a local rice paddy!

Nam Cheah from Laugh Travel Eat

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Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah, USA)

Bryce Canyon | Camera and a Canvas

I had wanted to visit Bryce Canyon for a long time from seeing all the cool pictures of it’s unique looking landscape. But I did not truly understand just how unique-and magical it would be until I got there and took a hike down into the canyon. We went on a trail named “Fairyland Loop”, and it truly felt like you were in a land not of this world! The ground color was a smooth gradient of deep rich orangey reds fading out to white; the rock formations, called hoodoos, were in all sorts of fantastical shapes! One of the formations was a long wall, with a spot that had a window in it that you could peak through! Another farther on down the trail was named “Tower Bridge”, and it really looked like a fairy castle, perched on top of a tall cliff, with two towers and a bridge connecting them! It was all truly breathtaking and I felt like I was in a different world!

Maura Elko from Camera And Canvas

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The Fairy Tale Route (Germany)

The Fairy Tale Route in Germany | Photo: deutsche-maerchenstrasse.com

We have all heard the stories of Cinderella and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and the Little Red Riding Hood but we rarely wonder where they have come from.

In fact, they were all part of central Germany’s folklore and now that you know the stories, the forests look as if coming out of the story of the Red Riding Hood and the Marburg Castle reminds you of Cinderella’s one-hundred-year sleep.

Today, you can drive through this region and experience the ambiance of the towns described in the fairy tales. This scenic drive is popular as ‘The Fairy Tale Route‘ and stretches from the birthplace of the Brothers Grimm, Steinau, to the town of Bremen popular for its animal ‘musicians’.

Varsha Kulkarni-Gawai from Varsha Travel 360

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Black Forest (Germany)

Black Forest, Germany | Erin At Large

Every time I step into the Black Forest in southern Germany I feel like there are naughty sprites watching me from behind moss-covered rocks, or a witch about to offer her hospitality. Some of the folk tales the Grimm brothers included in their books were collected in this region, and every little lake or waterfall seems to have its own local legend attached. The Mummelsee, a round lake up high in the mountains, is said to be the home of the Mummelsee King and his court of mermaids that come out to play when there’s a full moon. If you would prefer to pretend to be in a fairy tale yourself, visit the Altes Schloss above the spa town of Baden-Baden. The ruins of this castle are perched on a crag, giving excellent views on the valley below. There is a nearly intact tower, and walkways have been built so you can explore some of the first floors, peering through the windows. Don’t let those witches catch sight of you though…

Erin McGann from Erin At Large

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Königssee (Germany)

Königssee (King’s Lake) | Reverberations

The German state of Bavaria is known for its castles, lakes and the Alps. And while the state is full of special spots, each with its own unique personality, the Königssee is one of the most spectacular lakes Germany has to over. Nestled deep in southeastern Bavaria, about three hours from Munich and just a stone’s throw from the Austrian border, it takes a bit of travel to get there but it’s well worth it.

Set in the shadow of the Watzmann peak of the Alps, the Königssee (literally “King’s Lake”) is said to be the country’s cleanest lake and one of its deepest. The Königssee is beautiful, crystal-clear green-blue water. And hidden down at the far side of the lake is a 17th-century fairy tale pilgrimage church, St. Bartholomä. The church’s red onion-domed roof adds a magical touch to the building. Visitors can reach the church with a hike through the surrounding Berchtesgaden National Park or with a quiet cruise along the waters on an electric ferry.

Corinne Mandell from Reverberations

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Lake Bled (Slovenia)

Lake Bled | Epicurious Passport

Lake Bled, located in the breathtaking Julian Alps of Slovenia, is a real-life fairy-tale destination. The emerald blue waters wash the banks of the postcard-perfect little island in the middle with the cutest little church.
From the moment you enter Bled town, you feel like you have left behind your normal life – and what’s not to love about this little town? It offers peace for the honeymooners, great mountain ranges for the avid hiker, water sports and adventures for the adrenaline junkie, unforgettable experience for the backpacker who is the there just to take it all, and great memories for the families who are there with their kids to make them feel as if they are living in a fairy tale.

Vrithi Pushkar from Epicurious Passport

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Gjain (Iceland)

Gjain, Iceland | Harbors and Havens

From basalt formations with the faces of trolls to rock piles that house elves, the folklore of hidden or supernatural creatures holds a strong presence throughout Iceland. No place felt more like stepping into a fairytale, though, than Gjain, where a barren and rocky landscape gives way to a lush valley filled with countless waterfalls, ponds and volcanic formations.

A lack of tourist crowds here adds to the appeal, since a bit of effort is required to reach Gjain (it’s just a couple of hours from Reykjavik in the Southern Region, but you have to drive inland from the main Ring Road down some pretty bumpy paths, ideally in a 4WD vehicle). With few other visitors around at any given point, it’s easy to lose time hopping rocks to cross waterfall-fed streams, climbing boulders to peek into lava caves or twirling around on the grassy shores with only the invisible fairies that surely live here for company.

Michelle Joy from Harbors and Havens

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Aideen’s Grave on Ben of Howth (County Dublin, Ireland)

Just outside Dublin is the little peninsula of Howth, with a charming fishing village, a castle of the same name and a 4000-year-old history. As you walk to the Ben of Howth through the castle grounds, the current residence of the heirs of the Lords of Howth, you reach the Rhododendron Gardens, a magical and enchanting area of woodland. The trees are big, old and gnarly, climbing over rocks and creating natural green tunnels that lure you in.

Within these woods you will find Aideen’s Grave, one of the oldest monuments in Ireland and said to be the burial place of Aideen, an important figure in Irish mythology. She was the wife of Oscar, the strongest and bravest of the Fianna warriors. When she heard of Oscar’s death in battle, she herself died of sorrow and her resting place is now marked by a giant dolmen. This dolmen is also said to be a portal to the fairy world, and after hearing the legends that surround the area, you almost expect the fairies to appear at any moment.

Teresa from Brogan Abroad

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Tea plantations (Munnar, Kerala)

Tea plantations in Munnar, Kerala | My Trip Hack

Tea plantations look incredible in pictures but they ooze surreal beauty even in real life. At least that’s how I felt during my visit to Munnar, Kerala. A huge area around the town is covered in perfectly shaped tea trees. There are several bright-colored temples inside the plantations that add a fairy-tale touch to the scene.

Beyond getting an eye-pleasing look of the tea (perfectionists, here you go), you can also learn about the technology of tea production in one of the local museums or factories. If you love nature, there are plenty of trekking routes with scenic lakes and spice plantations around Munnar. The variety of places and activities in the area can keep you busy for a few days.

P.S. Beware, you might end up with hundreds of pictures of tea just because it feels so satisfying to click it.

Natalia from My Trip Hack

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Mount Kalsubai (India)

Mount Kalsubai (India) | Azure Sky Follows

Mount Kalsubai, the highest point of Maharashtra, an Indian state, made my dream of living in a fairy tale come true. Kalsubai is a 4-5 hour hike from its base village. Scaling the top of the mountain involves climbing up four metal ladders. I attempted this trek in the monsoon months when the hills were cradling the clouds. The countryside and every stretch of land were nothing but blotches of unreal green. When I reached the final ladder which is critical to ascend the summit of Maharashtra, my fairy-tale moment arrived. The top of the ladder was not visible from its origin, not because it was too high but because the clouds completely engulfed it. I started climbing and soon I was wrapped in a cloud cover. I could barely see my feet on the ladder steps! But like a magical swoosh, a strong gust of wind blew away the cloud and my surroundings were colorful again. This kept happening on the summit as well. It was my mini moment of cloudwalk like Jack did in the fairy tale ‘Jack and the beanstalk’.

Tania Banerjee from Azure Sky Follows

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Lata Berkoh/Berkoh Cascades (Taman Negara, Malaysia)

Taman Negara, Malaysia | Teja On The Horizon

Hiking back from the Berkoh Cascades, the creek fans out slightly wide and stills into a pool. Tannin stains the water a translucent bronze, glowing in the morning light. That day, the rays of the sun shimmered over it as a curtain of light. And I thought, a bunian princess would bathe in a pool like this.

The bunian are a race of light whose beauty and grace can be likened to Tolkien’s elves. They are said to inhabit a land between heaven and earth, called kayangan. A familiar theme of Malay fairy tales often begin with a bunian princess descending on moonlight to bathe in a secluded jungle pool. A human man encounters her. Instantly smitten, he hides her magical clothing. Unable to return to kayangan without it, she promises to marry him and remain on earth. But she extracts from him a pledge he must not break.

Years pass, and they live in contentment. But the heart of man is inconstant, and he gradually takes for granted his exceptional bunian wife. One day, he breaks his pledge. And as is the way of the honorable bunian folk, she gathers her magical clothing and returns to kayangan, lost to him forever.

Nurani Arsad from Teja On The Horizon

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The Lake of Seven Colors (Bacalar, Mexico)

Boat on Lake Bacalar, Quintana Roo, Mexico | Page Traveller

Last autumn I spent a week in the lakeside town of Bacalar, in the Quintana Roo state of Mexico. After experiencing hectic Mexican cities and touristy beach destinations, when I arrived in Bacalar I felt like I’d stepped into the world of Neverland and I was staying at a mermaid lagoon.

Lake Bacalar is known as the Lake of Seven Colours because the water is so clear, you can see bright shades of blue and green reflected in the sand below. The Yucatan area of Mexico is also known for cenotes, which are natural sinkholes filled with water. Bacalar has several of these; some in the lake itself and others nearby, such as the large Cenote Azul, where you can dive with the fishes.

During a sunrise stand-up paddleboarding tour of Lake Bacalar, we ventured over to the far side of the lake and the Pirates Canal, where pirates would come up from the Caribbean in the 1700s. There is also an abandoned ship that you can climb and jump off into warm waters of the lake.

Needless to say, the sunsets and sunrises over the lake are stunning, and several times I had to pinch myself to check I wasn’t just an extra in Peter Pan.

Amy Poulton from Page Traveller

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The Canyon of Waterfalls (Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria)

The Canyon of Waterfalls in Bulgaria | Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

You should tread carefully across shaky bridges, climb wooden ladders, feel the refreshing spray from waterfalls of all sizes and breathe the crystal air of the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria. The picturesque woods seem like a filming location for fairy tales; you’ll be reminded of Little Red Riding Hood as you make your way along the hiking trails at the Canyon of Waterfalls. You’ll see 46 waterfalls of all sizes and capacity along the route. The best section of the trail includes numerous wooden bridges, zigzagging between both sides of the river Elenska. You can find plenty of panoramic views overlooking the beautiful Rhodope Mountains, as well as summer houses, benches and picnic tables along the route. Bring some sandwiches and water to sustain you for a whole day in the canyon.

Useful tips: The most appropriate season for visiting the Canyon of Waterfalls is the beginning of summer, when water levels are high and everything around is green. Autumn also offers beautiful conditions, as the canyon’s trees show off their yellow, red and brown leaves – the colors of the traditional local dress.

Maria Angelova from 203 Challenges

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A few honorable mentions

Armoy, United Kingdom, a.k.a The Dark Hedges | Trevor Cole

Faroe Islands| Jake Hinds

Westfjords Region, Iceland | Cassie Boca

Yosemite National Park set on fire, USA | Madhu Shesharam

Any place when foggy (in this case: Bushy Park, Hampton, United Kingdom) | Paul Earle

Featured image: Isle of Skye, Scotland

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The post 19 natural sites that are straight out of a fairy tale appeared first on 203Challenges.

This beautiful city offers plenty of activities and attractions that are perfect for families. Plus, the weather is always lovely in San Diego, so you can enjoy outdoor activities all year long. 

Here are only some of the best things to do in San Diego with kids:

Top San Diego Attractions for Kids

1. Balboa Park: 

Home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo, as well as 15 different museums, Balboa Park is a great place to spend a day with kids. The park is also home to beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and the California Tower, which offers stunning views of the city.

2. Birch Aquarium at Scripps: 

This aquarium is a great place to learn about the ocean and all the creatures that live in it. Kids will love seeing the sharks, rays, and fish up close, and there are also plenty of interactive exhibits to keep them engaged.

3. LEGOLAND California: 

This theme park is perfect for kids who love LEGO bricks. With rides, shows, and even a water park, there’s something for everyone at LEGOLAND. And of course, there are plenty of opportunities to build your own creations.

4. The New Children’s Museum: 

This museum is designed specifically for kids, with interactive exhibits that encourage creativity and exploration. From the Art Studio to the Innovation Lab, there’s something for every kid to enjoy at the New Children’s Museum.

5. The San Diego Zoo: 

One of the most popular tourist attractions in San Diego, the San Diego Zoo is a must-visit with kids. With over 3,700 animals, the zoo is sure to delight and fascinate kids of all ages. Plus, there are plenty of kid-friendly rides and attractions throughout the park.

6. SeaWorld San Diego: 

This marine life theme park is a great place to learn about the ocean and its inhabitants. Kids will love seeing the dolphins, whales, and other animals up close, and there are also plenty of rides and shows to enjoy.

7. Belmont Park:

This historic amusement park is located right on the beach, making it a great place to spend a day with kids. With rides, games, and plenty of food options, there’s something for everyone at Belmont Park.

8. The Fleet Science Center: 

This science museum is a great place to learn about the world around us. With interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater, the Fleet Science Center is sure to educate and entertain kids of all ages.

9. The San Diego Museum of Man: 

This museum is dedicated to human history and culture. Kids will love exploring the different exhibits, which range from ancient cultures to modern day. And they’ll also get a chance to learn about the people who call San Diego home.

10. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park: 

This wildlife preserve is a great place to see animals in their natural habitat. Kids will love riding through the park on the safari buses, and they’ll also get a chance to see some of the rare and endangered animals that call the Safari Park home.

11. USS Midway Museum: 

This floating museum is a great place to learn about naval history. Kids will love exploring the ship, and they’ll also get to see some of the aircraft that have been used by the Navy over the years. 

12. Waterfront Park: 

This park is located right on San Diego Bay, making it a great place to enjoy the waterfront. Kids will love playing in the water fountains, and there are also plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas to enjoy. 

13. Seaport Village: 

This quaint shopping village is located right on San Diego Bay. Kids will love exploring the different shops and restaurants, and they’ll also get a chance to see some of the boats that call the bay home. 

14. Cabrillo National Monument: 

This national monument is a great place to learn about the history of San Diego. Kids will love exploring the tide pools, and they’ll also get a chance to see some of the wildlife that calls the area home. 

15. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: 

This state park is a great place to learn about the history of San Diego. Kids will love exploring the different shops and restaurants, and they’ll also get a chance to see some of the historic buildings that are located in the park. 

16. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: 

This state park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Kids will love hiking through the reserve, and they’ll also get a chance to see some of the rare and endangered plants and animals that call the park home. 

17. La Jolla Cove: 

This cove is a great place to enjoy the beach. Kids will love exploring the tide pools, and they’ll also get a chance to see some of the sea life that call the cove home. 

18. Birch Aquarium at Scripps: 

This aquarium is a great place to learn about the ocean. Kids will love exploring the different exhibits, and they’ll also get a chance to see some of the animals that call the aquarium home. 

19. The Wave Waterpark:

This waterpark is a great place to cool off on a hot day. Kids will love sliding down the waterslides, and they’ll also get a chance to play in the wave pool. 

20. Boomer’s Family Fun Center: 

This amusement park is a great place to spend a day with kids. With rides, games, and plenty of food options, there’s something for everyone at Boomer’s Family Fun Center. 

21. Cuyamaca Rancho State Park: 

This state park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Kids will love hiking through the park, and they’ll also get a chance to see some of the rare and endangered plants and animals that call the park home. 

What to Tell Your Kids About the History of San Diego

San Diego has a long and rich history, dating back to its founding by the Spanish in the early 1700s. The city has since changed hands several times, most recently becoming part of the United States in 1848. 

Today, San Diego is a thriving metropolis with a diverse population and a rich culture.

If you’re teaching your kids about the history of San Diego, there are a few key points you should make sure to cover. First, the city was founded by the Spanish in 1769. Father Junipero Serra, who is considered the founder of California, established the first mission in San Diego. 

The city grew slowly at first, but eventually became an important trading port and a center of Spanish colonial life in California.

In 1821, Mexico won its independence from Spain and San Diego became part of the Mexican state of Alta California. 

For the next 25 years, the city continued to grow and prosper. In 1846, however, the United States went to war with Mexico over the issue of slavery and the annexation of Texas. As a result of the war, Mexico ceded California to the United States in 1848.

San Diego became part of the newly created state of California in 1850. The city continued to grow steadily throughout the 19th century, attracting a diverse population of immigrants from around the world. 

Today, San Diego is a vibrant and multicultural city, with a rich history that is an integral part of the fabric of California.

The post Fun Destinations to Visit with Kids in San Diego appeared first on 203Challenges.

There is probably no other city in the world that has as many comic book stores as Brussels. There is also hardly any other city where comic book characters have escaped the pages and scattered themselves around the facades of the buildings in the city center like they do here.

Lift your head up, keeping your hat in your hand, and enjoy Brussels in comics.

The love affair between Brussels and comic books has a long history. The city’s two most famous magazines – Tintin and Spirou – sprang up in the beginning of the 20th century. Some of the most beloved comic books of several generations were created here: The Smurfs, Lucky Luke, Tintin, Gaston Lagaffe…

Brussels, of course, has a comic book museum – the Belgian Comic Strip Centre, where you can learn useful and interesting information. But it is much more inspiring to just walk down the streets of the Belgian capital and get acquainted with your favorite characters in person.

The murals are so well integrated into Brussels’ architecture that you might not even notice them.

Apart from the graffiti on the walls, comic book characters are revived here in 3D form, too. A prime example is the statue of comic book hero Gaston Lagaffe on Pacheco Boulevard.

You can join some of the paid guided bike tours and walks along the comic strip route, but probably the best way to immerse yourself in comic culture is to start your own journey with a map in your hand (a perfect map is available in the bottom of this page) and enjoy your treasure hunt.

To complete a real themed day, finish at the Comic Strip Village (Stripdorp/Le Village de la BD, situated at Sablon Square) in the center of Brussels. Here you’ll find a gallery, a comic book store and a café, where you can have a rest surrounded by colorful comic strips.

You can buy a comic map from any Brussels Tourism Office (costs 1 euro), or alternatively you can take the route provided on this map below:

Pin it for later because you’re gonna need this map and it will get buried in the tons of information online:

The post The comic strip route on the streets of Brussels (+ self-guided map) appeared first on 203Challenges.

Of course, with the world in lockdown, our travel plans have to be put on the backburner for the time being.

So why not try to replicate that traveling experience from the comfort of your own home? With a little creativity and a bit of imagination, you can create the experience of travel abroad for your child without ever stepping foot out of your front door.

Get creative and make a feast for the senses

One of the best things about traveling is the feast for the senses it provides. Smells, sounds, textures, tastes — they all work together to create an unforgettable travel experience.

Indeed, so powerful is this effect that you can smell warm falafel in a high street takeaway and instantly be transported back to your trip to Egypt years ago.

Think about the various sounds, smells, and textures you might experience when traveling and try to replicate them in your own home.

For instance, you could cook an authentic Italian dish to conjure up the smells of Rome. Or you might use a sandpit and a paddling pool, combined with some sound effects, to have your child feel as though they’re walking the sandy beaches of Australia.

Of course, this isn’t the same as the real thing. But it’s a creative twist that really adds to that travel experience.

Introduce educational elements to your ‘trip’

All travel is educational, no matter where you go. As you soak up the culture and take in your surroundings, travel broadens the mind and makes you a better person for it.

Replicate this by introducing educational activities into your lockdown travel experience. For instance, you could encourage your child to have a go at learning a few foreign phrases and using them in conversation.

Alternatively, you could have a whistle-stop history tour, using roleplay to help your child understand various pivotal moments in your chosen country’s past.

Who says your travel has to be somewhere on Earth? The Sago Mini Box is a monthly subscription box with a variety of fun and educational activities based on certain themes including space travel too. You can have a travel experience that’s literally out of this world.

Use video to explore the world virtually

You know already that YouTube is replete with a wide array of interesting and unique videos. But beyond the funny cat videos, there are also plenty of immersive tours of real places around the world.

One minute you might be walking around a busy Tokyo neighborhood, while the next you might be watching a herd of elephants graze in the Savannah. Some are narrated by the person behind the camera, while others are simply quiet so you can take in the sights and sounds of some faraway place.

As you take these tours, encourage your child to point out interesting features and ask questions. You could try to identify certain animals, for instance, or determine what country you are in based on certain clues.

Combined with the sensual ideas mentioned above, this makes for an almost authentic travel experience that will have your child in awe and wonder as they see the world from the comfort of their own home.

Of course, it can be difficult replicating that authentic travel experience in your own home. But in times like these, a little creative fun like the above is enough to stimulate your child’s mind and make them feel as though they really are globetrotting, even if just for a while.

The post How to create travel experiences for children during lockdown appeared first on 203Challenges.

Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in the world and one of Bulgaria’s best cities for culture, events and stunning views (just climb any of its hills). What makes it even more interesting are all the amazing, hidden, unusual and fun things that ensure any trip to Plovdiv is a unique experience. Here are a few ideas (+ map at the end of the post):

#1 Ride the children’s train up the hill (not only for kids)

The Children’s Railway in Plovdiv is one of the last children’s trains left in Bulgaria, and it was completely renovated in 2007. The 50-seat train will take you up Mladezhki Hill, passing through a grade crossing, a tunnel and a canopy of the trees. The final station offers a panoramic view of Plovdiv and after a short break, the train returns to its base. Tickets cost less than a dollar and the best part is that everyone is welcome, no matter their age.

For schedule and ticket information click here.

#детскажелезница 🚂 #младежкихълм #пловдив 🇧🇬

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#2 Walk on original Roman-era stones

Stone slabs discovered during archaeological digs have been preserved in situ at one of the underpasses near the main pedestrian zone of Plovdiv. Thanks to these relics, you can experience the glorious Roman past of the city by walking on the original Roman-era pavement.

#3 Pose for a ‘portrait’

One of the main photo stops in the old town of Plovdiv is the statue of the Bulgarian painter Tsanko Lavrenov, which allows anyone to be framed instantly. It’s worth noting that Tsanko Lavrenov was among the first people to fight for the conservation of the old town of Plovdiv.

Pose for a painting with Tsanko Lavrenov | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

#4 Hear the latest gossip from Milyo

The city buffoon Milyo used to be a famous inhabitant of Plovdiv, and one who was always at the heart of any juicy city gossip. He was not completely sane, but he was always neat, clean and harmless. Urban legends suggest that he was a playboy, but it’s hard to weed out the truth among the myths. After his death, a bronze statue was created and installed on the main pedestrian street of Plovdiv.

The statue of Milyo in Plovdiv | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

#5 Watch the show of the singing fountains

The singing fountains have long been one of the most iconic symbols of Plovdiv. After a recent renovation, their show is even more impressive – the water jets dance to the rhythm of classical music and all-time Bulgarian hits, all while colorful lights pulse to the rhythm. The singing fountains operate only on summer nights. Ask at the local tourist information office for exact times.

The singing fountains in Plovdiv, Bulgaria | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

#6 Hunt for street art in the art district of Kapana

Literally translated, Kapana means ‘The Trap’ because of the peculiar angles at which the streets crisscross. Once inside, you may find it hard to find your way out. Kapana used to be a shabby, crumbling, car-dominated area which was entirely reconstructed and repurposed a few years go. Today, it is where you will find the best street bar culture, craft beers, art workshops and several big arts and crafts festivals taking place annually.

Street art in Kapana, Plovdiv | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

#7 Feel tiny at the foot of the monument of Alyosha

Alyosha, or the Monument of the Soviet Army, is one of the tens of Soviet-era bombastic monuments in the country. It was erected in 1957 at the top of one of Plovdiv’s hills, called Bunardzhik. As you walk up the network of paths leading to the monument, you can get an idea of its dimensions, enjoy a beautiful view over the city and try to imagine what it would be like if the statue was turned into a giant Coca-Cola bottle (which nearly happened). Talk about a slap in the face for communism!

The monument of Alyosha | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

Read more: How to practice aylyak and be happy in Bulgaria

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