Gitgit Waterfall: The Crowd-Friendly Wonder

Nestled in the northern part of Bali, **Gitgit Waterfall** is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. Standing at an impressive height of 35 meters, this majestic waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flora, making it a photographer’s paradise.

But wait—before you rush off with your camera, here’s the catch: Gitgit can get pretty popular. It’s a friendly spot where families gather, so be prepared to share the scenery with enthusiastic local tourists and fellow travelers. However, that doesn’t diminish its beauty. In fact, its easy accessibility, coupled with nearby stalls selling local snacks, means you can munch on some delicious **nasi goreng** while enjoying the view.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short hike down to the base of the waterfall. You can enjoy a swim in the pool below, which is refreshingly cold, perfect for those hot Bali days. Just remember to watch your step—those rocks can be slipperier than a newly-oiled pig!

Sekumpul Waterfall: The Majestic Duo

Now, if you fancy a little adventure, **Sekumpul Waterfall** might just be your calling. Hidden deep in the jungle, reaching Sekumpul is not for the faint of heart (or those in flip-flops). This double waterfall is often hailed as one of Bali’s most beautiful, cascading elegantly down lush cliffs.

The journey here involves a trek through **rice fields**, past charming villages, and down a rather steep path. But trust us, the reward is worth every step! The sound of water crashing against rocks and the sight of lush greenery enveloping you will make you feel like you’ve walked into a scene straight out of a movie.

And here’s a pro tip: hire a local guide! Not only will you avoid getting lost (trust me, the jungle can be a bit disorienting), but you’ll also get insider information about the flora and fauna surrounding you. Who knew nature could be so fascinating?

Air Terjun Tiu Kelep: The Mystical Escape

Air Terjun Tiu Kelep is not just a waterfall; it’s got the whole mystical vibe going on. Located near the village of Senaru, Tiu Kelep is often referred to as the ‘**Luminous Waterfall.**’ Legend has it that if you catch a glimpse of the waterfall at dawn, it glimmers like diamonds in the morning light.

To reach Tiu Kelep, you’ll embark on a trek that can take anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how often you stop to take photos (which will be often, trust me). The trail winds through picturesque valleys and babbling brooks, keeping the workout subtly disguised as a stroll through paradise.

When you finally arrive, prepare for an exhilarating experience. The waterfall plunges dramatically into a crystal-clear pool below, inviting you to take a refreshing dip. Just be mindful of your surroundings—nature has a sneaky way of making you forget your worries, and you wouldn’t want to take a misstep on those slippery rocks.

Blahmantung Waterfall: Nature’s Symphony

Ah, **Blahmantung Waterfall**—often overlooked but well worth the visit, this waterfall is one of Bali’s tallest, measuring a staggering 100 meters. It’s carefully hidden amid the lush landscapes of the north, meaning fewer crowds and more tranquility. Here, you can listen to the sounds of nature serenading you as you enjoy the stunning views.

The approach to Blahmantung is a gentle hike through verdant paths, perfect for those who enjoy a calmer pace. Once you arrive, don’t forget to take a moment to breathe in the **fresh air** and soak in the glorious sights. Once you’re done feeling all Zen and inner peace, dare yourself to take a plunge into the pool below. Just remember, it’s not a contest—take your time and enjoy the moment!

Tukad Cepung Waterfall: The Hidden Treasure

Last but certainly not least, let’s venture to **Tukad Cepung Waterfall**, a hidden treasure tucked away in a cave-like atmosphere. Located in Bangli, this waterfall offers a unique setting unlike any other on the island. It’s not just about the waterfall; it’s about the adventure of finding it.

Visitors have to navigate a path that involves climbing down steep steps and crossing a bamboo bridge. The surroundings add to the feel of a secret hideaway, and you’ll likely find yourself voicing a few “oohs” and “aahs” as you discover beautiful rock formations that cradle the waterfall.

The experience is truly magical; sunlight streams through the gap above, illuminating the falling water and creating a spectacular light show. Bring your camera, as you’ll want to capture this surreal moment!

Conclusion: Unleashing Your Inner Explorer

Bali’s hidden waterfalls are more than just a stunning backdrop for your Instagram feed; they are a testament to the lush beauty that this island has to offer. Each waterfall has its own personality, whether it’s the throngs of tourists at Gitgit or the solitary serenity of Blahmantung. Embrace the adventure of seeking them out, and you’ll be rewarded not just with breathtaking sights, but also with great stories and unforgettable memories.

So grab your towel, channel your inner explorer, and let the hidden waterfalls of Bali surprise you! Who knows, you might even discover your new favorite swimming spot or spot a local monkey swinging nearby, cheekily eyeing your snacks!

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As the urban legend goes, Eleanor Roosevelt exclaimed “Poor Niagara!” when she first saw Iguazu Falls. The moment you find yourself, as tiny as an ant, at the foot of the mighty falling waters, you might not be able to utter even these words.

What’s the legend of Iguazu Falls?

When the Guarani people gave the name to the falls, they weren’t really being poetic – in their language, the name simply means “Big Water”. Far more romantic is the legend of how the waterfalls were created. One of the gods fell in love with a local girl, but she didn’t fall for him. Instead, she impertinently decided to sail away with her human love. As we know, declining a god’s offer is always a bad idea, and so it turned out. The infuriated god cut the river they were sailing along in half, thus dooming them to an eternity spent ‘falling’.

Iguazu Waterfalls, the Argentinian side | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

What’s the best part of Iguazu Falls?

Iguazu Falls consists of 150 to 300 separate waterfalls depending on the rainfall and the season. Ask 100 visitors which is the best of all the falls and 98 will answer the Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo). This is the mightiest of all waterfalls, which you will see both from its foot (Brazilian side) and from its verge (Argentinian side).

How to get to Iguazu Falls (Brazilian side)

Iguazu Waterfalls, the Brazilian side | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

Ticket for the national park: R$62 for adults, R$10 for children from 2 to 11 years old (as of January 2018). Grab a free map of the park at the entrance.

Transportation: Public bus 120 takes you from the center of the town of Foz do Iguaçu to the entrance of the national park, stopping at the airport on the way. Inside the park, you can take the park bus (free of charge).

Time needed: 2-3 hours (if you take the standard tour offered at the park)

Length of the trails: 1.2 km (0.75 mi)

Food and water: There are food and drink venues in the park but they are quite overpriced, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food.

What else: Next to the entrance of the national park, there’s a bird park called Parque das Aves (entrance fee: R$45 for adults, open every day from 8:30 am to 5 pm). Some of the birds live completely free and you can enjoy close contact with them. The park was created as a shelter for abused animals and many of the birds you will see were saved from smugglers. Prepare to meet parrots, toucans, butterflies and even colibris.

Official website of National Park Iguaçu: here.

How to get to Iguazú Falls (Argentinian side)

Iguazu Waterfalls, the Argentinian side | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

Ticket for the national park: 500 pesos for adults, 130 pesos for children from 6 to 12 years old. If you want to visit the park for a second day in a row, you should stop at the ticket office when leaving on the first day to get your ticket validated and receive a 50% discount for the ticket on the next day.

Transportation: There’s a regular bus from the center of Puerto Iguazú to the entrance of the national park. Inside the park there’s a free train, for which you’ll probably have to wait in line for more than an hour. Bring a book to kill the time.

Time needed: At least one day, but better two. The Argentinian side has many more trails where you can see various falls from various angles.

The Upper Circle (Circuito Superior) is a short trail from where you will see the upper fringe of the waterfalls.

The Lower Circle (Circuito Inferior) is longer and passes by the foot of several falls. It’s a good idea to wear a bathing suit or a raincoat because you are inevitably going to get wet. The trail will also take you to the port from where the free ferry to San Martin Island leaves (although the ferry doesn’t operate during bad weather).

San Martin Island (Isla San Martin) has two observation decks and is only accessible via the free ferry. The ferry won’t sail if the water is high. Check at the entrance of the park for the current conditions.

Food and water: As with the Brazilian side, there are food and beverage venues in the park, but they are quite overpriced. It’s a good idea to bring your own food.

Official website of National Park Iguazu: here.

Where to stay: Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil) or Puerto Iguazú (Argentina)?

Iguazu Waterfalls, the Argentinian side | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

Foz do Iguaçu is a calmer, sleepy town, while Puerto Iguazú is smaller but has more entertainment options. Both towns have airports and are connected to the other parts of their respective countries by buses. There are regular buses, taxis and vans running between the two towns. The visa regime is standard, so you will need two visas – one for Brazil and one for Argentina.

Iguazu Waterfalls, the Brazilian side | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

What to bring for a day at the waterfalls

The essential supplies are: a lot of water, sunscreen (take plenty with you, as you’ll need to reapply it after getting wet from the waterfalls), a waterproof case for your phone or camera, mosquito repellent and plenty of food. If you bring food in your backpack, you should be very wary of the local coati population. These small but super-strong jungle animals – relatives of raccoons – want your sandwich and are ready to bite or scratch you to get it. They can carry rabies, so you should visit a doctor immediately if you get attacked.

Read more: 10 fun facts about Brazil that you quickly get used to

Pin this article to your dream destinations board:

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#1 Bathe in a waterfall

Enjoy a free shower from Mother Nature while exploring unforgettable natural attractions.

Where: Havasu and Mooney Falls (Grand Canyon, USA). Twin Falls and The Seven Sacred Pools (Mawi, Hawaii). McWay Falls (Big Sur, California). Or just visit the nearest waterfall to you.

McWay Falls, California

>>> Read: 5 American waterfalls to bathe in this summer.

#2 Go white water rafting

Let the rapids boost your adrenaline as your inflatable boat bounces up and down along the river. Swimming is not a necessary skill – as long as you’re not afraid of water. 

Where: Along the Colorado River.

#3 Cross ‘via ferrata’

In Italian ‘via ferrata’ means “iron road”. If you are afraid of heights, you will need nerves of iron (pun intended) to cross this rocky route, although it’s completely safe and you will be secured the whole time. The system of ladders, metal ropes, suspension bridges and railings make the rock formation accessible to everyone, not just professional climbers. After this ‘appetizer’, you may want to try out actual rock climbing.

Where: Telluride (in San Juan Mountains, Colorado).

#4 Hug a very special tree

…and get fresh energy from nature.

Where: It won’t be so easy to hug the largest living tree on the planet – the giant sequoia General Sherman (which soars to 275 ft [84 m]) – because its circumference at ground-level is 102 ft (31 m) The tree is located in Sequoia National Park, California.

One more idea: In many cultures, trees are a symbol of family and kinship. Get the whole family together and plant a tree in a place where you all love going to. Then you’ll have a reason to go there even more often.

General Sherman Sequoia tree | Jim Bahn/Wikipedia

#5 Get close to an animal in its natural habitat

Our lives are so dominated by concrete and steel that an encounter with an animal in the wild is a rare and exciting experience. This challenge will push you to discover the natural habitats of your favorite animals and find a way to arrange a meeting with them.

Where: Take a whale-watching boat trip from Boston Harbor to catch a glimpse of a humpback whale or dolphins. Or just visit the nearest national park.

#6 Run a (crazy) marathon

There are marathons you run simply to prove that you can do it. Start with them. Then you can try your hand at a crazy marathon.

Where: Santa Speedo Run, in Boston or Atlanta. To run the annual Santa Speedo Runs across the USA you need a Speedo bathing suit (holiday colors are preferred). You will also need some Christmas flair (Santa hat, beard, Christmas socks, etc.). A warning: December weather in Boston is far from the ideal temperature for bathing suits. So runners are allowed (recommended even) to have a drink or two before the run.

Atlanta Speedo Run | TimotyJ/Wikipedia

#7 Drink whiskey straight from the source

Whiskey is a religion with its cults and rituals. If you also pray to this particular god, visit a distillery.

Where: Jack Daniel’s. Lynchburg, Tennessee is a legendary place to take a good walk while listening to stories about Jack and where, without any judgement whatsoever, you could share your very own personal encounters with him. If you don’t drink whiskey, you can join a ‘dry tour’ and delve into the distillery’s history fully sober.

#8 Ice skate at some of the world’s most beautiful ice rinks

Strap on your skates and show us a double axel (or triple fall on the ice – it depends on your skill level) at some of the most impressive ice rinks this planet has to offer.

Where: One of the world’s most famous ice rinks can be found just in front of the Rockefeller Center in New York.

#9 Discover a beach in the middle of the city

Life is better in flip-flops, they say. If the first thing that comes to your mind when someone mentions the beach is a solitary bungalow on a remote island, we challenge you to find some of the best city beaches in the world.

Where: Venice Beach, Los Angeles, is perfect not only for sunbathing but also for renting roller skates or a bike and going down a seven-mile bike alley to Will Rogers State Beach.

>>> Read 5 beaches in the middle of busy cities

#10 Sweat in a valley of geysers

There are slightly more than 1,000 geysers on Earth, many of which form boiling valleys. As it seems, the influence of hot water over the human mind hasn’t been well studied yet, because people tend to think of weird stuff to do when they see a geyser. Like boiling eggs (there are hundreds of videos of that; check them out if you plan to conduct a experiment).

Where: Yellowstone National Park houses thousands of hot springs, mud pots and at least 300 geysers – one-third of the planet’s total.

Yellowstone National Park | Ashley Knedler/Unsplash

Fun fact… Geysers exist on other planets. If you’re planning a trip to outer space, you can stop by Saturn’s moon Enceladus for a water vapor eruption or go to Neptune’s moon Triton for nitrogen eruptions.

#11 See the Northern Lights

Unsurprisingly, catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights is a dream experience for millions of travelers around the world. If the aurora is also on your list, here’s how you can see it:

When can you see the Northern Lights? Unfortunately, you’re at nature’s mercy. The Northern Lights like to play hide and seek, so you’d better stick around the observation area for at least a week, at best – two weeks at worst. Your best chance is from late August until late November and in February and March. However, the truth is, no one can guarantee when the lights will appear.

Where: The best places in the world to observe the Northern Lights are Alaska, Norway, Canada, Greenland, Lapland, Iceland, and Sweden.

#12 Drive along picturesque winding roads

Some of the most picturesque roads in the world are, unfortunately, some of the most unbearable for your inner ear. But, oh, they’re worth it!

Where: Big Sur, California, or Interstate 1, is one of the best-known roads in the States. You’ll see why when it leads you to the breathtaking viewpoint over the Pacific Ocean. The Interstate spans 90 mi (145 km) from San Simeon to Carmel and offers wild nature and steep rocks, overlooking the waves crashing against the shore.

Drive on! | adrian/Unsplash

#13 Have a drink at an ice bar

Put on your snow boots and fluffy headphones and order a drink at a bar where you won’t need any extra ice…

Where: Some of the world’s best ice bars are in the USA – like Bar Minus 5 (New York) and Aurora Ice Bar (Alaska).

#14 You want a raise? Take a holiday!

It’s proven that employees who use more of their vacation days achieve better results at work and have a higher chance of being promoted. Many people don’t use all of their vacation days as they fear that their long absence might show their bosses that the work can be managed without them. However, statistics in the USA and Canada reveal that for every 10 days off from work, employees’ results improve by an average of 8%.

How to do it (if your boss won’t give you a holiday): Show this article to your boss (or an employee who urgently needs to take a break)…

#15 Spend 45 minutes in a soundproof room

Imagine a room that isolates 99.9% of sound. Imagine you’re in that room, alone. You can hear your heartbeat and, after a few minutes in the room, even your lungs! In the soundproof room you become the sound. According to Guinness World Records this is the quietest place on Earth.

Where: This is a really serious challenge. Such rooms can be found in the USA, and more and more are opening in different places around the world. Usually, they announce several visiting days throughout the year, as the main purpose of these rooms is to test technological products. Google “anechoic chamber” + the country or town closest to you.

Could you spend 45 minutes in a soundproof room? | Malte Wingen/Unsplash

#16 Join some of the craziest festivals in the world

If you feel like doing something really crazy, there are hundreds of festivals around the world created just for people like you.

Where: Burning Man – this festival is a must for every free spirit. It’s hard to put the experience into words; you have to be there to understand it. For two weeks every year, tens of thousands of people gather in the desert near the city of Reno, to create a temporary metropolis dedicated to exchanging knowledge, skills, creativity and art. Nothing is sold; there are only acts of gift giving. The culmination of the event is the symbolic ritual burning of a large wooden effigy – “the Man”, which lends its name to the festival.

Source: the book 203 Travel Challenges. Travel the World. Explore Your Inner Self. 

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This is the story of how I challenged myself to swim under each and every waterfall I saw during my trip to Maui. It was the first time I’d set foot on one of the Hawaiian Islands and, to the best of my knowledge, I had chosen the wildest one to explore!

Maui is the second-largest of the nine Hawaiian islands. You’ll fall in love with the island as soon as you arrive, with its gorgeous beaches and perfect waves creating an irresistible charm. The scenery changes with around every corner, with everything from tropical bamboo forests to rocky black sand beaches, volcano craters and beautiful waterfalls. 

Inspired by Maui, I’ve put together a list of my five favorite waterfalls across the USA. Enjoy!

Twin Falls

Maui, Hawaii

If you’re looking to spend a few hours away from the sandy beaches of Maui, I advise you to take the road less (or more) traveled to Hana. Along the way you’ll find most of the accessible waterfalls on the island. Right at the beginning of the road at the second mile marker you have your first chance to swim under a cascade at the majestic Twin Falls. A large path winds around the waterfall, with hidden side trails leading to some good spots to jump into the clear and purified water.

The Seven Sacred Pools

Maui, Hawaii

There are a number of falls along the Road to Hana – some more accessible than others – but the best falls by far to swim in or stand under are Ohe’o Gulch’s Falls, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools. This incredible natural landmark consists of two major falls: Waimoku and Makahiku. You can reach both of them following the Pipiwai Trail – a 2 mile (3 km) hike through a mystical bamboo forest. Those two – along with many more waterfalls – form dozens of pools in the gulch, with the water flowing right into the ocean nearby. The Seven Sacred Pools lie within the limits of Haleakala National Park, but don’t be misled by its name; this is not a sacred Hawaiian site and there are more than seven natural pools to swim in. 

McWay Falls

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur, California

Big Sur is a traveler’s favorite, offering a number of off-the-beaten-path secrets like Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. If you’re prepared to make the trek to the park and then do a bit more exploring, you can swim under a waterfall flowing directly into the ocean. The 82-foot (25-meter) waterfall is not the easiest to find, but that’s what makes it so precious.

Havasu Falls

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Located deep in one of the remotest parts of the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls offers you a stunning view of its cascading waters for the price of a charter helicopter ride or a 10-mile (16-km) hike. If you don’t feel like hiking that far with all your gear, you can rent a mule to carry you (slowly) to the turquoise waterfall. 

Mooney Falls

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Similar to Havasu Falls, you will find Mooney Falls at the far end of the Grand Canyon, outside the National Park. And just like Havasu, i’s a difficult spot to reach, but that only makes the journey more worthwhile. There’s no doubt that, once you arrive, you’ll agree Mooney Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls you’ve ever seen.

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We’ve selected 8 creative and inspiring travel challenges that will turn your trips into personal adventures. Our source of inspiration is a book – “203 Travel Challenges. Travel the world. Explore Your Inner Self”.

Traveling is something personal, so take the ingredients of the following challenges, stir them, move them and change them to create your own challenges to spice up your trips.

1. Jump into a warm, open-air mineral pool while it’s snowing

There are plenty of warm, mineral pools in the open air around the world. However pleasant they may be in the summer, there is nothing like getting into one in the winter, when snowflakes are falling from the sky and you are soaking in warm, mineral water, not caring about tiny details like weather forecasts or an air temperature more suited to polar bears…

How to do it: Don’t forget to take a towel to dry yourself off as quickly as possible as you climb out of the pool. Also take your favorite warm drink in a thermos for pure bliss (coffee, cappuccino, tea and rum, etc.).

2. Night Challenge

There are many attractions which stay open even when it’s dark outside. There are also events created to make your night more interesting. It’s a different world when you trade the light of the sun for the light of the moon and the stars.

A couple of ideas for night events: European Night of Museums (every year on a Saturday, around 18th May – the International Day of Museums), European Literature Night (in May – celebrities read excerpts from European works of art), European Theatre Night (in November). European Researchers’ Night – research centers and museums open doors to show their achievements (every year in late September). Open-air cinema to enjoy a movie under the stars.

A couple of ideas for attractions open during the night: Every summer from May until October the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, is open until midnight on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (reservation necessary). In New York the Brooklyn Museum has free admission until 11 p.m. the first Saturday of each month (except September); the Top of the Rock observation deck at Rockefeller Center offers 70th floor views of Manhattan until midnight (last elevator up is at 11 p.m.), and the Empire State Building’s observation deck is open until 2 a.m. In Bangkok, Thailand, every district has its own night market where you can find all kinds of food, goods and fun activities, at the same time immersing yourself the best way possible into local life. Try the biggest market, Rot Fai, or the bohemian JJ Green Night Market.

For seasoned travelers: Take a night walk through the mountains. Under the only light of the moon or a headlamp – with an experienced guide or along trails you know like the back of your hand. Night walks are an experience that is hard to forget.

3. Go out of range for 24 hours

Go out of range, see the sunrise, read a book, talk to people. 

You are constantly online. You follow the events on the social networks and sometimes it’s as if the real world has disappeared. We challenge you to go for at least 24 hours to a place where electronic devices are out of range. We challenge you to feel that you are here and you are here now, instead of drifting through virtual space.

For seasoned travelers: Deliberately turn off all your devices for a day. Get out of range for a week.

4. See a shooting star and make a wish come true

Seeing a shooting star to make a wish may seem to you like pure chance. The truth is, you can help chance come your way by being in the right place at the right time. Every year, around 12 August, the sky night fills with hundreds of shooting stars (or meteorites to be exact). The reason is the annual meteor stream called Perseids.

Fun fact… The meteors are called Perseids because when we look at the sky it seems like they come from the constellation Perseus. In fact, the shooting stars we see in the sky are part of the comet Swift-Tuttle.

How to do it: The Perseids peak around 12 August (look up the date for the year) when hundreds of meteorites can be seen every hour.

A couple more ideas: There are other meteor streams throughout the year (Geminids in mid-December, Lyrids in mid-April, Quadrantids in late December – early January) when you can see a shooting star.

5. Bathe in a waterfall

Enjoy a free shower from nature. If you try to find pictures of the waterfalls listed below, without a shadow of a doubt you will want to shower there next time.

A couple of ideas:

Skogafoss (Iceland), Havasu (Grand Canyon, USA + more ideas for waterfalls you can bathe in the USA), Ouzoud (Morocco), Skradinski buk (Croatia), Kempty (India). Or just visit the nearest waterfall to you.

6. Celebrate the International Picnic Day

On International Picnic Day (every year on 18 June), enjoy one of the best ways to be close to nature. The importance of picnics dates back to the Victorian Age when young men and women could spend time together in the open. Back in the day, they would bring fancy meals, sandwiches, sweets and crackers. Nowadays picnics require far less effort, but they can be a good reason finally to go somewhere you’ve been meaning to, but haven’t had the chance.

How to make it more interesting: You can give the picnic a theme – everyone to wear red, to bring only Italian cuisine, tea and board games, a candlelit picnic, etc. To make it more fun, you can throw in a kite, slackline, hacky sack, badminton or a frisbee.

Fun fact… According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the biggest picnic in the world was organized in Lisbon, Portugal, on 20 June 2009 with more than 20 000 participants.

7. See a shipwreck – without going underwater

It’s human nature – we are drawn to tragedy and decay. We roam around abandoned villages, enter buildings carrying legends of ghosts and dive to reach sunken ships. If diving is not your passion, we challenge you to visit one of the most famous shipwrecks in the world… without having to dive.

A couple of ideas:

Zakynthos, Greece – At Navagio Beach, you will see the remains of a vessel washed ashore. You can take a peek from the high rocks or reach it by boat.

Muynak, Uzbekistan – Outside the town of Muynak (or Moynaq) in Uzbekistan, in the direction of the Aral Sea, you will witness a sinister view along the road – the skeletons of ships and fishing boats abandoned long ago in the desert. Up until about 30 years ago Muynak was a sea harbor, but today it is in the middle of the desert, 50 km (30 miles) from the coast, after the rivers were diverted for irrigation purposes, and so the road leading to the Aral Sea turned into a ship graveyard.

Sydney, Australia – Homebush Bay in Sydney has become the final resting place of no longer operating ships. Some of them were swallowed by mangroves, growing over the rusty decks.

8. You want a raise? Take a holiday!

It is a proven fact that employees who use more of their vacation days achieve better results at work and have a higher chance of being promoted. Many people don’t use all of their vacation days as they fear that their long absence might show their bosses that the work can be managed without them. A study, however, shows that employees, who take all of their vacation days, show better results at work. Statistics in the USA and Canada reveal that for every 10 days off from work, the employee’s results improve by an average of 8%.

*

If you have used boat that you want to sell, you can use platforms like Grays.

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The slopes of the Rhodope Mountains rise like guards in the sky protecting the houses below. Just steps away is the edge of a centuries-old evergreen forest. In the vicinity, the landscape is dotted with more than 20 chapels, with the River Persena running through. Go to its bank on the other side and look at the houses perched on the slope, as if drawn on a postcard. Just then the thought of space crosses your mind: cosmic tranquility and perfect harmony.

Orehovo village, Bulgaria | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges

People in Orehovo are talkative and always have broad smiles on their faces. True locals, they are used to seeing people with big backpacks roaming the streets. They will greet you and fill your soul with sheer joy.

Itineraries near Orehovo:

Orehovo may be a starting point for a hike, or it may be a place to chill-out. Either is good. Ask anyone in the village and they will give you directions – the area is very well-marked.

Near Orehovo village, Bulgaria | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges

You can hike to Kabata mountain hut (3 hours, marked with blue) or the natural stone phenomenon of the Marvelous Bridges (known as Chudnite Mostove, another 2 hours after Kabata), a favorite with locals and foreigners.

The Marvelous Bridges,, Bulgaria | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges

There is one slightly creepy site of interest near Orehovo – Cheleveshka Cave (Human Cave), where many residents of the village were burnt during the Ottoman rule. Around 12 km from Orehovo you will find the remains of an ancient Roman road (follow the signs). Persenk mountain hut is within a 3-hour walk. Less than a kilometer from the village, below the peak of Oreshnitsa, is Duplevo Waterfall. Just 2 km from Orehovo is Skakaloto Waterfall (take the paved road to Persenk mountain hut, and after a turn take the marked trail, going steeply down).

Duplevo Waterfall, Bulgaria | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges

Visit also the natural site of Kosten Kamak in Koilov Dol Canyon – an impressive vertical cliff with an imposing 30-meter high waterfall.

We challenge you to…

…try the famous specialty from the Rhodope Mountains – patatnik (potatoes with eggs, cheese and spices cooked over a slow fire).

Landscape from the Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria | © Maria Angelova/ 203challenges

Useful information:

You can get to the village of Orehovo by car following a paved road through Plovdiv, Asenovgrad and Hvoyna. The village is 60 km from Plovdiv and 54 km from Smolyan (where you can visit the amazing Canyon of Waterfalls). Orehovo offers more than 100 wonderful guesthouses with nice hosts.

Discover more stunning and unusual places in Bulgaria.

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